Categories: Restaurants

At The Table: Italian

Author: Jody Robbins

If you don't mind splurging on high-end restaurant fare that's worth the expense, any exploration of Italian cooking in Chicago must begin at the more-than-20-year-old Spiaggia, a four-star culinary behemoth with an Oak Street view overlooking Lake Michigan. Executive chef Tony Mantuano and chef de cuisine Missy Robbins both exhibit a deft touch when it comes to presenting skillful, complex Italian dishes while still allowing the flavors inherent in the stellar product used here to come plainly through on the palate. If fine-dining isn't your thing so much as heaping plates of pasta at a fair price, visit Maggiano's Little Italy. The red sauce-heavy food here is consistent, as is the service, and nobody leaves hungry.

A well-regarded purveyor of Tuscan cuisine in the River North neighborhood of Chicago , Coco Pazzo  lets the quality of the ingredients they use do the talking. Fresh, flavorful dishes include their "Insalata Caprese," a time-honored combination of mozzarella with tomato and basil, and the "Insalata di Carciofini," lemon-marinated baby artichokes sliced over arugula and shaved parmesan. Baseball fan or no, it's a fact that any trip to Chicago is incomplete without a stop at Harry Caray's Restaurant. In addition to a critically-acclaimed wine list, this Italian steakhouse serves steaks and chops, as well as a very traditional Chicago Italian menu amidst mahogany paneling and plenty o' paraphernalia.

Mario's Gold Coast Ristorante  is a great neighborhood hideaway in the ritzy Gold Coast.  It has all the necessary tidings - great wine, warm atmosphere and really good food.  From the grilled calamari appetizer to the steak vesuvio and multiple pasta choices, all the Italian favorites are well represented.

One can wait until the last minute to decide on what kind of Italian dining they would like to take advantage of on a given night when visiting The Italian Village Restaurants , as they can settle in at the casual, affordable operation known as The Village; the seafood-heavy La Cantina; or Vivere, a long-time Italian fine-dining operator. Italian Village , one of Chicago 's oldest restaurants with nearly 80 years under its belt, is also known for their stellar, on-premise wine cellar, which is managed by acclaimed wine director Ron Balter. On the other end of the age spectrum is the opened-this-year Francesca Forno  , which has taken to Chicago's small plate revolution by offering a wide range of Italian specialties in a shareable format that allows diners to sample a large variety of the dishes offered here (must try dishes: the gnocchi-like "Naked Ravioli," or the prosciutto di Parma and truffle-flavored pecorino tartufato).

A hidden gem with a rusty sign over the door and all, La Scarola  surprises first-timers with fairly traditional Italian-American cooking, including eggplant Parmigiana and Chicago favorite, peppers and sausage. The service is as intimate as the seating, and the noise level allows for polite, hushed, or downright steamy, conversational meanderings.

Follia ( has proven itself a pioneer in two ways: it was an early entrant into the currently booming market for thin-crust pizza, and by its location in the still-nascent Meat Market-like scene on Fulton Avenue . There's a strong fashion component here, from the Mediterranean-inflected décor to the fashion arts displayed in the window. Turning back to the old staples, for an exquisite Italian lunch in The Loop, there is always Trattoria No. 10. Head down the steps, take a seat, and enjoy one of the many specials of the day offered here if fresh is your thing.

Check out places of interest near At The Table: Italian:

312 Chicago
136 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60602

This seasonally influenced Italian-inspired American eatery buzzes by day with politicians (City Hall is across the street), and buzzes with diners heading to the nearby Cadillac Theater at night.
Make a Reservation

A Mano
335 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60610

Rustic Italian is on the menu at this restaurant brought to you by the folks behind Bin 36, one of the city's most popular restaurants. It's situated close to the intersection of State Street and the Chicago River, next to the House of Blues.

Alinea
1723 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614

Chef/owner Grant Achatz's Alinea has quickly proven itself one of America's most unusual, provocative, challenging, and sought-after restaurants.

Anteprima
5316 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

This new Andersonville Italian eatery is supposed to  make you feel like family.

Ballo Restaurant
451 N. Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60610

Bice Ristorante
158 E. Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611

Buca di Beppo
521 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL 60611

Cafe Bionda
1924 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60616

The bottom line is comforting at Cafe Bionda, when it comes to both the menu and the ambience.

 

Cafe Spiaggia
980 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

If you love class, wine, and many courses, then Café Spiaggia is for you. Be sure to indulge in their renowned selection of artisan cheeses and dessert options. Jackets are required for men, ties are optional. Jean and gym shoes are not permitted.

Caliterra
633 N. St. Clair St., Chicago, IL 60611

Capi's Italian Kitchen
700 E Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

For wide-ranging, authentic Italian food served at Navy Pier in Chicago, Capi's Italian Kitchen gives families the chance to fine-dine without reservations. Wood-stone cooked pizzas (create your own!) and fresh panini sandwiches are offered here, along with salads, pasta, and seafood.

Carlucci
1801 Butterfield Rd., Downers Grove, IL 60515

Carlucci is an authentic, Chicago-based Italian restaurant owned by brothers Joe and Charlie Carlucci. There are two Chicago locations: Downers Grove and Rosemont. Fresh, plentiful Italian cuisine, comfortable atmosphere, and gracious service remind one of an evening at home with family and friends. 

 

Carlucci
6111 N. River Rd., Rosemont, IL 60018

Carlucci is an authentic, Chicago-based Italian restaurant owned by brothers Joe and Charlie Carlucci. There are two Chicago locations: Downers Grove and Rosemont. Fresh, plentiful Italian cuisine, comfortable atmosphere, and gracious service remind one of an evening at home with family and friends.

 

Carmine's
1043 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL 60611

Chicago's Pizza and Pasta
3114 N. Lincoln, Chicago , IL 60657

Chicago's Pizza and Pasta offers a wide array of pizza and pasta items for lunch, dinner and dessert. 

 

Club Lucky
1824 W. Wabansia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

Coco Pazzo
300 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60610

Fresh vegetables, rich sauces, and homemade pasta keep customers returning to this Tuscan-inspired restaurant called Coco Pazzo.

 

Coco Pazzo Cafe
636 N. St. Clair St., Chicago, IL 60611

Crofton on Wells
888 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

This contemporary American restaurant headed by executive chef Suzy Crofton, a long-time and much-acclaimed Chicago chef. Expert a nicely balanced menu pulling on French and other influences in style and with an emphasis on organic ingredients.

Devon Seafood Grill
39 E. Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Selecting only the best aquatic cuisine, Devon Seafood Grill features creative dishes from Chef Scott Barrow.

Dinotto Ristorante
215 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60610

Erie Cafe
536 W. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60610

Extra Virgin
741 W. Randolph, Chicago, IL 60661

Follia
953 W. Fulton Ave, Chicago, IL 60607

The restaurant displays art and fashions by local college students, that you can purchase, or admire while you wait for a table. 

Fornetto Mei
107 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL 60611

Francesca's Bryn Mawr
1039 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago, IL 60660

Francesca's on Taylor
1400 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60607

Italian eatery in Little Italy.

Gabriel's Restaurant
310 Greenbay Road, Highwood, IL 60040

French and Italian cuisine fill the menu of this fine-dining restaurant in one of Chicago's suburbs.

Harry Caray's
33 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, IL 60610

This Italian steakhouse is named for Chicago's beloved baseball announcer, Harry Caray.

Harry Caray's
10233 W. Higgins Rd., Rosemont, IL 60018

This is the suburban outpost of the popular Chicago eatery, which is named after Chicago's beloved baseball announcer, Harry Caray.

Harry Caray's Tavern
3551 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60657

Harry Caray's Tavern is the premier pre- or post-Cubs game hang-out, located across from Wrigley Field on the corner of Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue. This is the newest Harry Caray-themed restaurant paying tribute to beloved Cubs announcer, Harry Caray. Harry Caray's Tavern serves classic American bar snacks and delightful italian entrees.  

 

Il Mulino
1150 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60610

This high-level Italian fine-dining spot isn't cheap, but you get what you pay for. Set in the Gold Coast neighborhood a couple blocks away from the Rush Street nightlife scene, it's impressive for a date or a business dinner.

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

Kohan Japanese Restaurant
730 W. Maxwell St., Chicago, IL 60607

Sushi and traditional Japanese dishes are offered in an authentic, but laid-back setting.

 

Mado
1647 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

Mado gives diners a fresh taste of the Mediterranean without breaking the bank or patron's pants with simple yet with high quality dishes, friendly service, small portions and a cozy atmosphere.

Maggiano's Little Italy
516 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610

This home-style Italian concept looks like Little Italy with red-checked tablecloths, leather banquettes, a mahogany bar and faux "family" portraits.

Marios Gold Coast Ristorante
21 W. Goethe St, Chicago, IL 60610

Although Mario's is located in the heart of the Gold Coast, its relaxed neighborhood charm overrides its swank address.

Phil Stefani's 437 Rush
437 N. Rush Street, Chicago, IL 60611

A Italian steak and seafood restaurant popular among busy shoppers and tourists. 

 

Pompei Pizza
2955 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

Pompeii Pizza offers a variety of pizzas, pastas, and desserts.

 

R.J. Grunts
2056 N. Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614

A comfortable atmosphere with American fare is served at this historic restaurant--historic because it was the very first Lettuce Entertain You restaurant, the company founded by culinary entrepreneur Rich Melman. Another interesting note is that R.J. Grunts was the original restaurant to establish the theme that has been followed by other, more commercial "flair" restaurants.

 

Ra Sushi
1139 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610

This outpost of Ra, a chain of contemporary, if somewhat commercial, sushi restaurants, is conveniently located along Steakhouse Row in the Viagara Triangle area of the Gold Coast--a lighter alternative to the heavier fare nearby.

 

Ra Sushi
310 Yorktown Center, Lombard, IL 60148

Located in the new and fabulous Shops on Butterfield, this latest RA Sushi location has happy hour Monday through Friday 4-7.

Rainforest Cafe
605 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610

Kids love this restaurant. The menu contains a mish-mash of fusion fare, but the real attraction to this scene is the tropical fauna and animals feigning life through mechanistic motions.

Red Ivy
3526 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60657

This trendy sports bar is named after the color of ivy that grows along the wall of historic Wrigley Field in autumn.  Red Ivy is just south of Wrigley, on Clark Street.  Hearty Italian fare at a reasonable price is what Red Ivy is all about, with pizzas being their specialty.

 

Red Light
820 W. Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

A pan-Asian eatery with a focus on seafood and vegetarian dishes.

 

RL
115 E. Chicago Ave. , Chicago, IL 60611

All the sophistication of Ralph Lauren and his style-making career come into play at this Mag Mile restaurant. American fare is served and executed by the kitchen at a high level. Service is always on its game and the hanging-everywhere art collection is all over the place and featureds some of Lauren's personal collection.

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
1 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60610

This Chicago brewpub is an outpost of the nationwide chain; the top draw here is the rotating selection of handcrafted beers brewed on-site.

Rockit Bar & Grill
22 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60610

Stylish yet comfortable, this River North bar and grill puts a twist on American favorites. Expect to hear some classic rock music as the name implies and take in the old album cover-jacketed menus.

Roditys
222 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60661

One of Chicago's long standing Greek restaurant, expect classics and old school service, as well.

 

Room 21
2110 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60605

Room 21, late-night dining/drinking spot dripping with the mystique of Al Capone and Chicago's old red light district, is the latest outpost from colorful restaurant mogul Jerry Kleiner.

RoSal's Cucina
1154 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60607

This contemporary Southern Italian restaurant features dishes like broccoli and shells, chicken cacciatore, eggplant Parmesan and spinach lasagna.

Roy's
720 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610

This Hawaiian fusion spot has outposts all over the world. It serves American cuisine with a Hawaiian cultural viewpoint.

 

Russian Tea Time
77 E. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60603

This full-of-frills tea house has been giving visitors to Chicago a taste of Russian culinary luxury for years now; a great spot for a special meal or snack with that special someone.

 

Saloon Steakhouse
200 E. Chestnut St., Chicago, IL 60611

A top Chicago steakhouse right off Michigan Avenue, expect a classic steakhouse when you stop in here. It's not all about the steaks, though; expect lighter choices, as well.

Salpicon
1252 N. Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614

This eatery serves contemporary Mexican fare in a colorful and cozy dining room, plus there's outdoor dining in the form of a covered sidewalk cafe in the summer months. Executive chef Priscilla Satkoff turns out some of the best Mexian and Latin food in Chicago while her husband, Vince, manages the wine list and an excellent tequila selection.

Salseria Cantina & Grill
233 S. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60606

Full service Mexican restaurant brought to you by the people behind Taco Fresco and Fuego Loco: Cantine & Salseria. 

Santorini
800 W. Adams St, Chicago, IL 60607

Known in Chicago's Greektown neighborhood for its focus on seafood, Santorini is casual, affordable and tasty. In Chicago, you have to try the saganaki, a.k.a. fried cheese at any Greek restaurant and get ready for a surprise.

Schwa
1466 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

A crashingly original BYO restaurant headed by Food & Wine Best New Chef Michael Carlson. The surroundings are simple, yet elegant, and the food is of a level with top kitchens practicing avant garde dining mixed with a dose of molecular gastronomy. If that confuses you, this might not be the right experience for you unless you're heartily open to new things.

 

Shor
2233 S. Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, IL 60616

This classic, Chicago-style grill operates out of the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place. It's a perfect, convenient stop for those attending a convention or a performance at the Arie Crown Theater.

Spiaggia
980 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Tapas Las Ramblas
5101 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

This traditional Spanish tapas restaurant is perfect for kicking back and relaxing. Set in a casual neighborhood away from glitz and glam, feel free to stroll in wearing jeans and a T-shirt and enjoy culture that won't break your wallet. 

Va Pensiero
1566 Oak Ave., Evanston, IL 60201

This is an award-winning Italian restaurant in Evanston that serves up authentic cuisine.

Vines on Clark
3554 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60657

Don't have tickets to the game? Vines on Clark is the place to be. With views of Wrigley Field from the rooftop, beer garden, and a few select seats in the main dining room, along with high-def TVs and the sound of the roaring crowd, it's like you're at the game. 

 

Zest
525 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

This globally influenced contemporary American restaurant is located in the luxurious Intercontinental Chicago hotel.

312 Chicago
136 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60602

This seasonally influenced Italian-inspired American eatery buzzes by day with politicians (City Hall is across the street), and buzzes with diners heading to the nearby Cadillac Theater at night.
Make a Reservation

Harry Caray's Tavern
3551 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60657

Harry Caray's Tavern is the premier pre- or post-Cubs game hang-out, located across from Wrigley Field on the corner of Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue. This is the newest Harry Caray-themed restaurant paying tribute to beloved Cubs announcer, Harry Caray. Harry Caray's Tavern serves classic American bar snacks and delightful italian entrees.  

 

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

Red Ivy
3526 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60657

This trendy sports bar is named after the color of ivy that grows along the wall of historic Wrigley Field in autumn.  Red Ivy is just south of Wrigley, on Clark Street.  Hearty Italian fare at a reasonable price is what Red Ivy is all about, with pizzas being their specialty.

 

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
1 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60610

This Chicago brewpub is an outpost of the nationwide chain; the top draw here is the rotating selection of handcrafted beers brewed on-site.

Rockit Bar & Grill
22 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60610

Stylish yet comfortable, this River North bar and grill puts a twist on American favorites. Expect to hear some classic rock music as the name implies and take in the old album cover-jacketed menus.

Room 21
2110 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60605

Room 21, late-night dining/drinking spot dripping with the mystique of Al Capone and Chicago's old red light district, is the latest outpost from colorful restaurant mogul Jerry Kleiner.

Vines on Clark
3554 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60657

Don't have tickets to the game? Vines on Clark is the place to be. With views of Wrigley Field from the rooftop, beer garden, and a few select seats in the main dining room, along with high-def TVs and the sound of the roaring crowd, it's like you're at the game. 

 

Blue Chicago
736 N. Clark St, Chicago, IL 60610

Sample the sounds of the sultry saxophone, the bold bass, the thundering trumpet and the  daring drum beats at Blue Chicago, one of Chicago's best blues clubs. Open seven nights a week, Blue Chicago features some of the best names in blues and jazz. 

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Chicago Symphony Orchestra
220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60604

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the heartbeat of Chicago. The CSO has numerous concerts and special events throughout the year. See the full list at their website. Tickets range from $10 to $200.