DarkSideDE

Does anyone know a really nice Italian restaurant in Chicago? I'll be there soon and can do with some good Northern food. Looking for suggestions. Doesn't have to be Italian - just preferred....

C.J. Ichiban

I wish I could remember the italian places I went...I remember going to "tempo" for a 3am omelette, and gibson's for some people watching and a burger at lunch.

MUSSBERGER

Gene & Georgetti's was always good. I haven't been to Chicago in while though

DarkSideDE

Thank you. I'll only be there one night - and I didn't want to waste it on a lousy restaurant!

angelo1404

Gene & Georgetti's is a steak joint in the west loop area. If you want more of a pasta/chicken/salads place, try Tufano's a/k/a The Vernon Park Tap.
It has the best roasted chicken in the city.
It is located in the UIC neighborhood, just south of the Loop. Every concierge knows of it.
Have Fun!

flatsics

http://www.topogigiochicago.com/

Topo Gigio is a fantastic Italian resturant. Great atmosphere and even beter food.

DarkSideDE

Menu looks good -
I hope they don't use onions in their sauces...

Meanwhile - how about Chinese for lunch? Any really good garlic sauces?

We will be in a hotel be on North Lake Shore Drive. It's a treat!

Meanwhile - any good plays on now?

rsa

Northern Italian

If you really want to splurge go to Spiaggia and bring $ (on Michigan Ave - Mag mile)

Riccardo Tratoria on Clark street in Lincoln park is one of my favorites for authentic northern Italian

Merlo is near Rush street (AKA the viagra triangle). Very good.

DarkSideDE

Thanks Jeff

My nephew is treating - I'd like to go easy on his wallet

I'll check to see if Riccardo Trattoria has a website/menu listed. I found a site for shows -- I only recognized two of the names - now I realize how I really do live in rural America now - and understand why folks said, "Are you sure you can give up the big city?" I hope there is no noise in the street when I sleep - fortunately it is only for one night... I guess that is what planes are for.

1AS

If you can, would go to Cafe Spiaggia for lunch or dinner. It is right next to the restaurant Spiaggia, and uses the same kitchen/chef, but is a simpler and less expensive menu. The wines by the glass are also usually excellent. It is at 1000 Lake Shore Drive, so probably close to where you are staying. As a life-long Chicagoan, I think it is the best lunch in the city.
The Italian restaurants are clustered on Taylor. Tuscany is a good place to eat and experience the see-and-be seen element. AS

Bill L Seifert

Does it have to be Italian? The Chicago Chop House has great steaks.

Bill Seifert

1987 944S Race Car
1999 Honda Civic SI Race Car

MUSSBERGER

What about pizzeria uno?

DarkSideDE

Pizzeria Uno - no thanks. That is a chain - and the last time I was in one the sauce was more like onion soup.

I really miss good Italian food - you know, sauteed garlic in oil, with kitchen-ready tomatoes -- a hint of wine and just the right blend of spices....nice a light, no one flavor being overbearing... ah, smell that garlic - enjoy that bread... ah, heaven.

Steak house could be a runner up - but the restaurant on N Lake seems to fit what we are looking for.

Thank you all :-)

MUSSBERGER

Its all relative. There is great Italian food all over the place here. Being from So Cal I Jones for a good taco or burrito or maybe a Tommy burger or the ultimate an In N Out Double Double with cheese.

FredC

Pane caldo on Walton between n Michigan and rush is real good too. Priced below spiaggia but higher than Ricardo.