This charming upscale chophouse in a historic townhouse is renowned for its exceptional steaks and adventurous dishes like caviar churros, making it a standout for special occasions.
"From the husband-and-wife team of Doug Psaltis and Hsing Chen, the duo who gave Logan Square Andros Taverna, Asador Bastian is a Spanish restaurant inside a historic building in River North. The menu, beyond the beef, is impressive. The steaks themselves are special and servers will routinely offer unique off-the-menu beef from farms across America. There’s also great seafood and veggie options. Bring your appetite and wallet. Order the truffled potatoes." - Ashok Selvam
"Where Thomas Kakalios, nominee for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, works." - Emily Venezky
"Asador Bastian isn’t for the quaint of heart. This River North basque restaurant specializes in rare beef, not the pedestrian cuts found at a grocer. Make sure to order extra piquillo peppers, and to order the bone marrow potato puree for a decadent experience. Steak remains popular in Chicago but both Doug Psaltis and Hsing Chen take a different approach with lots of seafood and killer desserts that drift away from tradition." - Ashok Selvam
"Asador Bastian, from the husband-and-wife duo of Doug Psaltis and Hsing Chen, was one of Chicago’s biggest restaurants openings of 2023, a two-level Spanish restaurant that imports beef and seafood from Spain. The dimly lit space sports exceptional service, and while the “boutique” beef grabs headlines, the fish is just as delicious. Look for specials, but the core menu includes greats like sole amandine and turbot, all expertly prepped with a hint of smoke from the grill. Make a reservation through OpenTable." - Samantha Nelson, Eater Staff
"This Chicago chophouse set inside a restored townhouse offers a variety of ways to ring in the New Year, all featuring nostalgic glamorous touches. The early seating features a lavish $165 four-course menu, while the late seating ($325) goes all out with a seven-course tasting menu (think caviar, jamon Iberico, black truffle-topped Spanish shrimp), Champagne toasts, and live music. Cocktail connoisseurs can opt for a cocktail-tasting menu ($275) with rare vintage spirits and paired pintxos. Reservations are available here, here, and here." - Lisa Shames, Eater Staff
