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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ummo restaurant
1. Ummo
4.4
Awesome(554)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 21 times today
UMMO is a contemporary Italian restaurant that unlocks the vibrant flavors of regional Italian cuisine in a colorful, beautifully imagined space.At UMMO, we present contemporary Italian cuisine that seamlessly combines his passion for Italian and American cultures. With a focus on simplicity and quality ingredients sourced from around the globe, UMMO offers fine, house-made pastas, decadent cheese and meat selections, vibrant vegetables, hearty proteins, delicate seafood, and more. As the menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal and new discoveries, guests can experience the full breadth of what Italy has to offer.Join us at UMMO for an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
2. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2428)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Loop
Booked 153 times today
Alla Vita, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, offers an exceptional Italian dining experience that truly stands out. Executive Chef Lee Wolen masterfully creates dishes using the finest ingredients, delivering "fresh, flavorful, and every bite better than the last." Guests rave about the delicious ricotta dumplings and vodka pasta, describing the food as "absolutely fabulous." The wood-fired table bread is a must-try, providing a "pillowy and delicious" start to any meal. The restaurant's warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot for any occasion, ensuring Alla Vita "never fails to impress" its diners.
A photo of Prosecco restaurant
3. Prosecco
4.4
Awesome(2781)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 16 times today
Prosecco, nestled in the vibrant River North district of Chicago, is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking authentic Italian flavors. Renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes, guests rave about the "fresh and flavorful" offerings, with many praising the "excellent fish" and delightful seafood pasta. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in the "superb service" and "impeccable atmosphere" that complement its culinary delights. Diners are consistently impressed by the "top-notch service" and the way each seafood dish transports them to coastal Italy. Prosecco's seafood is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a genuine Italian dining experience.
A photo of Alpana restaurant
4. Alpana
4.8
Exceptional(490)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 67 times today
Alpana, located in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast district, is a haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and exceptional dining experiences. Guided by the esteemed Alpana Singh, a Master Sommelier, the restaurant offers a menu that perfectly marries food and wine, creating "a symphony of balance, texture, and flavor." Diners consistently rave about the "outstanding food and attentive, friendly service," highlighting must-try dishes like the wild mushroom ravioli and the meticulously cooked salmon. With a cozy ambiance that feels like "the best dinner party ever," Alpana is truly a standout spot for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of PIZZ'AMICI restaurant
5. PIZZ'AMICI
4.8
Exceptional(60)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Town
Booked 34 times today
Nothing brings people together more than pizza. Serving up the best Chicago thin crust pizza and classic American Italian dishes for sit down or carry-out, PIZZ'AMICI is the perfect spot for a date night, special celebration or a fine glass of wine. No matter where you come from or who you come with, we guarantee you'll feel at home here and leave with few more friends.
A photo of The Florentine restaurant
6. The Florentine
4.4
Awesome(1313)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 26 times today
The Florentine, nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop Financial district at the JW Marriott, is a hidden gem for Contemporary Italian cuisine. With a menu that artfully balances simplicity and quality, it features top-notch imported Italian pastas, cheeses, and meats alongside local farm ingredients. Diners rave about the "fantastic grilled octopus appetizer" and the "wonderfully fresh, delicious, and well-seasoned entrees." The restaurant's ambiance is both elegant and warm, providing an ideal setting for intimate dinners or lively group gatherings. The Florentine's attentive service and culinary excellence make it a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Sapori Trattoria restaurant
7. Sapori Trattoria
4.7
Exceptional(4474)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Lincoln Park
Booked 54 times today
Sapori Trattoria in Chicago's Lincoln Park is a gem for seafood lovers seeking quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "phenomenal seafood dishes," which truly set this cozy Italian spot apart. The charred octopus is described as "a must," and the Calabrian clams are a "go-to if you love spice!" The restaurant's commitment to fresh, well-prepared dishes shines through every meal, offering a delightful escape into the flavors of the sea. Combined with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, Sapori Trattoria promises a memorable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more of its exquisite seafood offerings.
A photo of Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria restaurant
8. Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria
4.7
Exceptional(7)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • South Loop
Booked 3 times today
Northern Italian pizzeria, Forno Mauri, brings the oldest traditions of Milano bakeries to the heart of Printer’s Row with its 14’’ thin crust Tonda Classica and all-Italian imported ingredients, including the best Fiordilatte mozzarella from Agerola. Owner of Sofi Italian in Chicago, Maurizio Michi is a Milanese and NYC restaurateur who has catered to the world’s most high profile clientele from fashion designers, film stars, musicians, and artists to business executives and royals.
A photo of Mano a Mano restaurant
9. Mano a Mano
4.7
Exceptional(164)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Logan Square
Booked 22 times today
Mano a Mano in Logan Square, Chicago, is a shining star of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a dining experience that beautifully marries traditional recipes with modern flair. This restaurant has captivated diners with its "phenomenal" in-house pasta dishes and a "well-thought-out" wine list featuring 100% Italian grapes. The cozy ambiance, enhanced by warm lighting and walnut paneling, creates an inviting atmosphere that complements the "fantastic, friendly service." Guests rave about the "creative and well-executed" dishes, often describing meals as "some of the best pasta dishes in the city." Whether it's the exquisite food or personal service, Mano a Mano truly stands out.
A photo of Figo Wine Bar restaurant
10. Figo Wine Bar
4.4
Awesome(437)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Lakeview / East Lakeview
Booked 18 times today
Figo Wine Bar invigorates the best qualities of an Italian wine bar. A menu incorporating foreign cuisines into a traditional Italian menu and a sommelier-selected wine list encourage a new and exciting experience. Our beverage menu includes an extensive wine list and beautiful craft/classic cocktail selection, all pastas are made in house and we source all of our ingredients locally.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Not going to be confused with the best tavern pizza in Chicago. But still quality pizza. Good ambiance. FHas the vibes that there should be a fat tony sitting in the corner stuffing his face at all times (there isn't), in a good way. Overall highly recommended. BYOB (no cork fee). Good $value$ in Chicago for good pizza and sides.
    More info
    PIZZ'AMICIPrice: Expensive• Pizza Bar• West Town
    •
    4.8
  • Haley
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A friend & I came here for lunch. We sat at the bar & the bartender was the perfect host. Personable, kind, knowledgeable & funny. He made the perfect wine & meal recommendation. The fish was cooked to perfection & had a sauce that was divine. We were celebrating & he surprised us with a special dessert!
    More info
    Alla VitaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    Minneapolis - St. Paul •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This was my first time at Sapori and I went to celebrate my birthday. This was such a perfect dinner! Liv was my waitress and she was so helpful with menu recommendations, drink options, and even helped me celebrate by taking a photo for me with dessert. ☺️ the food was incredible, and the sides are family-style so you can definitely get them to share with the table - I ended up taking half of my sides home! If you are looking for a place to celebrate your next special occasion, I definitely recommend Sapori!
    More info
    Sapori TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Lincoln Park
    •
    4.7
  • Alex
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    I had the scallops and they were cooked and seasoned to perfection.
    More info
    ProseccoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.4
  • Marek
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 21 Feb 2025
    The service was really professional . Food very tasty.
    More info
    The FlorentinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown / Loop
    •
    4.4

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in River North (Chicago)

Discover the vibrant flavors of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. This area, known for its dynamic dining scene, is a hotspot for those seeking innovative and upscale Italian dining experiences. Each restaurant in River North offers a unique twist on traditional Italian dishes, often incorporating local ingredients and modern culinary techniques to create memorable meals. From expertly crafted pasta to exquisite seafood dishes, the menus reflect a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions while embracing a modern aesthetic. The atmosphere in these establishments typically combines chic, contemporary designs with warm, inviting ambiances, making them perfect for both casual lunches and sophisticated dinners. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor exploring Chicago's culinary delights, the River North district promises an exceptional Italian dining experience that caters to refined palates and aesthetic appreciations alike.

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