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Best Cozy Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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282 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(231)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 10 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 Girl & the Goat restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14835)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • West Loop
Booked 123 times today
Girl & the Goat opened in 2010 with the goal of offering a menu of bold, flavorful dishes designed to share in a fun and lively atmosphere. To complement the experience, we offer a curated selection of wines from around the world, focusing on small producers, along with a rotating list of craft beers and a playful cocktail menu crafted by our bartenders. The ever-changing menu, driven by locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, features favorites like sautéed green beans, roasted oysters, crispy short ribs, and confit goat belly. While reservations are encouraged for the dining room, our bar welcomes walk-ins, adventurers, and those who prefer spontaneity.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(142)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Town
Booked 23 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 Gibsons Italia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3894)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 122 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 Fioretta restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(809)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • West Loop
Booked 55 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 The Palm Court restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4853)
Price: Very Expensive
• Afternoon Tea • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 205 times today
For those who love their afternoon teas fresh, fragrant and steeped in history, Palm Court at The Drake Hotel serving tea for over a century. Even the Queen and Princess Diana have made their royal visits here. Your afternoon tea begins with Palais de Thes menu, which features 15 tea blends including classic selections like the English Breakfast to modern yet delightful twists like the Mélange du Cap.Tea is served in individual tea pots accompanied by the traditional three tiered tea tray filled with an arrangement of gourmet finger sandwiches and scones; and dainty petit fours with complements of preserves, lemon curd and English double Devon cream.And let’s not forget about our little tea. The Prince & Princess Afternoon tea service, suitable for children between 3 and 12 years of age is available throughout the duration of afternoon tea service.Reservations are heavily encouraged. Tea service seating duration is 90minAdults $79/ $82 with Carolers / Kids $35 (3-12)
A photo of Cira restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1765)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • West Loop
Booked 61 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 Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(894)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 63 times today
Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.
A photo of Three Dots and a Dash restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1806)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)
Booked 65 times today
With a secret alleyway entrance, Three Dots and a Dash is a speakeasy-style take on the traditional island bar—ready to transport you to the glamorous bygone eras of Trader Vic, Stephen Crane and Don the Beachcomber. Descend underground to discover a subterranean hideaway featuring a rum-soaked menu of more than two dozen classic, modern and original tropical cocktails and a selection of island fare. We are a 21+ venue.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7138)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Lincoln Park
Booked 49 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.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Stephanie
    Los Angeles •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had the most wonderful Thanksgiving dinner at Fioretta. The service and atmosphere were top notch. It was the first time my parents and I had ever been out for Thanksgiving dinner and we were so impressed. The staff was also incredibly kind and attentive. We really had a night to remember. Thank you, Jose and Fioretta!!
    More info
    FiorettaPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• West Loop
    4.6
  • Oscarvip
    Chicago / Illinois •51 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The Girl and the Goat always exceeds expectations, even when my expectations are sky high! Thank you! We had the Pig Face, String Beans, Goat Belly, and Steak. The dishes all exploded with flavors. The balance of seasonings, use of citrus, vinegar and other elements of the dishes played well and makes the culinary experience here amazing. The cocktails were yummy as well. The Peach-Te-quilla was light and refreshing. The Spicy Fat Boy had a ton of flavor. To finish the night, we had the Toffee Pumpkin cake and a neat pour of the Pappy Family Reserve. The Pappy was a treat and made a great night even more special! Thanks to Stephanie and all the team at the Goat. You are all AMAZING!
    More info
    Girl & the GoatPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• West Loop
    4.8
  • Chrisvip
    Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always have dinner at a Gibsons restaurant, usually the Rosemont location. It’s not that the ambience in Rosemont is bad, but we fell in love with Gibsons Italia. A bit more modern in its decor with the same excellent food and a fabulous view! My new favorite Chicago restaurant!
    More info
    Gibsons ItaliaPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.8
  • Robert
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    The staff could not have been friendlier or more attentive. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the food. Highly recommended.
    More info
    Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    4.8
  • Emilyvip
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 20, 2024
    Love Elina’s and have been often because the vibes, service, and food is top notch. Definitely a great date night. Intimate and cozy!
    More info
    Elina'sPrice: Expensive• Italian• West Town
    4.8

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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