Michael Jordan: From the court to the kitchen, again

When you see the number 23, whom do you think of? Most Chicagoans and people around the country would immediately recognize the number with the name, Michael Jordan.

Jordan has not only branded his number with his legend, but continues to be recognized outside the basketball court with his booming restaurant business.

Recently, Jordan signed with the restaurant company Cornerstone, to open Michael Jordan's Steakhouse at 505 N. Michigan Avenue on Chicago's magnificent mile.

The restaurant has already received great reviews from customers and critics—which is a great sign for Jordan, who is not new to the business.

Nearly 10 years ago Michael Jordan's Restaurant closed down after six years. The closure was due to a feud that had been brewing between Jordan and Joe and Gene Silverberg, who were the creators of the restaurant and had obtained the rights to use Jordan's name. Jordan ended up going to court to terminate his contract with the Silverbergs and won the rights to use his name for restaurants in Chicago.

Michael Jordan's Steakhouse is now one of four restaurants he owns in the Chicago area and the third chain of Michael Jordan Steakhouses in the country. The other steakhouses are located in Connecticut and New York.

"Chicago holds a very special place in Jordan's heart," said Public Relations Manager for Cornerstone Restaurant Group, Diana Dugo.

"We tried to take what MJ did on the court and bring it to the restaurant. Our philosophy, like MJ's legacy, is excellence," said Dugo.

The restaurant has subtle recognitions of Jordan—including two wooden pieces in the dining rooms with the number 23—his famous jersey number, and the number six—how many championships he won.

Diner and recent DePaul graduate, Grace Borgstrom, went to the restaurant with her family who reside in Glencoe, IL. She has been a long-time Bulls fan and suggested the restaurant to her family.

"Jordan is someone people immediately recognize with Chicago. I've always been a fan and if I can't support him on the court I thought why not support his food," said Borgstrom.

The name of the restaurant itself screams Jordan, and the sophisticated menu offers subtle reminders of the man and his legend.

"There's a 23-layer chocolate cake, that if you're brave enough—is definitely something to try," said Borgstrom—who split the cake with her family members.

The menu is a meat lover's dream, with everything from filet mignon to a 23-ounce prime rib. Vegetarians need not fear, they also boast about the signature chopped salad that contains 23 ingredients.

The new restaurant is considered a "fine-dining" experience—the dim lighting and attentive staff help to make it a memorable night out. However, prepare the wallets because the average entrée is around $35.

For those diners and fans on a budget who are just looking to catch a game on television, throw back a few beers and eat a burger—Michael Jordan's 23 Sports Café is located adjacent to the steakhouse.

The restaurant is under the same management but attracts a more laid back crowd with its casual dining experience and more exaggerated Michael Jordan décor—including jerseys, basketballs, and nine flat screen televisions permanently tuned on ESPN.