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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Lake View East

Italian food spots

Italian food that tastes like a home-cooked meal rather than the predictable menu found at every chain.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Restaurant

Small, cozy space with a warm and welcoming atmosphere creates a homey vibe. Clean and unassuming interior hosts a friendly, family-owned environment. Energy feels heartfelt and calming, suitable for casual dining or to-go bites.

Food offers a variety of global flavors including Ethiopian, Italian, Mexican, and Indian. Dishes come with bold flavors and are reasonably priced.

Homemade arancinis and pasta salad stand out with rich flavors. The Bolognese and risotto show strong traditional and fusion influences.

People are saying

"These Arancini have phenomenal, innovative flavors from around the world."

"The Italian arancini here are incredible."

"You have to try the corn salad; it's incredible."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, they do a dine-in special that offers great value.

2

A full-size arancini costs $8 and comes with a side.

3

You can get five smaller arancini with two sides for $20 and mix and match.

02
Oak and Honey image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy, upscale boho vibe with tasteful decor including a standout zebra print. Space feels deceptively large but tables sit close together, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Bar seating suits solo diners, and a dog-friendly patio adds to the welcoming energy.

Food offers delicious flavors that satisfy even picky eaters. Dishes come with excellent taste and pair well with cocktails, creating a stupendous dining experience.

Short Rib and Truffle Pasta stand out with strong flavors. The butternut squash ravioli also delivers a rich, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"Our server Sharon was incredible and made our brunch experience better."

"The food here is delicious and made with care."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the risotto."

Good to know

1

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

2

Wine Wednesday features special deals on select wines.

3

Reservations can be made through Open Table.

03
Cafe Korzo image 1

Open-air cafe with sidewalk dining and a small colorful patio creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Music adds to the relaxed vibe, drawing a crowd that enjoys people watching and casual socializing. The layout encourages enjoying the day and breeze without feeling crowded.

Food features authentic Serbian dishes like cevapi, served quickly and with great quality. The menu offers delicious, tasty options that pair well with drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

Prosciutto arugula pizza blends cheese, mushrooms, salami, and olives into a flavorful mix. Sandwiches with fresh mozzarella and cured meats come on soft lepinja bread with ajvar and kajmak.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"The coffee here is amazing, truly some of the best I've had."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Laptop use is not allowed during weekends at Cafe Korzo.

3

Expect large crowds after 5 PM on Fridays; arrive by 4 PM to avoid waiting.

04
The Slice Shop image 1
Pizza restaurant

Square-cut pizza with a crispy, flavorful crust defines the menu, served in a clean, cozy space with '80s music that creates a nostalgic vibe. The atmosphere stays calm and cool, attracting a mix of late-night diners and locals near public transit. Free garnishes like hot honey and basil add a unique touch to the family-owned spot.

Food arrives hot and fast with great service. The kitchen and dining areas stay clean throughout.

Slices feature Hot Italian Sausage with a hot honey drizzle that adds a sweet and spicy kick. Free additions like garlic infused olive oil, Pecorino cheese, fresh basil, and crushed red pepper enhance the flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tasted."

"I thought the pizza here was some of the best I ever had."

"I thought the Italian food here was magnificent."

Good to know

1

The slices cost around $5-6 each, which is well priced.

2

Next to the beverage fridge, they also had day-old slices for half of the regular price for to-go.

3

The restaurant is open reasonably late, which is convenient for after-hours food.

05
Felix: Modern American Dining image 1

Large dining room filled with lots of plants and a colorful accent wall creates a Caribbean vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly with a live DJ adding a fun touch. Bar area separates from dining room, keeping energy low key but vibe suits date nights and casual gatherings.

Modern American dining offers a refined twist on classic comfort food with dishes that suit many tastes. The menu elevates traditional flavors into memorable experiences paired with well-crafted drinks.

Chicken Parmigiana stands out as a highlight, noted for its quality and flavor. Other Italian dishes include spaghetti croquettes and peas and leek pasta, both well-prepared and tasty.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is fantastic, I loved my meal."

"The food here is great and offers dishes for everyone's tastes."

"The Italian food, especially the lasagna, was incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs weekdays with various food and drink specials.

2

Sunday brunch offers a $25 two-course meal deal.

3

Bottomless brunch is available on weekends.

06
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Food features great taste and delicious ribs paired with excellent beer. Service complements the amazing food and enjoyable atmosphere.

Chicken Alfredo stands out with rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. Pizzas like the truffle pesto mushroom and pesto pizza come loaded with cheese and bold flavors. Pasta options include Cajun and Fettuccine Alfredo, both adaptable for vegetarian preferences.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"The food here is delicious and always hot."

"The chicken alfredo and Cajun pasta here are so good."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

07
Mordecai image 1
Brasserie

Small brasserie with mid-century modern decor offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere without loud music. Guests enjoy creative cocktails and highly praised burgers and pasta. Open window booths provide a gentle breeze and views of nearby ice skating.

Food here stands out with exceptional dishes like a memorable cacio e pepe and pairs well with excellent craft cocktails. The team consistently delivers great service alongside a welcoming atmosphere.

House-made pastas and polenta fries stand out here. The spaghetti with Spanish chorizo meatballs and cacio e pepe offer bold, memorable flavors.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and tasty."

"The Mordecai burger with beef fat fries was amazing."

"The food here is unreal, especially the spaghetti with chorizo meatballs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with good value on drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are helpful but not required, especially on game nights.

3

Mordecai offers vegetarian options, but no specific vegan menu.

08
Kleinโ€™s Bakery & Cafe (LakeviewEast) image 1

Elevated home bakery with cozy atmosphere and vibrant urban vibe offers several seating options including outdoor space. The place suits both quiet work sessions and casual chats, featuring lovely music and a welcoming environment.

Food here is authentic Venezuelan with consistently delicious dishes and excellent desserts. The menu offers a satisfying variety that pairs well with great coffee.

Lasagna stands out, especially the Venezuelan style and the Thursday special. Tiramisu offers a solid classic dessert option.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries; they were always delicious and fresh."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The Italian food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Limited seating is available, especially during busy times.

2

Expect a wait time during weekends due to high demand.

3

Prices for coffee and sandwiches can reach around $20.

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Lake View East, Chicago

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