The Most Expensive Chain Restaurants You’ll Want To Try at Least Once in Your Life
Fast-food chains are all well and good, but if you’re looking for a more elevated dining experience, high-end restaurant chains are worth a try — at least once. From celebrity hot spots to culinary stalwarts that have set the standard for fine dining, these restaurants are known for their flavorful dishes, posh ambiance, and global appeal. Whether you’re craving some top-notch sushi or a perfectly grilled steak, these chains promise a meal you won’t forget. Just be ready to splurge.
1. Mr. Chow
Locations: 7 (New York, Beverly Hills, Miami, Las Vegas, London, and Riyadh)
Known for its upscale Chinese cuisine, Mr. Chow is a celebrity favorite offering signature dishes like hand-pulled noodles, chicken satay, and Peking duck. Boasting a chic atmosphere and attentive service, the restaurant chain blends traditional Chinese flavors with modern elegance. It also offers an extensive wine list and specialty cocktails.
2. Nobu
Locations: 50+ (U.S. and internationally)
If you’re looking to dine like the Kardashians in a chic and upscale setting, this is the spot. Famed for its fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Nobu is known for signature dishes like the famous black cod miso and yellowtail sashimi. Co-founded by acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro, and film producer and businessman Meir Teper, the global chain has an A-list following that continues to grow.
3. Benihana
Locations: 70+ (U.S. and internationally)
Specializing in teppanyaki (a style of Japanese cuisine), Benihana offers an interactive and lively dining experience featuring chefs who cook your meals tableside. Known for its flavorful and buttery hibachi steak, shrimp, chicken, and fried rice, this chain has been a favorite of many, especially for special occasions like birthdays and graduations.
Bonus points if you’re able to catch the shrimp in your mouth during the show! But be warned: It’s not as easy as it looks.
4. Fogo de Chao
Locations: 70+ (U.S. and Brazil)
Specializing in Brazilian churrasco (grilled meat), Fogo de Chao is known for its all-you-can-eat meat dishes, sliced tableside by skilled gaucho chefs. Popular dishes include picanha (a similar cut to sirloin steak), lamb chops, and an extensive salad and soup bar. Ideal for gatherings and celebrations, the chain offers an unforgettable dining experience, especially for meat lovers.
5. The Capital Grille
Locations: 60+ (U.S.)
A top steakhouse chain, The Capital Grille is celebrated for its dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood, such as the bone-in ribeye and lobster mac and cheese. It’s a favorite spot for business dinners and special occasions, or any other time when you’re primed to spend a ton of money on a meal. Each location also features an impressive wine list with thousands of bottles.
6. Ruths Chris Steak House
Locations: 150+ (U.S. and internationally)
Renowned for its USDA Prime steaks, which are cooked in 1,800-degree broilers and served sizzling, Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers a memorable dining experience. Standout dishes include the filet mignon, veal Osso Buco ravioli, and creamed spinach. Combining high-end service with classic steakhouse fare, the chain is perfect for an intimate and romantic date night.
7. Mastros Steakhouse
Locations: 20+ (U.S.)
Known for its sophisticated, dimly-lit atmosphere, the real stars of Mastro’s are its high-end steak and seafood dishes. A favorite among those seeking a luxurious dining experience, standout plates include the bone-in filet and the signature seafood tower. The chain also features a variety of whimsical cocktails and live music to complement its upscale vibe.
8. Del Friscos Double Eagle Steakhouse
Locations: 17 (U.S.)
Del Frisco’s offers a premier steakhouse experience with signature dishes like the wagyu tomahawk chop and jumbo lump crab cakes. Each location boasts swanky interiors, including dark wood, plush seating, and dim lighting to create an elegant and exclusive atmosphere. It also features a wine list of over 1,000 bottles, each curated to enhance the flavors of the dishes.
9. Smith & Wollensky
Locations: 10 (U.S. and internationally)
This high-end steakhouse chain is known for its USDA Prime dry-aged meats featuring perfectly marbled steaks and upscale seafood dishes. Popular items include the filet mignon, cold-water lobster, and shellfish towers. The luxurious, old-world setting and excellent service make Smith & Wollensky a classic choice for those seeking a timeless fine dining experience.
10. The Palm
Locations: 20+ (U.S. and internationally)
Another legendary steakhouse chain, The Palm is famous for its prime steaks and enormous lobsters (they’re truly colossal). Standout dishes include the jumbo Nova Scotia lobster and the Prime New York strip with a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The restaurant’s timeless atmosphere, chic vibes, and personalized service have made it a go-to for generations of diners.
11. Eddie Vs Prime Seafood
Locations: 29 (nationwide)
Eddie V’s offers a luxurious seafood and steak experience, with standout dishes like Chilean sea bass and USDA Prime steaks. The restaurant also features live jazz performances (talk about setting the mood!). Known for sourcing the freshest, seasonal ingredients, the chain pairs its seafood dishes with a lengthy wine and beer list, along with expertly-crafted cocktails.
12. Mortons The Steakhouse
Locations: 70+ (nationwide and internationally)
Claiming to have “the best steak anywhere,” Morton’s is another high-end steakhouse known for its prime steaks, signature crab cakes, and lobster bisque. With its classic steakhouse ambiance and sophisticated decor, Morton’s caters to those seeking an upscale experience. Get ready to drop some serious cash here.