Traditional Italian Restaurant

Question

hi- looking for some good Italian (not deep dish pizza) in Chicago.

To be specific:

-good for group of 9

-Not fine dining- more red checked tablecloth type of place

-love old restaurants that have history

- staying at Palmer House so walkable or by train would be ideal - but not deal breaker

Is there a Little Italy type area?

Answer

If you're looking for a great Italian meal in Chicago, with a focus on traditional, hearty dishes (and not the deep-dish pizza), you're in luck. Chicago has some classic Italian spots that are perfect for a group, full of history and charm. Here's a list of some fantastic options that check all your boxes:

Monteverde – While it's a bit more modern, Monteverde offers a wonderful Italian experience in the West Loop. It's known for house-made pasta and classic Italian dishes with a twist. It’s not too formal and would be great for a group. Although not in the Little Italy neighborhood, it's close to public transport, and the food is delicious and rustic.
Ricobene's – A classic old-school Italian restaurant on the South Side of Chicago, Ricobene’s is famous for its breaded steak sandwich. It's a casual, family-friendly place, perfect for a group and a no-frills experience. It's not as fancy, but it offers hearty Italian-American food in a classic, neighborhood atmosphere.
Gene & Georgetti – If you're looking for a piece of history, Gene & Georgetti is an iconic Chicago steakhouse with an old-school Italian vibe. While it's known for steaks, they serve traditional Italian-American dishes like pasta and veal. It's a great spot for a group, with generous portions and classic decor. It has been around since 1941 and offers a great balance of casual and historical charm.
Francesca's on Taylor – Located in the heart of Chicago's Little Italy, Francesca’s on Taylor is a fantastic choice for a group of 9. The place is known for its classic Italian dishes, friendly atmosphere, and red-checkered tablecloths. It's a cozy spot that combines the old-world charm of Little Italy with excellent food at a reasonable price.
Tucci's – This family-run gem is another great choice in the Little Italy neighborhood. With its no-frills atmosphere, red-checkered tablecloths, and simple but delicious Italian menu, Tucci’s offers classic Italian-American fare in a down-to-earth environment that’s perfect for groups. You’ll find great pasta, veal, and seafood dishes here.
Al's Italian Beef – While Al’s isn’t strictly an Italian restaurant in the traditional sense, it’s a Chicago institution famous for its Italian beef sandwiches. A casual spot, perfect for a quick, tasty meal before exploring more of the city. It's a must-try local food, and though it's not a sit-down meal, it’s a piece of Chicago's Italian-American heritage.
La Scarola – This is another fantastic spot in the River West neighborhood. La Scarola is an intimate, family-style Italian restaurant with hearty portions, traditional fare, and a cozy atmosphere. It's perfect for a group, with great service and a warm, welcoming vibe.

As for Little Italy, yes, there is a vibrant Little Italy area in Chicago, mostly centered around Taylor Street, which is a short distance from downtown. The area is home to numerous Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, all serving up classic dishes in a charming, historic setting.

For your group, I’d recommend going with a spot like Francesca's on Taylor or Tucci's for the quintessential red-checked tablecloth, casual Italian dining experience. They're both within the Little Italy neighborhood, with a rich history and fantastic food, and they can comfortably accommodate a group of 9.

Enjoy your time in Chicago – these spots should offer a delicious taste of Italy with a bit of local flair!