Recommends

chicagogirl3

Joined 6 years ago

Heavenly slice of Europe right beneath the Hancock Observatory. I stumbled across this cafe one night when the Cheesecake Factory (next door) had a ridiculous wait. Was I glad or what! I couldn't believe it when I walked in.. it was as if someone had cut it out of Europe and stuck it in Chicago. The desserts are so authentic and delicious.. I was truly amazed. Plus they serve the best coffee -- Lavazza! The prices are very reasonable considering Starbucks will charge you over $2 for an espresso that doesn't taste nearly as good as the ones here (and this is coming from a daily Starbucks customer). They also serve gelato which is out of this world. They have about 11 flavors, all of which are equally tasty. I haven't tried out the restaurant they have in the back yet, but maybe one day I will get a chance. Part of this place also doubles as a store where they sell various european sweets and crackers and such. Bottom line, I LOVE this place!

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pinoyvlf

Joined 7 years ago

Great Italian little Italian place. While walking down the mile, my girlfriend and I kept noticing this place everytime we walked by. We eventually went inside to come and check it out before we went to the airport, and we were pleasantly surprised. The place acted as a store with some italian food items you could take home. They had a variety of pastas, sandwhiches, breakfast items, and desserts that it was hard to decide just one thing I wanted. This place makes for a great breakfast or lunch spot. It isn't a must see in my book, but suggest checking this place out if you have the time. Being located right at the Hancock tower, I think you will find it hard to miss.

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wlevitt

Joined 10 years ago

Excellent Grilled Sandwiches. Make a special trip there! They have delicious grilled sandwiches "tostinos". Their pizza is more of a thick crust, square cut but it worthwhile too. The arancini is great and they have a lot

of italian food products you can't find elsewhere easily. Also, they have a good bakery and gelato bar. Two locations, the one on Michigan is bigger with more seating. Everything is

reasonably priced and great!

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savg_pncl

Joined 11 years ago

Best Sandwiches in the City. This is a wonderful deli for authentic Italian sandwiches and salads. Make sure to try their homemade pasta sauces as well. There are two locations in Chicago -- the original has been there since I moved to the city 25 years ago. I ate there everyday when I worked in the Loop and I still will make a special trip there for their unforgettable subs.

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bluehensfan

Joined 11 years ago

Great place to stop after a trip to the top. Small cafe serves excellent gelato including hazlenut, chocolate, and banana chocolate chip varieties. They also have good pizza and italian pastries as well. You can dine inside or out at the many tables they have available, and they are open until 10:00 PM most nights for late night bites.

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Popular Hancock Center stop for imported Italian coffees, sweets, sandwiches and sauces.. In Short
This family-owned Italian gourmet shop and deli draws a mix of corporate types and tourists clamoring for lunchtime panini, sub sandwiches, soups and salads. A popular choice is the crusty, chewy pizza by the slice. Desserts include cannoli and tiramisu and are best paired with the shop's full-bodied coffees. Other fancy Italian items include olive oils, pasta, wine and more.