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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Little Italy / University Village

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70 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Alla Vita restaurant
1. Alla Vita
4.8
Exceptional(2335)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • West Loop
Booked 123 times today
Serving a casual, family-style menu, Alla Vita is a place to gather and enjoy comfortable Italian cuisine. Alla Vita means “to life” in Italian which recognizes overcoming life's challenges and creating a space for shared meals and memorable experiences. Executive Chef Lee Wolen shares his passion for fresh, delicious Italian food made simply with the best ingredients. Follow @allavitachicago to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings.
A photo of Elina's restaurant
2. Elina's
4.8
Exceptional(172)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Town
Booked 19 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 Summer House - Chicago restaurant
3. Summer House - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(7926)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lincoln Park
Booked 313 times today
Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Summer House is the place for sunshine all year round. Enjoy seasonal specialties, market-driven pasta, artisan pizzas, and fresh antipasti from Chef Ben Goodnick’s California-inspired menu. Reserve your table today and be transported to the West Coast by the beach house decor, retractable glass ceiling, and all-season courtyard. For parties of 9 or more, email shsbparties@lettuce.com. Carryout and delivery are available, or visit The Cookie Bar for a selection of fresh-baked goods, sourdough English muffins, Summer House's renowned oversized cookies, small-batch coffee, and specialty espresso drinks.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
4. il Porcellino
4.7
Exceptional(4270)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 98 times today
Il Porcellino, located in the heart of River North in downtown Chicago, is a neighborhood restaurant offering classic Italian-American comfort food in a casual setting. Our seasonal menu focuses on housemate pastas, vegetable antipasti and daily specials, all crafted with ingredients sourced from quality artisans, purveyors, and local farmers. The fun and approachable wine program encourages sharing with selections primarily from Italy. As a way to offset rising costs associated with the restaurant (food, beverage, labor, benefits, supplies), we have added a 3% surcharge to all checks. We do this in lieu of increased menu prices. You may request to have this taken off your check, should you choose.
A photo of Mon Ami Gabi restaurant
5. Mon Ami Gabi
4.9
Exceptional(8116)
Price: Moderate
• French • Lincoln Park
Booked 133 times today
Honoring classic French cuisine, Mon Ami Gabi is a traditional French bistro located in the heart of Lincoln Park. Our menu features simple French food including Steak Frites, fresh seafood, exquisite bites, and French rolling wine carts. Valet is located at the corner of Lincoln Park West and Belden for $17 cash or Zelle. During the holiday season, for all parties of 9 or more, we ask our guests to call the restaurant directly to book a reservation.Did you know that you can use Lettuce gift cards for carryout and delivery? Just place your order through Lettuce website, the LettuceEats app or any Lettuce restaurant website.
A photo of Chez Joel restaurant
6. Chez Joel
4.7
Exceptional(2665)
Price: Moderate
• French • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 13 times today
Chez Joel is the real deal when it comes to French cuisine. This cozy restaurant in the heart of Little Italy has been serving up authentic French delicacies since 1999. Reviews rave about its warm, inviting ambiance, with one reviewer stating it brought back memories of Paris. The food is consistently praised for being expertly prepared, with one diner even saying it was 'authentic (frites a little over done) and very tasty'. The service is also frequently mentioned as being friendly and efficient. Whether you're looking for a romantic meal or a casual dining experience, Chez Joel is definitely worth the drive.
A photo of Guinness Open Gate Brewery - Chicago restaurant
7. Guinness Open Gate Brewery - Chicago
4.5
Awesome(115)
Price: Expensive
• Brewery • West Loop
Booked 48 times today
Where 260 years of Irish Brewing expertise meets American beer creativity. Inspired by Chicago, crafted by Guinness. Look out, Chicago.The Guinness Open Gate Brewery Chicago features a Taproom, Restaurant, and the first ever Guinness Bakery, all located right in the heart of Chicago's West Loop. Come indulge both your curiosity and your tastebuds, while experimenting with a new world of flavor.
A photo of Tzuco restaurant
8. Tzuco
4.7
Exceptional(835)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 77 times today
Located in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago, Tzuco, helmed by the Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, offers a blend of authentic Mexican flavors and sophisticated French techniques. Named after Chef Gaytán’s hometown, Huitzuco, the restaurant boasts a menu rich in ceviche, seafood, and traditional Mexican dishes, served in a spacious dining room, lively bar, lounge, and an all-weather outdoor terrace.Tzuco’s captivating interiors, designed by the acclaimed Cadena + Asociados Concept Design, tell a story of Chef Gaytán's heritage with preserved materials from Mexico and handcrafted furnishings, ensuring guests not only savor exquisite dishes but also relish an immersive cultural experience.
A photo of Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! restaurant
9. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!
4.8
Exceptional(404)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • River North (Chicago)
Booked 77 times today
Welcome to Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! in River North. The little sister of Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba! in Lincoln Park, Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! stays true to its Spanish roots serving a wide variety of iconic small plates like Patatas Bravas, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, and our signature Beef Tenderloin Toro Skewer. Of course, no celebration would be complete without our classic Sangria. ¡Salud!
A photo of Vela restaurant
10. Vela
4.6
Exceptional(147)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 39 times today
Vela Bar y Cocina, located in the heart of River North, Chicago, brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico City to life. Our menu showcases authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, from flavorful tacos to traditional dishes crafted by Chef Jorge Angulo. Sip on expertly curated cocktails featuring a vast selection of tequila and mezcal, including rare pours. Vela offers the perfect venue for private dining and events, with intimate spaces like our Private Dining Room and the stylish Zona Rosa. Whether you're enjoying a casual night out or hosting a private event, Vela delivers a warm and cosmopolitan experience infused with Mexican spirit. Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and culture in one of Chicago's most energetic neighborhoods.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Discover the best dining experiences that are "worth the drive" in Chicago's charming Little Italy / University Village. This vibrant culinary destination offers an array of restaurants that stand out not just for their unique flavors but also for their commitment to providing a memorable dining experience. Each establishment in this locale brings a touch of authenticity and culinary excellence, making them a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking exceptional meals. The restaurants here often feature a combination of traditional and innovative dishes, prepared with high-quality ingredients and presented with impeccable service. The dining scene in Little Italy / University Village is renowned for its eclectic mix of eateries that cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring every visit is both delightful and satisfying. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet dining or a cozy meal, these restaurants promise an enriching experience that truly is "worth the drive."

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