By now, it’s a tradition: pasta the night before the big race. This year, fuel up at these premiere pasta locations. Happy dining, and good luck Chicago Marathon runners!
Rosebud
With four downtown and a good number of suburban locations, and sister restaurants Carmine’s and Rosetta’s, Alex Dana’s Rosebud Italian is probably one of Chicago’s most iconic Italian brands. Born in 1976, and growing ever since, Rosebud stands for good quality Italian food, generous portions and a warm welcome.
Carlucci
Carlucci is famous for providing guests with a true immersive Italian dining experience. From the restaurant design to the Italian inspired food and wine, Joe Carlucci’s Italian heritage shines through in his passion for anything Italian.
Osteria Langhe
Osteria Langhe, located in Logan Square, transports guests to Italy’s Piemonte region. Rated one of the best Italian restaurants in the country, this restaurant is the perfect spot to celebrate your upcoming conquests. All menu items are made with locally-sourced ingredients to celebrate the Slow Food movement, which originated in Piemonte itself. Enjoy one of Osteria Langhe’s famed entrees. Favorites include the ‘Risotto of the Day’ and ‘Plin’’ – cheese ravioli and thyme.
Testaccio
For a laid back, trendy ambiance that will relax you before the race ahead, make your way to Testaccio. Here, you can enjoy comforting, soulful Italian staples and seasonal Mediterranean wines that add to the welcoming atmosphere. Restaurant staples include a Roman-style, natural wood-fired porchetta and Cacio e Pepe with crushed peppercorn.
Pasta Bowl Neighborhood Kitchen and Bar
Pasta Bowl is perfect for the whole family. Chalkboard menus, neighborly service, and aromas of cheese and garlic create a cozy feel. Dishes are served with generous portions at affordable prices. Please the little ones with the fried mozzarella sticks while you dine on a favorite: Gnocchi Rosemary Gorgonzola. Or, dine on a dish just for you: Caballa Blanco, deemed the “runner’s special.” This dish features linguine, sauteed shrimp, and steamed broccoli to fuel your run. With three locations (Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, and Lincoln Square), you are sure to find a Pasta Bowl near you!
Torchio Pasta Bar
Housemade pasta is the name of the game at River North’s Torchio Pasta Bar, named after the vintage hand-crank pasta press. The restaurant features exposed brick, a copper bar, a lively indoor space, and heated outdoor dining area. Menu front-runners include the Scallops & Fettuccine and Giovanna’s Bolognese served in a parmesan basket. Gluten-free options imported from Italy are also available.
The Village
The Village, located downtown and founded in 1927, is Chicago’s oldest Italian restaurant. A family business, The Village is filled with tradition. Unwind under the twinkling ceiling lights that evoke a romantic, starlit Tuscan night. With the most expansive menu in the city, including lasagna, thin-crust pizza, and seafood ravioli, all are sure to find something they love.
Monteverde
For top-tier eats, visit West Loop’s Monteverde. Head chef Sarah Grueneberg was a finalist on the Food Network’s “Iron Chef Gauntlet.” She brings modern adventure and worldly influences to traditional Italian dishes to create a soulful tasting experience. The Braised Lamb Ravioli and the Cacio Whey Pepe are just two of the unique dishes served at Monteverde.
Viaggio
For classic, authentic Italian dishes head to the West Loop. Elegant and charming decor paired with a family atmosphere makes Viaggio a neighborhood favorite. Choose from a diverse menu with explosive flavors. Treasured dishes include rigatoni and eggplant parmesan.
