Wildfire in Chicago: More Great Steak (Chicago Area Restaurant Review 28)

Our faithful readers know that Wildfire in Oakbrook is our all-time favorite red meat restaurant in the area. We definitely don't like some of the other suburban Wildfires as much, but the one in the city is among our favorites. On a recent visit, we started with shrimp cocktail and baked goat cheese appetizers for the table. These were every bit as good as in the Oakbrook location. The shrimp was big and fresh, with zesty cocktail sauce. The goat cheese and tomato sauce, which is always one of the draws of this restaurant, did not disappoint. The table enjoyed the tomato and onion salad (also with goat cheese). The large portion was enough to feed an army, so it easily fed four and was wonderful.

Steve and Lisa both had their usual bone-in filet, medium rare. Both were cooked perfectly and Lisa and Steve continue to think this is the best steak in Chicago. On the waiter's recommendation, one of our companions ordered the tenderloin tips. She thought they were good but a bit too rich. Our other friend had horseradish crusted filet. He thought it was very interesting, but would not order it again, because of the strong taste of the horseradish.

For dessert, Steve had his usual apple pie with ice cream. His only complaint was that there was not enough caramel, but it was otherwise very good. Lisa ordered the Snickers ice cream sandwich. It's actually three triangular ice cream sandwiches with caramel, chocolate, and vanilla ice cream. It was so good, she ate two of the sandwiches despite feeling stuffed before she started. Our friends split the key lime pie, which they said was excellent.

For wine, we shared a bottle of one of our favorites -- Groom Shiraz. This wine is reasonably priced and has a nice, fruity flavor without being sweet.

The bathrooms were both perfectly nice, but nothing special.

The total bill for Wildfire in Chicago, with a bottle of wine, was $275 for four, which is, in our view, a great bargain, for the amount and quality of the food.

Our rating for Wildfire, 161 W. Erie, Chicago, Illinois:

9 of 10 Steak Knives; 2 of 3 Bathroom Brushes