Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, also boasts a vibrant and diverse pasta scene. From classic Italian trattorias to innovative modern restaurants, the city offers a wide array of options for pasta lovers. This guide highlights 18 of the best pasta restaurants in Chicago, catering to various tastes and budgets. This list features Chicago pasta options that range from traditional to contemporary, ensuring there's something for every palate.
Exploring Chicago's Top Pasta Spots: A Culinary Journey
This curated selection isn't just a list; it's a culinary adventure through Chicago's pasta landscape. We've considered factors such as pasta quality, sauce craftsmanship, ambiance, and overall dining experience to bring you the cream of the crop. Whether you crave rich, creamy sauces or prefer lighter, brighter options, you'll find your perfect pasta paradise among these 18 establishments. Our Chicago pasta guide covers a wide spectrum of cuisines and price points.
North Side Pasta Delights
The North Side of Chicago offers a plethora of fantastic pasta restaurants. Here are some standouts:
- Siena Tavern: Known for its upscale ambiance and creative pasta dishes, Siena Tavern consistently delivers an exceptional dining experience. Their butternut squash ravioli is a seasonal favorite.
- Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers sophisticated takes on classic Italian pasta dishes. Their handmade pasta is a highlight, showcasing the chef's expertise. Expect to pay a premium for this exceptional experience.
- RPM Italian: A popular spot with a lively atmosphere, RPM Italian serves delicious, elevated pasta dishes in a stylish setting. Their spaghetti carbonara is a must-try. They also offer a wide selection of Chicago-style pasta dishes, incorporating local ingredients.
- Rosebud on Rush: A Chicago institution, Rosebud on Rush offers classic Italian-American fare, including a variety of pasta dishes. Their lasagna is a crowd-pleaser.
South Side Pasta Gems
The South Side of Chicago also offers some hidden gems for pasta enthusiasts.
- Pequod's Pizza: While primarily known for pizza, Pequod's also serves surprisingly delicious pasta dishes. Their spaghetti with meat sauce is a local favorite. This showcases how some non-pasta-focused establishments still excel in this area.
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse also offers a selection of expertly prepared pasta dishes, providing a luxurious experience. Their linguine with clams is a sophisticated choice.
- Formento's: Formento's offers traditional Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their pasta dishes are classic and comforting. Their focus on authentic Italian techniques makes their pasta exceptional.
West Loop Pasta Powerhouses
The West Loop, a culinary hub, boasts several top-notch pasta restaurants.
- Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's acclaimed restaurant offers unique and globally-inspired pasta dishes, blending various flavors and textures.
- Osteria Langhe: This charming restaurant specializes in the regional cuisine of the Langhe region in Italy, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- La Scarola: A family-friendly restaurant with a loyal following, La Scarola serves classic Italian-American dishes, including excellent pasta choices.
Diverse & Unique Chicago Pasta Experiences
Beyond these neighborhood favorites, Chicago offers more distinctive pasta experiences.
- Pasta Palazzo: This casual restaurant excels at providing delicious pasta dishes at reasonable prices. They emphasize value without sacrificing quality.
- Andros Taverna: While Greek, Andros Taverna offers a surprising number of quality pasta dishes. Their pasta is often served with distinct Greek-inspired sauces.
- The Purple Pig: Another restaurant focusing on a Mediterranean-style cuisine and pasta that incorporates fresh ingredients and Mediterranean herbs.
- RPM Steak: A luxury steakhouse with expertly prepared pasta, featuring a more upscale and sophisticated pasta menu.
- Federales: Known for its creative cocktails, Federales also serves impressive, elevated pasta.
Finding Your Perfect Pasta Dish in Chicago
This comprehensive list is just a starting point in your Chicago pasta adventure. Remember to check menus, make reservations (especially for popular spots), and be open to trying something new. Each restaurant offers a unique take on pasta, ensuring a rich culinary experience.
To help you decide, here's a quick comparison table:
| Restaurant | Style | Price Range | Atmosphere | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siena Tavern | Upscale Italian | $$ | Lively, Chic | Butternut Squash Ravioli |
| Monteverde | Fine Dining Italian | $$ | Intimate, Elegant | Handmade Pasta Assortment |
| RPM Italian | Modern Italian | $$ | Upscale, Lively | Spaghetti Carbonara |
| Rosebud on Rush | Classic Italian-American | $ | Classic, Cozy | Lasagna |
| Pequod's Pizza | Casual, Pizza & Pasta | $ | Casual, Family-Friendly | Spaghetti with Meat Sauce |
(Note: $ = Inexpensive, $ = Moderate, $$ = Expensive, $$ = Very Expensive)
This list showcases the diverse Chicago pasta restaurants, offering a delightful journey for any pasta enthusiast. Enjoy your culinary exploration of the Windy City's amazing pasta scene!
