Chicago Prime Meat Market, Glen Ellyn

Less than two percent. That's how much of the nation's beef gets the coveted title of USDA Prime. Most of that goes straight to fancy restaurants, but the team at Chicago Prime Meats is looking to change that, much to the chagrin of white-tablecloth vendors everywhere. Here, butchers cut and sell more than 100 varieties of gourmet meats: filet mignon, Black Angus Certified Choice, and everything in between. They can also wrap up fresh Atlantic or Scottish salmon, Alaskan halibut, and other seafood. The butchers happily chat with customers to help them find the perfect item, though easy online ordering means patrons need not travel to the store.

Once their butcher shop proved successful, the team at Chicago Prime Meats looked for a way to show off the full range of their culinary skills. They found the answer in catering. Their chefs cook entrees such as chicken florentine, sides such as fresh garlic bread, and desserts such as cannoli.