Nestled on Chicago’s near West Side, Little Italy welcomes visitors with vibrant green, white, and red banners adorning vintage double-pronged light poles as they turn onto Taylor Street.
This bustling avenue is the heart of a neighborhood rich in history, originally settled by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century.
Despite the influx of new eateries, Little Italy has preserved its cultural heritage through family-owned shops, restaurants, and cafés that have delighted diners for over a century.
For those seeking an authentic taste of old Little Italy, the historic sites of the neighborhood remain strong.
Prominent among them is Pompei, an establishment that stands out with its iconic pointed dome.
Having evolved from a simple bakery into one of Chicago’s oldest and most cherished Italian restaurants, Pompei has been serving hearty portions of classic Italian-American fare since 1909.
Another beloved locale is Tufano’s Vernon Park Tap, a proud recipient of a James Beard ‘America’s Classics’ award, which has been welcoming guests since 1930.
Then there’s Tuscany on Taylor, renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta that have been a staple in the community for more than 35 years.
Among modern contenders for the best red sauce in the neighborhood is Peanut Park Trattoria, a collaboration between popular Chicago-area restaurant teams including Tempesta Market and Coalfire Pizzeria.
When it comes to sweet and savory confections, Little Italy boasts exceptional bakeries and sandwich shops like Scafuri Bakery and Original Ferrara Bakery.
Both establishments have been delivering fresh-baked bread, cookies, and pastries to locals since 1904 and 1908, respectively.
In addition to its baked goods, Ferrara Bakery also serves delectable sandwiches.
Conte Di Savoia, a grocery and sandwich shop, has been importing gourmet Italian goods while providing fresh sandwiches and take-away dinners since the 1940s.
A couple of blocks off the main artery of Taylor Street, classic sandwich joints like Carm’s and Fontano’s have been delighting patrons with Chicago-style hot dogs and both hot and cold sandwiches for decades.
While Italian beef may not be traditionally Italian, it has undeniably become synonymous with Chicago cuisine, often featured in popular culture like the hit show The Bear.
In Little Italy, Al’s Italian Beef is a notable spot, contributing to the storied landscape of Italian beef offerings across the city.
As the neighborhood has evolved, the development of nearby institutions like the University of Illinois Chicago and various healthcare facilities has introduced a myriad of culinary influences, making Little Italy a melting pot of global flavors.
Among the highlights is Chez Joël, a charming French bistro tucked away from the main street hustle.
This local favorite is celebrated for its fantastic wine selection and a rotating menu of seasonal French dishes, earning it high praise from both locals and critics alike.
Little Italy also showcases a vibrant selection of Asian cuisines.
For traditional Vietnamese dishes, Lotus Cafe & Bánh Mì offers popular items like pho and bánh mì, while ML Kitchen and Hana Dragon serve up Szechuan and Chinese-American favorites.
The Indian culinary scene flourishes with established spots such as Adda Indian and Tuk Tuk Indian Street Food.
For something unique, Momo World presents its signature Nepalese steamed dumplings, known as momos, that resonate with the neighborhood’s diverse palate.
Mexican cuisine also finds its place in Little Italy with restaurants like MiMi’s Craft Kitchen and Chilango Mexican Street Food, both providing authentic flavors in a laid-back setting.
No campus-adjacent neighborhood would be complete without a range of inviting cafés and bars.
Hawkeyes Bar & Grill, Vintage Bar, and Little Joe’s, which has maintained its charm since 1946, are popular local hangouts.
In a modern twist, Little Joe’s features dishes creatively adorned with Flaming Hot Cheetos.
Breakfast enthusiasts can enjoy meals at Sweet Maple Café and Stax Café, known for their delightful breakfast offerings and coffee creations.
Other establishments catering to coffee, tea, boba, and light bites include Two Shades Café, The OverLay, and Gathers Tea Bar.
Little Italy’s rich combination of old and new, tradition and modernity, continues to thrive, safeguarding a beloved culinary heritage while embracing new tastes and experiences.
image source from：https://www.choosechicago.com/blog/dining/a-foodies-guide-to-chicagos-little-italy-neighborhood/
