Restaurant Review: When impressions are important…River North’s Gene & Georgetti’s tops them all
Once upon a time, my date was insistent. “Wear a dress,” he said. “I’m taking you someplace special.” River North? Okay! I thought…this should be interesting.
He showed up in a three-piece suit, carrying flowers. Then…took me to a classy, clubby, elegant steakhouse that my grandparents may have enjoyed as much as we did…even with a dress code. “Smart or business casual, elevated chic” is encouraged.
In fact, the rules are clearly stated. “Sportswear and gym wear- including t-shirts, gym shoes, flip flops, shorts, hats, and hoodies are strongly discouraged. Jeans are allowed, but we prefer no tears or large holes. Excessive displays of skin and sheer clothing are not permitted.”
You have been forewarned!
Gene & Georgetti’s is a classic Chicago steakhouse with a Tuscan flair. They have been serving quality steaks, Shrimp de Johnge, and other delights since 1941.
History
Born in the small Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy, Gene Michelotti came to the United States at the age of 15. Though he spoke little to no English, he worked numerous jobs, including bartender, where he encountered his future business partner Alfredo “Georgetti” Federighi, who was working as a chef. Three generations of Gene’s family have taken care of the restaurant’s legacy; the most recent being his granddaughter Michelle and grandson-in-law, Collin. This new generation dedicates itself to maintaining its rich Italian history. Over the years, it also became a place to “see and be seen,” with stars like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball as well as modern day celebrities like Russell Crowe, Keanu Reeves, Vince Vaughn, and Will Ferrell dining there.
This family-owned establishment, as their website notes, is housed in Chicago’s third oldest building. They serve “the finest prime-aged steaks and chops, pastas, & signature dishes invented here such as The Garbage Salad and Chicken Joe.” Their curated wine list originates from their roots in Lucca, Tuscany, Italy.
Starters include Calamari, your choice of classic fried, or grilled with lemon & e.v.o.o.Their Seafood Tower is a crustacean dream of oysters, shrimp, clams, lobster, Argentine prawns, and snow crab claws. G & G’s invention The Original Garbage Salad, can be shared at the table, featuring salami, jumbo shrimp, provolone, and *the works.” Or, try the Crab Cakes…as they say, “The crabbiest of cakes (get it?)”
A great Tuscan steakhouse must feature outstanding pasta, and one blend to recommend is their Maccheroni alla Norma, a Sicilian dish of classic tube pasta, paired with a simple eggplant and tomato sauce. Gnocchi are fresh potato dumplings with your choice of a light tomato sauce, house-made bolognese, or “quattro formaggi” (four-cheese sauce). They also recommend Pappardelle Bolognese– house-made wide noodle pasta and sauce, which also makes “a great side with steaks.”
And then, there are the steaks…USDA prime, marbled for flavorful goodness and cooked to perfection. Have them Tomahawk-style if you dare, a 38-ounce Prime Dry Aged Ribeye, served on the bone with rosemary roasted potatoes. Larger appetites can enjoy (and share) La Bistecca Fiorentina – Prime Dry Aged T-Bone…a 48-ounce cut served no more than medium-rare with roasted asparagus. They also serve a well-received filet mignon, New York Strip, and Ribeye.
Lighter appetites will enjoy the Chicken Joe, a roasted chicken breast with sweet and hot peppers.
Google reviews were ecstatic:
“An experience we will never forget. The history of the building almost matches the history of this family owned restaurant. Some of the best steaks, seafood, and chicken we’ve had in our food ventures. Try the garbage salad! Service was top notch and super attentive. Cool photos hung up on the walls. A must try if you have the opportunity. Saluti!”
“The food was amazing! My husband and I enjoyed a date night here while visiting Chicago and we had the filet mignon with the vesuvio potatoes. The meat was perfectly cooked, savory, juicy, and lightly covered in a delicious sauce, and the potatoes were also covered in a delicious Italian butter garlic sauce. The servers were super friendly and helpful with all of our questions and never pressured us to wrap up our meal. Truly an authentic Italian environment and a great local find!”
Gene & Georgetti’s is located at 500 N. Franklin Street. Their hours are Monday–Thursday, 11am-9pm, and Friday-Sunday (for brunch, lunch and dinner) 11am-10pm. Reservations are required, click here.
Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago
