Chicago is a city known for its rich culinary scene, and one dish that has become a staple among locals is carbonara. This classic Italian pasta dish, traditionally made with spaghetti, eggs, cheese, guanciale, and black pepper, has become a favorite among foodies in the Windy City.
With so many restaurants and cafes offering their take on this beloved recipe, it can be difficult to know where to find the best carbonara in town.
Whether you're a lifelong Chicagoan or a visitor to the city, you'll want to make sure you don't miss out on the chance to sample some of the best carbonara around.
From upscale Italian restaurants to cozy cafes, there are plenty of places in Chicago where you can indulge in this hearty and flavorful dish. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to narrow down your choices and find the perfect spot.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places to enjoy carbonara in Chicago. We'll take a look at a range of restaurants and cafes that offer this classic dish, and provide you with an overview of what to expect at each location.
Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a casual dinner with friends, or an upscale restaurant for a special occasion, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover the best carbonara in Chicago!
1. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a stylish Italian eatery that serves up some of the best fresh pastas in town.
The restaurant is known for its refined and contemporary Italian fare, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative flavors. If you're a fan of carbonara, you won't be disappointed by the rich and creamy dish served here.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with attentive service and a great selection of global wines to complement your meal.
Whether you're looking for a romantic date spot or a place to catch up with friends, Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is definitely worth a visit.
2. Volare Ristorante Italiano
Volare Ristorante Italiano is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine. With a bustling dining room and old-world feel, this restaurant offers traditional, homestyle Italian cooking.
The staff is welcoming and attentive, providing excellent service. The highlight of the menu is the perfectly cooked carbonara, which is rich and flavorful.
The portions are generous, so be sure to go hungry. The wine selection is also impressive, with a knowledgeable sommelier to guide you.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a celebratory meal or a romantic date. Don't miss out on this classic Italian dining experience.
3. Sapori Trattoria
Sapori Trattoria is a small Italian restaurant that serves hearty Italian fare. They have a diverse menu with something for everyone.
The Carbonara pasta is a must-try and is rich and creamy with a perfect balance of flavors. The bruschetta and lobster ravioli are also highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate. The outdoor seating area is fantastic, and the cocktails are flavorful.
The homemade tiramisu is the best in town. Sapori Trattoria is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian food.
4. Calo Ristorante
Calo Ristorante is a family-owned Italian eatery that has been serving delicious Italian and American cuisine since 1963.
The menu offers a variety of pasta dishes, including a mouth-watering carbonara. The portions are generous and the food is always on point.
The restaurant has a casual ambiance that makes it a great spot for a night out with friends or family.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're looking for a great place for carbonara, Calo Ristorante is definitely worth checking out.
5. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is a stylish Italian restaurant and bar that serves upscale Italian-American cuisine.
The food is delicious and made from scratch, with generous portions that won't break the bank.
The service is excellent, with attentive and friendly staff who go above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience.
The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic date night or a night out with friends. Whether you're in the mood for carbonara or something else, Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is definitely worth a visit.
6. Bacchanalia
Bacchanalia is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been serving Tuscan family recipes since 1979.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a bar in the front and a dining area towards the back. The waitstaff is friendly and attentive, making guests feel at home.
The menu offers a variety of classic Italian dishes, including carbonara. The portions are large and reasonably priced.
The food is delicious and cooked to perfection. Bacchanalia is a great place to go for a traditional Italian dining experience.
7. Riccardo Trattoria
Riccardo Trattoria is a cozy and intimate Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best carbonara in town.
The pasta is cooked to perfection and the sauce is rich and flavorful, making for a truly delicious dish.
The attentive and friendly service adds to the overall dining experience, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The restaurant also offers a great selection of other traditional Italian dishes and a varied wine list. For a satisfying and authentic Italian meal, Riccardo Trattoria is definitely worth a visit.
8. Macello
Macello is an Italian restaurant that serves delicious carbonara. The pasta has a great flavor and the mozzarella is divine.
The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for an intimate dinner or family gathering. The staff is polite and attentive, providing outstanding customer service.
Macello also offers a gluten-free menu with options to substitute noodles for most pasta dishes.
The restaurant has a superb wine list and live music on Wednesdays. Highly recommended for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine in a rustic setting.
9. Prosecco
Prosecco is a classic Italian restaurant that serves high-end dishes in a romantic, art-filled dining room.
While the menu offers a variety of delicious pasta options, the Carbonara stands out as a must-try dish. The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced with the salty pancetta and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff make dining at Prosecco a memorable experience.
The cozy atmosphere and upscale vibe make it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic date night. If you're looking for a top-notch Carbonara, Prosecco is the place to go.
10. Mia Francesca
Mia Francesca is an Italian restaurant that serves delicious carbonara.
The atmosphere is charming and the staff is friendly.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant also offers a patio for outdoor dining.
It's a great place to enjoy Italian comfort food with family and friends.
11. RPM Italian
RPM Italian offers a modern take on classic Italian dishes. The menu features creative pasta dishes, steaks, and seafood.
The bread with whipped ricotta and honey is a must-try appetizer. The portions are small but pack a big taste. The service is excellent, and the staff is attentive and professional.
The decor is chic and contemporary, creating a comfortable atmosphere. While the prices are on the higher end, the quality of the food and service make it worth it.
If you're looking for a unique Italian dining experience, RPM Italian is a must-visit.
12. Oggi Trattoria
Oggi Trattoria is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves authentic and hearty Italian food. Their carbonara is a must-try, cooked to perfection with a creamy and flavorful sauce.
The homemade bread is also a standout, with a fresh and delicious taste. The attentive staff provides excellent service, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The restaurant has a great ambiance, perfect for a date night or a family dinner. The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.
Oggi Trattoria is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit for anyone craving delicious Italian food.
13. Anna Maria Pasteria
Anna Maria Pasteria is a hidden gem that serves delicious Italian food. The carbonara and pasta are exceptional, and the tiramisu is a must-try.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
They also allow you to bring your own wine for a small corkage fee. The restaurant has a homestyle vibe and has been serving its loyal customers since 1989.
If you are looking for a hearty Italian meal, Anna Maria Pasteria is the place to go.
14. Nonnina
Nonnina is a must-visit Italian restaurant for anyone in search of authentic carbonara. The pasta dishes are delicious and the portions are large.
The menu also offers a range of other classic Italian specialties, small plates, pizza, and takeaway options.
The service is impeccable and the ambiance is stylish and upscale. The wine selection is varied and the cocktails are fun.
Highly recommended for a romantic night out or a dinner with friends.
15. Coco Pazzo
Coco Pazzo is a sophisticated Tuscan restaurant that offers creative and delicious plates.
Their carbonara is a must-try dish, perfectly cooked and served with a generous portion size. The staff is courteous and attentive, making the dining experience a pleasant one.
The restaurant's ambiance is elegant and cozy, with velvet-draped surrounds that add to the overall atmosphere.
Coco Pazzo's extensive Italian wine list is perfect for pairing with their flavorful dishes. If you're looking for a fine dining experience with exceptional Italian cuisine, Coco Pazzo is the perfect spot.
16. Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern is a rustic-meets-modern Italian spot that offers delicious carbonara.
They serve homemade pastas, Neapolitan pies, and have a mozzarella bar.
The upscale space with a bar and lounge is perfect for a fine dining experience.
The customer service is good, and the food is served hot and fresh. It's definitely worth a visit!
17. Casati's Modern Italian
Casati's Modern Italian is a stylish spot for Italian fare that includes a delicious carbonara. The ambiance is rustic-chic with a seasonal patio perfect for outdoor dining.
The menu offers a large selection of vegan Italian food, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service. The food is meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. The short rib ravioli and truffle mushroom pizza are highly recommended.
The wine list is also impressive. Casati's Modern Italian is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great Italian dining experience.
