In a traditional Chicago-style steakhouse, the grills and ovens are hidden behind swinging doors to the kitchen. Not so at El Che, from chef-owner John Manion. Here, the wood-fired grill invites you into Argentine steakhouse culture, which is all about the rustic pleasure of a cookout brought indoors. You’ll see that grill in the rear of the dining room, its flames licking and embers glowing, and you’ll breathe in that whiff of smoke that escaped the ventilation system. Bring a friend and share a platter of succulent tira de asado (bone-in short ribs) and order a bottle from the extraordinarily fun South American wine list. Or bring several friends for the mar de plata — a plate the size of a Chinese restaurant’s lazy Susan filled with roasted and grilled seafood, french fries, and a small bucket of shellfish butter. Cookouts are nothing if not communal.

Price: $$$$
Address: 845 W. Washington Blvd.
Website: elchechicago.com