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Local picks

Pasta and dessert spots in River North

Ending a meal with a bowl of pasta followed by something sweet is the only way to feel truly finished.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Charlie Martin's image 1
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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.

Toffee cake stands out as an unforgettable dessert. Birthday desserts come with candles, and the dessert tray has a 1955 vibe with tempting cheesecake slices.

Plump mussels and al dente linguine with clams come in a cheesy sauce that complements the seafood. The vodka pasta stands out, balanced by sautรฉed spinach with lemon and a crunchy garnish for texture.

People are saying

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

"The pasta here is amazing, especially the linguine and clams."

"The desserts here feel like a cozy step back in time."

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.

02
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space with rich fabrics, leathers, and carved woodwork creates a high-end speakeasy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and intimate, with music at a level that allows easy conversation. A specialty whiskey selection and unique cocktails attract those seeking a refined drinking experience.

Chocolate Crunch stands out with its decadently rich and flavorful profile. Raspberry sorbet offers a lighter, refreshing option among the desserts.

Pasta dishes come in fair portion sizes and are cooked well. The pasta al pesce stands out as a solid choice with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"You have to try the whipped formaggio pasta; I wished I ordered more."

"You have to try the Chocolate Crunch dessert; it's decadently rich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

03
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Soft serve dessert and phenomenal tiramisu stand out. Custom desserts made fresh add a unique touch.

Spicy rigatoni and Spaghetti Moqueca stand out with homemade pasta crafted by a skilled chef. Both dishes deliver bold flavors that make the pasta memorable.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"I found the homemade pasta here to be amazing and fresh."

"You have to try the Brigadero Tiramisu dessert; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

04
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Cannoli dessert stands out as the highlight of the meal. Gelato also offers a tasty finish to the menu.

Italian pasta stands out with its authentic taste. Dishes like pizza and burrata salad complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The pasta here is spectacular with great flavor."

"The homemade tiramisu here is creamy and perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

05
Ila's Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful design and warm lighting create a relaxed, vibey atmosphere with unique cocktails that stand out. The space feels like a home away from home with comfortable furniture and a welcoming vibe. Music adds to the chill, inviting energy throughout the evening.

Sweet corn pasta stands out with a slightly sweet flavor and a subtle Indian fusion twist. Empanadas, pierogies, sweet corn ravioli, and spaghetti also feature as delicious options.

People are saying

"The dinner here was incredible, especially the short rib chilaquiles."

"You have to try the sweet corn pasta; it's delicate and unforgettable."

"The sweet corn pasta dessert was a creamy, unforgettable surprise."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

2

The menu features a variety of unique dishes, including gluten-free options.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

06
Coco Pazzo Restaurant & Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Open wood-fired grill and rustic decor create an elegant, cozy atmosphere with candlelit tables and heavy velvet curtains that reduce noise and separate diners. The space fills quickly, fostering a lively yet comfortable vibe suited for polite, discreet conversation without loud music. Views of the city through lovely windows add to the upscale, professional feel.

Decadent desserts end the meal on a sweet note. The Profiteroles stand out with their unique presentation and rich chocolate sauces. Complimentary desserts add a nice touch.

Squid ink pasta stands out as a distinctive dish here. Other pasta dishes come with delicious bread and olive oil, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is outstanding and delicious."

"The squid ink pasta here is perfectly cooked with incredible flavor."

"The Profiteroles dessert was unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

3

The average meal cost is around $150 for two, including drinks.

07
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.

Chocolate mousse stands out with its gold wrapping, hazelnuts, and toppings like a Ferrero Rocher. The cherry dessert also shines as a highlight among the amazing desserts.

Handmade pasta shows a perfect texture and rich flavor. The ravioli stands out, and the cacio e Pepe tastes like high-end Italian macaroni and cheese.

People are saying

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

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

"The desserts here are amazing and looked good."

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.

08
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with quiet, elegant atmosphere and beautiful interior design featuring boat decor and funky wall art. Seating is comfortable and the space offers a small patio alongside plenty of indoor tables. The vibe suits a fancy dining experience rather than a casual, lively spot.

Desserts include a creamy sorbet and a warm cookie with ice cream that finishes the meal well. The brownie is delicious and desserts come perfectly prepared and presented.

Blue crab bucatini stands out as a highlight among the pasta dishes. Ravioli options include a superb classic and a mushroom version with a strange, sour taste.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"The desserts here are perfectly prepared and presented."

"Their ravioli pasta is superb; I highly recommend it."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

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River North, Chicago

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