Ballyhoo Hospitality of Chicago opened Sophia Steak Chicago in early March in the city’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Located at 748 N. State St., downstairs from Petit Pomeroy, Sophia Steak serves a fresh neighborhood approach to the classic steakhouse destination. The concept offers a polished yet approachable experience that features premium steaks, seafood, and comforting sharable plates. Sophia Steak Chicago is the third Sophia Steak location, and marks Ballyhoo Hospitality’s 12th restaurant. The concept was created in collaboration with legendary restaurateur Glenn Keefer, known for his iconic contributions to the Chicago steakhouse scene.
“Sophia Steak is right at home in Chicago,” says Ryan O’Donnell, founder and CEO of Ballyhoo Hospitality, in a prepared statement. “Glenn, a Chicago icon, led us down a great path, and I’m excited to develop the future of the Sophia brand and redefine the neighborhood steakhouse with our new Ballyhoo partner, Jon Farrer.”
O’Donnell worked with Tom Kehoe of Chicago-based Kehoe Designs to bring the space to life. The design blends bold florals, soft lighting, a statement chandelier, and refined textures to create an elegant environment that is sophisticated and playful.
“A steakhouse can transform ordinary moments into memories with kindness and warmth. Sophia will present a signature service that is as important as its signature steaks,” says Jon Farrer, president of Ballyhoo Hospitality.
The menu features signature dishes like its New York strip, crispy lobster and shishitos, Meatballs Pomodoro, and the Grilled Forza Burger. Lighter, vegetable-forward options such as the Super Green Vegetable Salad with kale, avocado, broccoli, asparagus, pepperoncini, olives, pistachios, lemon vinaigrette, and parmesan add variety. Rotating nightly specials showcase Sophia Steak favorites: Angry Lobster Spaghetti on Tuesdays, 16 oz. prime rib on Saturdays, and its beloved fried chicken on Sundays.
Guests can expect a bar program focused on thoughtfully crafted cocktails, offering a drinking experience that is both approachable and sophisticated. The cocktail menu features a range of drinks, each enhanced with house-made infusions and syrups that elevate the flavor profiles and add unique twists. Signature cocktails include a spicy margarita—made with an infused habanero tincture for a bold, fiery kick—and a refreshing strawberry cucumber drink, crafted with smooth vodka for a light, fruity contrast. In addition to the cocktail selection, the wine list features 19 wines by the glass, giving guests the chance to explore a variety of vintages that pair perfectly with the rich, flavorful menu.
The Sophia Steak bar area serves as the vibrant focal point of the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to gather and socialize. The bar features a circular layout with 26 seats, promoting an inclusive, communal feel. A full round track for liquor storage adds both functionality and visual appeal. The design incorporates backlighting and underlighting, illuminating the bar to create a captivating display that enhances the dynamic ambience of the room, making the bar a central and unforgettable feature of the space. The main dining room accommodates seating for 104 guests.
The Queen’s Table at Sophia Steak is an elegant private dining space designed for intimate gatherings and events, accommodating up to 12 guests at a custom wood table with high-backed dining chairs. Above the table, a stunning grand crystal chandelier adds a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere, along with an oversized gold-leafed framed portrait of the “Queen” Sophia observing the festivities. Large curtains can be drawn to create a more intimate setting, enhancing the exclusive feel of the room. With its flexibility, this space offers a cozy, yet refined environment perfect for special occasions.
