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

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75 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Elina's restaurant
1. Elina's
4.8
Exceptional(221)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • West Town
Booked 63 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. Contact reservations@elinaschicago.com for any additional inquiries.
A photo of Prime & Provisions Steakhouse restaurant
2. Prime & Provisions Steakhouse
4.6
Exceptional(5777)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • River North (Chicago)
Booked 71 times today
In A World Of All-Natural Cleanses, Organic Stores And Paleo Diets, Prime & Provisions' Beef Program Contributes To The Clean-Eating Lifestyle By Serving 100% All Natural Linz Heritage Usda Prime Black Angus Beef. We Are Proudly The First Steakhouse In Chicago To Offer Beef From The "Never-Ever" Program Which Linz Heritage Angus Prides Itself On.
A photo of Costera Cocina Tulum restaurant
3. Costera Cocina Tulum
4.5
Awesome(1013)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • West Loop
Booked 66 times today
Costera Cocina Tulum brings the vibrant flavors of Tulum's coastal and Mayan cuisine to life, blending land-and-sea principles with traditional Mexican dishes. Step into a lively yet serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Tulum's unique intersection of jungle, beach, and bohemian nightlife. Experience our day-to-night philosophy, where "the jungle has two attitudes," and enjoy a dining experience that transports you to this enchanting Mexican getaway.
A photo of Café Ba-Ba-Reeba restaurant
4. Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
4.8
Exceptional(9428)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Lincoln Park
Booked 140 times today
Cancellation policy: For parties of 5+ you need to cancel by 9am on the day of your reservation, otherwise it is a $25 fee. For smaller parties, please give us one hour in advance, in the event of a last minute cancellation or no show it is a $25 fee. Located in Lincoln Park, the All-Season Courtyard and Dining Rooms at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! are open with our new AIRPHX Air Filtration System. Your health is our top priority in all that we do. Steps we are taking: disposable and digital menus, continuous sanitation procedures & hand washing.
A photo of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant
5. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Chicago
4.8
Exceptional(9097)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 163 times today
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse has been a Chicago icon since partners Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo opened its doors in May 1989. The classic American steakhouse serves Gibsons Prime Angus Beef and Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef. Gibsons also features fresh fish, classic cocktails, an extensive wine list and exceptional service. Celebrities, Chicago visitors and loyal neighborhood residents enjoy three distinct locations: Chicago, Rosemont and Oak Brook. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.
A photo of il Porcellino restaurant
6. il Porcellino
4.8
Exceptional(4345)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • River North (Chicago)
Booked 132 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
7. Mon Ami Gabi
4.8
Exceptional(8252)
Price: Moderate
• French • Lincoln Park
Booked 81 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
8. Chez Joel
4.8
Exceptional(2691)
Price: Moderate
• French • Little Italy / University Village
Booked 15 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 HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen restaurant
9. HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(482)
Price: Expensive
• Vietnamese • Pilsen
Booked 34 times today
Experience elevated Vietnamese Cuisine in a an atmosphere that is chic, approachable, warm & inviting. Chef Thai & Danielle Dang’s critically acclaimed restaurant celebrates Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of a vibrant Chicago neighborhood, Pilsen. Five times recognized MICHELIN Bibb Gourmand & four James Beard nominations.Enjoy Chef Thai's famous Caramelized Fish Sauce Wings, his signature Whole Fried Fluke and one of the New York Times favorite dishes, HaiSous' Grilled Oysters ! Guests may also enjoy a special and seasonal Grand Tasting Tour, 3 curated courses with the option of an optional wine pairing or join us at the bar for Happy Hour.The more guests you bring, the more dishes you get to try! Great for groups.
A photo of Vela restaurant
10. Vela
4.6
Exceptional(187)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • River North (Chicago)
Booked 20 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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