The 16 Best Cacio e Pepe in Chicago

For those craving the classic Roman pasta dish, cacio e pepe, Chicago offers a variety of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a traditional preparation or a modern twist on this beloved dish, the Windy City has something for everyone.
From cozy Italian trattorias to upscale dining establishments, there are plenty of restaurants in Chicago that serve up delicious cacio e pepe. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, you're sure to find the perfect spot to satisfy your craving for this simple yet flavorful pasta dish.
- Location
- Price
- Quality of ingredients
- Ambiance
- Customer reviews
Check out our list of the top 16 places to enjoy cacio e pepe in Chicago and find your new favorite spot to indulge in this classic Italian dish.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 4–9 PM
- Wednesday: 4–9 PM
- Thursday: 4–9 PM
- Friday: 4–10 PM
- Saturday: 4–10 PM
- Sunday: 3–9 PM
1. Sapori Trattoria
Information and Reviews
- Customers praise the authentic, fresh Italian cuisine served in a cozy and warm atmosphere.
- The diverse menu includes standout dishes like the Gnocchi Al Brivido and the Spaghetti Allo Scoglio, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
- Visitors appreciate the excellent customer service and the wide selection of cocktails and wines that perfectly complement the delicious offerings.
- The atmosphere at Sapori Trattoria is described as cozy, intimate, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for various occasions.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing dinner, a quick takeaway, or a delightful dining experience, Sapori Trattoria is sure to exceed your expectations. Experience the taste of authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Chicago!

- Monday: 4–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 4–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 4–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 4–9:30 PM
- Friday: 3–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 3–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 4–9 PM
2. RPM Italian
Information and Reviews
The restaurant is known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Customers appreciate the romantic, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere of the place. The restaurant accepts reservations and provides private dining room options.
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Wonderful dinner experience, even the picky eater enjoyed the meal.
- Amazing food and service for special occasions like anniversaries.
- Beautifully prepared dishes bursting with flavor, top-notch drink selection.
- Outstanding experience with complex flavors, excellent service, and great vibe.

- Monday: 4–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 4–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 4–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 4–9:30 PM
- Friday: 4–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 4–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 4–9:30 PM
3. Il Porcellino
Information and Reviews
- This is a beautiful Italian restaurant with lovely decorations and a warm ambiance. The food, especially the Burrata and bread, was delightful. However, the service was lacking.
- The ambience of this place is wonderful and cozy, making it a perfect spot for a night out. The garlic bread is a must-try, although some dishes were a bit too salty or spicy for the reviewer's taste.
- The food, particularly the lasagna and chicken Parmesan, is delicious. The stuffed mushrooms and bread are also highly recommended. While the lobster linguine was lacking in flavor, it was still an enjoyable experience overall.
- Customers praise the amazing service and delicious food at Il Porcellino. The Garlic Bread and Meatballs are highly recommended, as well as the House Special Lasagna. The Vodka Sauce Pasta with Shrimp is also a hit among diners.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 1746 reviews, Il Porcellino continues to impress its patrons with its fantastic offerings. If you're in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine served in a cozy and inviting setting, this restaurant is worth a visit.

- Monday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
4. Siena Tavern
Information and Reviews
Recent customer reviews rave about the wonderful staff and great food at Siena Tavern. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- Impressive food, sweet staff, and lovely environment.
- Delicious cocktails, excellent food, and fresh-made pasta.
- Amazing service, great atmosphere, and spectacular dishes.
- Fast, friendly service, good selection for kids, and great atmosphere.
These reviews underscore the restaurant's commitment to quality service and delectable cuisine. Visit Siena Tavern for an unforgettable Italian dining experience.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5–9 PM
- Wednesday: 5–9 PM
- Thursday: 5–9 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
5. Torchio Pasta Bar
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews:
- The food was divine and the homemade desserts were a highlight.
- The staff, including Bill and his wife, were friendly, attentive, and made guests feel at home.
- The cozy and welcoming ambiance, coupled with superb service, made for a memorable experience.
If you're looking for a place that feels like family and serves up delicious comfort food with a touch of elegance, Torchio Pasta Bar is the perfect choice. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance to savor the flavors and hospitality that this hidden gem has to offer!

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 4–11 PM
- Sunday: 4–9 PM
6. Piccolo Sogno
Information and Reviews
- The minestrone soup and fish stew are must-try dishes.
- Generously portioned pasta dishes with great flavors.
- Unique black spaghetti with a mix of seafood.
- Exceptional Italian cuisine, particularly famous for pasta dishes.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–10 PM
- Thursday: 5–10 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: 5–9 PM
7. Osteria Langhe
Information and Reviews
- Vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food
- Nice all-around dinner with excellent dishes like rabbit and polenta
- Outstanding service, owner's wine recommendations, and the best food in the area
- Exceptional white truffle tagliolini and delightful desserts
The menu at Osteria Langhe features a wide range of offerings, including wine, cocktails, spirits, coffee, and comfort food, making it a perfect spot for a cozy dinner or a romantic evening out. Customers have praised the quality of the food, especially dishes like the Plin, rabbit, black truffle risotto, gnocchi, and vitello tonnato. Whether you're looking for a solo dining experience or a meal to share with friends, Osteria Langhe is the place to be in Chicago.

- Monday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
8. Eataly
Information and Reviews
The restaurant provides a diverse range of offerings, from alcohol and beer to vegetarian options and wine, ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy. Customers have praised the cozy and casual atmosphere of Eataly, making it a welcoming spot for families, groups, tourists, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Angel provides exceptional service, offering a genuine and warm experience with great food.
- Fresh homemade pasta and friendly service create a delightful dining experience.
- Ambiance and variety of food and drinks make Eataly a great spot, despite some inconsistency in service.
- While the food is good, some customers find it overpriced and have faced issues with service quality.

- Monday: 5–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 4:30–10 PM
- Sunday: 5–9 PM
9. Osteria Via Stato
Information and Reviews
- The Special Events and Catering team at Osteria Via Stato is fantastic, offering seamless booking and planning for group dinners. Customers appreciate the great food, ambiance, and flexibility, as well as the ability to personalize menus. Although service during the dinner might be lacking due to busyness, the overall experience is highly recommended.
- During Restaurant Week, customers receive excellent value for their money at Osteria Via Stato. The family-style antipasti, entrees, and desserts are top-notch, with fabulous service to match.
- Customers rave about the braised short ribs at Osteria Via Stato during Restaurant Week, praising the juicy and tender meat. The house bread with garlic is also a standout, making the dining experience truly enjoyable.
- Another group praises the accommodating nature of the events team at Osteria Via Stato, particularly mentioning the attentive service. The group was delighted with the Chef's Table experience and highly recommends Lettuce restaurant group for a satisfying dining experience.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
10. Nonnina
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional service and delicious food at Nonnina. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- A customer had an anniversary dinner and praised the attentive server and generous portions.
- Another visitor enjoyed the wine recommendations and pasta dishes, and appreciated the friendly service.
- A satisfied patron commended the friendly staff, recommended making reservations in advance, and rated their experience 10 out of 10.
- One reviewer found the food to be good but felt that the pricing was not exceptional for the quality.
With an impressive rating of 4.5 stars and a wide range of offerings including alcohol, cocktails, comfort food, and vegetarian options, Nonnina continues to be a favorite dining destination for locals and tourists alike. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in Chicago.

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 4–11 PM
- Sunday: 4–10 PM
11. Acanto
Information and Reviews
Known for its offerings of alcohol, cocktails, and comfort food, Acanto is a favorite spot for those looking for an Italian dining experience. With an atmosphere described as cozy, romantic, and upmarket, customers can enjoy a relaxing and elevated meal. The restaurant welcomes a diverse crowd including families, groups, and tourists, creating a welcoming environment for all.
Customer reviews highlight the excellent experience at Acanto, with key points including:
- Nice hidden gem in downtown Chicago with delicious food and great wine.
- Disappointing service and food quality below expectations, not recommended.
- Enjoyable dinner experience with perfectly cooked pasta and well-balanced spritz.
- Good food but expected more quality for the price, attentive service from staff.
Throughout the reviews, customers commend the delicious food, pleasant ambiance, and attentive service provided by Acanto. If you are in Chicago and looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, Acanto is the perfect choice.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 4–10 PM
- Thursday: 4–10 PM
- Friday: 4–10 PM
- Saturday: 3–8:30 PM
- Sunday: 3–10 PM
12. BarTucci Homemade Italian Food
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experience at BarTucci, highlighting the impeccable service and delectable food served. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- The food is absolutely delicious, with generous portions
- The atmosphere is warm and inviting, providing a great dining experience
- BarTucci's chicken Vesuvio and Bruschetta are must-try dishes
The restaurant is popular for lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for solo dining or family gatherings. Moreover, customers appreciate the cozy and romantic atmosphere at BarTucci, which adds to the overall dining experience.
Whether you're craving comfort food, organic dishes, or wine, BarTucci has something for everyone. With excellent customer service and mouthwatering dishes, BarTucci Homemade Italian Food is a top choice for Italian cuisine enthusiasts.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 5–8:30 PM
- Friday: 5–9 PM
- Saturday: 5–9 PM
- Sunday: 5–8:30 PM
13. Anteprima
Information and Reviews
Known for its comfort food and organic dishes, Anteprima ensures that all guests are catered to with vegetarian options available. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant is perfect for a casual or even a romantic night out.
Customer reviews rave about the excellent food and service provided by Anteprima. Patrons appreciate the cozy and sweet atmosphere, along with the delightful desserts offered. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it's no wonder this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Excellent food and service
- Cozy and sweet atmosphere
- Delightful desserts

- Monday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–12 AM
14. OLIO E PIÙ
Information and Reviews
Known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert, OLIO E PIÙ creates a dining experience like no other. Whether you're stopping by for lunch, dinner, or just solo dining, this restaurant caters to all occasions. Their wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet make it a welcoming space for everyone.
Customers rave about their experiences at OLIO E PIÙ, with many highlighting the impeccable service and mouthwatering dishes. Here are a few key points from reviews:
- The food was flavorful and expertly prepared, from appetizers to entrees and desserts.
- The ambiance was cozy and sophisticated, creating a memorable dining experience.
- The staff, especially the waitstaff, were attentive, friendly, and provided great recommendations.
Whether you're craving authentic Italian cuisine or looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal, OLIO E PIÙ is the perfect destination in Chicago.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5–9 PM
- Wednesday: 5–9 PM
- Thursday: 5–9 PM
- Friday: 4:30–10 PM
- Saturday: 4:30–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
15. Pasta Veneta Italian Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- Customers praise the freshly made pasta with top-quality ingredients.
- The ambiance is described as cozy and perfect for a date night or evening with friends.
- Patrons highlight the extensive wine list and authentic Italian cuisine.
- Many rave about the excellent customer service and reasonable prices for the quality of food and experience.
Whether you're craving a comforting plate of pasta or seeking a romantic dinner setting, Pasta Veneta is the ideal spot to enjoy a delicious meal in a charming atmosphere. Visit their website here for more information.

- Monday: 4–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4–10 PM
- Thursday: 4–10 PM
- Friday: 4–11 PM
- Saturday: 4–11 PM
- Sunday: 4–10 PM
16. Osteria del Pastaio
Information and Reviews
Some of the highlights of Osteria del Pastaio include Fast service and Great dessert, making it a popular spot for Lunch and Dinner, as well as for those looking for a Solo dining experience. Customers also appreciate the Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, and Wheelchair-accessible toilet for added convenience.
The menu at Osteria del Pastaio boasts an array of offerings such as Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Comfort food, Happy-hour drinks, Spirits, Vegetarian options, and Wine, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a casual or trendy atmosphere, this restaurant has got you covered.
Customers have left positive reviews for Osteria del Pastaio praising the artisan pasta, fresh-made bread, and authentic Italian food. Some of the key points highlighted in the reviews include:
- The Seafood pasta was great!
- The Pecorino Al Tartufo Nero was amazing!
- The cheese wheel pasta is a must-try!
- The Caesar salad was one of the best!
With a rating of 3.8 and a loyal following of customers, Osteria del Pastaio is a must-visit Italian restaurant in Chicago for a memorable dining experience.
Map of Cacio e Pepe in Chicago
Looking for cacio e pepe in Chicago? Look no further! This classic Italian dish has become a favorite in the Windy City, with many restaurants offering their own unique twists on the traditional recipe. Use the map below to discover all the best spots in Chicago to indulge in this creamy, peppery pasta dish. Enjoy!
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