Chicago's Star Bull
CHICAGO, Oct. 12, 2006 — -- Chicago is quite possibly the worst city in the world for vegetarians -- in this town its meat and more meat.
According to the Department of Agriculture, Chicagoans ate at least 7 pounds more beef than those in any other region of the country last year.
The blur of steakhouses in this city makes it hard for one eatery to stand out, unless you have a particular angle. So you can find some restaurants that promise their cattle supply is fed only on sweet tall grass, while others assure customers their steaks will taste just like the ones the owner eats, and then there's David Burke's Primehouse.
Burke told ABC News there's literally just one bull providing the meat for his restaurant.
"When we find something we like, we stick with it," Burke said.
His bull is a big boy named Prime, and he's responsible for every steak in the place. Burke told us he's proud, masculine and carries himself like he knows he's special.
"He's a huge animal. He's 2,500 pounds," Burke said. "And nobody bothers him."
Burke has tried to develop a relationship with Prime, visiting him in his pen. "I don't know if he knows who I am. I certainly know who he is, and every time I see him he's a little nicer," he said.
The uniqueness of the steaks -- each harkening back to a single solitary source -- is big with diners, according to executive chef Jason Miller, who said some are aware they are receiving Prime's children and grandchildren.
"Some people are aware of it," Miller said. "Some people choose not to think of it in that regard. They just want a really good steak."
In the basement of the restaurant, there is a 36 degree cooler where the meat is on display while it gets seasoned by a pink Himalayan salt wall. "The salt puts a salinity in the air, which helps season the meat," Miller said. "It just enhances the flavor of the aged meat."
When asked if Prime has earned a graceful retirement, or if he will be consumed at some point, Burke had a firm reply. "No. He'll never be consumed," he said. "He's king of the hill."
Related Stories
ABC News Live