If you're a meatball lover in Chicago, you're in luck. This city is packed with restaurants and cafes that serve some of the best meatballs you'll ever taste.
From classic Italian-style meatballs to modern twists on this traditional dish, Chicago has something for everyone's taste buds. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Meatballs are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and Chicago is no exception. These savory balls of meat are usually made with ground beef, pork, or a combination of both, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices.
They can be served with pasta, on a sandwich, or as a standalone dish. Some meatballs are smothered in tomato sauce, while others are seasoned with exotic spices and herbs.
Chicago is home to a diverse culinary scene, and its meatball offerings reflect this. You'll find everything from traditional Italian meatballs made with veal and pork to Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce.
Some restaurants even offer vegetarian and vegan meatballs made with plant-based proteins. No matter what your dietary preferences are, you can find a meatball dish that suits you in Chicago.
1. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a modern Italian kitchen that serves up refined and contemporary Italian fare.
Their fresh pastas are the highlight of the menu, but the meatballs are not to be missed either. The ingredients are top-notch and the flavors are bold and authentic.
The service is excellent, with a friendly and attentive staff that makes you feel at home. The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious meatballs in a chic setting, Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is definitely worth checking out.
2. Volare Ristorante Italiano
Volare Ristorante Italiano is a must-visit spot for meatball lovers. The menu offers a variety of meatball options, each one as delicious as the next.
The cozy and authentic atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
The staff is attentive, making sure every guest is satisfied with their meal.
The restaurant also offers a variety of Italian dishes, making it a great spot for a date night or a family dinner. Don't miss out on trying the meatballs at Volare Ristorante Italiano.
3. Bonci Pizzeria
Bonci Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone who loves meatballs. This Italian import offers a unique experience of pizza by weight, where customers can choose from a wide variety of toppings.
The meatball ragu is a standout, with perfectly seasoned meatballs in a rich tomato sauce.
The crust is light and crispy, making every bite a delight. The restaurant is small, but the friendly service and delicious food make up for it.
Bonci Pizzeria is a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
4. Viaggio Restaurant Chicago
Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is a stylish Italian-American restaurant and bar that offers upscale cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its fantastic meatballs, truffle gnocchi, and Sunday gravy. The portions are generous, and the service is excellent.
The wine selection is perfection, and the cocktails are worth trying. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a great place to socialize with friends and family.
If you're looking for a great place to enjoy delicious Italian food, Viaggio Restaurant Chicago is definitely worth a visit.
5. RPM Italian
RPM Italian is a higher-end restaurant that serves up delicious meatballs and other Italian fare. The portions may be small, but the flavors are big and bold.
The staff is attentive and provides excellent service, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The atmosphere is chic and modern, adding to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Although the prices may be steep, the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge.
If you're looking for a fancy night out with some tasty meatballs, RPM Italian is the place to go.
6. The Pasta Bowl
The Pasta Bowl is a great place for meatballs. Their flavorful pasta options are a must-try.
The prices are fair, and the servers are friendly.
The atmosphere is cozy, making it perfect for a great pasta dinner.
The place gets busy, so expect a bit of a wait. But it's definitely worth it.
7. Pasta Palazzo
Pasta Palazzo is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves amazing meatballs.
The handmade pasta is delicious and the sauces are flavorful.
The staff is friendly and provides great service. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is reasonably priced.
It's a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Italian food.
8. Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern is a must-visit spot for meatball lovers. With an extensive menu of Italian dishes, this rustic-meets-modern restaurant offers homemade meatballs that are bursting with flavor.
The attentive staff provides excellent service, ensuring that customers have a great dining experience.
The ambiance is upscale, with a bar and lounge area perfect for enjoying a cocktail before or after dinner.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic meatball dish or something more adventurous, Siena Tavern has got you covered.
9. Nonnina
Nonnina is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian meatballs. This restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and exceptional service.
The meatballs are a standout dish, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The menu also boasts a variety of other classic Italian dishes, including Rigatoni and Chicken Parmesan.
Nonnina is an excellent choice for a romantic date night or a family dinner. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant!
10. The Rosebud
The Rosebud is a decades-old Italian restaurant that serves traditional Italian fare.
The restaurant is known for its meatballs and spicy sausage, which are both delicious.
The menu has plenty of other delicious choices, including stuffed mushrooms and sausage & peppers.
The staff are professional and efficient, and the atmosphere is classic Italian. If you're looking for a great place for meatballs, The Rosebud is definitely worth a visit.
11. Peanut Park Trattoria
Peanut Park Trattoria is a must-visit Italian restaurant for meatball lovers. Their meatballs are fluffy and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression.
The burrata appetizer and calamari with spicy aioli are also highly recommended.
The service is exceptional, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who make dining here a pleasure.
The cozy and inviting atmosphere adds to the overall experience. Peanut Park Trattoria is a neighborhood gem that should not be missed.
12. Victory Italian – River North
Victory Italian – River North is a top-notch Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best meatballs in town. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, this hidden gem is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two.
The menu offers a range of delicious Italian comfort food, including stuffed shells, eggplant parm, and Nonna's Gravy.
The staff is attentive and friendly, providing gold-medal service. The wine list is impressive, and the ambiance is perfect for a relaxing evening.
Victory Italian – River North is definitely a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Italian dining experience.
13. Osteria Via Stato
Osteria Via Stato offers classic Italian meatballs that are a must-try. The food, service, and atmosphere are all excellent.
The restaurant also serves pizza and pasta dishes that are equally delicious.
Don't forget to try their homemade gelato. The restaurant is spacious, so reservations are recommended.
The staff is attentive and accommodating, making it a great place for events and special occasions.
14. La Storia
La Storia is a refined Italian restaurant and bar that serves elevated, multi-regional Italian cuisine.
The meatball appetizer is a standout dish and the pasta dishes, including the Bolognese, gnocchi, and ravioli are highly recommended.
The restaurant has a lovely courtyard patio and the indoor ambiance is welcoming.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a wonderful dining experience. La Storia is perfect for a date night or small group outing.
15. Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub is a decades-old establishment that serves up some delicious meatballs.
Their meatball salad is a must-try for any meatball lover. The marinara sauce is rich and flavorful, and the meatballs themselves have a nice texture.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for an enjoyable dining experience. Along with their meatballs, they also offer a variety of other American eats and a large beer selection.
If you're in the mood for some tasty meatballs, be sure to check out Exchequer Restaurant & Pub.
