When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Petterinos
Why Petterinos is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Petterino's is a cherished Italian restaurant located in the vibrant heart of Chicago's Loop and Theatre District, just steps away from Michigan Avenue. For over 20 years, it has been a beloved downtown icon known for its warm hospitality, timeless Italian flavors, and comfortable, inviting interiors. The restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience that appeals both to locals and tourists, making it an excellent spot for various occasions such as business lunches, pre-theatre dinners, or casual gatherings with friends. The atmosphere is enriched by unique decor featuring caricatures of famous politicians, celebrities, and influential Chicagoans who have enjoyed meals at Petterino’s, adding a sense of history and charm to the dining experience. Petterino's menu reimagines classic Italian fare with a contemporary touch, ensuring patrons enjoy fresh and satisfying dishes that celebrate authentic ingredients. The bar offers open seating with full service, and there is patio seating available when the weather permits, enhancing its appeal as a versatile meeting place. Overall, Petterino's combines tradition, quality cuisine, and a prime location, making it a preferred dining destination in Chicago’s theatre and downtown scene.
Here's what people think of Petterinos
As of recent, Petterinos holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1973 reviews.
Customer reviews of Petterino’s reveal a consistently positive dining experience, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the quality and authenticity of the Italian dishes as well as the prompt and attentive service, making it a reliable choice for both tourists and locals. Many reviews highlight the excellent food, mentioning the flavorful preparations and generous portions, which contribute to memorable meals. The welcoming, comfortable ambiance paired with the interesting wall caricatures adds to the restaurant’s unique charm and appeal. Positive reviews also emphasize how Petterino's is an ideal location for pre-theatre dining, business lunches, and casual meetups due to its convenient location and hospitable staff. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on occasional fluctuations in service speed or wait times during busy periods, and a few reviewers note that some menu prices may be on the higher side compared to other Italian eateries. However, these critiques are relatively infrequent and do not significantly detract from the overall dining experience. In summary, Petterino’s maintains a strong reputation for delivering authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly, classic setting, supported by generally favorable reviews that underscore its position as a top dining choice in downtown Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tammy Owins
Reservation brunch with friend pre-show. Sat in the dining room with only a few tables of diners, service from waiter very slow and had to flag him down. Food was ok, friend got a wedge salad that was overtly huge, I had kale salad with chicken, nice candied walnuts and a couple glasses of wine. Not a dining destination I would seek out…AI described photos.
Brandy I
The seafood is fresh. The seasoning is delicate. The service is excellent and the selection is authentic. The Calamari is crispy with a delicious sauce. The burrata is rich and creamy. We also had the toasted ravioli. I've been on a separate occasion and the meatballs are tender and well seasoned. I definitely recommend.
Anna Brown
We got the meatballs, the seafood pasta, steak frittes, tiramisu and the brownie. Everything tasted great. Will say though the meatballs were kind of cold in the center and weren’t my favorite. The seafood pasta and the steak though were great. We loved the desserts too!
I M
I’ve passed this place so many times but never gave it a shot. It was decent for a quick lunch with friends. We went for restaurant week so $30 for 3 courses was perfect. The baked ricotta was outstanding but the texture of the chicken meatballs was really odd. The branzino was delicious, fresh and the skin was crispy. The gnocchi had mixed reviews from our group. If you enjoy mushrooms and other earthy flavors, its good but still could use more seasoning and flavor. But if not, you’ll probably not enjoy this. The peach panna cotta was wonderful and not too sweet
karina k
Beautiful cozy warm and attentive and friendly staff. Indoor and outdoor seating. Nice interior and comfortable booths. The pasta (4 cheese ravioli) was good… a bit salty but tasty. Wait staff were wonderful. Fun place for drinks and dinner right before a show (it’s directly adjacent to the Goodman theater) as well as just a big party of fun people eating and drinking. The place is huge and it sits on a corner of the street. Street parking w meters are not really there so only mostly garage parking (you can use Spot Hero to get a discounted spot) or use CTA trains and buses.
How to reach Petterinos
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Website: None
Why Petterinos may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Petterino’s with your friends?
Gathering at Petterino’s for a group meetup offers a unique blend of atmosphere, convenience, and satisfying Italian cuisine that makes it a quintessential choice for friends or family outings. Located in the heart of Chicago’s lively Theatre District, Petterino’s is perfectly positioned for those who want to enjoy a pre- or post-show meal with their group, offering a warm, theatrical ambiance infused with history and charm. The restaurant features a spacious and comfortable seating arrangement, accommodating both small and large parties without the feeling of being cramped, which is essential for a relaxed social experience. Beyond the practicalities, Petterino’s walls showcase an impressive collection of caricatures, photos, and paintings that celebrate celebrities and theatrical legends, creating an engaging backdrop that sparks conversation and adds cultural flair to the dining experience. The combination of attentive service, a diverse menu rooted in classic Italian dishes, and a location brimming with vibrant city energy ensures that meeting up here offers more than just a meal—it’s an event that sets the perfect tone for reconnecting and creating shared memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Petterino’s for group meetups?
Petterino’s excels in providing an environment where your group can enjoy multiple activities centered around dining, entertainment, and socializing. For theater lovers or those coming from a show, timing is key—Petterino’s is adept at catering to time-sensitive diners, ensuring your meal is served promptly so you don’t miss curtain calls. This efficiency makes it ideal for a group that wants to keep the evening flowing smoothly. As you gather around the table, the warm lighting and elegant Italian decor set the stage for engaging conversations, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up. The menu itself invites shared experiences, with a variety of classic Italian dishes such as rigatoni vodka, chicken parmesan, and freshly made pastas designed to please diverse palates. The tradition of offering complimentary warm bread to accompany meals adds a welcoming touch that instantly makes everyone feel at home. Groups can also enjoy the bar area, which offers a friendly atmosphere and discounts for theater ticket holders, perfect for toasting with cocktails or soft drinks before or after dinner.
Why is Petterino’s perfect for a group meetup?
Petterino’s success as a group venue lies in its optimal combination of space, service, and style that caters specifically to groups. The restaurant’s large, comfortable indoor seating and newly added outdoor dining space provide flexible options to accommodate groups of various sizes and preferences. Whether your party prefers a cozy, intimate booth or a lively table near the bar, Petterino’s layout supports both. The attentive and polite staff are skilled in managing group dynamics, ensuring everyone receives prompt and courteous service, which is particularly important when coordinating order flow and timing for several diners. Adding to the experience, the restaurant’s location in Chicago’s bustling Loop neighborhood means it’s easily accessible by public transit and close to many attractions, making it a convenient meetup spot that anyone can reach. The well-curated theatrical decor not only honors the local arts scene but inspires lively talk and a memorable ambiance that keeps the group connected. With a solid reputation and a 4.3-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, Petterino’s holds credibility as a reliably pleasant spot for social dining.
What kinds of food and drinks make Petterino’s ideal for large groups?
The menu at Petterino’s is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a wide audience, focusing on traditional Italian flavors executed with enough variety to satisfy different tastes and dietary needs within a group. Fresh, handmade pasta dishes are standout options—for example, the rigatoni vodka and the spaghetti with prime beef meatballs offer classic, comforting flavors that are crowd-pleasers. Beyond pasta, specialties like the Farro Island salmon and chicken parmigiana help diversify the choices for those seeking alternatives to traditional Italian staples. The serving portions are generous, making sharing and sampling across the table easy, which promotes group interaction and culinary discovery. Complimentary warm bread with spread is a beloved starter that helps build anticipation and goodwill before the main courses arrive. The drink menu complements the food, featuring a range of wines, classic cocktails, and non-alcoholic options—including the popular Arnold Palmer (iced tea and lemonade blend)—that keep everyone refreshed. The bar also offers theater ticket discounts, making it an affordable and enjoyable part of the dining experience for groups.
How does Petterino’s ambiance enhance the group dining experience?
Ambiance at Petterino’s is a defining element that elevates a simple meal into a more memorable event. The restaurant’s design pays homage to Chicago’s theatrical history, with walls adorned by caricatures, photographs, and paintings showcasing famous figures from the worlds of theater, film, and literature. This visual feast creates a stimulating environment that invites storytelling and group engagement. The warm lighting and classic Italian decor evoke a cozy yet elegant setting, perfectly balancing sophistication with comfort. Petterino’s location in the midst of the energetic Chicago Loop district means diners can soak in the vibrancy of the city before and after their meal, enhancing the overall experience. The newly expanded outdoor seating option allows groups to enjoy the lively city atmosphere while dining alfresco, adding another layer of versatility to the venue. Whether you're celebrating, catching up, or just enjoying each other's company, the ambiance plays a crucial role in making Petterino's feel like more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination where social bonds strengthen.
What can guests expect from service and pace when dining as a group at Petterino’s?
Service at Petterino’s is tailored to accommodate the needs of theater-goers and groups seeking efficiency without sacrificing quality or friendliness. The staff are known for being polite, attentive, and proactive, making sure that orders are taken promptly and that guests receive their meals in a timely manner. This is particularly advantageous for groups with tight schedules, such as those needing to catch a nearby performance, since the kitchen tends to work quickly to accommodate such guests. Waitstaff are also helpful when managing any special requests or issues that arise, often apologizing and trying to resolve problems with professionalism. The experience is typically smooth, from the friendly greeting at the door to the attentiveness during the meal, helping the group maintain a relaxed and enjoyable mood. Even though some guests have mentioned occasional slowdowns, the general consensus affirms that Petterino’s manages to strike a good balance between efficient service and attentive hospitality, important when dining with friends or family.
What does the review landscape reveal about Petterino’s for group meetups?
Petterino’s holds a solid 4.3-star rating across nearly 2,000 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception, especially among theater-goers and diners seeking classic Italian fare in a convenient and lively setting. Many reviewers praise the large portions of fresh pasta and the comfortable ambiance that suits groups well. The restaurant’s history and location make it a favored backup or prime choice for those attending shows nearby, a testament to its reliability and atmosphere. However, some critiques point to inconsistent food quality and occasional service hiccups, highlighting that while Petterino's caters well to groups and fulfills expectations of an Italian dining experience, it may not always excel in gourmet culinary innovation. Despite this, the array of menu choices, generous servings, and the overall vibe keeps it popular for casual group gatherings. This balanced reputation suggests that groups looking for a comfortable, atmospheric, and conveniently located place to meet will find Petterino’s a good option, especially when combined with a night of entertainment in the Chicago Loop.
Why is Petterino’s location advantageous for hosting your meetup?
Situated less than a block from Chicago’s prominent theaters like the Goodman and Nederlander, Petterino’s location is tailor-made for groups wanting to combine dining with cultural outings. This makes it a natural hub for friends or family planning an evening of live performances, as the restaurant’s proximity means minimal transit stress and maximum time together. Being in the bustling Loop also ensures easy access via public transportation, taxis, or rideshares, simplifying logistics for large groups arriving from different parts of the city or suburbs. The vibrant neighborhood offers plenty of pre- and post-dining entertainment options such as bars, coffee shops, and shops for a full night out. Additionally, the busy, energetic environment outside perfectly contrasts the warm, inviting interior, giving groups both excitement and refuge during their visit. For meetups that hinge on convenience, atmosphere, and a dose of city life, Petterino’s location is a strategic advantage that enhances the overall group experience.
How does Petterino’s accommodate dietary preferences and group diversity?
Recognizing that diverse groups often bring diverse tastes and dietary needs, Petterino’s menu offers enough breadth to cater to a variety of preferences, including vegetarian options and seafood dishes alongside meat classics. Pastas with tomato-based sauces, creamy Alfredo, or pesto allow diners to choose based on flavor and dietary restrictions. Seafood plates such as the salmon are popular for those wanting lighter fare, while meat lovers can enjoy hearty options like chicken parmesan or meatball spaghetti. The willingness of the kitchen to prepare fresh pasta daily adds to the customization potential, making it easier to accommodate gluten-free or other dietary requests by discussing options with staff. This culinary flexibility contributes to the comfort of every diner in a group, ensuring that no one feels overlooked or constrained by limited choices. By embracing variety and freshness, Petterino’s makes group dining inclusive and satisfying.
What makes Petterino’s a memorable meetup spot beyond food and drink?
Beyond its menu and location, Petterino’s stands out thanks to its deep connection with Chicago’s performing arts community and its distinctly theatrical atmosphere. The collection of memorabilia and celebrity portraits creates a storytelling environment inviting diners to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural heartbeat while sharing a meal. This artistic ambiance enriches the gathering, encouraging playful interactions such as spotting famous faces on the walls or discussing favorite performances. The restaurant’s reputation as a longtime fixture in the Chicago Loop lends a sense of tradition and reliability that many visitors appreciate. This blend of history, art, and good company makes each meetup here feel special rather than routine. Groups leave with more than just full stomachs—they carry an experience woven into the fabric of Chicago’s cultural scene, creating memories worth repeating.
In summary, Petterino’s combines a prime location, inviting ambiance, accommodating service, and classic Italian cuisine to create an ideal setting for hosting meetups with friends or family. Whether you are planning a casual dinner, a special occasion, or a creative night out paired with theater, Petterino’s offers the space, menu variety, and atmosphere that foster connection and celebration. Its mix of theatrical charm and practical considerations makes it a favorite choice for groups looking to enjoy good food and company in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Loop district.