It's funny....I've lived here about 5 years or so, and have had great experiences at Gibson's, but hate the wait there (seated at 830 for a 7pm reservation, etc). While it seems strange to recommend a non-Chicago based place, the Capitol Grille has been excellent every time I've gone there.

Burgers, steak, seafood, whatever - it's all very good. But quite frankly, as another poster opined, all the places mentioned here are going to be above average.