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Best Open Kitchen Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

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16 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Cabra - Chicago restaurant
1. Cabra - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(3241)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • West Loop
Booked 137 times today
Perched atop the Hoxton Hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Fulton Market, Cabra Chicago is a lively rooftop escape, inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Led by James Beard Award and Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard (Girl & the Goat) alongside longtime partners Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm of Boka Restaurant Group, Cabra serves up crave-worthy dishes in a colorful and energetic setting. The restaurant’s airy, plant-filled ambiance, paired with its open kitchen and sweeping city views, creates a dynamic dining experience. Guests can savor a variety of shareable plates, from ceviches to savory meats, all bursting with the rich, fresh flavors of Peru.
A photo of Fioretta restaurant
2. Fioretta
4.7
Exceptional(1078)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • West Loop
Booked 67 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 Elske restaurant
3. Elske
4.7
Exceptional(1319)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • West Loop
Booked 8 times today
OUTDOOR DINING: Our patio is uncovered and seating is weather dependent. We are not able to move reservations indoors in the case of inclement weather.DIETARY: We can accommodate vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten, dairy, nut/peanut, & shellfish free diets. If any guests in your group have restrictions not listed above, or multiple restrictions, email us at info@elskerestaurant.com before booking, as we may not be able to accommodate. ABOUT: Elske means love in Danish, a nod to both David Posey’s Danish mother and the fact that the couple got engaged in Copenhagen. “Our travels in Denmark have really influenced us,” Chef Posey said. “We like that clean, simple aesthetic.” The dining room, all crisp lines, minimalist décor & soft lighting, is anchored by a wide open kitchen on one side & a small patio with a working fireplace on the other. Combined with friendly service, it creates the impression that you’re eating in a tasteful Scandinavian friend’s weekend home.
A photo of Leña Brava restaurant
4. Leña Brava
4.7
Exceptional(1053)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 30 times today
Located in Chicago's West Loop, Leña Brava is a culinary gem celebrating the dynamic flavors of Baja California Norte. Our kitchen, devoted to the art of live-fire cooking, breathes life into dishes that embody the essence of Mexican culinary traditions and the diverse tastes of Baja. Influenced by a fusion of Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines, our menu transcends conventional boundaries, offering an array of vibrant ceviche, tantalizing agua chiles, succulent flame-kissed Pacifico seabass, and hearty steaks.Under the skilled guidance of Chef Brian Enyart, with over two decades of innovation in Mexican cuisine, we showcase seasonal ingredients, capturing the essence of Mexico and Baja Norte's culinary landscape. Complemented by our open-plan kitchen and curated beverage program, spotlighting an immense mezcal collection and an array of Baja, New and Old World wines, Leña Brava invites guests on a culinary journey, where Mexican tradition harmonizes with innovation.
A photo of Olio e Più - Chicago restaurant
5. Olio e Più - Chicago
4.5
Awesome(1241)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 90 times today
OLIO E PIÙ brings Italian tradition and true sense of Mediterranean liveliness to the vibrant neighborhood in Chicago.As an authentic trattoria, its cuisine is based on classic Italian dishes. As you dine at OLIO E PIÙ, you’ll be transported not just by the flavors of Italy but also by the authentic atmosphere that surrounds you. It’s a place where time slows down, and conversations flow freely, just as they do in a true Italian household. Here, the spirit of 1970s Italian elegance lives on, and every meal is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of shared moments, especially with the open kitchen concept.OLIO E PIÙ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a different time and place, where the essence of Italy’s rich culinary and cultural heritage is captured in every detail.
A photo of Jōtō Sushi | CH Distillery restaurant
6. Jōtō Sushi | CH Distillery
4.8
Exceptional(384)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • West Loop
Booked 24 times today
Jōtō Sushi at CH Distillery is all about good energy, bold flavors, and a modern vibe. Tucked in the heart of the city, it's the kind of place where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the food.Watch chefs in action at the open kitchen, soak in the sleek design, and enjoy a dining experience that feels both elevated and welcoming.
A photo of Tanta restaurant
7. Tanta
4.8
Exceptional(5164)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 91 times today
Tanta is dedicated to sharing the flavors and culture of Peru with Chicago, serving authentic Peruvian dishes and beverages in an approachable, fun and casual downtown setting. We provide service that is casual yet knowledgeable, genuine and attentive, utilizing locally sourced products and vendors that are sensitive to sustainable farming and fishing.Tanta has two Chef’s Tables that each seat up to 10 people. These tables are located in our main dining room in between our open kitchen and cebiche bar which allows you and your guests to experience our chefs creating Peruvian cuisine while you dine.The menu, created by Acurio and Tanta Chicago Chefs Jesus Delgado and Jose Cubas, takes diners on a voyage through Peru via its food. From the Pacific Ocean, through the Andes, to the desert, to the Amazon, Tanta celebrates the diverse landscape and ethnicities that make up Peru’s culture.
A photo of Roanoke restaurant
8. Roanoke
4.5
Awesome(1604)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown / Loop
Booked 73 times today
Roanoke Restaurant, located in the Loop, is a local favorite known for its excellent service and top-tier culinary offerings. The menu highlights artisan comfort food, signature rotisserie dishes, and hand-crafted cocktails. The restaurant's design features luxurious finishes, copper accents, and warm lighting inspired by the rotisserie and brick oven in the open kitchen. Whether you're enjoying happy hour at the bar, dining by the fireplace for a more intimate experience, or joining the vibrant lunch crowd, Roanoke is an ideal spot to gather with colleagues, friends, or family. The restaurant also offers large event spaces that can accommodate up to 250 people.Guests can enjoy parking validation at the 172 W Madison Self-Park Garage. After 4 p.m. on weekends and weeknights, park for free with a $25 meal purchase. Be sure to bring your parking slip for validation. Not valid for valet parking.
A photo of Yasemi restaurant
9. Yasemi
4.5
Awesome(48)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • River North (Chicago)
Booked 16 times today
Yasemi is a modern Mediterranean restaurant in the heart of River North, inviting you to explore vibrant flavors from the region. Experience a unique dining atmosphere with natural materials and soft lighting, complemented by an open kitchen showcasing culinary artistry. Our menu celebrates the Mediterranean's diverse culinary heritage. Begin with mezze like Whipped Harissa Feta or Charred Eggplant, served with house-made pita. For your main course, savor dishes such as Chicken Tzatziki Avocado or Shrimp Harissa Mayo with herbed rice pilaf. Don't miss the Aegean Bronzini with fennel-turmeric sauce or the Braised Lamb Shank for a memorable meal. Yasemi's beverage program features Mediterranean-inspired cocktails, including a Greek Espresso Martini and a refreshing Aegean Sunset. Our curated wine list highlights selections from Greece, Lebanon, Italy, and Spain, perfectly complementing your dining experience. Join us at Yasemi for an unforgettable culinary journey.
A photo of Coco Pazzo restaurant
10. Coco Pazzo
4.9
Exceptional(3924)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 9 times today
Since 1992, Coco Pazzo has been an award-winning, Tuscan-inspired Chicago favorite. Menu items include the Porterhouse Bistecca alla Fiorentina and whole Mediterranean Sea Bass filleted tableside. Additionally, find housemade pasta, hand-tossed pizza and daily risotto and seafood specials. Enjoy the wood-burning oven while you sit and eat at the bar. As close to Italy as you can get, you'll enjoy dining in this 1905 former warehouse loft space. Soaring ceilings with theatrical lighting, blue velvet drapes surround the dining room. Sit near an open window and enjoy passersby in this vibrant River North neighborhood. Steps from the Merchandise Mart and a short walk over the river from the Loop. Feel the welcoming and warm hospitality of this Gambero Rosso Top Italian Restaurant & Best Italian Wine List recipient and Wine Spectator award winner. Outdoor patio open weather permitting. Whether you join us for a romantic date night or corporate event, we look forward to hosting you soon!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JoannaVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our server was amazing! Made the experience just fab and took extra care with bringing out water for our puppy.
    More info
    Olio e Più - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Italian• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.5
  • MikeVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Lena Brava is a winner. Our server Yvonne set the stage for the evening with opening cocktails that were terrific. But this place is all about the Woodfire grill. Be sure to order things that are cooked within it. We had the lobster tacos and the Seabass for 2 with red and green Mojo. The fish was presented on an elegant platter with grilled asparagus, completely filleted with hardly a bone to be found. The meal was spectacular.  This place is a real gem in the West Randolph district. 
    More info
    Leña BravaPrice: Expensive• Mexican• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • RobertVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Everything was good except for me and my wife’s steak. We’ve had some exceptional steaks and other great places but these mis the mark. Hers was very red and mines was not good at all. We just made it work because it was my Birthday. Probably won’t go back.
    More info
    FiorettaPrice: Very Expensive• Steak• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • JoAnn
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Thank you for a wonderful, relaxing, and welcoming experience
    More info
    ElskePrice: Very Expensive• American• West Loop
    •
    4.7
  • ElizabethVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Amazing cocktails and a great atmosphere for rooftop drinks!
    More info
    Cabra - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Peruvian• West Loop
    •
    4.6

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