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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
2097 Reviews
$31 to $50
Barbecue

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM

Select a time

Booked 17 times today
  • Good for special occasions
  • Good for business meals
  • Good for groups
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.
  • Neighborhood
    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
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 2,097 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
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue in Chicago consistently delights diners with "exceptional dining experience." Known for its "fabulous ribs" and "delicious steaks," this restaurant offers a "warm atmosphere" and attentive service. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Carson's remains a "go-to" destination for many.
2,097 Reviews
  1. Michael

    Chicago

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Never a bad visit at my family favorite restaurant. The wife and I decided to spend Valentine's Day weekend there and the food was great. Our server Dan was friendly as well as the rest of the staff. Sat in the back end of the restaurant for the first time and the view was great as well as the soul music playing at a great level. The baby back ribs and our sides were delicious as well. Carsons never fails 👍🏾
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 2 days ago
    Dear Michael, Thanks so much for an amazing 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear you had another wonderful experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago. It means a lot to us you choose Carson's as your family's favorite restaurant and you decided to celebrate Valentine's Day weekend with us. We're delighted Dan and the rest of our team took great care of you. We'll be sure to pass on your kind words. We're also glad you enjoyed the atmosphere and music in the river room. We always strive to create a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance for guests. And of course, we're thrilled you love our babyback ribs and sides – it's our pleasure to serve you delicious food! Thank you again for your continued support and kind words. We look forward to welcoming you back soon! RIBS.com

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  2. Andy

    VIP

    Palm Springs

    17 reviews

    5.0

    17 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Celebrated an anniversary but hot charged for desert without being told
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 3 days ago
    ????? Please advise. Thank you

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  3. Cleveland

    Chicago

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on February 8, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Everything was great service and food was awesome
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 9, 2025
    Dear Cleveland, Thank you for your glowing 5 star review! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue. We strive to provide excellent service and delicious food, and we're so glad that we hit the mark for you. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to serving you again soon! Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Milwaukee Team RIBS.com

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  4. Charles

    Chicago

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on February 8, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Food was good and service was excellent. We hadn’t dined there since they moved to present location. Staff was friendly, the only thing we missed was the chicken liver pate!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 6 days ago
    Dear Charles, Thank you for taking time to share your recent 5 star dining experience with us. We're delighted to hear you enjoyed our food and service at Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the chicken liver pate. Unfortunately, due to the fact that we don’t get much of a calling for that item anymore at that location we needed to modify our menu. The good news is that we do still offer it at our Deerfield IL location if you are ever out that way! We're glad you decided to revisit us at Streeterville after our move from Wells St, and anticipate welcoming you back again soon. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS.com

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  5. Mike

    New Orleans

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on February 8, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    Great atmosphere. Great food. Great service. Very friendly staff
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 8, 2025
    Dear Mike, Thank you for your kind words and 5 star recommendation. We're delighted that you enjoyed your recent dining experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago. We take pride in providing exceptional service and are pleased that your experience reflected our commitment to quality food and atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you back to Carson's in the near future. Sincerely, Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS.com

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  6. Stuart

    Chicago

    34 reviews

    5.0

    34 reviews

    Dined on February 3, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We live in the neighborhood and come to eat here every so often. We are never disappointed. Food atmosphere service all the best. It’s a definite go to restaurant
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 4, 2025
    Dear Stuart, Thank you so much for your 5 star review and kind words about Carson's Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. We're so happy to hear we are your go-to restaurant and that you enjoy our food, atmosphere, and the best service frequently. We truly appreciate your support and are grateful to have you as a neighbor. See you again soon! Kind Regards, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago RIBS.com

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  7. Michele

    VIP

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on February 2, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Was here years ago and always remembered what a great meal we had. Wasn’t sure what to expect so many years later. But it was great. Food was delicious, attentive service. Really great.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 3, 2025
    Dear Michele, Thank you for your recent visit and for taking the time to share your 5 star feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you had another great experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Milwaukee after all these years and loved welcoming you back. We're committed to providing delicious food, attentive service, and a pleasant atmosphere, and we're so glad that we were able to still exceed your expectations in all aspects. We look forward to seeing you much sooner in the future! Sincerely, Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Milwaukee Team RIBS.com

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  8. OpenTable Diner

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 1, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Everything was wonderful our waiter Blake was perfect
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 5, 2025
    Thank you for taking the time to share your superb 5 star feedback about your recent visit on February 1st. We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience and everything was wonderful. We're especially pleased Blake provided you with perfect service. We'll be sure to share your kind words with him. We appreciate your business and would love to welcome you back soon. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Management Team RIBS.com

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  9. Amy

    Chicago

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on February 1, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Staff went over and above for us! They are a great team. Thanks for making our birthday night special.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on February 2, 2025
    Dear Amy, Thank you for your 5-star review and your kind words about our staff at Carson’s Prime Staeks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. As a family owned and operated restaurant, we’re thrilled to hear they went above and beyond to make your birthday celebration special. We're so fortunate to have such a dedicated and passionate team. They truly enjoy making our guests feel welcome and ensuring they have a memorable experience. Thank you again for dining with us and for sharing your feedback. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back soon. Best regards, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS.com

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  10. Marsha

    VIP

    Chicago

    100 reviews

    5.0

    100 reviews

    Dined on January 30, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great salads and appetizers, served in an energetic atmosphere.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 7 days ago
    Dear Marsha, Thank you for your awesome 5 star review of Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your dining experience. We're especially happy that you love our salads and appetizers, and that you find the atmosphere to be delightfully energetic. We strive to create a vibrant and welcoming environment for all of our guests. Thank you again for your feedback. Sincerely, Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS.com

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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 2097 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM

Select a time

Booked 17 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
  • Neighborhood
    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
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • 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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