- Attraction: Gene & Georgetti
- Location: 500 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654
- Industry: Steakhouse
- Website: https://geneandgeorgetti.com
Step through the doors of Chicago’s third oldest building and you’ll discover something extraordinary: a culinary time capsule where Frank Sinatra once dined, where politicians still broker deals, and where three generations of the same family have perfected the art of the perfect steak.
Gene & Georgetti isn’t just Chicago’s oldest steakhouse (although it’s definitely that!)
But it’s also a living piece of the city’s soul, serving up prime aged beef and Italian specialties with the same passion that founders Gene Michelotti and Alfredo “Georgetti” Federighi brought to River North back in 1941.
What started as two Italian immigrants’ American dream has evolved into Chicago’s most authentic old-school dining experience.
You’ll feel the weight of history in every perfectly charred steak, every carefully crafted cocktail, and every story these walls could tell about celebrities, mobsters, and regular folks who’ve made this their second home for over eight decades.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights That Define Chicago Dining
The Prime Steaks: These aren’t just steaks—they’re edible works of art.
You’ll taste beef that’s been wet-aged to perfection, with that signature charred crust that seals in juices so succulent they practically burst on your tongue.
The T-bone and porterhouse steaks arrive unadorned on simple oval plates, letting the quality speak for itself in portions so generous you’ll likely take half home.
The Original Garbage Salad: Don’t let the name fool you—this iconic creation is pure genius.
Picture crisp iceberg lettuce piled high with chunks of salami, cheese, tomatoes, pepperoncini, and massive white shrimp, all tossed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette. It’s messy, it’s indulgent, and it’s absolutely essential to the Gene & Georgetti experience.
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Discover MoreChicken Alla Joe: This house specialty tells a beautiful story—created by longtime waiter Adorno “Joe” Pacini for a special customer request, it’s become legendary in its own right. You’ll savor tender roasted chicken with sweet bell peppers and tangy pepperoncini that create a perfect balance of flavors, finished with fresh lemon juice that brightens every bite.
Grilled Calamari: Forget everything you know about typical fried calamari. Here, they grill it to smoky perfection, creating a dish so extraordinary that longtime customers specifically request it over any other preparation.
The tender squid carries hints of char while remaining incredibly tender.
The Cottage Fries: These aren’t your average potato sides. Thick-cut and fried to golden perfection, they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, providing the ideal companion to your steak.
They arrive hot every single time, unlike the soft versions you’ll find elsewhere.
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Keep Exploring →Shrimp de Jonghe: This Chicago specialty reaches its pinnacle here—a golden pool of herbed garlic butter swimming with enormous pink shrimp and soft breadcrumbs that have transformed into silky threads of flavor.
You’ll need both fork and spoon to fully appreciate this rich, almost sinful creation.
Atmosphere & Décor
Old-School Steakhouse Charm: You’ll be transported to a bygone era the moment you enter, surrounded by dark wood paneling, leather booths, and soft lighting that creates an intimate, masculine atmosphere.
The walls display a fascinating collection of signed celebrity photos and local memorabilia that tells the story of Chicago’s dining history.
The Legendary Bar: Downstairs, you’ll find the heart of the restaurant—a lively bar where regulars have been gathering for decades.
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Discover MoreThe bar area features coveted tables that require connections rather than reservations, creating an exclusive club-like atmosphere where bartenders know your drink before you order.
Two-Story Layout: The upstairs dining room offers a more formal experience with spacious tables and red leather chairs, while the downstairs maintains that intimate neighborhood feel. Both spaces exude the same timeless elegance that has attracted everyone from Frank Sinatra to modern celebrities like Russell Crowe and Keanu Reeves.
Historic Setting: You’re dining in Chicago’s third oldest building, and that history permeates every corner.
The photos covering the walls aren’t just decoration—they’re a visual timeline of Chicago’s evolution, featuring familiar local faces alongside international celebrities who’ve made this their Chicago home base.
Other Considerations
Premium Pricing: You’ll invest significantly in your meal here, with steaks priced in line with Chicago’s top-tier establishments. However, the quality justifies every dollar—you’re paying for prime aged beef, generous portions, and an experience that money can’t buy elsewhere.
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Keep Exploring →Reservation Requirements: Reservations are essential, especially for peak dining times. The restaurant enforces a 90-minute table limit and charges a $25 per person fee for no-shows or last-minute cancellations, reflecting their commitment to serving all guests efficiently.
Parking Logistics: Valet parking costs $15 cash after 3 PM, though some seasonal complimentary valet is available. You’ll also find self-parking options just east of the restaurant on Illinois Street, making accessibility relatively convenient for River North.
Business Casual Dress Code: You’ll want to dress appropriately for this establishment—business casual is expected, and you truly never know which celebrities or politicians you might encounter during your visit.
Family-Friendly with Sophistication: While welcoming to families, the atmosphere leans toward mature diners who appreciate classic steakhouse traditions. The portions are enormous, making sharing both practical and economical for families.
Best Timing: Lunch service offers excellent value with their sandwich options, while dinner provides the full classic steakhouse experience. The bar fills up early with regulars, so arriving early for drinks guarantees the best atmosphere.
Gene & Georgetti
📍 500 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654
