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Italian food and nightlife in Chicago

Made for those who want their Italian meal to serve as the starting point for a long night out.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bar Sotto image 1
Bar Sotto image 2
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Hidden underground bar with soft red glow and jazzy atmosphere creates an intimate, cozy vibe. Space feels mysterious and character-rich, attracting an upbeat crowd for fun nights out or romantic dates. Creative cocktails and unique design details add to its distinct charm.

Cacio e pepe arancini stands out with its rich flavor. The menu features short rib pasta and a special gnocchi with jerk chicken, both highly flavorful.

A basement lounge offers dark disco vibes with a romantic, rustic atmosphere. The space feels like a speakeasy with touches of European nightlife and serves craft cocktails, Italian beer, and wine.

People are saying

"The bar staff here feels like family and makes you feel right at home."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and arancini, was amazing."

"The craft cocktails and shareable bites here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bites after work.

2

The bar features a rotating menu of small shareable plates and pasta.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy evenings, especially weekends.

02
Charlie Martin's image 1

Cozy space with Hollywood regency decor and mood lighting creates a speakeasy vibe. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, including standout Old Fashioneds and martinis. Atmosphere suits jazzy date nights and sophisticated dining with white tablecloths.

Vodka rigatoni stands out with its flavorful and slightly spicy sauce. Plump mussels and al dente linguine with a cheesy sauce highlight the seafood options, while dishes like steak tartare, crab cake, and shrimp scampi add variety to the Italian offerings.

An intimate supper club with a 1950s vibe offers a unique nightlife experience. The atmosphere blends old fashioned supper club charm with Hollywood nights energy.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The vodka rigatoni and steak frites were phenomenal."

"It's like stepping back in time to a classic supper club."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

03
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

Alfredo dishes stand out with options like chicken Alfredo and jerk chicken Alfredo. Other Italian-inspired items include pizza puffs alongside sides like taco fries and salmon bites.

Colored lights create a club vibe that feels lively yet relaxed. The spot blends lounge atmosphere with a hidden gem appeal for those avoiding typical bars and clubs.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"The chicken Alfredo here is really good."

"It's got a cool club vibe with colored lights."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

04
Copper Club image 1
Restaurant

Stylish escape inside an office building lobby offers a cozy setting with wide chairs and a large bar. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and calm to lively and loud as the evening progresses. Known for affordable meals and a strong whiskey selection, it attracts those seeking good food and drinks after work.

Fresh burrata comes with fig-like balsamic vinaigrette and homemade pear butter. Pasta dishes include tasty chicken, delicious lamb, and a garlicky Alfredo that stands out.

Stylish escape inside an office building lobby offers a peaceful atmosphere and phenomenal appetizers. Staff delivers kind and attentive service alongside delicious cocktails.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing."

"The nightlife here is amazing, the bartenders are so friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential for happy hour due to high demand.

2

Happy hour specials include discounted drinks and slider options.

3

Copper Club is only open on weekdays.

05
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Small, contemporary space combines live jazz saxophone with beautiful decor to create an inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels intimate and soulful, drawing a crowd that appreciates well-crafted soul food and a relaxed setting.

Rich and creamy vodka sauce spaghetti stands out. The lobster Alfredo with shrimp offers a delicious, indulgent option.

Vibrant atmosphere fuels memorable nights with excellent food that consistently impresses. Celebrations here feel special thanks to the engaging vibe and quality offerings.

People are saying

"The American Food here is phenomenal, especially the perfectly seasoned yams."

"The Grand Tasting's large, delicious servings are a great value."

"The Italian Flame Broiled Lobster Alfredo was decadent and smoky."

Good to know

1

Restaurant Week 2024 offers a $59 deal for three entrees of your choice.

2

The lounge does not serve liquor, but customers can BYOB with a corkage fee.

3

Reservations are recommended, but tables are often available without one.

06
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern jazz inspired design with upstairs loft featuring live music and pool table. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and intimate dining to a lively late-night hangout with DJs and bands. Decor includes quirky records and stylish interiors creating a warm, upbeat vibe.

Ravioli leaves a lasting impression with its rich flavor. Burrata e avocado stands out for its creamy, savory, and acidic balance, while cacio e Pepe offers a rich and satisfying twist on Italian macaroni and cheese.

Upstairs offers a vintage lounge vibe with billiards, old records, and a full bar. The loft feels more open with a relaxed lounge atmosphere and live music.

People are saying

"You honestly canโ€™t go wrong with the outrageously good pasta here."

"The Italian food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"Emiliano's passion and artistry make the nightlife here second to none."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The loft space converts into a club after 10pm with a DJ and dancing.

07
Dearly Beloved image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar showcases edgy and classy decor with amazing sculptures behind the bar, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Lounge and bar seating offer intimate and Instagram-worthy spaces enhanced by live jazz and DJ sets. Signature craft cocktails and unique dishes complement the visually stunning, chic atmosphere.

Pasta Rose stands out as a favorite dish here. The menu also features risotto con funghi and branzino, offering a solid range of Italian flavors.

Specialty cocktail lounge offers intimate lounge seating and pays close attention to every detail. The space feels beautiful and cool, located near many shops, restaurants, and clubs.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, thanks to Genesis's great recommendations."

"The nightlife here is amazing; the servers are so attentive and friendly."

"The Italian Food here is gorgeous and offers a unique experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM Monday through Friday, offering half off all specialties.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters and $10 martinis during happy hour every day.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

08
Carbon image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful space blends lounge and club with stylish atmosphere and awesome music. Energy shifts from chill vibes during dinner to lively nightlife with DJs. Crowd enjoys top-tier service and a unique setting unlike typical venues.

Menu includes pasta, an Italian grilled cheese resembling an elevated mozzarella stick, and various dishes like caviar and prime steaks. Pasta sometimes arrives at a cool temperature, but flavors remain intact.

Vibe shifts from dinner to a lively upscale nightclub with great music and beautiful decor. Bottle service and premium cocktails add to the energetic nightlife experience.

People are saying

"The staff's friendly, attentive service makes the nightlife here unforgettable."

"Happy Hour oysters and fries are a must-try."

"The Italian Food here is amazing, especially the creative cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Thursdays features $6 martinis from 4-7pm.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour with fashionable crowds.

3

The venue transitions from dining to nightlife after 9pm.

09
Adalina Prime image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers a stunning build-out with indoor and outdoor seating and a warm, modern feel. Atmosphere feels elegant and refined, with exceptional service and playful touches like a salt library for customizing steaks. Bar features include top-notch martini service and a variety of strong, well-crafted cocktails.

Eggplant Parmesan and truffle gnocchi stand out with rich flavors. The menu also features cacio e pepe creamed spinach and a variety of pastas including truffle pasta.

Lots of lounge seating creates a relaxed spot to hang out. Loud club music fills the room, making it feel more like a nightclub than a quiet evening spot.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and flawlessly executed."

"The truffle gnocchi here is some of the best Italian food I've had since Italy."

"The interior's beautiful setting makes for amazing nightlife."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high nighttime traffic.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

10
S2 Southside Bar & Grill image 1

Upscale club atmosphere with vibrant dรฉcor and a small eating area featuring metal stools. Music stays lively all night thanks to a dynamic DJ, while bartenders craft strong, flavorful cocktails. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for a chill night out.

Alfredo pasta stands out with a perfect, creamy texture. The menu also offers a chicken Alfredo and a flavorful veggie pasta option.

Upscale club vibes dominate with a lounge that stays nice and chill. It operates mainly as a nightclub that serves food, not a restaurant turning into a club later.

People are saying

"The food here was served piping hot and fast."

"The drinks here are on point and the food is delicious."

"Britney handled the whole room and still served our Italian food piping hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 drinks and a $10 food menu.

2

Entry costs $10, regardless of whether you order food.

3

An 18% gratuity and 3% surcharge are added to the bill upon seating.

11
Privilege Restaurant Bar image 1

Lounge-style space with impressive decor and plenty of room, including a VIP section. Atmosphere shifts from comfortable and mature to club-like with loud music later in the evening. Entertainment features live bands and top-tier DJs that encourage dancing.

Cajun pasta with chicken stands out as flavorful and well-prepared. Chicken Alfredo tends to be watery and lightly seasoned, sometimes with an artificial taste.

Atmosphere shifts from a lounge vibe to a club-like environment as the night progresses. This change tends to attract trouble.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super good."

"The nightlife here features a local balladeer with a wonderful voice."

"I had the best Alfredo I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 6-7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke night occurs every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

3

Live entertainment is featured every 2nd and 4th Wednesday.

12
Chemistry Chicago image 1

Restaurant features live music and staff in lab coats creating a chemistry-themed atmosphere with stylish decor. Energy runs high with a loud, chaotic vibe and a crowded space. Food includes standout dishes like wagyu fettuccine and lamb chops, while cocktails are notably overpriced.

Alfredo dishes stand out with options like lamb chop, vodka with lamb, and salmon, all rich and flavorful. Pasta varieties include wagyu fettuccine and Penne alla Vodka with Ribeye, paired with garlic-buttery bread dusted in Parmesan.

A club atmosphere with gourmet food sets the tone here. The vibe stays sexy with a classy dress code.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The pasta here is so good, especially the creamy Alfredo."

"The food and drinks here are amazing for nightlife."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch ends at 3:00 PM, so arrive early.

2

A 20% gratuity and a 5% entertainment fee are automatically added to bills.

3

Reservations are for 1.5 hours, so plan accordingly.

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