Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Near North

Price: Moderate (8)Price: Expensive (6)

12 restaurants available nearby

1. Ummo

4.4

Awesome(443)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 25 times today

UMMO is a contemporary Italian restaurant helmed by Chef/Partner Jose Sosa that unlocks the vibrant flavors of regional Italian cuisine in a colorful, beautifully imagined space.At UMMO, Chef Sosa presents contemporary Italian cuisine that seamlessly combines his passion for Italian and American cultures. With a focus on simplicity and quality ingredients sourced from around the globe, UMMO offers fine, house-made pastas, decadent cheese and meat selections, vibrant vegetables, hearty proteins, delicate seafood, and more. As the menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal and new discoveries, guests can experience the full breadth of what Italy has to offer.Join us at UMMO for an unforgettable culinary journey.

2. Alla Vita

4.8

Exceptional(2180)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Loop

Booked 144 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.

3. Prosecco

4.5

Awesome(2745)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 24 times today

Prosecco, nestled in Chicago's vibrant River North Gallery District, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. Diners consistently rave about the freshness and quality of dishes, with one patron describing the seafood pasta as "full of flavor" and another exclaiming that they had the "best cooked scallops of my life." The authenticity of Prosecco's seafood cuisine shines through in every dish, from the seared halibut to the frutti di mare pasta, all masterfully prepared to highlight the natural tastes and textures. Seafood lovers looking for an unforgettable dining experience will find Prosecco the perfect spot to indulge in the true flavors of the ocean.

4. Mano a Mano

4.6

Exceptional(58)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Logan Square

Booked 29 times today

Mano a Mano in Logan Square, Chicago, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that has captivated the neighborhood with its exceptional culinary offerings. Celebrated for its "perfectly balanced" dishes that make flavors "play a concert on your tastebuds," this restaurant stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity. The rave reviews highlight the "delightful" prosciutto ravioli and the "divine" zucchini flowers, underscoring the restaurant's ability to turn classic Italian ingredients into contemporary masterpieces. The ambiance, described as a "sexy Porto Fino bar from the 70s," complements the dining experience, making Mano a Mano not just a meal, but a memorable event. With a wine list exclusively featuring Italian grapes and a menu that promises an "absolute home run," this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of Italian dining in Chicago.

5. The Florentine

4.4

Awesome(1283)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 31 times today

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop Financial district within the JW Marriott, The Florentine stands out as a paragon of Contemporary Italian cuisine. Its menu, celebrated for its simplicity and emphasis on superior ingredients, features top-notch imported Italian pastas, cheeses, salts, and meats alongside finely sourced local farm produce. Patrons consistently praise its offerings, with one noting, “The grilled octopus appetizer was FANTASTIC!” and another lauding the “absolute quality service, food, and libations.” Whether it's for an intimate dinner or a large gathering, The Florentine delivers an exquisite dining experience that captures the essence of authentic Italian fare with a modern twist.

A photo of Exchequer Restaurant & Pub restaurant

6. Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

4.5

Awesome(36)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 23 times today

Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, Exchequer Restaurant & Pub, affectionately known as "The Ex," is a true gem for Pizzeria enthusiasts. Celebrated for its #1 Deep Dish Pizza by the Chicago Tribune, the restaurant offers a slice of authentic Chicago with every bite. Regulars rave about the perfect crust and rich flavors, describing the pizza as "definitely the best value meal I’ve had in this area of Chicago" and "the best pizza I’ve had no joke." With its cozy pub ambiance and a history of satisfying diners since 1969, Exchequer stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Chicago's famed deep-dish pizza. Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning aficionado, Exchequer promises a delightful dining experience with its top-notch service and a hearty, flavorful menu.

7. Chop Shop

4.6

Exceptional(406)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 14 times today

Chop Shop, nestled in the vibrant Bucktown / Wicker Park area of Chicago, stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. This unique establishment combines an authentic salumeria with a gourmet butcher shop, offering high-quality meats and cheeses sourced from around the world and local farms. Diners rave about the evolving menu that draws from seasonal items, ensuring a fresh and innovative dining experience. Highlights include the "delicious" dry-aged steak and "fantastic" burger, complemented by a craft beverage program. Guests consistently praise the "great ambiance" and "top-notch" service, making Chop Shop a must-visit for those seeking a truly remarkable American culinary adventure.

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant

8. Peanut Park Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(221)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 20 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in Chicago, Peanut Park Trattoria has quickly become a beacon of contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated by Chicago Magazine as one of the Top Restaurants in February 2022 and hailed by Tasting Table as "One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago," this gem offers a culinary experience that skillfully blends Italian traditions with modern flair. Patrons rave about the handmade pastas and inventive pizzas, describing them as "absolutely delicious" and lauding the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. With its commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellent service, Peanut Park Trattoria is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly exceptional Italian dining experience in Chicago.

9. Trattoria RNB

4.5

Awesome(28)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 14 times today

Trattoria RNB in the heart of Bucktown / Wicker Park, Chicago, is creating waves with its exceptional Seafood offerings, deeply rooted in the authentic tastes of Italy's coastal regions. Diners rave about the fresh, vibrant flavors, with one guest exclaiming, "Every single part of the $100 ten-course prix fixe meal was delicious!" The chef’s passion shines through in dishes that are not just meals but a journey through Italy's culinary landscape. The seafood selections are especially noteworthy, prepared with meticulous care to reflect true regional authenticity. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Trattoria RNB promises a seafood experience that is both delightful and memorable.

A photo of Mirabella Italian Cuisine restaurant

10. Mirabella Italian Cuisine

4.8

Exceptional(637)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Avondale

Booked 7 times today

Mirabella Italian Cuisine in Avondale, Chicago, is a true gem for those seeking authentic Italian fare with a touch of local charm. Described as a place where "the minute you walk in, the smell hits you - Italy in the middle of Irving Park," the restaurant is celebrated for its sublime dishes and exceptional service. From the "PHENOMENAL" grilled calamari to the "perfectly al dente" pasta and the heavenly veal "bathed in house-made marinara," each dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of its chefs. With its cozy ambiance and heartwarming reviews like, "It's heaven on a silver platter," Mirabella is not just dining; it's an experience. Whether you're coming from a Cubs game or looking for a delightful meal, Mirabella promises an unforgettable Italian culinary journey right in the heart of Chicago.

‘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.

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