'Next Steak' Off To A Rocky Start?!

(Photo: Next Restaurant)

Perhaps it's because Chicago already boasts a gazillion steakhouses—or maybe this foul weather's to blame—but whatever the case, Crain's reports that ticket sales are lagging for Next's steakhouse concept:

"While prime-time spots are gone for the four-month steak theme—reservations between 7 and 8:45 p.m.—there are seatings for earlier and later dining. As of this afternoon, availability for the first official night of Next: Steak on Jan. 8 included a table for two at 9:30 p.m. and tables for four at 5:30, 5:45, 6, 6:15, 6:30, 9, 9:15, 9:30 and 9:45 p.m. Those cost $160 per person, including tax and tip but not beverages."

Nevetheless, Next co-owner Nick Kokonas told Crain's "he thinks the weekend release and bone-chilling weather contributed to a slow start to single-table sales. He said he expects the menu, which runs through April, will ultimately sell out."

I'm sure they'll be fine, but I certainly hope they're offering something you cannot already get at Gibson's or David Burke's Primehouse.