In many ways 2020 sucked and the fact that the first Thursday of every month with Chicago’s finest gentleman was compromised only added to 2020s legacy as terrible. Granted there was an outdoor Steak Night last October before people were vaccinated and mask restrictions were still in full effect but dining with those restrictions always had an awkwardness to them.

There was a steak night last month and it was great to be back in the saddle but in many ways this month felt like the first official Steak Night and getting back into the routine feels fantastic. Or as Stu in The Hangover put it once they remembered were they left Doug “We are back”.

Decided on Maple & Ash and then there was some back and forth on dining inside vs outside which led to potentially switching restaurants and talking to the current restaurant about outdoor options and switching times, etc. On a side note, not doing that again.

An aggressive pace was set at the bar and the alcohol flowed freely. There is a tad of douchey on the bar scene but still a great time and fun people watching and hot chicks.

The outdoor seating at Maple & Ash blows, especially for a larger group. Luckily we were able to switch back to dining inside and not have to deal with the crappy outdoor seating. The staff at this place I’m sure hated us for switching back and forth a thousand times but ultimately we got the indoor table we wanted so it all worked out.

I honestly forgot the apps we got, I’m a little out of practice with this whole steak night thing and forgot to make a note of it. I got the bone in ribeye for myself because that is how I roll and it was great. Everyone else shared a smattering of steaks. The au gratin potatoes were also tasty.

The table in back of us was treating it more like a club then a restaurant but nothing that really took away from the meal significantly.

Great to have Holi in from Cali and join the fellas. Plus special guest Pete Muntz was in attendance. As long as Pete is willing to follow the rules he should be a part of the group moving forward as far as I’m concerned, I know he wasn’t interested previously but I think his tune has changed. The Long Island Sound, Cizzle, Glick and Hans rounded out the crew.

Brad won at credit card roulette and then I think had a bigger tab at Butch McGuire’s. It should be noted that Brad paid for all the after dinner drinks instead of just the first round as is tradition but he is wildly successful so it wasn’t a problem.

It was great to be back boys.

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