When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Zia's Social
Why Zia's Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Zia's Social is a vibrant modern Italian bar and restaurant located in the heart of Norwood Park, Chicago, offering a spacious and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends and family. Established in the space formerly occupied by Iron Horse Ale House, the restaurant embraces a fresh concept that focuses on bringing people together through food and social experiences. The venue boasts a large, airy 7,500-square-foot dining area with an ample patio, ideal for both indoor and outdoor gatherings. A standout feature is the open wood-fired pizza oven visible to diners, creating an engaging and authentic culinary experience. Zia's Social serves a contemporary twist on classic Italian cuisine with shareable plates, large pizzas, and traditional pasta and meat entrees designed to foster connection and conviviality. Complementing the food menu is an extensive bar featuring a curated selection of wines, cocktails, martinis, as well as tequila and bourbon flights, perfect for social sipping. The restaurant also plans to host live performances on its stage, further enhancing the lively environment that encourages socializing and entertainment. Zia's Social currently serves dinner with plans to expand to brunch and lunch service, making it a flexible spot for various occasions. The combination of great food, a lively atmosphere, and dedicated communal spaces makes Zia's Social a prime destination to meet friends for a memorable Italian dining experience.
Here's what people think of Zia's Social
As of recent, Zia's Social holds a 4.5-star rating based on 533 reviews.
Users generally praise Zia's Social for its delicious Italian cuisine, particularly the modern take on classic dishes like the butternut squash ravioli and shareable plates, which make dining there a communal and enjoyable experience. Many reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere and appreciate the spacious layout that supports social gatherings. Positive reviews often mention the engaging bar selection, including specialty cocktails and flights, and the visible wood-fired pizza oven as unique touches that add to the ambiance. Customers also value the attentive and friendly service that, despite some occasional inattentiveness, contributes to an overall pleasant dining experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on periods of inattentive or slower service, which occasionally diminishes the otherwise strong dining experience. A few customers have noted limited operating hours during the initial launch phase, though this is attributed to gradual expansion plans. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of reviews reflect satisfaction with the quality of food and the overall environment, suggesting that Zia's Social successfully balances excellent cuisine with a warm and social setting. In conclusion, reviews indicate that Zia's Social is a well-regarded addition to the Norwood Park dining scene, especially appreciated for its social atmosphere, modern Italian dishes, and versatile spaces conducive to friend meetups and community engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
karina k
The outdoor space was beautiful and nicely done, but sometimes when it’s windy, it’s not easy to eat and the food can get cold quickly. There’s a big outdoor section and you have choices of where to sit where there’s more light or more wind and more exposure, but they also have umbrellas, which are very helpful. The food was very good, especially the lasagna that was individually done and made from scratch and inside an individual cast iron pan. The portion was amazing and it’s wonderful if you’re starving. Otherwise you can have a leftovers. The fish special for bass was really good after we asked them to make it simple without the sauce. It came out way too salty the first time. And for $30, We didn’t think it was worth it because the fish wasn’t very plump or juicy and there wasn’t a lot of fish. The sausages and peppers were very good and tasty and fresh. The drink was very good. The wait staff were very attentive. There is Free Parking on the street if you can find it and it wasn’t that difficult to find. There is no private parking lot. Overall, it’s a beautiful and big restaurant and the food is very good. They have chewy Italian bread on the house that comes with grated Parmesan cheese and some vinegar, flavored vegetable vegetables, and olives.
Jessica
Zia’s is a Northwest Chicago favorite of mine. They have THE BEST crispy Brussels sprouts I’ve ever had. I’ve come back just to order these only, so good I even tried to recreate it at home. Pizza options are good. Carbonara in a Jar is a delicious creamy pasta which I’ve now ordered twice. I always like to bring new people here because you can never go wrong here. They have a huge restaurant, indoor, outdoor, and covered outdoor space during colder months. There is always seating available and they seem to do really well hosting large groups/parties. I’ve also been for brunch once, the menu is simpler plus they have a bottomless mimosa option. Service is always spectacular. I’ll be back again and again.
Bill Logan
I went for an event in the patio. Started at the bar while waiting. Good service and friendly staff. After event I stayed for dinner. The veal Zia ? Was exquisite. The warmth and blend of flavors reminded me of the cuisine I had in Italy. The depth of flavor in the sauce helped tie the dish together. The polenta surprisingly was good with this dish. The veal and spinach were just great. It was trying to get every piece of the dish I to the bite was slightly challenging because their were so many savory pieces. It was a wonderful entree. The suggested wine complimented the meal as well. The tiramisu lost the star for me. I can see the vision, but lacking. Not traditional tiramisu. The Cake tasted drenched in liqueur. It was also cake not a savoulde. The top had dark cocoa and drizzled chocolate. With strawberries to accent the plate. The flavor was with the drizzled chocolate and not the Tiramisù. It just felt like a cake created for a church social or block party. Not good. Other than that the restaurant was excellent.
Dude Knows
Zia’s Social is awesome! Great spot to grab a drink and dinner! The appetizers, entrees, beer selection, and cocktails are all great. Good spot to have a nice Italian dinner! Decent sized venue. Always have had a nice time when ate here! I have ate here a bunch of times! They have an upstairs can rent out for parties or events. Street parking but it isn’t tough to get.
B B
Waited about 20 minutes for a welcome even after seeing the server tend to two tables. She never came to us while we watched her check in with two other tables three times. We got up to discuss the situation with the hostess. No apology, no smile. My food came out but my partner’s didn’t until about 20 minutes later. We were told the kitchen read the ticket wrong. No salt or pepper on the table or offered by the server. We got up to find some. Busboy dropped the food but server never checked on us. It wasn’t busy at all but staff was setting up for a party so tables were being folded up and lugged around while we were eating. I’ve never left less than a 20% tip in my entire life, having grown up in a restaurant family, but there was genuinely next to no service. Food was fine but not worth a 40+ minute wait. Wouldn’t come back after this first time experience. Disorganized and poor service overall. We’re pretty laid back people, but it’s hard to believe the high google rating.
How to reach Zia's Social
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Why Zia's Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Zia's Social with your friends? Because this vibrant Italian restaurant and bar in Chicago offers a truly inviting atmosphere combined with exceptional food and drink options, perfect for gathering with your loved ones. Whether you’re meeting old friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a casual hangout, Zia's Social provides a warm, family-friendly environment where everyone can feel comfortable. The place boasts a lively ambiance with both indoor dining and a charming outdoor beer garden, offering flexibility regardless of season or weather. The highly rated menu features a variety of Italian favorites—ranging from classic fire oven pizzas to rich short rib lasagna—that cater to diverse tastes, including kid-friendly options. Along with great food, the bar offers an expansive drink menu with quality cocktails and a fine beer selection, making it easy for groups to toast together. Excellent service and accommodating staff further ensure that your meetup is smooth, relaxed, and memorable. Zia’s Social is definitely a spot where friends and family can come together, unwind, and create wonderful experiences.
What kinds of activities and experiences make Zia’s Social ideal for group meetups? First and foremost, the dining experience itself is perfect for groups, featuring shareable dishes and hearty entrees that invite communal enjoyment. Their diverse menu means that everyone in your party—from kids to adults—will find something delicious, whether it’s the creamy butternut squash ravioli, crispy brussels sprouts, or the flavorful chicken diavalo. The excellent pacing of food delivery ensures your group can eat together without long waits, which is important when catering to larger parties. Next, the outdoor beer garden stands out as a refreshing venue option where groups can relax while savoring drinks and appetizers in a scenic and social setting. This open-air space is perfect for casual conversation and enjoying the warmth of a summer evening or early fall afternoon. Additionally, Zia’s Social offers private party accommodations and event planning assistance, so celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or informal reunions can be effortlessly managed. From attentive waitstaff to accommodating management, the entire team at Zia’s strives to meet the unique needs of group gatherings.
How does Zia's Social ensure a family-friendly experience for everyone? The restaurant pays special attention to creating a welcoming environment for guests of all ages. They offer a child-friendly menu with options that appeal to younger palates and plenty of space for families to spread out comfortably. Parents also appreciate the prompt service that helps keep the meal flowing smoothly for restless little ones. The restaurant layout's mix of cozy indoor seating and spacious outdoor patio means families can choose the setting best suited to their group’s vibe and needs—whether a lively lunch or a relaxed dinner. The courteous, professional staff are known for their friendly demeanor, often going the extra mile to ensure children and parents alike feel at home. This combination of thoughtful menu choices, ample space, and attentive service makes Zia’s Social a dependable spot for family get-togethers and multi-generational meetups.
What makes the food and drink at Zia’s Social stand out for group gatherings? The menu showcases authentic Italian dishes specially designed to delight larger parties who want variety without compromise. Crowd-pleasers like the fire oven pizza and rich short rib lasagna are perfectly portioned to share, encouraging convivial dining experiences. Many reviewers mention the standout dishes such as chicken caluzza and butternut squash ravioli as flavorful must-tries, highlighting the kitchen’s attention to quality and presentation. The drink menu complements the food superbly, offering a broad selection of craft beers, inventive cocktails, and classic wines, ensuring your group can enjoy a drink tailored to every preference. Happy hour specials add another layer of appeal, perfect for groups looking to unwind after work or on weekends without overextending their budget. The well-curated combination of food and drinks fuels lively conversation and enjoyment while accentuating the social aspect of dining together.
How does the service at Zia’s Social support memorable group events? Many guests praise the staff for being attentive, efficient, and genuinely accommodating to group needs. Whether you’re coordinating a casual meetup or a large event such as a wedding or private party, the management team is experienced and friendly, providing exemplary support from planning through execution. Event-specific feedback often highlights how the staff smoothly manages timing, food delivery, and drink service with precision, ensuring that guests are well cared for without feeling rushed or neglected. This professionalism helps groups feel relaxed and focused on enjoying their time rather than worrying about logistics. Even during busier times, bartenders and servers maintain a positive attitude and excellent responsiveness, reinforcing that your group’s comfort and satisfaction are priorities. This attentive service culture makes Zia’s Social a trusted choice for both intimate and large-scale social gatherings.
Why is Zia’s Social’s location and ambiance an advantage for groups? Situated conveniently at 6158 N Northwest Hwy in Chicago’s Norwood Park, Zia’s Social is easily accessible by car and public transit, making it a convenient meeting point for friends and family from various neighborhoods. The restaurant environment is a harmonious blend of trendy and classic Italian charm, providing a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere that suits both casual and celebratory occasions. The outdoor patio adds a lovely natural element where guests can enjoy fresh air and people-watching, especially appreciated on pleasant Chicago days and evenings. Parking options, including free street parking and valet service, simplify arrival and departure for larger groups. The venue’s layout supports social interaction, with spaces that allow for both intimate conversations and group-wide celebrations. This combination of thoughtful location, ambiance, and accessibility enhances group meetups by reducing stress and enhancing comfort.
What makes private events and celebrations at Zia’s Social special? Zia’s Social is highly regarded as a venue for weddings, birthday parties, and other milestones because of their seamless event management and beautiful setting. Testimonials from wedding couples, in particular, emphasize how the staff’s professionalism, attention to detail, and coordination with other vendors ensure flawless celebrations. The welcoming atmosphere and elegant contemporary décor help create special memories while remaining comfortable and inviting, without feeling overly formal. Customized menus and flexible seating arrangements allow hosts to tailor the event to fit their vision and guest count perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a substantial celebration with more than a hundred guests, Zia’s Social offers the expertise and facilities to accommodate your needs with style and ease, making every occasion feel unique and worry-free.
How does Zia’s Social accommodate budget-conscious groups? While Zia’s Social is known for its high-quality food and drinks, it also provides options that respect various budgets without sacrificing quality. Their happy hour menu features tasty shareable snacks and pizzas at reduced prices, ideal for groups who want to enjoy a lively outing without overspending. The family-friendly menu includes reasonably priced items, and many dishes are large enough for sharing, which helps manage costs for larger parties. The restaurant accepts credit cards and has flexible payment options, adding convenience for groups splitting the bill. Despite a service fee on card payments, the overall value is supported by generous portions, excellent flavors, and attentive service, making it a smart choice for groups with budget sensitivity who still desire a quality social experience.
Why should you consider Zia’s Social for your next group meetup? Zia’s Social combines delicious Italian cuisine, drink variety, attentive service, and a vibrant yet welcoming atmosphere to create the ideal backdrop for all kinds of social gatherings. Its family-friendly orientation and child-friendly menu extend appeal across generations, while the outdoor beer garden and ample parking enhance convenience and enjoyment. The restaurant’s proven ability to handle private events and large groups with professionalism and grace ensures your celebrations run smoothly from start to finish. Whether you want a relaxed catch-up over drinks, a lively dinner party, or an elegant special occasion, Zia’s Social delivers a balance of quality, comfort, and fun that will keep your group coming back time and time again. It’s a place where great food, great company, and great memories come together effortlessly.