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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South Side

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18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
1. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2387)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Loop
Booked 144 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 Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria restaurant
2. Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria
4.7
Exceptional(6)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • South Loop
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 The Florentine restaurant
3. The Florentine
4.4
Awesome(1314)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 8 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 Unico Restaurante restaurant
4. Unico Restaurante
4.9
Exceptional(8)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Lower West Side
Booked 1 time today
Welcome to Unico Restaurante we look forward to serving you.
A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
5. Peanut Park Trattoria
4.7
Exceptional(253)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 10 times today
Peanut Park Trattoria, nestled in the vibrant Little Italy of Chicago, is your ultimate destination for exquisite Pizza Bar cuisine. Known for its authentic Italian flavors, this charming spot has been celebrated as "One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" by Tasting Table. The pizza here is a standout, described as "piping hot, nicely fresher, and delicious," making it a crowd favorite. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with diners raving about the "great food, cocktails and service" that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Perfect for any occasion, Peanut Park promises an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Exchequer Restaurant & Pub restaurant
6. Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
4.5
Awesome(70)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 9 times today
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub, affectionately known as "The Ex," is a hidden gem in downtown Chicago, renowned for its authentic Pizzeria cuisine. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, this family-owned establishment has become a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike. "Best deep dish pizza I've had, no joke," raves one satisfied patron, echoing the sentiment of many who frequent this cozy spot. Rated #1 for Deep Dish Pizza by the Chicago Tribune, Exchequer continues to impress with its "phenomenal food" and "great atmosphere." It's an ideal destination for those seeking the perfect blend of flavor, history, and Chicago charm.
A photo of PIZZ'AMICI restaurant
7. PIZZ'AMICI
4.8
Exceptional(41)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Town
Booked 29 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 Alpana restaurant
8. Alpana
4.8
Exceptional(467)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 57 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 Prosecco restaurant
9. Prosecco
4.5
Awesome(2776)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 10 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 Ummo restaurant
10. Ummo
4.4
Awesome(544)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 16 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.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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