Chicago is known for its diverse cuisine and culinary scene. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, the city has a plethora of iconic dishes that locals and tourists alike can enjoy.
However, there is one dish that often goes overlooked: risotto.
Risotto is a classic Italian dish made with arborio rice, broth, and various ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, or meat.
It's a comforting and hearty dish that requires patience and attention to detail during the cooking process.
Fortunately, there are several restaurants in Chicago that have mastered the art of making risotto.
These restaurants offer a variety of risotto dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Whether you're looking for a traditional risotto alla Milanese or a more creative take on the dish, Chicago has got you covered. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places for risotto in the city and highlight what makes each restaurant's risotto stand out.
So, if you're a risotto lover or looking to try it for the first time, keep reading to discover the best places to indulge in this delicious Italian comfort food in Chicago.
1. Gibsons Italia
Gibsons Italia is a swanky Italian steakhouse that serves delicious risotto.
The tri-level restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the river. The service is impeccable, and the staff is attentive.
The menu is limited, but everything is well done, and the price to food ratio is impressive. The spicy rigatoni and scallop risotto are must-tries.
Don't forget to try the Tiramisu and spicy Margarita. Gibsons Italia is a perfect spot for special occasions or celebrations.
2. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio is a must-visit place for anyone who loves Italian cuisine. The restaurant serves refined and contemporary Italian fare, with a focus on fresh pastas.
The dishes are made using top-notch ingredients, and the flavors are simply divine. The staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that every guest has a memorable dining experience.
The ambiance is stylish and modern, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
If you're a fan of risotto, you won't be disappointed with Monteverde's take on this classic dish. The restaurant is highly recommended for anyone looking for a high-quality Italian dining experience.
3. Volare Ristorante Italiano
Volare Ristorante Italiano is a must-visit place for risotto lovers. The old-world Italian atmosphere and top-notch food make it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.
The staff and cooks look Italian, adding to the authenticity of the place. The seafood risotto is a popular choice and is a delicious mix of clams, mussels, shrimp, squid, and scallops.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and the owner is often seen working in the restaurant.
Volare Ristorante Italiano is highly recommended for anyone looking for a traditional Italian dining experience.
4. Sapori Trattoria
Sapori Trattoria is a small Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best risotto in town.
The creamy and rich mushroom risotto is a must-try, and the portions are huge, making it perfect for sharing. The seafood risotto is also a popular choice with generous amounts of seafood.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this spot a great place for a date night or a casual dinner with friends.
Don't forget to save some room for dessert, as the tiramisu and bread pudding are both delicious.
5. Topo Gigio Ristorante
Topo Gigio Ristorante is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine.
Their risotto is a standout dish, perfectly cooked with rich and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere makes for a perfect dining experience, while the friendly and attentive staff will ensure that you have everything you need.
Topo Gigio Ristorante is a gem in the city's culinary scene, and a must-try for anyone looking for delicious Italian cuisine.
6. Torchio Pasta Bar
Torchio Pasta Bar is an intimate Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best risotto in town.
Their menu features a variety of house-made pastas and sauces, with gluten-free options available. The dining experience is top-notch, with attentive and friendly service from the staff.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Whether you're a fan of traditional risotto or looking to try something new, Torchio Pasta Bar is definitely worth a visit.
7. Calo Ristorante
Calo Ristorante is a family-owned Italian eatery that has been serving up delicious Italian and American cuisine since 1963.
The restaurant boasts a casual, Old World setting that is perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including pizza, seafood, and steak, but their risotto is a must-try.
The creamy and flavorful rice dish is cooked to perfection and will leave you wanting more. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience overall.
If you're looking for a great place to enjoy some delicious risotto, Calo Ristorante is definitely worth checking out.
8. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap
Tufano's Vernon Park Tap is a classic Italian-American restaurant that has been serving homestyle Italian fare since 1930.
The menu is written on chalkboards, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with checkered tablecloths and a large outdoor patio.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The risotto is a standout dish, with a creamy texture and perfectly cooked rice.
The wine list is extensive, with many Italian options to choose from. Tufano's Vernon Park Tap is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine in a casual and welcoming setting.
9. Tuscany on Taylor
Tuscany on Taylor is a stylish trattoria that serves Tuscan-inspired seafood, pastas, and wood-fired pizzas.
The restaurant's white-tablecloth ambiance and impeccable service make it a top choice for Italian cuisine in the city. The portions are generous, and the food is well-executed and full of flavor.
The risotto is a standout dish that is cooked to perfection and served with fresh ingredients.
The wine list is also impressive, with a variety of Italian wines to choose from. If you're looking for a fine dining experience, Tuscany on Taylor is definitely worth a visit.
10. Pasta Palazzo
Pasta Palazzo is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves up some of the best risotto in town.
Their handmade pasta dishes are also a must-try. The staff is friendly and the service is excellent.
The restaurant has a retro artsy vibe and is a great place to hang out with friends. Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and portions.
Whether you're looking for a casual Italian dining experience or a special night out, Pasta Palazzo is a great choice.
11. Il Vicinato Ristorante
Il Vicinato Ristorante is a hidden gem for risotto lovers. The menu offers a variety of Italian staples with a touch of elegance.
The portions are generous and the flavors are well-balanced.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making the dining experience enjoyable. The ambiance is cozy and romantic, perfect for a date night or a special occasion.
Il Vicinato Ristorante is a must-visit for those seeking a delicious and authentic Italian meal.
12. Antico
Antico is a charming Italian restaurant that serves flavorful, handmade pastas and risottos.
The restaurant has an upscale ambiance, with an extensive wine menu and excellent service.
The portions are generous, and the food is consistently well-executed.
The back patio is perfect for a cool summer day or a cozy fall evening. Antico is a great place to enjoy a date night or a special occasion.
13. Prosecco
Prosecco is a must-visit Italian restaurant for risotto lovers. The wild mushroom risotto and tartufate are highly recommended by regulars.
The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make for a great dining experience.
Don't miss out on the unique mint component in the calabrese dish. The meatball is a must-try as well.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of the food and service. Reservations are recommended.
14. Riccardo Enoteca
Riccardo Enoteca is a charming Italian restaurant that serves some of the best risotto in town.
The restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for a romantic date night. The service is exceptional and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The menu offers a good selection of salads, meat, fish, and pasta dishes. The risotto is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The wine selection is impressive and complements the food perfectly. If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant that serves delicious risotto, then Riccardo Enoteca is definitely worth a visit.
15. Victory Italian – River North
Victory Italian – River North is a cozy and authentic Italian restaurant that serves delicious and authentic Italian cuisine.
Their risotto is a must-try, as it is made with a smooth and flavorful sauce that will leave you wanting more. The portions are large, so it's perfect for sharing with friends or family.
The service is top-notch and the staff is friendly and attentive. The ambiance is inviting and the wine list is excellent.
Victory Italian – River North is a great place to enjoy classic Italian comfort food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
16. Acanto
Acanto is a must-visit for anyone looking for high-end Italian cuisine. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list and superb cocktails.
The risotto of the day is exceptional, and the mushroom pizza and green beans are fantastic.
Service is exceptional, and the ambiance is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner.
If you're ever in the mood for fine Italian dining, Acanto is definitely worth a visit.
17. Piccolo Sogno
Piccolo Sogno is a must-visit for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine. The outdoor garden seating is a beautiful setting for a meal.
The menu offers a variety of dishes, but the risotto stands out as a clear winner.
The portion size is generous and the flavors are spot on. The service is attentive and knowledgeable.
If you are looking for a taste of Italy in the heart of the city, Piccolo Sogno is the place to go.
18. Riccardo Osteria
Riccardo Osteria is a fantastic Northern Italian restaurant that serves exceptional risotto. The seafood risotto is a must-try and is better than any other risotto the reviewer had in Italy.
The service is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also serves other delicious Italian dishes like homemade pastas, pizzas, and entrees.
The ambiance is cozy and has a neighborhood vibe. The restaurant is fairly priced and is a hidden gem in the West Loop area.
If you're looking for a great Italian restaurant with amazing risotto, Riccardo Osteria is definitely worth a visit.
19. Nonnina
Nonnina is an upscale Italian restaurant that offers classic Italian specialties and takeaway options.
The restaurant has a stylish and cozy atmosphere that complements the traditional Italian fare.
However, what sets Nonnina apart is its delicious risotto. The risotto is cooked to perfection with the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.
Nonnina's risotto is a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Italian dining experience.
