I generally eschew “legends” in the restaurant business (exception, New Orleans), as I have found over and over again, so many of them are resting on their laurels of decades ago.
Such is not the case with The Italian Village, really three restaurants under one roof in downtown Chicago, is the city’s oldest Italian restaurant, serving the ‘old-school classics.’
Opened in 1927, on the top floor, you’ll find “The Village,” serving all of America’s favorite Italian appetizers and entrees. On the ground floor, Vivere takes a contemporary approach to an Italian menu, and own a flight of stairs, “La Cantina,” serves some of the age-old favorites of the restaurant and adds a selection of steaks and chops to the offering, in a more casual atmosphere; those meat selections run from $29 – $40.
I was last in the Italian Village about 35 years ago, and had fond memories of it. Had my memories been jaded by time? Would it not live up to my memory? I’m delighted to say it exceeded my expectations on every level.
Service, quality of ingredients, size of servings, and value. At the table were spaghetti and sausage, clams in pasta (available but not on the menu), appetizers of a caprese salad, beef carpacio, an extra side of meatballs, and a mostacoli in a spicy arribiata sauce. (red sauce with chili peppers and garlic). And bread. And butter. And olive oil. In seemingly endless quantities.
Many of the entrees are cooked to order, and the menu cautions you on the wait time for those.
The food was delicious, service attentive but not intrusive, interesting decor to look at, and private booths tucked away in little alcoves if you’re desirous of a more discrete event.
The restaurants are open seven days for lunch and dinner, with private faclities available for small and medium size parties.
Dinner for four, ample glasses of wine, gratutity: $240. Valet parking at the door for $12. You know, I didn’t ask, but you might when you call, if it’s a concern. I don’t think there’s an elevator to the top floor restaurant, I made my way up a rather lengthy flight of stairs that lands at the front door.
(photos are from the internet)
Italian Village Review