Best Cafés in Little Italy / University Village

10 restaurants available nearby

1. Taste 222

4.8

Exceptional(265)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • West Loop

Booked 9 times today

Taste 222 in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts looking for a blend of warmth and sophistication. This restaurant is renowned for its "Cheers"-like service where "they know your names and your orders," creating a family-like atmosphere that complements its delectable comfort food offerings. Patrons rave about dishes like the "crispy calamari, perfectly seasoned," and "truffle fries, an indulgent treat," which are just a glimpse of their diverse menu that caters to various palates including vegan options. Reviews consistently highlight the exceptional service and ambiance, making Taste 222 a must-visit for those seeking a comforting culinary experience in a chic and inviting setting.

2. Disco Pancake

4.3

Awesome(18)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • River North (Chicago)

Booked 5 times today

At Disco Pancake, we believe breakfast should be more than just a meal – it should be an experience. That’s why we’ve combined unique flavors with fun and funky vibes to create a one-of-a-kind dining destination. Our team is passionate about serving up delicious food and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all our guests. We strive to make every visit to Disco Pancake a memorable one.

3. Expat

4.2

Awesome(8)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • West Loop

Booked 1 time today

A café, restaurant and bar in Chicago’s West Loop, Expat is your home for American café classics and comfort food, select dishes from destinations around the globe, well-traveled cocktails and natural wines. Set in an intimate room, Expat channels the style, music and mystique of Havana, Ibiza and Marrakech in the 1950s. These alluring locales captured the imagination of travelers who sought a blend of cultural richness, artistic inspiration, and a break from convention. At Expat we imagine the singular delights one would crave from back home, or from their travels, after spending time away.“We want to be a space that provides the atmosphere of an exotic destination while preserving the warmth and flavors of home,” says Daniel Alonso, Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s Founder and Creative Director.

A photo of Dolce Arte - The Art of Food restaurant

4. Dolce Arte - The Art of Food

4.7

Exceptional(13)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • Bridgeport

Booked 1 time today

Dolce Arte - The Art of Food in Bridgeport, Chicago, is a beacon of café culture, offering a delightful experience with its authentic Italian pastries and world-renowned LavAzza coffee. Patrons rave about the "amazing food" and the "excellent coffee," which stand as testaments to the café's commitment to quality and authenticity. One reviewer exclaimed, "Latte was amazing and the pastries were phenomenal!!!" The café's ambiance is equally praised, with its spacious, sunny setting that invites guests to relax and enjoy their visit. Whether it's grabbing a quick coffee or indulging in a leisurely brunch, Dolce Arte provides a perfect blend of superb cuisine, welcoming service, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Bridgeport.

5. Copper Club

4.3

Awesome(17)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • Downtown / Loop

Booked 5 times today

Copper Club, nestled in the heart of Chicago's bustling Theater District, is truly a haven for café enthusiasts. This cozy brasserie and cocktail bar offers a delightful escape with its chef-driven comfort food and an extensive selection of classic beverages. Patrons rave about its café offerings, highlighting the exceptional Espresso Martini as a must-try. One guest enthused about the "rotating soup" and "salmon toast," praising the chef's evident pride in crafting fresh, flavorful dishes. The inviting atmosphere and consistently "attentive and unobtrusive service" make it the perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience. Whether it's for a business lunch or a casual meet-up, Copper Club stands out as a gem in Downtown Chicago, offering both quality meals and a warm, welcoming environment.

A photo of Publican Quality Meats restaurant

6. Publican Quality Meats

4.8

Exceptional(9)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • West Loop

Publican Quality Meats in Chicago's vibrant West Loop stands as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence, offering an unparalleled experience in artisanal dining. Esteemed for its "responsibly raised meats and handcrafted provisions," this neighborhood gem ensures every dish, from their mouthwatering sandwiches to the robust charcuterie, celebrates the freshness and quality of locally sourced ingredients. Patrons rave about the offerings, with one declaring, "The steak here never disappoints," showcasing the exceptional care in meat selection. Another satisfied guest praised, "These subs are mouth watering! I savored every single bite!!" ensuring that Publican Quality Meats isn't just a meal, but a gourmet journey worth experiencing time and again.

7. CAFÉ CRÈMERIE

3.9

Excellent(4)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • River North (Chicago)

Café Crèmerie in River North, Chicago, is a dessert lover’s European dream, capturing the essence of a Parisian boulangerie right in the heart of the city. Patrons rave about the authentic European dessert offerings, with one delighted customer exclaiming, "The pastry was soooo good please try it," and another praising the "most refreshing mixed berry gelato." The cozy, chic ambiance complements their diverse dessert menu, which includes everything from creamy gelato to rich pastries. Café Crèmerie’s commitment to quality and an enchanting atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a sweet escape. Whether it's the "best chocolate gelato I’ve ever had" or the aesthetic that is "straight out of Paris," this café will transport your senses to Europe with every bite.

A photo of West Town Bakery - West Town restaurant

8. West Town Bakery - West Town

4.5

Awesome(14)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • West Town

Booked 3 times today

West Town Bakery in Chicago's vibrant West Town neighborhood is a gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine with a delightful twist. Renowned for its "cake ball," the bakery excels in creating mouth-watering pastries, cakes, and an array of hearty American staples like breakfast sandwiches and biscuits with gravy. Patrons rave about the quality, with one review highlighting, "the Raspberry Chocolate cake... was to die for!" The bakery's commitment to blending local urban art with exquisite pastry techniques makes it stand out. As aptly put by a satisfied customer, "Great service, Great food, and cute little spot. Good pastries!" This place is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of genuine American flavors served with creativity and care.

A photo of Nellie's Restaurant restaurant

9. Nellie's Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(191)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 1 time today

Nestled in the vibrant Bucktown / Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, Nellie's Restaurant offers an exceptional breakfast experience that merges traditional Puerto Rican flavors with American breakfast classics. Celebrated as one of “Chicago’s Best,” Nellie’s has captivated locals since its opening in 2006 with its cozy ambiance and unique offerings like the beloved 'avena de coco' (coconut oatmeal). Patrons rave about the variety and quality of dishes, especially during the bustling weekend buffet, with comments like “Yum, yum, and yum!” and “Breakfast jibarito is really good.” With its warm service and authentic cuisine, Nellie’s is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary journey worth exploring.

10. Dawn Eatery

4.5

Awesome(203)

Price: Moderate

• Cafe dining • Hyde Park

Booked 35 times today

Dawn Eatery in Hyde Park, Chicago, is a café that has quickly become a cherished spot for those seeking authentic and high-quality café cuisine. Patrons rave about the "delicious and strong" drinks and the "amazing" food which includes southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits and salmon croquettes that are "made to perfection." The inviting ambiance coupled with "prompt and friendly service" enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit. As one reviewer put it, Dawn Eatery is a "total gem," where the atmosphere is "not overstimulated" and the menu offers a diverse range of options that are consistently spectacular. Whether it's for a hearty breakfast or a leisurely brunch, Dawn Eatery promises an exceptional café experience that will make you want to return.

‘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

A
Ashleyvip
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Today was my first time at Taste 222 and it did not disappoint. The food was fresh and delicious. Our server also did an excellent job. She was friendly, attentive and professional. I had a wonderful experience and will definitely be back again soon. .
More info
Taste 222Price: Moderate• American• West Loop
•
4.8
R
Ronaldvip
Chicago / Illinois •91 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Excellent service, not intrusive. Salmon was very good.
More info
Copper ClubPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.3
S
Shanevip
Chicago / Illinois •68 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
All day cafe concept which is great for working comfortably while grabbing a bite or cocktail. I started here on my own and then had work colleagues join me for a happy hour. Highly recommend!
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ExpatPrice: Moderate• American• West Loop
•
4.2
C
Colleen
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 17, 2024
Our waiter was so great! The food was delicious. Get the hash browns
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Disco PancakePrice: Moderate• American• River North (Chicago)
•
4.3
E
Eileenvip
Chicago / Illinois •22 reviews
4.0
Dined on Jul 31, 2024
This tiny place is very pleasant, especially at the far back overlooking the courtyard, but accent on the “tiny”. Glad I had reserved a table for a friend’s birthday celebration. We enjoyed our choices of pastry, though I would have liked more true cake choices (only one, dark chocolate.) the cappuccino was good. Glad we checked this place out, and it’s right next door to my favorite P.O.S.H. store. Two good places on the same visit.
More info
CAFÉ CRÈMERIEPrice: Moderate• Café• River North (Chicago)
•
3.9

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Little Italy / University Village

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Best Cafés in Little Italy / University Village

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. Taste 222

2. Disco Pancake

3. Expat

4. Dolce Arte - The Art of Food

5. Copper Club

6. Publican Quality Meats

7. CAFÉ CRÈMERIE

8. West Town Bakery - West Town

9. Nellie's Restaurant

10. Dawn Eatery

See what locals rave about

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