Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
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

4.9 (2150)
$31 to $50
Barbecue
465 E. Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 34 times today

About this restaurant

  • Good for business meals
  • Good for groups
  • Good for special occasions
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.

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
  • Website
    http://ribs.com/
  • 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.
  • Delivery & takeout
    Order direct
  • Location
    465 E. Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611
  • 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

Menu

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago's menu was last updated on 8/19/2022.

View menu on restaurant's website

What 2,150 people are saying

Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - Chicago reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.9
4.9 based on recent ratings
  • 4.9Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue in Chicago is celebrated for its "best ribs in the world" and "fantastic BBQ." Guests rave about the "exceptional service" and "wonderful hospitality," with standout dishes like "delicious chicken sandwich" and "amazing cornbread." The inviting atmosphere and "attentive staff" make it a top dining choice.

2,150 Reviews

  1. Liz VIP

    Columbus49 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 1 day ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Always our 1st stop when we’re in town! It’s a right of passage and delicious!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 1 day ago
    Dear Liz, Thank you for taking the time to share your positive feedback regarding your recent visit. We are very pleased to see your excellent ratings for our food, service, ambiance, and value. It is especially gratifying to know that Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue is consistently your first choice when you are in town and that you consider it a tradition. We sincerely appreciate your ongoing support and are delighted that you enjoy our food and find our atmosphere. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you again on your next visit. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  2. Kristen

    Detroit1 review

    5.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Always an amazing experience with the folks at Carson's. Service is unparalleled and food was outstanding. Dalton does a great job! Thank you!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 1 day ago
    Dear Kristen, Thank you for your fantastic 5 star review and the perfect scores across the board! We're so happy to hear you consistently have an amazing experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue. It's wonderful to know you consider our service unparalleled and the food outstanding. We really appreciate your kind mention of Dalton, and we'll be sure to let him know. Thank you again for highlighting our atmosphere and suitability for so many occasions, from a neighborhood gem to a spot for fine wines and special events with the diner tags. We eagerly anticipate your next visit to Carson's! Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  3. Marsha VIP

    Chicago118 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Delicious char grilled and bbq offerings. A nice place to meet with friends and dine with family.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 2 days ago
    Dear Marsha, Thank you for taking the time to share your excellent review. We are always delighted to learn that you thoroughly enjoy our char grilled and BBQ selections, and that you were pleased with our service, ambiance, and overall value. As a family owned and operated restaurant, it is especially gratifying to know that you consider our restaurant a nice setting for gatherings with friends and family dinners. We sincerely appreciate your perfect 5.0 ratings in each category. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  4. Marsha VIP

    Chicago118 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great salads. I recommend Carson’s to all who love greens.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded 4 days ago
    Hello Marsha. Thank you for always taking time to provide such a positive review following your recent dining experiences at Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. We really appreciate you letting everyone know about our great fresh salads. See you soon. Kind Regards, Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  5. Bella VIP

    Chicago2 reviews

    4.0

    Dined on April 27, 2025

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 4
    Yummy Ribs and the best sides ever in a beautiful restaurant and location.

    Is this helpful?

  6. Marsha VIP

    Chicago118 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on April 25, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The chicken sandwich was awesome. I highly recommend it.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on April 26, 2025
    Dear Marsha, Thank you so much for your terrific 5 star review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your visit last night. We're so glad you loved our awesome juicy chicken sandwich and highly recommend it. We love them too! We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  7. Marsha VIP

    Chicago118 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on April 23, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The grilled chicken appetizer was delicious comfort food.
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on April 26, 2025
    Dear Marsha, We truly appreciate your dining loyalty and your kindness in saying that Carson’s grilled chicken appetizer was delicious comfort food. It means a lot to us that you enjoy our food and take your time to share your positive experiences. Thank you for your continued support! We always aim to provide a memorable dining experience, and your feedback encourages us to keep doing our best. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  8. Cindy VIP

    Chicago13 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on April 23, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Consistently the best ribs ever! Perfectly smoked and they don’t fall off the bone!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on April 24, 2025
    Dear Cindy, Thank you so much for your awesome 5-star review of Carson’s Chicago. We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience with us, rating our food, service, and ambiance so highly. We especially appreciate your kind words about our award winning BBQ babyback ribs. We're glad you consistently find them to be the best you've ever had, perfectly smoked. We also appreciate you understanding our approach since 1977 to preparing amazing award-winning bbq ribs, which, as you noted, should not fall-off-the-bone, as that would indicate they are overcooked for competition-style BBQ and not win. Award winners always have that signature tug and chew from the bone. We look forward to serving you again soon! Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  9. Matt

    Chicago4 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on April 21, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Live this place and always visit when in town, best ribs in the world In my opinion
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on April 24, 2025
    Dear Matt, Thank you so much for your superb review and stellar comments! We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your 5 star experience at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago. We truly appreciate your perfect scores for Food, Service, Ambience, and Value. It’s fantastic to know that you love our restaurant and always visit us when you’re in town. We're especially happy that you consider our award winning competition style barbecue babyback ribs the best in the world! That’s how we feel too! We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit. Sincerely, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    Is this helpful?

  10. Danita VIP

    Hawaii4 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on April 21, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Amazing food every time! We travel all the way from Vegas just for Carson’s!
    Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue - ChicagoResponded on April 23, 2025
    Dear Danita, We are incredibly grateful and amazed by your wonderful 5 star review of Carson’s Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue Chicago. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your fantastic experience. We're thrilled to hear you consistently enjoy our food and that it's worth the trip all the way from Las Vegas! Knowing that our food, service, and ambiance all contributed to a perfect experience means the world to us. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you back to Carson's again soon. Best regards, Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago Team RIBS. com

    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 4.9 stars by 2150 OpenTable diners.

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

  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois
  4. Chicago
  5. Gold Coast / Streeterville

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 34 times today
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
  • Delivery & takeout
    Order direct
  • Website
    http://ribs.com/
  • 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.
Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo