Embark on a culinary tour of Chicago's best Italian eateries. From River North's upscale hotspots to the authentic heart of Little Italy, discover our top 10 picks for pasta, wine, and la dolce vita in the Windy City.

Chicago’s love affair with Italian cuisine runs deep, carved into the city’s very streets from the historic Taylor Street patch of Little Italy to the glossy, contemporary kitchens of River North. Whether you crave a red-sauce classic that’s been perfected over generations or an innovative tasting menu that reimagines tradition, the city serves it with passion.

We’ve mapped out a delicious journey through the very best ristoranti, trattorie, and osterie. Here are the top 10 Italian restaurants in Chicago, connecting the storied past with the vibrant present.

1. Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio

The Vibe: An energetic, modern temple to pasta.

Why It’s Top: Chef Sarah Grueneberg’s James Beard Award-winning spot is a must for pasta devotees. The "pastificio" (pasta shop) concept means noodles are made fresh with breathtaking creativity. The iconic "Tortellini in Brodo" or the rich "Cacio Whey Pepe" are revelations.

Perfect For: A special night out where pasta is the undisputed star.

- Website: https://monteverdechicago.com
- Address: 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607 (West Loop)
- Phone: (312) 888-3041
- Email: info@monteverdechicago.com

2. RPM Italian

The Vibe: Glamorous, high-energy, and see-and-be-seen.

Why It’s Top: A staple of the River North scene, RPM Italian delivers sleek style without compromising on substance. Their famous dishes, like the Lobster Ravioli and the towering Lemon Ricotta Cookies, are both decadent and consistently excellent.

Perfect For: A power lunch, celebratory dinner, or spotting a celebrity.

- Website: https://rpmrestaurants.com/rpm-italian/chicago/
- Address: 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 (River North)
- Phone: (312) 222-1888
- Email: info@rpmrestaurants.com

3. Piccolo Sogno

The Vibe: A serene, leafy patio escape (in summer) and a cozy, rustic interior.

Why It’s Top: Translating to "Little Dream," this Randolph Street gem lives up to its name. Chef Tony Priolo focuses on simple, authentic Italian flavors using pristine ingredients. Its courtyard is arguably the city’s most beautiful outdoor dining space.

Perfect For: A romantic date or a peaceful meal that feels transported from Italy.

- Website: https://piccolosognorestaurant.com
- Address: 464 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60642 (Near West Side)
- Phone: (312) 421-0077
- Email: info@piccolosognorestaurant.com

4. Club Lucky

The Vibe: A timeless, retro supper club with a buzzing, festive atmosphere.

Why It’s Top: Step back into 1940s Chicago in Bucktown. Club Lucky is all about generous portions of classic Italian-American fare (think incredible Chicken Vesuvio and massive martinis) served in a space that hasn’t lost an ounce of its vintage charm.

Perfect For: Big groups, birthday dinners, and a fun, nostalgic night out.

5. La Scarola

The Vibe: Bustling, no-frills, and packed with locals.

Why It’s Top: This is the quintessential Chicago Italian "joint." The walls are lined with photos of famous patrons, the waiters are charismatic, and the food is hearty, garlicky, and unforgettable. The "Veal La Scarola" is a legendary dish.

Perfect For: An authentic, loud, and delicious taste of old-school Chicago.

- Website: https://la-scarola.business.site
- Address: 721 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654 (River West)
- Phone: (312) 243-1740
- Email: N/A

6. Rosebud on Taylor

The Vibe: A landmark institution in the heart of Little Italy.

Why It’s Top: For decades, Rosebud has been synonymous with Taylor Street. It’s a place of history, serving classic pasta dishes and famous "Mile-High" lasagna in a warm, clubby setting. It’s a pilgrimage site for anyone seeking Chicago’s Italian roots.

Perfect For: A taste of history and a classic, generous Italian-American meal.

7. Osteria Via Stato

The Vibe: Chic, convivial, and offering a unique "Italian Country Feast."

Why It’s Top: This Lettuce Entertain You gem in River North offers a brilliant prix-fixe "Feast" menu that feels like a dinner party in Italy. Courses of salumi, pasta, entree, and dessert flow seamlessly in a lively, rustic-modern space.

Perfect For: A fun, communal dining experience with incredible value.

- Website: https://www.osteriaviasrato.com
- Address: 620 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654 (River North)
- Phone: (312) 642-8450
- Email: N/A

8. Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap

The Vibe: A family-owned, cash-only, hidden-gem tavern.

Why It’s Top: Just off Taylor Street, Tufano’s has been serving homestyle meals since 1930. It feels like a secret, with checkered tablecloths, hearty plates of lemon chicken and pasta, and a genuinely familial welcome.

Perfect For: An off-the-beaten-path, BYOB, utterly genuine experience.

- Website: https://tufanosrestaurant.com
- Address: 1073 W Vernon Park Pl, Chicago, IL 60607 (Little Italy)
- Phone: (312) 733-3393
- Email: N/A

9. Siena Tavern

The Vibe: A sleek, high-design River North spot from a Top Chef.

Why It’s Top: Chef Fabio Viviani’s flagship is a scene with serious culinary chops. The menu blends rustic Italian flavors with modern flair—don’t miss the famous Squid Ink Tagliatelle or the decadent Nutella Pizza for dessert.

Perfect For: A stylish dinner with a trendy crowd and inventive cocktails.

- Website: https://sienatavern.com
- Address: 51 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654 (River North)
- Phone: (312) 595-1322
- Email: info@sienatavern.com

10. Volare

The Vibe: Warm, inviting, and focused on Southern Italian coastal cuisine.

Why It’s Top: A consistent favorite just south of the Loop, Volare wins hearts with its romantic ambiance and dishes inspired by the Amalfi Coast. Their weekend brunch and extensive seafood selections are particularly beloved.

Perfect For: A pre-theater dinner or a comforting, elegant meal with a focus on seafood.

- Website: https://www.volarerestaurant.com
- Address: 201 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 (Streeterville)
- Phone: (312) 410-9900
- Email: info@volarerestaurant.com

From the bustling energy of River North to the historic, family-run kitchens of Little Italy, Chicago’s Italian dining scene is a celebration of both heritage and innovation. So grab a fork, raise a glass of Chianti, and dig into la dolce vita, right here in the Windy City. Buon appetito!

FAQs:

Q: What is the best Italian restaurant in Chicago for a special occasion?

A: For a show-stopping, award-winning experience, Monteverde is your top choice, while RPM Italian offers glamour and excitement perfect for a celebration.

Q: Where can I find the most authentic old-school Chicago Italian experience?

A: Head to Little Italy's Rosebud on Taylor or the nearby cash-only Tufano's for a genuine taste of Chicago's Italian-American history and classic dishes.

Q: Which restaurant is best for large groups or a lively atmosphere?

A: Club Lucky in Bucktown is designed for festive group dinners, and the always-bustling La Scarola thrives on big parties and a loud, joyful vibe.

Menu

Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Chicago from River North to Little Italy

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