Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Peanut Park Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(238)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 20 times today
Peanut Park Trattoria, nestled in the vibrant Little Italy of Chicago, is your ultimate destination for exquisite Pizza Bar cuisine. Known for its authentic Italian flavors, this charming spot has been celebrated as "One of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Chicago" by Tasting Table. The pizza here is a standout, described as "piping hot, nicely fresher, and delicious," making it a crowd favorite. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with diners raving about the "great food, cocktails and service" that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Perfect for any occasion, Peanut Park promises an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2314)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Loop
Booked 58 times today
Alla Vita, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, offers an exceptional Italian dining experience that truly stands out. Executive Chef Lee Wolen masterfully creates dishes using the finest ingredients, delivering "fresh, flavorful, and every bite better than the last." Guests rave about the delicious ricotta dumplings and vodka pasta, describing the food as "absolutely fabulous." The wood-fired table bread is a must-try, providing a "pillowy and delicious" start to any meal. The restaurant's warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot for any occasion, ensuring Alla Vita "never fails to impress" its diners.
A photo of PIZZ'AMICI restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • West Town
Booked 26 times today
Nothing brings people together more than pizza. Serving up the best Chicago thin crust pizza and classic American Italian dishes for sit down or carry-out, PIZZ'AMICI is the perfect spot for a date night, special celebration or a fine glass of wine. No matter where you come from or who you come with, we guarantee you'll feel at home here and leave with few more friends.
A photo of Prosecco restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2765)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 10 times today
Prosecco, nestled in the vibrant River North district of Chicago, is a haven for seafood aficionados seeking authentic Italian flavors. Renowned for its exquisite seafood dishes, guests rave about the "fresh and flavorful" offerings, with many praising the "excellent fish" and delightful seafood pasta. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in the "superb service" and "impeccable atmosphere" that complement its culinary delights. Diners are consistently impressed by the "top-notch service" and the way each seafood dish transports them to coastal Italy. Prosecco's seafood is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a genuine Italian dining experience.
A photo of Ummo restaurant
4.3
Awesome(503)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 24 times today
UMMO is a contemporary Italian restaurant that unlocks the vibrant flavors of regional Italian cuisine in a colorful, beautifully imagined space.At UMMO, we present 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.
A photo of Mano a Mano restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(104)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Logan Square
Booked 20 times today
Mano a Mano in Logan Square, Chicago, is a shining star of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering a dining experience that beautifully marries traditional recipes with modern flair. This restaurant has captivated diners with its "phenomenal" in-house pasta dishes and a "well-thought-out" wine list featuring 100% Italian grapes. The cozy ambiance, enhanced by warm lighting and walnut paneling, creates an inviting atmosphere that complements the "fantastic, friendly service." Guests rave about the "creative and well-executed" dishes, often describing meals as "some of the best pasta dishes in the city." Whether it's the exquisite food or personal service, Mano a Mano truly stands out.
A photo of The Florentine restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1307)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop
Booked 28 times today
The Florentine, nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop Financial district at the JW Marriott, is a hidden gem for Contemporary Italian cuisine. With a menu that artfully balances simplicity and quality, it features top-notch imported Italian pastas, cheeses, and meats alongside local farm ingredients. Diners rave about the "fantastic grilled octopus appetizer" and the "wonderfully fresh, delicious, and well-seasoned entrees." The restaurant's ambiance is both elegant and warm, providing an ideal setting for intimate dinners or lively group gatherings. The Florentine's attentive service and culinary excellence make it a must-visit destination for Italian food enthusiasts.
A photo of Sapori Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4444)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Lincoln Park
Booked 62 times today
Sapori Trattoria in Chicago's Lincoln Park is a gem for seafood lovers seeking quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "phenomenal seafood dishes," which truly set this cozy Italian spot apart. The charred octopus is described as "a must," and the Calabrian clams are a "go-to if you love spice!" The restaurant's commitment to fresh, well-prepared dishes shines through every meal, offering a delightful escape into the flavors of the sea. Combined with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, Sapori Trattoria promises a memorable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more of its exquisite seafood offerings.
A photo of Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • South Loop
Booked 6 times today
Northern Italian pizzeria, Forno Mauri, brings the oldest traditions of Milano bakeries to the heart of Printer’s Row with its 14’’ thin crust Tonda Classica and all-Italian imported ingredients, including the best Fiordilatte mozzarella from Agerola. Owner of Sofi Italian in Chicago, Maurizio Michi is a Milanese and NYC restaurateur who has catered to the world’s most high profile clientele from fashion designers, film stars, musicians, and artists to business executives and royals.
A photo of etta Bucktown restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Belmont Central / Cragin
Booked 11 times today
At etta Bucktown, we’re proud to be a local favorite for neighborhood Italian dining. Known for our wood-fired dishes and relaxed, welcoming vibe, we’re open daily for lunch and dinner, plus we offer a lively brunch every Saturday and Sunday. Whether you're here for a casual meal or a celebratory gathering, Etta is where Bucktown comes to eat, drink, and connect.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Hannah
    Nashville •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent food and service - you can tell it’s a great team all excited to be there together putting out awesome food. Recommend the meatballs and keeping it simple on the pies like they suggest - sausage & giard / pep & hot honey were excellent combos as always. Can’t wait to come back!
    More info
    PIZZ'AMICIPrice: Expensive• Pizza Bar• West Town
    4.8
  • Emily
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Outstanding food and service. Will be back ASAP. Do not skip the Foccacia di Recco!
    More info
    Mano a ManoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Logan Square
    4.7
  • Ryan
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    What an amazing dinner experience! The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and very well decorated. The drinks were top notch, and high quality. We started with the arancini, which was crunchy, the rice was a perfect texture, and it had just the perfect amount of cheese. The table bread was on another level. It had subtle sweet notes, which consisted of honey and orange. I had the tagliatelle. The short rib was moist and very tender, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. My wife had the rigatoni, and she said the pasta was cooked perfectly as well, and the vodka sauce was very creamy and had excellent flavor. The tiramisu was just on another level! I have already recommended Alla Vita to 3 other people in the last 2 days! A must visit......I would give 6 stars if I could!
    More info
    Alla VitaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Loop
    4.8
  • Kim
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 24, 2024
    Love Prosecco. Neighborhood restaurant that makes dining feel like special event. Bread is fresh and warm served with fresh olive oil and olive tampa ade. We had the delicious bufala appetizer and special was shrimp appeti34 cooked perfectly. My daughter ordered the carbonara and side of asparagus, my husband the fettuccini al granchi and I had the tartufate which is my usual dish that I cannot get enough of (truffle, mushroom, asparagus, sun dried tomatoes) We come often. Meals and ambience always perfect. Easy for conversation. Excellent service and food is divine
    More info
    ProseccoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• River North (Chicago)
    4.5
  • David
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 19, 2024
    The welcome to the restaurant was very pleasant. The service was friendly and very attentive. This was not my first visit to.Peanut Park. They are consistently friendly and attentive. The food is always excellent and reasonably priced. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
    More info
    Peanut Park TrattoriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Little Italy / University Village
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in Chicago's vibrant Little Italy/University Village. This area, known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary diversity, serves as a perfect backdrop for exploring innovative Italian dining experiences. Restaurants here skillfully blend traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques, creating dishes that are both authentic and inventive. Diners can expect a variety of options, from handmade pastas and artisan pizzas to sophisticated seafood dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dining scene in this historic neighborhood offers a charming mix of old-world ambiance and contemporary sophistication, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Each restaurant strives to provide a memorable dining experience, characterized by meticulous service and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or a refined evening out, Little Italy/University Village is the place to indulge in the best of contemporary Italian cuisine in Chicago.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo