1. The Village at the Italian Village
Loop
A Downtown staple since 1927, the top-floor restaurant is the only one open at this three-restaurants-in-one temple to Italian-American fare. Famous for its twinkle lights and frescoed walls depicting a Tuscan village at night, the Village is chock full of lore (rumored both to be the home of Chicago’s first chicken Vesuvio, and a favorite haunt of Al Capone) and deliciously nostalgic comfort dishes, like veal marsala scallopini and the house specialty lasagne. Did we mention that Italian Village boasts one of the city’s most impressive — and surprisingly affordable — wine cellars? In two firsts since COVID-19, the Village debuted a small sidewalk patio and to-go ordering.
Dining status: Patio and limited dining room seating are available; also carryout and delivery.