Morton's, The Steakhouse

The story

Morton's, The Steakhouse – Clayton, MO | Award-Winning Steakhouse & Wine List

Morton's, The Steakhouse in Clayton, Missouri

Morton's, The Steakhouse first opened its doors on State Street in Chicago in 1978, founded by Arnie Morton and Klaus Fritsch. The chain’s origin story is a humble one: the two met while working at the Playboy Club in Montreal, bonding over a hamburger Fritsch cooked that Morton declared the best he’d ever tasted. That “Million-Dollar Hamburger” set the standard for the quality and consistency that define the brand today.

The Clayton location, on North Second Street, delivers the classic Morton’s experience that has grown to more than 65 worldwide restaurants. The philosophy remains simple: genuine hospitality and uncompromising ingredients. The restaurant sources USDA prime-aged beef, selecting only the top 2% of beef available in the U.S. The same suppliers have provided their aged prime beef since day one—if a cut doesn’t meet Morton’s standards, it is not served.

While steak is the main event, the kitchen also prepares fresh seafood, including Chilean sea bass, oysters on the half shell, colossal shrimp, and red king crab legs. Recent seasonal additions to the menu include Prime Bavette Steak Frites, Wagyu Beef Stroganoff, and Oysters Rockefeller. The bar scene is lively, with hand-crafted cocktails, imported and local craft brews, and a selection of award-winning wines.

Speaking of wine, Morton’s has earned the 2025 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a recognition it has received consistently. Each location maintains a list of more than 300 wines, and the Clayton restaurant offers an on-site Wine Locker program for guests who wish to store their own bottles. The team includes sommeliers and a dedicated Sommelier Team that works to pair wines with every course.

The atmosphere blends classic and contemporary elements, with an elegant dining room suited for both business and pleasure. Private dining rooms are available for events, and the restaurant also caters. For those who enjoy the full steakhouse experience, Morton’s in Clayton delivers the quality and service that have made it a fixture for decades.