The Dining Table

The family behind Gibson's restaurant empire

Episode Summary

In 1989, restaurateur Steve Lombardo, along with his business partner Hugo Ralli, opened a steakhouse on Rush Street and called it Gibson's. In this episode, we learn what's changed in the past 35 years and how this Chicago icon got past its early struggles — growing to more than a dozen locations. Its original location is now one of the top grossing restaurants in the U.S. David Manilow uncovers business survival secrets with co-founder Lombardo, CEO Steve Lombardo III, and Director of Marketing Liz Lombardo Stark. Hear about their expansion to Fulton Market, plans for more growth outside Chicago and how Gibson’s helped feed the Bulls' NBA dynasty.