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Best Cozy Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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298 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(237)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 2 times today
Located in the heart of nostalgic "Little Italy" on Chicago's famed Taylor Street, Peanut Park is a traditional Italian joint brought to you by your friends at Coalfire and Tempesta Market.Chicago Magazine voted Peanut Park One of the Top Restaurants in Chicago February 2022 and Tasting Table said we are " One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" this past May 2022. Our menu is simple and we aim to celebrate Italian classics and timeless bistro favorites.We embody passion, integrity, and excellence while striving to provide an authentic dining experience by celebrating tradition and invoking the modern. Don't miss our handmade pastas, pizza and incredible cocktail menu. Join us in our dining room or dine al fresco on the rooftop for a one of a kind experience!
A photo of Aba - Chicago restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2636)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mediterranean • West Loop
Booked 198 times today
Aba is a Mediterranean restaurant with locations in Chicago, IL, Austin, TX, and BalHarbour, FL. Aba, meaning father in Hebrew, incorporates Chef CJ Jacobson’s lighter styleof cooking with influences from the Mediterranean, including Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, andGreece. The bar program showcases rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits.Signature dishes include Smoky Garlic Hummus, Muhammara, Heirloom Crispy ChickenThigh, Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak, Grilled Salmon Kebab and more. The bar programshowcases rare Mediterranean-inspired wines and spirits.
A photo of Pizzeria Portofino restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1545)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 223 times today
Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that will instantly transport you to the Italian Riviera.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(159)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Town
Booked 31 times today
Fine Italian cooking served by two chefs in an intimate space.Reservations are released 30 days in advance at midnight. Parties of 7 or more must contact Reservations@elinaschicago.com to book. Parties of this size are required to participate in a $75 per person family style prix fixe menu, drinks are charged based on consumption and a 20% gratuity will be added to the final bill. If you cancel within 24 hours of your reservation time you will incur a $30 per person cancelation fee.
A photo of RL Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7289)
Price: Expensive
• American • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 65 times today
If you do not find availability online, please call the restaurant directly at 312-475-1100.Located adjacent to the Ralph Lauren Chicago flagship store on Michigan Avenue, RL Restaurant features the vision and décor of Ralph Lauren in a modern club atmosphere. RL Restaurant offers classic American cuisine inspired by Ralph Lauren’s personal favorites. Seasonal dishes range from a chopped vegetable salad to a lobster roll sandwich, grilled fish of the day and steaks. On the cocktail list, guests can choose from classic drinks and a diverse selection of wines and other fine spirits.
A photo of Fioretta restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(845)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • West Loop
Booked 60 times today
Fioretta is reminiscent of a new-age Copacabana, celebrating old-world Italian cuisine with an opulent twist, a steady flow of impressive cocktails and wine, world-class live entertainment, and a glamorous vibe cast over the entire experience.Seamlessly blending steakhouse fare with elevated versions of old-world Italian cuisine with help from Italian-American Chef, Joe Rizza. The menu pays homage to the Italian immigrants who graciously first introduced Americans to southern Italian classics. Fioretta’s custom-built solid-fuel hearth and open kitchen allows Rizza and his culinary team to impart superb flavor, char and texture to each dish. The menu strives to strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation.
A photo of Gibsons Italia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3984)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 112 times today
Gibsons Italia is built on a tradition & elegance that is relentless in the pursuit of the very best. Chef-driven tastes of Italy are paired with the superiority of Gibsons Steakhouse, creating a restaurant that makes the familiar, exceptional. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7171)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Lincoln Park
Booked 79 times today
Michelin-starred Boka Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s dining scene since 2003. In 2014, following a major renovation, Chef Lee Wolen joined as Executive Chef and Partner, quickly gaining critical acclaim. Named “Chef of the Year” by both Phil Vettel of the Chicago Tribune and Eater Chicago in 2014, and again in 2015, Lee has helped elevate Boka to new heights. The restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine that highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The sophisticated yet inviting ambiance sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience, with daily-changing tasting menus that showcase timeless and seasonal American flavors.
A photo of Cira restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1781)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • West Loop
Booked 93 times today
Cira is a cozy Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago's West Loop. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with many reviewers praising its vibrant and trendy vibe. The ambiance is described as perfect for a first date, a business lunch, or a casual brunch. Despite being busy, the restaurant is noted to be quiet enough for a nice conversation, making it a great spot for a relaxed dining experience.
A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant
4.5
Awesome(10978)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 140 times today
Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Noel
    Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Outstanding food and service! Excellent atmosphere
    More info
    Aba - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• West Loop
    4.8
  • 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
  • Parker
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Elina’s is always amazing! However towards the end of our meal we ended up having a ton of food left and they took it back to wrap it up for us and never gave it back. We had 2 days worth of food in there 😂. Oh well! Anyways, great meal. Will be returning of course.
    More info
    Elina'sPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Town
    4.8
  • CaitlinVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This is our favorite place in the city for many reasons. The drinks, the food, the look and feel of it, but the number one reason we keep coming back is the people who work at RL. It was a wildly busy evening this last time we came in and while many would have folded, the team went out of their way to take care of us. And that’s what sets this place apart. You’re cared for here. We were listened to and made comfortable. It ended up being a wonderful evening all thanks to obviously the food and drink, but mainly each employee we came in contact with. Come for the lush martinis, the perfect dover sole, the rich wood and dim lights but keep coming back for the people.
    More info
    RL RestaurantPrice: Expensive• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    4.9
  • 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

Discover best cozy restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the charm of cozy dining in Chicago's Little Italy / University Village area, where every restaurant promises a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners and relaxed gatherings. This neighborhood is renowned for its blend of traditional charm and modern comforts, offering an array of dining options that embody the essence of coziness. Whether nestled inside quaint bistros adorned with European decor or enjoying a meal in serene outdoor gardens, patrons can expect a delightful dining experience that feels like a home away from home. These establishments are celebrated for their high-quality cuisine, ranging from authentic Italian to contemporary American, ensuring that every palate is catered to. The dining scene here is a vibrant mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair, making it a go-to destination for those seeking both comfort and culinary excellence. As you plan your next meal out, consider the cozy offerings of Little Italy / University University Village - where every meal is served with a touch of warmth and a dash of local flavor.

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