From Our Family To Yours

By Marion Durpetti, Proprietor

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS, WELCOME TO GENE & GEORGETTI, CHICAGO’S FINEST STEAKHOUSE SINCE 1941.

In celebration of Italian hospitality, we offer a curated menu of prime steaks, chops, and classic Italian & Italian-American fare. We proudly maintain the tradition of quality food and service that has defined our beloved restaurant for eight decades.

Here you’ll find only the best USDA prime steaks in Chicago, which are hand-selected from the top of all beef in the U.S. We broil our steaks to perfection until a delicious crust is formed. They’re so tender, juicy, and flavorful; they don’t require any seasoning – a testament to our commitment to superior quality.

We love our customers, who have inspired some of our most famous dishes. Be sure to try the original Garbage Salad and our signature Chicken alla Joe! Our restaurant is so proud to be a part of the River North community, welcoming our neighbors and friends for food, great coffee, and always striving to provide quality products for your home kitchen as well.

Throughout 80 years of history, we have welcomed so many through our doors. Our team is like family, and many have been with us for decades. We set the precedent long ago and hold true to a classic style of service: attentive but never intrusive, so you may feel the comforts of home when you dine with us. Our founders Gene & Alfredo “Georgetti” worked hand in hand to establish the reputation of excellence that is continued today by the third generation of family ownership.

SO HOW DID THIS ALL BEGIN?

Born in the small Tuscan town of Lucca, Italy, my father Gene Michelotti came to the United States at age 15.  Several years later, he married Ida Passaglia in 1938.  Though he spoke little to no English upon his arrival, he worked numerous jobs ranging from night watchman, porter, dishwasher, and bartender, where he encountered his future business partner who was working as a chef, Alfredo “Georgetti” Federighi, nicknamed “Georgetti” after a famous Italian cyclist.

Together, they founded Gene and Georgetti.  Alfredo had the kitchen, and Gene was the front man, holding down the bar. His genuine and vivacious personality made him a hit with first time guests, “regulars”, and celebrities alike.

Gene and “Georgetti” worked hand in hand to establish the reputation of excellence that is continued through today, with your valued patronage. Upon Alfredo’s death in 1969, Gene became the sole proprietor of Gene & Georgetti, until his death in 1989.

From left to right: Gene & Ida enjoy a meal with Marion & Tony / Gene & Ida celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary with this portrait by Victor Skrebneski / Gene & Tony enjoy many a trip to Italy

TODAY, WE ARE STILL FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED.

My husband Tony Durpetti and I purchased the restaurant after the passing of my father. Our daughter Michelle Durpetti along with her husband Collin Pierson are managing partners, running the day-to-day operations at the restaurant.

We hope you enjoy your time with us, and we welcome your valuable feedback today.

With sincere gratitude, thank you for dining with us and continuing our treasured tradition.

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