Best Italian Restaurants in South Side

123 restaurants available nearby

1. Alla Vita

4.8

Exceptional(2319)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • West Loop

Booked 158 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 Franco's Ristorante restaurant

2. Franco's Ristorante

4.9

Exceptional(654)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Bridgeport

Booked 16 times today

If your preferred time is unavailable please call for possible openings. Franco's Ristorante is the perfect combination of old world Italian classics and your new favorite pasta dishes. We've been around for over 27 years and have perfected our craft. Some of our most famous dishes include whipped ricotta tuffo, sausage and peppers, eggplant parmigiana and gnocchi. Our great food and atmosphere helped us earn the honor of being named the Chicago Reader's 2016 "best place for a cheap date" and "best local restaurant." You will be wowed when you step inside our bright, airy and modern restaurant. You can enjoy a drink at our new marble-topped bar or cozy up to tables with bright red-leather chairs and banquettes in the dining room. In the summer we are happy to offer outdoor seating that allows dogs.

A photo of Dolce Arte - The Art of Food restaurant

3. Dolce Arte - The Art of Food

4.7

Exceptional(15)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Bridgeport

Booked 3 times today

Dolce Arte - The Art of Food is a Café delight nestled in the heart of Bridgeport, Chicago, offering a genuine taste of Italy with every bite. Renowned for its "phenomenal food" and "impeccable service," this cozy café invites you to indulge in a variety of freshly baked Italian pastries and the finest LavAzza coffee. Diners rave about the "best American pancakes" and the exquisite pasta paired with Antinori wine, making each meal a memorable experience. Whether you're there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Dolce Arte promises an "outstanding dining experience" that will have you eagerly planning your next visit.

4. Acanto

4.8

Exceptional(3861)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 50 times today

Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar, located in the vibrant Downtown Loop of Chicago, is a haven for wine enthusiasts and Italian cuisine lovers alike. This esteemed establishment boasts one of the most revered wine programs in the U.S., earning a prestigious three-star rating by World of Fine Wine and a two-glass "Best of Excellence" rating by Wine Spectator. Visitors rave about the "fabulous wine selection" and "knowledgeable sommelier" who enhance the dining experience with passionate recommendations. The cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere paired with an exceptional array of Italian classics and craft cocktails ensures that Acanto is a must-visit destination for any wine lover.

5. Il Culaccino

4.1

Excellent(1089)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Loop

Booked 11 times today

If your preferred time is unavailable please call for possible openings. Il Culaccino, the new fine Italian dining restaurant presented by the Franco’s Restaurant Group, comes to McCormick Square in Spring 2019. Anchored in the Arrive Lex Apartment Tower, 2134 South Indiana, Il Culaccino is just steps away from Wintrust Arena and a short walk from McCormick Place. At Il Culaccino, you’ll enjoy unique wines and delicious plates accompanied by the friendly and superior service that has become the hallmark of Franco’s Restaurant Group, family-owned since 1989.Be prepared to have your senses thrilled at Il Culaccino, before or after exploring McCormick Square, Chicago’s most exciting and vibrant new entertainment district.

A photo of Connie's Pizza in Bridgeport restaurant

6. Connie's Pizza in Bridgeport

4.7

Exceptional(742)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Loop

Booked 14 times today

Connie's Pizza in Bridgeport is a cherished gem for Pizza Bar aficionados seeking authentic and delectable pizza in Chicago's South Loop. Known for its "delicious, perfectly cooked" pizzas that are "packed with flavor," Connie's consistently wins hearts and taste buds alike. Diners rave about the "great atmosphere" and "excellent service" that complement the outstanding culinary offerings. From classic Chicago deep-dish to flavorful sausage pizzas, every dish is a testament to Connie's commitment to quality. With a spacious dining area perfect for large gatherings and a menu that delights, Connie's Pizza is an essential stop for both locals and visitors.

7. The Florentine

4.4

Awesome(1308)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 13 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 Viaggio Ristorante and Lounge restaurant

8. Viaggio Ristorante and Lounge

4.9

Exceptional(2555)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • West Loop

Booked 39 times today

*PLEASE CALL TO SEE OTHER AVAILABLE RESERVATION TIMES*An authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of Chicago's lively West Loop neighborhoodWe offer an elegant and charming dining experience that keeps guests coming back again and again. Our large menu of regional Italian pastas, meats and fishes is rounded out by a selection of salads, soups, and decadent desserts. Popular staples like Rigatoni with Braised Pork Gravy and Eggplant Parmesan are served alongside Executive Chef Nicolas Biscaglio’s signature interpretations of classic Italian dishes. We use only the highest quality ingredients to ensure a deliciously memorable experience!As a hospitality-driven establishment, it’s our goal to make every guest that walks through the door feel like family. At Viaggio, we invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy!

A photo of Miss Ricky's Trattoria restaurant

9. Miss Ricky's Trattoria

4.6

Exceptional(816)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 24 times today

Miss Ricky's Trattoria offers an authentic Pizzeria experience nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago's Loop. Renowned for its "fabulous pizza" and "amazing hand-made pasta," this eatery stands out with a commitment to fresh, from-scratch Italian dishes crafted by Executive Chef Mike Alaridi. Guests rave about the "superb food" and the warm atmosphere that complements the exceptional service. Whether you're savoring their signature pizza or indulging in a house-made tiramisu, Miss Ricky's delivers an experience that "does not disappoint." Ideal for both intimate dinners and lively group gatherings, it's the perfect spot for true Pizzeria cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of Lou Malnati's - South Loop restaurant

10. Lou Malnati's - South Loop

4.5

Awesome(118)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Loop

Booked 19 times today

Lou Malnati's in South Loop is a quintessential Chicago eatery renowned for its authentic American cuisine, particularly its "legendary" deep dish pizza. Nestled on South State Street, this iconic spot has been perfecting its craft for over 50 years, promising an "unforgettable" experience for anyone craving genuine Chicago flavor. Diners rave about the "buttery crust" and "scrumptious" pizzas, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. The cozy atmosphere and "flawless" service ensure that every visit is memorable. Whether you're fresh from sightseeing or a sporting event, Lou Malnati's offers a true taste of classic American dining.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

E
Elizabeth
Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
Lovely ambiance; great service and delicious food. And a Olive Oil Cake to die for!
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AcantoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown / Loop
•
4.8
G
GeorgianVIP
Chicago / Illinois •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The food was amazing and our server was right in touch with everything we needed.
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Franco's RistorantePrice: Moderate• Italian• Bridgeport
•
4.9
R
Ryan
Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
What an amazing dinner experience! The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and very well decorated. The drinks were top notch, and high quality. We started with the arancini, which was crunchy, the rice was a perfect texture, and it had just the perfect amount of cheese. The table bread was on another level. It had subtle sweet notes, which consisted of honey and orange. I had the tagliatelle. The short rib was moist and very tender, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. My wife had the rigatoni, and she said the pasta was cooked perfectly as well, and the vodka sauce was very creamy and had excellent flavor. The tiramisu was just on another level! I have already recommended Alla Vita to 3 other people in the last 2 days! A must visit......I would give 6 stars if I could!
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Alla VitaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Loop
•
4.8
R
Richard
Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 26 Dec 2024
Service was awesome. Food was very good. Meatball app a must.
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Dolce Arte - The Art of FoodPrice: Moderate• Italian• Bridgeport
•
4.7
T
Travis
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
4.0
Dined on 19 Dec 2024
Wish they could split a check at the register.. would have helped!
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Il CulaccinoPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Loop
•
4.1

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123 restaurants available nearby

1. Alla Vita

2. Franco's Ristorante

3. Dolce Arte - The Art of Food

4. Acanto

5. Il Culaccino

6. Connie's Pizza in Bridgeport

7. The Florentine

8. Viaggio Ristorante and Lounge

9. Miss Ricky's Trattoria

10. Lou Malnati's - South Loop

See what locals rave about

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