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Best Italian Restaurants in River West

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139 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Piccolo Sogno restaurant
1. Piccolo Sogno
4.7
Exceptional(6967)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River West
Booked 70 times today
Our name, which means “little dream” in Italian, was chosen by partners Tony Priolo and Ciro Longobardo because it had always been their dream to open a restaurant of their own. “The restaurant fits our personal goal to get to the heart of Italian wine and food,” says executive chef Priolo. “You go to Italy for simple food prepared by hand with local ingredients. We wanted to bring that experience to Chicago.”Piccolo Sogno features a menu of seasonally fresh rustic Italian cuisine. The impressive all-Italian wine list boasts over 400 selections to pair with your meal.When the weather allows, enjoy al fresco dining in the hidden garden patio-regularly recognized as one of the best in the city.Starting December 1, Monday-Thursday we'll open at 5 pm rather than 4 pm-just for the winter. You are welcome to bring a cake to celebrate. If you do, we will charge a $3 fee per person cake-cutting fee. Beginning January 1, all credit card transactions will be charged a 3% fee.
A photo of Erie Cafe restaurant
2. Erie Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(170)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 8 times today
Erie Cafe in River North, Chicago, exemplifies the pinnacle of homestyle Italian cuisine with its commitment to fresh, authentic flavors. Since 1994, this family-owned gem has been serving up "the finest aged steaks" and "homemade ravioli" that keep patrons coming back. Diners rave about the "classic comfort" of its dishes and the "old school style" ambiance reminiscent of a 1940s Italian steakhouse. The glowing reviews highlight the "spectacular" food and "impeccable service," with one guest noting it's "the best veal chop I ever ate." Erie Cafe’s outdoor dining, overlooking the scenic Chicago river, offers a perfect backdrop to enjoy their celebrated Italian fare, making every dining experience not just a meal but a memorable event.
A photo of Rose Mary restaurant
3. Rose Mary
4.8
Exceptional(3299)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 117 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(2300)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 127 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 Fioretta restaurant
5. Fioretta
4.7
Exceptional(845)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 73 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 Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
6. Pizzeria Portofino
4.8
Exceptional(1543)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 217 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
7. Gibsons Italia
4.8
Exceptional(3984)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 125 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
8. Tre Dita
4.8
Exceptional(776)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 152 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 il Carciofo restaurant
9. il Carciofo
new
4.8
Exceptional(63)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Loop
Booked 165 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 RPM Italian - Chicago restaurant
10. RPM Italian - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(12241)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 102 times today
RPM Italian in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is not just a haven for Italian cuisine lovers but also a top destination for steak aficionados. While RPM Italian is celebrated for its modern twist on classic Italian dishes, its sister concern, RPM Steak, shines through with its exceptional steak offerings. Diners rave about the "perfectly seasoned" steaks, including a special mention of a steak from Japan that left guests in awe. Reviews consistently highlight the high-quality steaks, noting them as "melt in your mouth" experiences that are a "home run." The restaurant's commitment to quality and service is evident, making it a must-visit for those seeking the best steak in Chicago.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • BenjaminVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    A great place for a celebratory meal. Vibe is Rat Pack with a side order of 21st century clubstaraunt opulence. Stellar service, hit all the little marks that a lot of places miss these days. Nicci is an outstanding server. Definitely a $$$$ spot, but I think you get better quality for your money than many other steakhouses downtown. Uniquely delicious sausage and peppers; best tuna tartare I've had in ages; over the top king crab pasta. Sunday night they have Prime Rib -- stellar portion and great beef quality. LOVED the coconut cream pie with chocolate mousse NA beverage menu includes zero proof cocktails, wines and beer, nice touch.
    More info
    FiorettaPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • 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
  • kristinVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Fun restaurant love the aesthetic, it's a dark and dark wooded place so candles on the tables would be ideal and make the dining experience elevated --- Our waiter(s) were great, comfy booth and frank sinatra era vibey Kristin :)
    More info
    Erie CafePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.8
  • Barbara
    Wisconsin •69 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Loved this restaurant. Food is delicious and good size portions. Wait staff friendly efficient and not intrusive. Have a Negroni coattail. Best around. Calamari bit salty but good and very generous portion. Very wide menu for all Italian food lovers. We shared entree after large calamari appetizer. Very graciously split dish for us Love the dining experience here.
    More info
    Piccolo SognoPrice: Moderate• Italian• River West
    •
    4.7

Discover best Italian restaurants in River West

Discover the charm of Italian cuisine in Chicago's vibrant River West neighborhood. Our curated list of Italian restaurants offers an array of authentic and delightful dining experiences perfect for any aficionado of Italy's rich culinary traditions. From rustic, artisanal dishes that transport you straight to the Italian countryside to modern interpretations of classic favorites, each establishment provides a unique taste of Italy right in the heart of Chicago. River West itself is a bustling area known for its diverse dining scene, with Italian cuisine standing out as a particularly celebrated option. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue to enjoy with friends, you'll find establishments that perfectly match the ambiance you desire. Indulge in menus featuring everything from handcrafted pasta and wood-fired pizzas to exquisite seafood and fine wines sourced directly from Italy. Every restaurant in this selection not only promises delicious food but also a memorable dining experience, emphasizing quality, authenticity, and the warm hospitality Italy is known for. Ideal for both locals and visitors, these Italian culinary havens in River West are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you eager for your next visit.

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