Chicago steakhouse for date night dining to remember!

As a new Chicagoan, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at some of the city’s finest establishments. But few have captured my heart (and my taste buds) quite like Bavette’s Bar and Boeuf. This modern steakhouse, nestled in the heart of River North, offers a sophisticated and charming dining experience that’s perfect for a special occasion.

The Ambiance: The moment you step into Bavette’s, you’re transported to an old-worldly vintage chìc, where the premises embraces French flair without the formality, blending fine dining with unabashed fun (their words). The dim lighting, plush velvet seating, table top lampshades and rich-coloured wallpaper, creates an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic dinner.

The food: Of course, the real star of the show at Bavette’s is the food. The menu features a variety of classic steakhouse dishes, such as dry-aged steaks, chops, and seafood - all cooked to perfection! However, what sets Bavette’s apart is their creative approach to starters and sides. For example, the steak tartare and chicken liver toasts are flavoured with delicate mixes of dill and dijonaisse, while the mac and cheese adds the richness of truffle to the mix.

A few must-try dishes:

• Dry-aged steaks: The dry-aged steaks here are simply divine. They’re cooked to perfection and incredibly flavourful - especially the Snake River Farm New York strip. They serve a salt mix alongside their steaks which adds the perfect sprinkle of flavour, as well as the Béarnaise sauce which packs a punch, but doesn't take away from the beautifully prepared steak.

• Mac and Cheese: This dish is a decadent indulgence, with a hint of truffle, that’s worth every calorie. We balanced it out with a side of broiled asparagus with was perfectly fresh and zesty.

• Chocolate Cream Pie: This is to die for! Rich morsels of chocolate in every mouthful, topped with a delicate but rich dollop of cream, this dessert is best shared, and enjoyed alongside a glass of red wine or port. The perfect end to your meal!

• Seafood tower: We did not try the seafood this time, but the seafood towers look fabulous, and many of the tables around us were enjoying platters of lobster and oysters - on the list for next time!

  
  

The wine: Bavette's boasts an extensive wine list, featuring 250+ bottles from around the world. The wine list contains a fantastic range by the glass, whether it be a glass of champagne or a heavier Bordeaux, the glasses and the bottles offer a wide range of price points and styles to suit every palate. I love their selection of dessert wines and cocktails too which offer the perfect night cap!

The service: The service at Bavette’s is impeccable. The staff are knowledgeable, passionate about the menu, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure a memorable dining experience, especially for special occasions, so be sure to tell them if you're celebrating anything!

Bavette’s is a true gem in Chicago’s dining scene. The combination of delicious food, stylish ambiance, and excellent service makes it a must-visit for any foodie. Bookings are tricky to get, however, so be sure to set a reminder to jump on the reservations as soon as they open! Alternatively, you can sit at the bar as a walk in guest, but it's first come first serve and it's competitive on the weekend!

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal, Bavette’s is sure to impress!