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Best Italian Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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137 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
1. Peanut Park Trattoria
4.7
Exceptional(237)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in Chicago, Peanut Park Trattoria has quickly become a beacon of contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated by Chicago Magazine as one of the Top Restaurants in February 2022 and hailed by Tasting Table as "One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago," this gem offers a culinary experience that skillfully blends Italian traditions with modern flair. Patrons rave about the handmade pastas and inventive pizzas, describing them as "absolutely delicious" and lauding the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. With its commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellent service, Peanut Park Trattoria is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly exceptional Italian dining experience in Chicago.
A photo of Pompei - Taylor restaurant
2. Pompei - Taylor
4.1
Excellent(7)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Pompei on Taylor Street, nestled in the heart of Little Italy in Chicago, is a beacon of pizzeria excellence with a rich history dating back to 1909. Known for its authentic and scrumptious hand-rolled pizzas, such as the Signature Pizza Pompei and the Four Cheese and Tomato, this establishment has mastered the art of combining traditional methods with innovative flavors. Customers rave about the unique pizza strudels, highlighting the Beef Angelo and the Pompei Italiano as must-try items. "The Pompeii slice is awesome, like a Sicilian slice with no cheese. It was devoured," one review exclaims, encapsulating the authentic taste and quality that keep locals and visitors coming back. Whether you’re enjoying the seasonal outdoor seating or the cozy indoor ambiance, Pompei offers an unrivaled Al Fresco dining experience that truly stands out in Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene.
A photo of Rose Mary restaurant
3. Rose Mary
4.8
Exceptional(3299)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 116 times today
Nestled in the bustling West Loop of Chicago, Rose Mary stands out as a beacon of Croatian cuisine, artfully blended with Italian influences by the talented Chef Joe Flamm. Patrons rave about the authentic and bold flavors, with dishes like the "tuna crudo" and "Burek bread" receiving special mentions for their exceptional taste. The ambiance of Rose Mary, inspired by the coastal herbs and familial warmth, complements the "Adriatic drinking food," making every meal a delightful experience. Reviewers consistently highlight the outstanding service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Croatia in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
4. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2301)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 151 times today
Alla Vita, nestled in Chicago's vibrant West Loop, is a beacon of contemporary Italian cuisine that delights with its casual, family-style dining. Celebrating life's triumphs, Alla Vita offers a menu bursting with authenticity and flavor. Executive Chef Lee Wolen's passion is evident in every dish, from the heavenly Whipped Ricotta with orange blossom honey to the exquisite burrata with hazelnuts. Patrons rave about the unforgettable "burrata app with toasted bread," and the "rigatoni alla vodka," describing them as "mouth-watering" and "incredible." The ambiance, described as "vibrant and beautiful," complements the culinary experience, making Alla Vita a must-visit for anyone seeking the finest in contemporary Italian fare in Chicago.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
5. Pizzeria Portofino
4.8
Exceptional(1545)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 231 times today
Pizzeria Portofino, nestled on the vibrant Chicago riverfront, is a gem that brings the essence of the Italian Riviera to the heart of River North, Chicago. Known for its "delicious and mouthwatering" hand-stretched pizzas, this sun-drenched eatery offers not just a meal but an experience, complete with stunning river views and a breezy, inviting decor. Diners rave about the high-quality ingredients and the "thin, but quality" crust that make each pizza a culinary delight. The ambiance, described as "perfect for patio season," complements the exceptional food and service, making Pizzeria Portofino a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts and those seeking a slice of Italy in Chicago.
A photo of Gibsons Italia restaurant
6. Gibsons Italia
4.8
Exceptional(3984)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 117 times today
Gibsons Italia, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, stands out as a beacon for seafood lovers. Known for its "exceptional" culinary offerings, the restaurant serves up a delightful array of seafood dishes that keep patrons coming back. Diners rave about the "amazing and delicious" prawns, oysters, and scallops, with the Branzino being a consistent favorite, described as "obsessively good." The seafood risotto is also highly recommended, praised for its freshness and exquisite flavor. Beyond the food, the stunning views of the Chicago River add a magical touch to the dining experience, making Gibsons Italia a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, high-quality seafood in a spectacular setting.
A photo of Tre Dita restaurant
7. Tre Dita
4.7
Exceptional(776)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 145 times today
Led by Chef Evan Funke, Tre Dita, Italian for "three fingers", pays homage to the precise measurement of bistecca Fiorentina. If booking in the dining room at Tre Dita, you will enjoy a menu of antipasti, handmade pastas, signature entrees and steaks. If booking in the Bar Tre Dita, you will enjoy a smaller menu of stuzzi, antipasti, handmade pastas and entrees. The full cocktail, wine list and dessert menu is available in both locations.Please note that Tre Dita only accepts reservations 7 days in advance.
A photo of Fioretta restaurant
8. Fioretta
4.7
Exceptional(845)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 77 times today
Fioretta, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, is celebrated for blending an old-school Italian steakhouse with modern sophistication. This gem delivers an unparalleled steak experience, with guests raving about its "spectacular price to value ratio" and the "best steaks in Chicago." The dry-aged bone-in ribeye and the Florentine steak, perfect for sharing, are standouts on the menu, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Fioretta's custom-built solid-fuel hearth ensures each steak is cooked to perfection, imparting a unique char and texture that elevates the dining experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual night out, Fioretta promises an exceptional steak journey, making it a top spot for steak lovers in the city.
A photo of il Carciofo restaurant
9. il Carciofo
new
4.8
Exceptional(64)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 166 times today
Located in the historic Fulton Market district of Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, il Carciofo is a Roman Italian restaurant drawing inspiration from the restaurants and markets in one of Chef Joe's favorite cities, Rome. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu of elevated yet familiar Italian fare with traditional antipasti, Roman-style pizzas, hand-rolled pastas produced daily in a dedicated pasta lab and market-driven mains that highlight the season's bounty.
A photo of Formento's restaurant
10. Formento's
4.7
Exceptional(2830)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 45 times today
Situated in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, Formento's is a treasure trove of Italian culinary delight, offering a heartfelt homage to traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. With house-made pastas and wood-fired entrees, each dish showcases the brightness and freshness of authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is evident, with rave reviews like, "You've never had real Olive Oil until you've tasted this one," highlighting the meticulous care in sourcing ingredients. Formento's not only promises an exceptional dining experience with its extensive wine selection of over 300 varietals but also ensures a memorable visit with its impeccable service and welcoming atmosphere. Whether it's the Carbonara, the Vodka pasta, or the unique Black Squid Pasta, Formento's stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian in Chicago.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • adrienneVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great food, good service and nice location!! Highly recommend the rigatoni, pepperoni hot pizza and Cesar salad with chicken!
    More info
    Pizzeria PortofinoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.8
  • SandyB
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Everything was wonderful Food, cocktails Recommendations service … The ONLY thing to improve upon and it’s small.. is the restroom experience Pathway to restrooms is downstairs … and Smelled like mildew and felt like a dungeon They Obviously cared enough to make the actual restroom nice and updated, but the hallway is unfinished and needs to be basement proofed and finished to match the level that the restaurant deserves
    More info
    Rose MaryPrice: Expensive• Croatian• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • Christine
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The table bread is a must. The Cacio e Pepe pillows (so fluffy) and Rigatoni (just a little spicy in a good way) were delicious! Fried potatoes and delicate squash were excellent. Roasted chicken was just a little crispy and so flavorful. Soppressata pizza was sweet and salty. So good. Can’t wait for leftovers. Tossed salad was just ok IMO.
    More info
    Alla VitaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Loop
    •
    4.8
  • David
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The welcome to the restaurant was very pleasant. The service was friendly and very attentive. This was not my first visit to.Peanut Park. They are consistently friendly and attentive. The food is always excellent and reasonably priced. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
    More info
    Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    •
    4.7
  • BridgetC
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 5 May 2022
    Always love coming here since I was a kid. The food is excellent and authentic.
    More info
    Pompei - TaylorPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    •
    4.1

Discover best Italian restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Explore the rich flavors of Italy right in the heart of Chicago's Little Italy / University Village. This vibrant dining scene is a treasure trove of authentic Italian cuisine, where traditional dishes meet impeccable service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. From wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas to expertly crafted cocktails, the restaurants in this area promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Each establishment reflects a deep passion for Italian culinary traditions, often incorporating recipes passed down through generations. Diners can expect a variety of dining experiences, from cozy trattorias to elegant dining spaces, each offering a unique take on classic Italian fare. The area is not only a hub for excellent food but also a center of Italian culture and hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine taste of Italy in Chicago. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening out or a festive family gathering, Little Italy / University Village offers a perfect backdrop with its rich culinary offerings and vibrant street life.

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