Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant and diverse lasagne scene. Forget the tired, pre-made stuff; Chicago's culinary landscape offers a range of lasagnes, from classic Italian-American comfort food to inventive twists on the traditional recipe. This comprehensive guide explores 24 of the best spots to indulge in this cheesy, comforting classic. We've considered everything from family-run trattorias to upscale Italian restaurants, ensuring there's something for every palate and budget. Get ready to embark on a cheesy adventure!
North Side Lasagne Havens
The North Side offers a variety of options, ranging from casual eateries to more refined dining experiences.
Casual & Cozy
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: While famous for deep-dish, their lasagne is a surprisingly delicious secret menu item. Expect a hearty portion with rich meat sauce.
- Pequod's Pizza: Similar to Lou Malnati's, Pequod's offers a hidden lasagne gem, known for its crispy edges and flavorful sauce.
- Rosebud on Rush: A Chicago institution, Rosebud offers a classic, comforting lasagne that's perfect for a special occasion or a casual night out.
- Tufano's Vernon Park Tap: This neighborhood gem serves up a simple, yet satisfying lasagne, perfect for a casual meal with friends.
Upscale Italian
- RPM Italian: This stylish restaurant offers a sophisticated take on lasagne, with high-quality ingredients and a refined presentation. Expect a more elegant, lighter version.
- Siena Tavern: Another upscale option, Siena Tavern's lasagne is known for its rich meat sauce and perfectly layered pasta.
- Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a seasonal lasagne that's a true culinary masterpiece. Expect innovative flavors and techniques.
- Osteria Langhe: This sophisticated Italian restaurant focuses on using high-quality ingredients to create a simple yet sophisticated dish.
South Side Lasagne Delights
Chicago's South Side also offers fantastic lasagne options, often with a more traditional Italian-American feel.
Neighborhood Favorites
- Andros Taverna: While known for Greek cuisine, their lasagne is a hidden gem, often featuring unique twists and Mediterranean influences.
- Franco's Ristorante: This family-run restaurant offers a classic, hearty lasagne made with love. Expect generous portions and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- La Scarola: Known for their boisterous atmosphere and traditional Italian dishes, their lasagne is a must-try.
- Gino's East: Another deep-dish pizza joint, their lasagne provides a similar satisfying, cheesy experience.
Hidden Gems
- Dusek's Board & Beer: This Pilsen spot offers a unique take on lasagne, often incorporating seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse may seem an unlikely spot for lasagne, but their version is surprisingly delicious and sophisticated.
West Side & Beyond
The West Side and surrounding areas offer a mix of established favorites and up-and-coming restaurants.
Established Classics
- Sapori Trattoria: This charming trattoria offers a classic, hearty lasagne that's a neighborhood favorite.
- Untitled Supper Club: This trendy spot offers a unique, modern take on lasagne. Expect creative flavor profiles and innovative plating.
Newcomers & Hidden Gems
- Formento's: This River North restaurant offers a refined and sophisticated lasagne, perfect for a special occasion.
- Carmine's: Known for their family-style portions, Carmine's lasagne is perfect for sharing with a group of friends.
Unique Lasagne Experiences
Beyond the traditional, Chicago offers some unique takes on this classic dish.
- The Purple Pig: This Mediterranean-inspired spot offers a lasagne with unique twists, incorporating flavorful Mediterranean ingredients.
- Barrio: This Mexican restaurant, while unexpected, offers a surprising and flavorful lasagne inspired by both Italian and Mexican cuisine.
Lasagne Variations: Beyond the Classic
Some restaurants offer exciting variations on traditional lasagne.
- Vegetarian Lasagne: Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, often using vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Seafood Lasagne: Some upscale restaurants offer a luxurious seafood lasagne, substituting seafood for meat.
- Gluten-Free Lasagne: For those with dietary restrictions, several restaurants provide gluten-free lasagne options.
- Spicy Lasagne: A few restaurants offer a spicier version, adding chili flakes or a spicy sausage to their meat sauce.
Choosing Your Chicago Lasagne Adventure
This list provides a starting point for your lasagne exploration in Chicago. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and reservations, especially for popular and upscale establishments. Enjoy your cheesy journey! Don't forget to share your favorite Chicago lasagne spots in the comments below!
