Smith & Wollensky

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

America's Steakhouse, Right on the River

Smith & Wollensky's Chicago location sits on the Chicago River at Marina City in the heart of downtown — riverfront dining with the kind of confidence that comes from nearly five decades of doing things the right way. The brand was born in New York City in 1977, when founder Alan Stillman and an eclectic group of locals built what would become one of America's most recognized steakhouse names. Chicago is very much its own expression of that legacy: a magnificent meal on the water, where the good times, as the restaurant puts it, simply flow.

Uncompromising Quality at the Source

What sets this steakhouse apart starts well before the plate. The USDA Prime steaks are grain-fed, humanely raised, and aged in-house for a minimum of 28 days — a process that intensifies natural flavor and tenderness. The beef is sourced from a network of small family farms through partners Double R Ranch and Snake River Farms, with American Wagyu also available for those who want to go further.

The menu's showpiece is the Swinging Tomahawk: a 44 oz. American Wagyu bone-in ribeye finished by hand-sear and prepared tableside. For seafood, the Signature Seafood Tower arrives stacked with chilled colossal crab, Maine lobster tail, jumbo shrimp, and oysters on the half shell. Dessert ends on an equally serious note with a ten-layer Gigantic Chocolate Cake layered with Baileys Irish Cream, chocolate mousse, and ganache.

The Wine Program and the People Behind It

Wine Spectator recognized Smith & Wollensky Chicago with its Best of Award of Excellence in 2020 — a distinction that reflects the depth and curation of the cellar. National Beverage Director Christian Gianaris brings 30 years of food and beverage experience to the program, with a focus on California wines, including a partnership with Charles Krug Winery, Napa Valley's oldest estate. The list is built to pair with the steakhouse's bold, primary flavors.

Managing Partner Regina Arendt has been with the Chicago location since 1998, moving from manager to Assistant General Manager before taking the leadership role in 2009. That kind of tenure shows — in the consistency of service, the attention to detail, and the warm welcome that has kept guests returning for decades.

Private Events and Outdoor Dining

Beyond the main dining room, the Chicago location accommodates large groups, private parties, and catered events, with outdoor seating that makes the most of its riverfront position. Whether it's a business dinner or a celebration, the same standard of service applies across every format.