Chicago is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the country. Whether you're in the mood for classic pasta dishes or modern twists on Italian cuisine, there's something for everyone in the Windy City.
From cozy neighborhood spots to elegant fine dining establishments, Chicago's Italian restaurants offer a range of experiences that are sure to satisfy any craving.
What sets Chicago's Italian restaurants apart from others is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Many of these restaurants source their ingredients locally, ensuring that each dish is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
In addition, the city's vibrant and diverse culinary scene has inspired many Italian chefs to experiment with new techniques and ingredients, resulting in a range of unique and exciting dishes.
Whether you're a Chicago native or a visitor to the city, exploring the best Italian restaurants is a must.
From traditional red sauce joints to modern Italian fusion, there's something for everyone in Chicago's Italian restaurant scene. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious Italian cuisine you'll ever taste.
1. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fantastic dining experience. The food is amazing, with high-quality ingredients and great flavor.
The service is top-notch, with friendly and helpful staff. The restaurant offers a refined, contemporary Italian fare that includes fresh pastas and global wines.
The ambiance is chic and modern, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, considering the quality of the food and service.
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is definitely one of the best Italian restaurants out there, and it is worth the hype.
2. Gibsons Italia
Gibsons Italia is a swanky, tri-level Italian steakhouse that offers high-style Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a vast wine list, two fireplaces, and a roof deck.
The service is prompt, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and drinks. The food is Gibson's quality, and everything is incredibly well done. The menu is limited, but the dishes are outstanding.
The restaurant has a lively atmosphere without being too overstimulating. The views of the river are lovely, especially in the evening.
The price is reasonable for the atmosphere and quality of food and service. If you're looking for a spot for a celebration or a romantic dinner, Gibsons Italia is the perfect choice.
3. La Scarola
La Scarola is a bustling Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best homestyle Italian comfort food in the city.
From the linguini and clams to the rigatoni mandera, every dish is bursting with flavor and generously portioned.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every customer feels welcome and well taken care of.
While the atmosphere is casual, the food and service are anything but. For anyone looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, La Scarola is a must-try.
4. Sapori Trattoria
Sapori Trattoria is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves up delicious, homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes.
The portions are generous and the staff is friendly and attentive. They also have a great selection of cocktails and happy hour specials.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic date night or a casual dinner with friends.
Don't miss out on the bucatini carbonara and the whipped ricotta toast – they are both must-tries!
5. Torchio Pasta Bar
Torchio Pasta Bar is an intimate Italian restaurant that offers fresh, handmade pasta dishes.
The menu is well-balanced with a variety of sauces and flavors to choose from. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.
The cozy atmosphere is perfect for a romantic night out or a casual dinner with friends. The outdoor patio is a nice touch for those who prefer to dine al fresco.
If you're in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, Torchio Pasta Bar is definitely worth a visit.
6. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is a stylish Italian restaurant and bar that serves upscale Italian-American cuisine.
The food is flavorful and well-prepared, with a great selection of traditional pasta dishes.
The service is excellent, with attentive and friendly staff who make sure you have everything you need.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize with friends or family. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a delicious Italian meal in a great setting.
7. Provare Chicago
Provare Chicago is a must-visit Italian fusion restaurant. The food is exceptional and the service is top-notch.
The menu is limited but unique and executed very well. The atmosphere is great, with a good music selection and a nice vibe.
Although the setting is small, the staff members are super friendly and attentive. The pricing is a little high but it's worth the taste.
The scampi and the pasta are highly recommended. The restaurant is black-owned and the staff is proud of it. If you're a foodie or looking for a good date spot, this is the place to go.
8. Topo Gigio Ristorante
Topo Gigio Ristorante is a must-visit Italian restaurant for anyone in search of authentic Italian flavors. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere combined with the excellent service makes for a memorable dining experience.
The menu offers a wide selection of traditional Italian dishes, including delicious pasta and seafood options.
The Caprese salad and Gnocchi Al Pomodoro are highly recommended. The outdoor patio is a great spot for summer dining.
The restaurant can get busy, but the wait is never too long. Topo Gigio Ristorante is a local gem that is sure to satisfy any Italian food cravings.
9. Franco's Ristorante
Looking for an authentic Italian dining experience that doesn't disappoint in terms of both taste and ambiance, Franco's Ristorante is the place to go.
With a solid regular menu and inventive rotating specials, you'll be spoiled for choice.
The service is fast and friendly, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between casual and romantic.
You'll love the cozy and intimate feel of this local restaurant. Highly recommended for any Italian food lover.
10. Ciccio Mio
Ciccio Mio is an elegant Italian restaurant that serves classic Italian cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting. The restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance that makes it perfect for a romantic date night or a special occasion with friends and family.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including meatballs, beef tartare, mozzarella sticks, orecchiette pugliese, and casarecce lamb sugo.
The food is genuinely delicious, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and cocktails that complement the food perfectly.
If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant with excellent food and service, Ciccio Mio is definitely worth a visit.
11. Osteria Langhe
Osteria Langhe offers an exceptional culinary experience with its authentic Italian cuisine served in a warm and intimate setting.
The restaurant's well-curated wine selection and cocktail menu complement the delicious food perfectly.
The handmade pastas are a must-try, and the rabbit dish is a standout.
The service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is cozy, making it an excellent spot for a date night or special occasion. Osteria Langhe is a gem that offers a taste of Piemonte in every bite.
12. Bacchanalia
Bacchanalia is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving Tuscan family recipes since 1979.
The cozy atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or a weeknight out. The food is fantastic and the portions are generous, making it a great value for the price.
The imported and domestic wine selection is impressive, and the handmade desserts are not to be missed.
The service is top-notch, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. Bacchanalia is a must-try for anyone looking for classic Italian dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
13. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap
Tufano's Vernon Park Tap is a family-run restaurant that has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for decades.
The menu and wine list are hand-written on chalkboards, and the portions are generous. The prices are reasonable, and the service is attentive.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and the patio is spacious. The Lemon Chicken and Auntie Jo's Farfalle are recommended dishes.
Cash and Venmo are accepted, and valet parking is available. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap is a Chicago legend that lives up to its reputation.
14. Calo Ristorante
Calo Ristorante is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving delicious Italian and American cuisine since 1963.
The restaurant offers a casual, Old World setting that is perfect for a cozy night out. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options for everyone, including pizza, seafood, and steak.
The food is delicious, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service.
If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant, Calo Ristorante is definitely worth a visit.
