Monteverde in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, is a standout destination for Italian cuisine and a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Led by Chef Sarah Grueneberg, a James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Great Lakes, the restaurant has earned accolades for its inventive yet authentic approach to Italian dishes. At its core is the freshly made pasta, crafted daily with incredible attention to detail, offering unforgettable dishes. Monteverde has also been mentioned in the Michelin guide and it's definitely a restaurant that should be on your list if you haven't visited.
The restaurant is a sought-after dining destination, with reservations often booking out weeks in advance. That said, I’ve occasionally gotten lucky walking in and putting my name down—especially when I time it right or don’t mind waiting a bit.
Cacio Whey Pepe: simple yet perfectly balanced, with the creamy sauce and the light, refreshing lemon ricotta cheese bringing out the freshness to a classic dish.
Ragù alla Napoletana: hearty, flavorful meat sauce that’s so filling it’s perfect for sharing, leaving you with plenty of leftovers to savor.
Burrata e Ham: a great combination of creamy burrata paired with rich prosciutto, served with freshly baked focaccia that elevates the dish to a whole new level.