Asador Bastian Brings San Sebastián Grill Culture to Chicago's River North
In 2023, Chicago's River North welcomed Asador Bastian, a steakhouse inspired by Basque cuisine, located within the historic Flair House, which dates back to 1883. The establishment, led by Chef Doug Psaltis and partner Hsing Chen—both veterans of the French Laundry—seeks to redefine the steakhouse experience. The menu highlights txuleton, a substantial bone-in ribeye sourced from older cattle, including retired dairy cows, from five select producers. The renovation retained the building's original facade while modernizing the interior, crafted by designer David M. Sullivan. Spanish elements are present with pintxos-style sides and seafood from Barcelona, complemented by Chen's signature burnt Basque cheesecake. Psaltis describes his butcher room as a cathedral and refers to his culinary approach as 'an elegant brutality,' positioning Asador Bastian among Chicago's esteemed steakhouses like Gene & Georgetti and Gibsons.
Key facts
- Asador Bastian opened in 2023 in Chicago's River North neighborhood.
- The restaurant occupies the 1883 Flair House, which underwent an extensive renovation.
- Chef-restaurateur Doug Psaltis and his wife and business partner Hsing Chen are both French Laundry alumni.
- The menu centers on txuleton, a thick bone-in ribeye cooked over charcoal and sliced to share.
- Psaltis sources beef from five boutique producers, including Japanese wagyu, French Simmental, and Australian galiciana.
- Designer David M. Sullivan furnished the bar with olive-green leather banquettes and red-oak millwork.
- The dining room features 1930s Murano glass chandeliers and a 10-seat chef's table with a view of the grill.
- Spanish-influenced dishes include turbot al pil-pil, spider crab arroz cremoso, and Chen's burnt Basque cheesecake.
Entities
Artists
- Doug Psaltis
- Hsing Chen
- David M. Sullivan
Institutions
- Asador Bastian
- French Laundry
- RPM Steak
- Gene & Georgetti
- Gibsons
- Flair House
Locations
- Chicago
- United States
- River North
- San Sebastián
- Spain
- Barcelona
- Japan
- France
- Australia