When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Quartino Ristorante
Why Quartino Ristorante is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar offers an authentic Italian dining experience situated in the heart of Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood. Since its opening in 2005 by the Gibsons Restaurant Group, Quartino has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking a lively atmosphere paired with genuine Italian cuisine. The restaurant specializes in Italian small plates that encourage sharing, featuring regional specialties such as artisanal salumi, housemade pasta, Neapolitan-style pizzas, Acquerello risotto, and fresh seafood, all crafted with a dedication to traditional culinary techniques. The interior exudes warmth with its vintage wooden furnishings and earthy tones, complemented by unique Italian touches like a salumeria display showcasing cured meats and cheese wheels. Quartino also features a lively bar area and multiple seating levels, including intimate patios perfect for couples or festive group gatherings. Its casual yet refined environment makes it a versatile spot suitable for everything from casual lunches to large celebrations. The restaurant is also renowned for its extensive wine list, offering exclusive vintages from small family-owned Italian vineyards. As a social and welcoming venue, Quartino invites guests to enjoy "La Bella Vita" through excellent food, drink, and company.
Here's what people think of Quartino Ristorante
As of recent, Quartino Ristorante holds a 4.6-star rating based on 10453 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Quartino Ristorante as a dependable and enjoyable Italian dining spot with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Positive feedback often praises the flavorful, fresh pasta dishes and the variety of shared plates that accommodate diverse tastes, making it ideal for groups with varying preferences. Diners appreciate the restaurant's lively ambiance, attentive service, and reasonable pricing, which combine to create a relaxed yet festive dining experience. The pizza and bruschetta also receive high marks, adding to the diverse menu appeal. However, some guests note occasional downsides such as noise levels rising during busy periods, which can detract from the intimacy of the experience. A few reviews mention inconsistencies in food seasoning or delays in service during peak hours. Despite these critiques, many return customers value Quartino's overall consistent quality and sociable environment. In conclusion, Quartino Ristorante balances authenticity and accessibility, offering a dependable Italian dining experience that is particularly well-suited for groups, casual outings, and those seeking a lively taste of Italy in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ruth Retiz
This was my first time visiting, and I completely fell in love with the place. I’ll definitely be back for more. The food was outstanding—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. Every dish we tried was a solid 10/10. We especially loved the roasted asparagus, easily the best we have tasted, ever!. Service was both quick and genuinely friendly, which made the experience even better. The drinks were strong but perfectly balanced—well-crafted and satisfying. Overall, this has easily become my favorite Italian restaurant. Highly recommended!
David Jagrosse
SO good that I went back! There are a lot of food choices when I am here once a week per month in Chicago. This Gem of a spot was so good that I made an immediate return two days later the sidewalk dining is fantastic if you're a people Watcher and love the vibe of Chicago but the food stands out on its own. To me a mark of any decent Italian restaurant is to start you off with some awesome crusty bread and to have a decent balsamic and a good evoo on the table which they did. On the first visit I did an appetizer of the Meatballs which were fantastic. I'm telling you this as an Italian who was brought up with homemade meals. I then did the orecchiette with sausage and finish that with the tiramisu which was out of this world. On the second visit I did the cheese and meat platter which I could have just left the restaurant after that and then pleased. I did a special that they had in the menu of an Italian sausage link that was circular on a bed of penne with white sauce. I literally had people from the sidewalk coming over and asking me what kind of plate it was. Service was outstanding both times and the drinks are phenomenal go to this place if you know what's good for you otherwise fuggettaboutit.
Felix A
I join some colleagues here for dinner as they wanted Italian. Pizza was good and I enjoyed the white bean dip. The chicken parm was just ok. Deserts were good and overall service was average, but had to wait for entrees as nothing came out at the same time. Restaurant was very busy for a Monday, seemed like a popular location. I have had better Italian in Chicago. Atmosphere was decent, but tables were very close, little room to walk between, main dinning room loud, has an upstairs, which was nice.
Capitaine Caverne
The food here was flavorful and perfect for sharing. I liked the variety on the menu, from pasta and pizza to small plates that were fun to try with friends. The place had a lively atmosphere, and the service kept everything moving smoothly. It’s a great spot for groups who want good Italian food and wine in a relaxed setting.
Tatiana Salyga
I went here for my birthday party, and it was lovely! The seating is slightly cramped, but we were able to fit our party of 7. The waiter was extremely friendly and helpful (Terra) and we also were able to get tons of free bread from another great waiter, Q. We decided to share everything as this place is known for their small plates. I think it would have been better to share between less people as the portions are pretty small, but it was nice to be able to try a little bit of everything! For appetizers, we got the clamari, veal meatballs (POLPETTE AL SUGO DI POMODORO), and the fonduta. I would highly recommend the fonduta- the cheese is delicious! As our main, we got a half-pepperoni half-margharita pizza, both of which were very crispy and delicious. The margharita half was definetly on the cheesy side though! We also got gnocci, fettuccine alfredo, and penne alla vodka, all of which were great. The portions are on the smaller side, but enough to fill you up and have room for dessert! The dessert was amazing- we got the tiramisu, hot chocolate cake with vanilla ice-cream (TORTA AL CIOCCOLATO), a gelato with bananas and biscotti (COPPA ALLA BANANA), and a gelato with strawberry sauce and a wafer (SPAGHETTI DI GELATO). They were all AMAZING and I would highly recommed the coppa alla banana!! Overall, this place was wonderful. From the staff to the free bread to the dessert, we all had a great time! They even put a candle for my birthday! Also, prices are great and the food was so delicious.
How to reach Quartino Ristorante
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Why Quartino Ristorante may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Quartino Ristorante with your friends?
Quartino Ristorante is an exceptional place to gather with friends because it effortlessly combines an inviting, lively atmosphere with authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine, making it an ideal setting for memorable social occasions. With a strong rating of 4.6 from over 10,000 reviews, it clearly stands out as a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The cozy yet vibrant ambiance encourages genuine conversation and connection, while the casual small-plates dining style invites sharing and sampling a diverse range of dishes—perfect for groups with varying tastes. The restaurant’s location in downtown Chicago’s River North neighborhood adds to its appeal, providing easy access and a lively urban backdrop. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply catching up over great food and drinks, Quartino’s thoughtfully prepared handmade pizzas, fresh pastas, and carefully curated wine list create an unpretentious yet distinctly Italian experience that fosters warmth and enjoyment among friends. This combination of atmosphere, food, and conviviality makes it a top choice for group meetups where quality and togetherness matter.
What types of activities and dining experiences can a group enjoy at Quartino?
Quartino thrives on offering a wide variety of Italian small plates and artisanal dishes, making the food experience itself an activity that engages groups. Diners can explore their extensive menu, which includes housemade pasta shaped and cut by hand, Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a stone hearth oven, and a selection of salumi and cheeses displayed in a vintage salumeria case. This variety allows groups to indulge in tasting multiple dishes rather than committing to one entrée each, encouraging sharing and discussion about favorite flavors and preferences. Additionally, Quartino’s wine bar serves wines by the litre in affordable portions, allowing groups to sample and savor different varietals without breaking the bank. The restaurant’s lively, vibrant atmosphere, especially around peak dinner hours, adds another dimension to the meetup, creating a buzz that complements the food and wine. For those wanting a more relaxed vibe, the intimate table settings provide some privacy while still maintaining the communal spirit. Beyond dining, Quartino offers private event spaces to accommodate larger groups, making it suitable for celebrations, cocktail parties, or receptions. This flexibility means groups can engage not just in eating, but also in conversation, wine tasting, and even private social events with tailored menus and service.
Why is Quartino perfect for large groups or diverse tastes?
One of Quartino’s strengths lies in its ability to cater to large groups with diverse palates. Its menu, constructed around Italian small plates and sharable dishes, allows each guest to tailor their meal by choosing from multiple options without the pressure of ordering a heavy dish, which is ideal for groups where tastes vary widely. Whether your group includes picky eaters who prefer classics like chicken parmigiana or adventurous diners eager to try housemade artisan sausages or fresh seafood risottos, Quartino provides something satisfying for everyone. The prices are generally reasonable, which means groups can enjoy a popular dining experience without concern for an excessively high bill. The restaurant’s commitment to quality—handmade pastas, fresh ingredients, stone-oven pizzas—ensures that even with variety and shared plates, no one compromises on flavor or authenticity. This flexible, approachable menu style fosters inclusivity, making it a hassle-free choice for organizing group dinners or family gatherings. Additionally, easy access to wines by the litre enables everyone to find a drink that pairs well with their meal or mood, further enhancing the group experience.
What makes Quartino’s atmosphere so conducive to meetups?
Quartino balances a lively, energetic vibe with intimate seating arrangements, striking an ideal atmosphere for gatherings. The restaurant tends to be bustling during peak hours, filled with warm chatter and the clinking of glasses, which energizes group meetups and makes the experience feel festive without overwhelming conversation. This ambient excitement can help break the ice or heighten the sense of occasion. At the same time, the layout provides smaller tables and intimate settings that allow groups to feel somewhat private—an essential feature for meaningful conversations and comfortable interactions within the group. The décor and design evoke a classic Italian wine bar ambiance, reinforcing a relaxed yet elegant environment that invites guests to linger. For those who prefer outdoor settings, Quartino’s patio off State Street is a people-watching hotspot, offering a scenic urban backdrop perfect for early evening gatherings or weekend brunches. Whether for casual lunches, lively dinners, or celebratory events, Quartino creates an accommodating atmosphere that fosters connection, enjoyment, and a shared experience that can make every meetup special.
How does Quartino’s wine and beverage program enhance group gatherings?
Quartino’s wine program is especially designed to complement the group dining experience, offering an extensive list of Italian wines available by the litre in fractional amounts (a quarter, half, or full litre). This approach lets groups share wines, discover new favorites, and match wines with the diverse dishes being ordered without committing to full bottles. Not only does this flexibility encourage exploration and conversation around beverages, but it also makes the experience more affordable and less formal, perfect for casual or celebratory gatherings. The wine selection includes exclusive vintages from family-owned, small-production Italian estates, ensuring authenticity and quality. Beyond wine, Quartino’s beverage offerings include well-chosen cocktails and non-alcoholic options that round out the menu. For wine enthusiasts planning extended visits, Quartino also offers a Wine Club, providing curated selections monthly—ideal for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Italian wines. This thoughtful beverage program elevates group meals by turning wine tasting into a shared activity, enhancing both food and social interaction at the table.
What options does Quartino provide for private events and special celebrations?
Quartino is well-equipped to host private dining events and larger social gatherings, ranging from intimate dinners to sizeable receptions and cocktail parties. Their private dining spaces offer a customizable experience where hosts can select from a wide variety of foods and beverages, ensuring menus are perfectly suited to the occasion and guests’ preferences. The experienced staff focuses on attentive service, aiming for smooth, enjoyable events with personalized touches. Whether it’s a family reunion, birthday party, corporate gathering, or other milestone celebration, Quartino’s blend of authentic Italian fare, vibrant atmosphere, and professional hospitality makes for a memorable occasion. The flexibility of small plates and shared dishes creates an engaging dining format that encourages mingling and casual conversation among guests. Coupled with an extensive wine list and cocktail offerings, the restaurant ensures that special events hosted here feel both unique and comfortably familiar, making it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic Italian venue with a lively spirit.
Why is Quartino considered a great value for group dining in Chicago?
Quartino provides excellent value that resonates strongly with groups looking for quality Italian food without the high-end price tag. Dishes such as handmade pastas, Neapolitan pizzas, artisan salumi, and cheeses are prepared with care and authenticity, yet menu prices remain reasonable, allowing groups to enjoy abundant food without worrying about cost. The option to order sharing plates means groups can pace their meal, sampling a variety of dishes without needing large individual portions, which often minimizes food waste and expense. Additionally, the wine served by the litre is affordably priced, enabling guests to drink well for less. Many reviews highlight that while Quartino may not always be "amazing," it is reliably enjoyable and consistently satisfying, a combination that adds comfort and predictability to group outings. These factors together make Quartino a go-to for casual, fun, and budget-friendly gatherings in a bustling Chicago neighborhood.
How does Quartino maintain Italian authenticity in its cuisine and experience?
Quartino’s commitment to genuine Italian culinary traditions is evident in its hand-crafted approach to food and beverage. Pastas are handmade daily in a dedicated kitchen, using time-honored techniques for shaping and cutting. Their pizzas are made from dough prepared fresh each day and cooked in a stone hearth oven to replicate the Neapolitan style outdoors. The restaurant proudly carries the Ospitalità Italiana certification awarded by the Italian government, which recognizes establishments that faithfully uphold Italian culture and cuisine standards. Furthermore, their salumeria case showcases certified DOP salumi and cheeses, providing guests with authentic regional Italian flavors rarely found outside Italy. Their carefully curated wine list emphasizes small family-owned Italian vineyards, reinforcing the authentic taste profile. This dedication ensures that every dish and drink reflects genuine Italian heritage, creating an immersive and trusted Italian dining experience for groups and individual diners alike.
Quartino Ristorante is undoubtedly an exceptional place to host a meetup with friends or family due to its blend of authentic Italian cuisine, lively yet intimate atmosphere, flexible menu perfect for sharing, extensive and affordable wine program, and the ability to accommodate all group sizes and tastes with attentive service—all in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood.