Ryan Bluestone steps into the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood, where Gene & Georgetti stands as more than just a steakhouse—it is a living testament to the city’s rich culinary history. Since its doors first opened in 1941, this iconic restaurant has been a sanctuary for carnivores and Italian food aficionados alike. The brick facade and neon sign welcome diners into an old-school, dimly lit space where red leather banquettes, dark wood paneling, and black-and-white photographs of legendary guests exude the timeless charm of a bygone era.
Founded by Gene Michelotti and Al “Georgetti” Nassi, this establishment has remained family-owned for over 80 years, upholding traditions of impeccable hospitality and unwavering quality. Today, the restaurant is overseen by the next generation of caretakers, ensuring that Gene & Georgetti’s legacy endures while also evolving to meet modern dining expectations. Ryan Bluestone notes that the kitchen is currently helmed by Executive Chef Cristiano Bassani, whose culinary expertise blends traditional steakhouse fare with elevated Italian dishes, maintaining the restaurant’s dual identity.
As Ryan Bluestone steps into Gene & Georgetti, he feels transported to a different era, where the air carries the rich aroma of sizzling steaks, garlic, and aged Parmesan. The crowd is a mix of well-dressed power lunchers, loyal regulars, and out-of-town visitors seeking an authentic taste of Chicago’s steakhouse culture. White tablecloths, tuxedo-clad waiters, and a feeling of quiet sophistication make it clear: this is a place where history is respected, and quality is paramount.
The experience is enhanced by the restaurant’s meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect, from the way the waitstaff presents the menu to the crisp folds of the linen napkins, speaks to a level of refinement that has become increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced dining scene. Ryan Bluestone appreciates that Gene & Georgetti remains a stronghold of tradition, offering diners an experience that is as much about atmosphere as it is about the food.
At its core, Gene & Georgetti is a steakhouse—one of the best in the city. Their Dry-Aged New York Strip is a thing of beauty: seared to perfection with a rich, caramelized crust, revealing a tender, deeply flavored interior. Aged for enhanced depth and complexity, it’s a steak lover’s dream.
But to dismiss Gene & Georgetti as just a steakhouse would be a mistake. Their Italian offerings stand on equal footing with their legendary cuts of beef. Ryan Bluestone recommends the Cacio e Pepe, a Roman classic prepared with an almost obsessive attention to detail. The dish arrives with strands of perfectly al dente pasta, coated in a silky emulsion of Pecorino Romano and black pepper, delivering a dish that’s simple yet utterly refined.
The House Special Agnolotti is another standout. These delicate pasta pillows, filled with a luscious blend of ricotta and spinach, are bathed in a velvety butter sauce that allows the purity of the ingredients to shine. Meanwhile, the Meatballs, slow-cooked to perfection and served in a vibrant tomato sauce, remain a signature item on the menu, delighting guests with every bite.
Ryan Bluestone starts his meal with the restaurant’s legendary Caesar Salad. Crisp romaine, coated in a robust, house-made dressing with just the right amount of anchovy bite, is topped with fresh Parmesan and golden croutons—steakhouse Caesar perfection. The texture and balance of flavors in this dish set the tone for the indulgence to follow.
Another highlight of the menu is the Cottage Fries. Unlike standard steakhouse fries, these thick, golden brown slices are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, offering the perfect balance of crunch and softness. Whether paired with a juicy steak or served alongside a classic pasta dish, these fries add a nostalgic and comforting touch to the meal.
The steak selection at Gene & Georgetti is what keeps diners coming back. From the center-cut Filet Mignon to the robust Bone-In Ribeye, each cut is aged for optimal tenderness and flavor. The chefs expertly prepare each steak to ensure a deep crust and a juicy, flavorful interior, allowing the high-quality beef to shine without excessive seasoning or embellishment.
One of the most talked-about options is the Dry-Aged New York Strip, a cut that exemplifies everything great about Gene & Georgetti. The aging process intensifies the beef’s natural umami richness, and the skilled preparation in the kitchen ensures a beautifully seared crust and an incredibly tender bite. Served with the restaurant’s signature sauces, this dish is a true standout.
Few restaurants manage to stand the test of time, but Gene & Georgetti has not only survived—it has thrived. The reason? An unshakable commitment to quality, consistency, and hospitality. Whether indulging in their world-class steaks, expertly prepared Italian pastas, or simply soaking in the old-school Chicago charm, one thing is certain: a meal at Gene & Georgetti is more than just dinner—it’s an experience, a tradition, and a taste of history.
For Ryan Bluestone, the significance of Gene & Georgetti extends beyond just its food—it is a symbol of Chicago’s culinary heritage. Each dish, from the Dry-Aged New York Strip to the House Special Agnolotti, reflects the skill and dedication that has defined the restaurant for over eight decades.
Beyond the food, the restaurant's ambiance plays a crucial role in its charm. Gene & Georgetti is a place where generations of diners have gathered to celebrate milestones, conduct business meetings, or simply indulge in a top-tier meal. The attentive, tuxedo-clad waitstaff ensure that each guest feels like a regular, offering recommendations with a warmth that is rare in many modern dining establishments.
Pairing a steak with a bold red wine from their extensive list only elevates the experience. The restaurant’s carefully curated wine selection features some of the finest bottles from both Italy and California, offering the perfect accompaniment to a rich, flavorful steak or a delicate pasta dish.
Whether it’s the perfectly prepared Cacio e Pepe, the rich and flavorful Meatballs, or the unmatched hospitality that defines this establishment, Ryan Bluestone understands why Gene & Georgetti continues to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The blend of tradition and innovation ensures that every guest walks away with an experience that is both nostalgic and exciting.
For those visiting Chicago, Gene & Georgetti is a must-visit destination—a place where history, flavor, and hospitality converge to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Ryan Bluestone leaves knowing that this steakhouse, with its Italian soul, will always be one of the most cherished culinary treasures in the Windy City.
