Capital Grille - Chicago

From the oversized wine list, to the generous dry-aged steaks and extra-large martinis, Capital Grille exudes a stately and club-like masculinity. No question, important client lunches and power tie dinners abound at this Streeterville location, with a word-of-mouth reputation for attracting seal-the-deal diners, (much like the Providence R.I. based steakhouse chain's Washington D.C. locale). Lending nicely to Chicago's voracious appetite for Midwestern-man-sized portions of great red meat, the Grille specializes in dry-aged steaks; meat that is aged for 21 to 28 days, which intensifies flavor. At the front of the restaurant, patrons can view the aging process, which is completed in a humidity-controlled locker. Steaks are succulent and carefully prepared; the Delmonico is especially tempting, as is the steak tartare appetizer. Depending on the season, roasted seasonal mushrooms compliment any cut nicely. Not in the mood for beef? Try the cold shellfish platter or juicy steamed lobster, and finish with an absolutely decadent New York Cheesecake or slice of key lime pie.