Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South Loop

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

ChicagoNear West

Neighborhoods

AvondaleBerwynBucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopGold Coast / StreetervilleLakeview / East Lakeview

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

18 restaurants available nearby

1. Alla Vita

4.8

Exceptional(2427)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Loop

Booked 161 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.

2. PIZZ'AMICI

4.8

Exceptional(59)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • West Town

Booked 33 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 Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria restaurant

3. Forno Mauri Italian Pizzeria

4.7

Exceptional(7)

$$$$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.

4. Alpana

4.8

Exceptional(489)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 60 times today

Alpana, located in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast district, is a haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors and exceptional dining experiences. Guided by the esteemed Alpana Singh, a Master Sommelier, the restaurant offers a menu that perfectly marries food and wine, creating "a symphony of balance, texture, and flavor." Diners consistently rave about the "outstanding food and attentive, friendly service," highlighting must-try dishes like the wild mushroom ravioli and the meticulously cooked salmon. With a cozy ambiance that feels like "the best dinner party ever," Alpana is truly a standout spot for both locals and visitors alike.

5. Prosecco

4.4

Awesome(2781)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 14 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.

6. The Florentine

4.4

Awesome(1313)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 30 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.

7. Ummo

4.4

Awesome(553)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 14 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.

8. Sapori Trattoria

4.7

Exceptional(4474)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Lincoln Park

Booked 48 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 Exchequer Restaurant & Pub restaurant

9. Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

4.4

Awesome(73)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 20 times today

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub, affectionately known as "The Ex," is a hidden gem in downtown Chicago, renowned for its authentic Pizzeria cuisine. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, this family-owned establishment has become a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike. "Best deep dish pizza I've had, no joke," raves one satisfied patron, echoing the sentiment of many who frequent this cozy spot. Rated #1 for Deep Dish Pizza by the Chicago Tribune, Exchequer continues to impress with its "phenomenal food" and "great atmosphere." It's an ideal destination for those seeking the perfect blend of flavor, history, and Chicago charm.

10. etta Bucktown

4.6

Exceptional(11)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 25 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.

‘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

J
JoelVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •26 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The food and service were outstanding! This dining experience exceeded our expectations. We were celebrating a very special occasion and the entire staff made this a very personal and meaningful evening. It was memorable and we won’t wait for another special occasion to come back. Our thanks to everyone at Alla Vita!
More info
Alla VitaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• West Loop
•
4.8
A
Alex
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
I had the scallops and they were cooked and seasoned to perfection.
More info
ProseccoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• River North (Chicago)
•
4.4
OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The food was absolutely amazing! Would go back again
More info
PIZZ'AMICIPrice: Expensive• Pizza Bar• West Town
•
4.8
K
kristiVIP
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Feb 26, 2025
All of the pizza options are incredible. Service amazing.
More info
Forno Mauri Italian PizzeriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• South Loop
•
4.7
M
Marek
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Feb 21, 2025
The service was really professional . Food very tasty.
More info
The FlorentinePrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown / Loop
•
4.4

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