My senses are still in happy land after a multi-course extravaganza at Trattoria Ultimo. I have multiple favorites from our meal this evening, so it is really hard to advise on what is a must have.,if you can...bring a big group and taste it all. We did exactly that tonight...ordered a little of everything then shared family style. I don't think it is what they intended when they designed the menu, but you would be doing yourself a disservice to only order one thing. Highlights were the risotto with fig, braised short rib gnocchi and the pan seared branzino fish.
Then, oh.,there is dessert. A plate of handmade Italian cookies and pastries. We also had the tiramisu dessert. Now I'm actually a purest, and traditonally frown upon getting too creative with the classics..however the owners uses their classically French trained techniques to reinvent tiramisu with almost Southern Provence perfection...like an impeccable French/Italian hybrid. Delish!
I had the Braised short beef rib special tonight. The sides include Brussel sprouts potatos and cauliflower. The whole dish was very well prepared and I left nothing on the plate.
Having lived in southern Italy, Trattoria Ultimo brought back some great memories. The food is very authentic. I was amazed at how incredible the food tasted. I really don't know what I liked the most as each dish seemed to be better than the last. The service was impeccable. It feels like home from the moment you walk in. I am not from Chicago, but it will certainly be my first stop when I am next in town.
The food is fresh and delicious. The staff and owners go above and beyond to make customers feel welcome. I had a situation in which someone from outside the restaurant was trying to start a conflict with me. The owner and even the dishwasher helped diffuse the situation and ensure the person did not enter the restaurant. Trattoria Ultimo will always have my business and recommendation.
What can I say? This place is amazing. The restaurant is very small and intimate which lends to ambiance. the food is absolutely lovely and they have a continuously changing menu of seasonal specialties. They are a byob establishment which allows for a fun wine dinner with friends. I left happy and full. I wish I lived in Chicago so I could make regular stops at this lovely place!
Wonderful food - simply well done traditional dishes with quality ingredients, with some unique takes on classics as well. Great service in an intimate setting - highly recommended. BYOB and cash only (they have an ATM).
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This is hands down my favorite restaurant in Chicago.
It's BYOB Italian / French - low key/relaxed spot with great food, music & ambiance (I personally like the simplicity, not everything matches, etc- gives it character :)
I have dined here at least a dozen times (maybe more!) over the course of the past ~2 years & have always had an amazing meal.
They use fresh ingredients, sourced locally if possible & the flavor & freshness comes through in every bite. They also have a specials menu that changes daily (at least 4-5 appetizers & 4-5 entrees that showcase in season ingredients).
It's a perfect date night spot where you can enjoy your company and a great meal over a glass of your favorite wine (brought from home!)
I've also hosted several big parties here (~30 people) for Friendsgiving, my 30th birthday, and my bachelorette party dinner! They are super easy to work with in customizing a pre-fixe family style menu & all of my guests gave rave reviews!
My husband have also taken both of our parents, out of town guests, neighbors & friends here on many occasions, and everyone was super impressed & pleased with their dinner!
Something for everyone - will not disappoint!
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