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Carson’s Ribs Chicago’s Original #1 Essential BBQ - Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago, Chicago, IL

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago

4.7
4.7
2033 Reviews
$31 to $50
Barbecue

Make a booking

2 people
19:00
Booked 28 times today
  • Good for special occasions
  • Charming
  • Good for business meals
America's #1 BBQ since 1977. Carson's dedication to hearty portions and an unwavering commitment to finest quality makes it no wonder why people love Carson’s for over 45 years. Carson's slow-smoked BBQ babyback ribs are a star attraction. Other must-try items include BBQ or Greek Chicken and Chops, Salmon, Shrimp, USDA Certified Black Angus, Prime Steaks, Award-Winning Cole Slaw, homemade salad dressings, homemade corn bread, scratch-made potato sides, homemade desserts and more. Located conveniently in Streeterville, nearby Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue on Ogden Slip of Chicago River in a tastefully renovated cozy warehouse space with exposed brick and wooden beams over 100 years old. Above the glow of candlelight, the likes of Frank Sinatra, Michael Jordan, and hundreds of other notable Carson's fans join you in your meal. Come see why Carson's is a quintessential ONE AND ONLY #1 BBQ landmark restaurant in Chicago serving award winning competition style BBQ and Prime Steaks.

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Barbecue, Steak, American
  • Hours of Operation
    Fri, Sat 11:30 am–11:00 pm Sun 11:30 am–10:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 3:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (312) 280-9200
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Catering
    Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue now has a beautiful event space to host large parties. Our Classic Chicago River Room can be reserved for large private events for complete sit down dinners with a private bar. The River Room has lovely views of Ogden Slip and City lights, exposed brick, wood beams, picture windows, tablecloths, waiter service, full bar and wine list. Aside from our River Room, we have a fabulous large stand alone private dining room table perfect for elegant celebratory occasions. Carson’s is an authentic Chicago family owned and operated restaurant since 1977 which delivers a PERSONAL TOUCH hard to find elsewhere. We serve Delicious Award Winning Barbecue, Prime or Angus Steaks, Chops, Chicken, Shrimp, and Salmon. Desserts, side dishes, and cornbread are also HOMEMADE. Large carry out orders are available for pick up. Please contact Party Planner Nick (323) 540-4888 You may also feel free to contact owner Dean Carson at 773-310-1000
  • Private party facilities
    Carson’s Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue has beautiful event space to host large parties. We welcome you to contact us to discuss your party needs and reserve your important date.
  • Area
    Gold Coast / Streeterville
  • Cross Street
    Lake Shore Drive
  • Parking details
    4-HOUR SELF PARKING AVAILABLE FOR ONLY $12 at Downtown Chicago in Streeterville. Self-park directly across the street; enter on Illinois Street at Parkview Garage - 456 E Illinois St. The garage is UNDERGROUND below One Bennett Park. Please validate your ticket at Carson's front desk at the end of your visit. For questions, call 312-280-9200.
  • Public transit
    CTA 66 Chicago Bus - Eastbound toward Navy Pier | Take the CTA Red Line "L" to Grand & State, then walk or bus 7 blocks east on Illinois Street.
  • Additional
    Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace

What 2,033 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.6Value

NoiseModerate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue in Chicago offers an exceptional dining experience with "delicious food," "outstanding service," and a "beautiful and pleasant" ambiance. Renowned for their ribs, steaks, and "generous portions," Carson's is a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the "craft cocktails," "comfortable seating," and "amazing views" of the Chicago River. Whether for special occasions or casual outings, Carson's promises a memorable meal.

2,033 Reviews
  1. Samantha

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined today

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It is always an excellent experience. I had specific request and the staff met my expectations. The ambiance, food, and service are always a cut above! Will return soon.

    Is this helpful?

  2. Andrea

    Milwaukee

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Nice atmosphere, very good food. Exemplary wait staff. A great place for dinner.

    Is this helpful?

  3. Marsha

    Chicago

    82 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    82 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great burgers, steaks and big salads. We love Carson’s!

    Is this helpful?

  4. christine

    Chicago

    20 reviews

    5.0

    20 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Went with my husband to celebrate our 41st Anniversary. Great customer service and the food was delicious. Will definitely be back with my couples group.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 3 days ago
    Thank you so much Christine for this excellent 5 star review of Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago and for choosing us to be your anniversary dinner destination! We are proud to have an amazing staff that cares for our guests so we will be sure to let everyone know how delicious your food was and how great the service was. We look forward to celebrating many more with you and your family. Happy Anniversary!

    Is this helpful?

  5. Marsha

    Chicago

    82 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    82 reviews

    Dined on 25 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Excellent deluxe salads and warm atmosphere. I highly recommend Carson’s.

    Is this helpful?

  6. Veda

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on 24 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Had a Fantastic Birthday Dinner with friends on Sunday, Nov 24, 2024. The atmosphere was very nice the Server was funny and very attentive and nice. The food was excellent I really enjoyed the food. The Birthday brownie with ice cream and whip cream made my day! Had not even to Carson Ribs in years but the service and food are still excellent.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on 25 November 2024
    Hello Veda. Thank you for sharing your superb birthday dining experience with at Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. It is always a treat to learn that our guests received a fantastic birthday celebration and excellent attentive care by our staff. Your server’s name was Blake if you would like to request him next visit. We are happy you enjoyed all the food and your party had an excellent time. It will be a pleasure to serve you again soon. Happy Birthday again from all of us at Carson’s.

    Is this helpful?

  7. Marsha

    Chicago

    82 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    82 reviews

    Dined on 21 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Excellent cheese burgers and warm atmosphere. I highly recommend Carson’s.

    Is this helpful?

  8. Bob

    Chicago

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on 21 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Never EVER a Bad Experience! always our "go to" place and for special nights!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on 22 November 2024
    Hi Bob. We sincerely appreciate your 5 star review of Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue. It makes us super happy to be your “go to” place for special nights. Proud to be your 5 star choice on all points. See you soon.

    Is this helpful?

  9. Marsha

    Chicago

    82 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    82 reviews

    Dined on 20 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Excellent char grilled chicken and warm atmosphere. I highly recommend Carson’s.

    Is this helpful?

  10. Moshe

    London

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on 20 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Amazing food and exceptional service. Do not miss the place if you're visiting Chicago!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on 22 November 2024
    Outstanding! We love your 5 star review and superb comments about our amazing food and exceptional service at Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. Thank you for your dining loyalty and letting everyone know we are a Chicago must visit dining experience. We will certainly pass along your kind comments about exceptional service to the team and owner. Thanks again

    Is this helpful?

FAQs

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (312) 280-9200.

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago is rated 4.7 stars by 2033 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people
19:00
Booked 28 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago

465 E. Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross Street
    Lake Shore Drive
  • Area
    Gold Coast / Streeterville
  • Hours of Operation
    Fri, Sat 11:30 am–11:00 pm Sun 11:30 am–10:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 3:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Barbecue, Steak, American
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    4-HOUR SELF PARKING AVAILABLE FOR ONLY $12 at Downtown Chicago in Streeterville. Self-park directly across the street; enter on Illinois Street at Parkview Garage - 456 E Illinois St. The garage is UNDERGROUND below One Bennett Park. Please validate your ticket at Carson's front desk at the end of your visit. For questions, call 312-280-9200.
  • Public transit
    CTA 66 Chicago Bus - Eastbound toward Navy Pier | Take the CTA Red Line "L" to Grand & State, then walk or bus 7 blocks east on Illinois Street.
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Additional
    Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace
  • Phone number
    (312) 280-9200
  • Catering
    Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue now has a beautiful event space to host large parties. Our Classic Chicago River Room can be reserved for large private events for complete sit down dinners with a private bar. The River Room has lovely views of Ogden Slip and City lights, exposed brick, wood beams, picture windows, tablecloths, waiter service, full bar and wine list. Aside from our River Room, we have a fabulous large stand alone private dining room table perfect for elegant celebratory occasions. Carson’s is an authentic Chicago family owned and operated restaurant since 1977 which delivers a PERSONAL TOUCH hard to find elsewhere. We serve Delicious Award Winning Barbecue, Prime or Angus Steaks, Chops, Chicken, Shrimp, and Salmon. Desserts, side dishes, and cornbread are also HOMEMADE. Large carry out orders are available for pick up. Please contact Party Planner Nick (323) 540-4888 You may also feel free to contact owner Dean Carson at 773-310-1000
  • Private party facilities
    Carson’s Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue has beautiful event space to host large parties. We welcome you to contact us to discuss your party needs and reserve your important date.
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