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Olio E Più Chicago: A Taste Of Italy In The Heart Of The Windy City

New York's Olio e Piu Opening in Chicago by End of the Year | What Now

Aug 03, 2025
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New York's Olio e Piu Opening in Chicago by End of the Year | What Now

If you're looking for a place in Chicago that feels like a warm, cozy corner of southern Italy, Olio E Più is the spot for you. This trattoria brings a little slice of Mediterranean charm right into the city, serving up hearty meals and a vibrant atmosphere that makes everyone feel like part of the family. Whether you're a local looking for a new go-to or a visitor craving something comforting and authentic, Olio E Più Chicago might just become your next favorite dining experience.

So, what’s all the fuss about? Well, for starters, this restaurant is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a celebration of Italian culture, from the rustic décor and warm lighting to the carefully prepared dishes that feel like they were made by your nonna herself. The name might make you think of olive oil — and yes, that’s definitely a big part of the menu — but the experience goes far beyond just the food. It’s about community, connection, and the joy of sharing a meal with others.

Whether you're curious about the menu, wondering where to find it, or just want to know if it’s worth the wait, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Olio E Più in Chicago. And if you’re thinking about making a reservation or checking it out for yourself, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into what makes this spot so special.

Table of Contents

What Is Olio E Più Chicago?

Olio E Più Chicago is an Italian trattoria located at 445 N. Clark Street, right in the heart of the city’s bustling River North neighborhood. The restaurant is part of a growing chain that also has locations in New York City and Washington, D.C., but each branch keeps that classic Italian charm alive. The name “Olio E Più” translates to “oil and more,” nodding to the central role olive oil plays in Mediterranean cuisine.

This isn’t your typical fast-casual spot. Olio E Più focuses on traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Think handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal specials that change with the availability of the best produce. The goal is simple: to bring people together through great food and a welcoming environment.

The restaurant is part of a larger brand that also includes an app called Olio, which helps people share surplus food and household items locally. But in Chicago, the focus is all on the dining experience — and it shows.

Why Visit Olio E Più?

There are plenty of Italian restaurants in Chicago, so what makes Olio E Più stand out? Well, for one, the food is consistently top-notch. But beyond that, the overall experience is what brings people back again and again.

  • Authentic Italian fare — This isn’t watered-down Italian-American food. The dishes are rooted in classic Italian cooking, with many recipes passed down through generations.
  • Warm, inviting atmosphere — The décor is a mix of rustic and elegant, with antique chandeliers, vintage posters, and a cozy layout that makes you want to stay a while.
  • Great for groups and couples — Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just having dinner with friends, Olio E Più feels like a place where memories are made.
  • Consistently high ratings — With a 4.8 rating on TripAdvisor and over 190 reviews, it’s safe to say locals and visitors alike are fans.

So if you're looking for a place where you can enjoy a great meal in a setting that feels like home, this might be your new favorite spot.

Menu Highlights

The menu at Olio E Più is a love letter to Italian cuisine. Here are some of the most popular dishes you’ll find:

Pastas

  • Tagliatelle al Ragu — A rich, slow-cooked meat sauce over fresh egg pasta. Classic and comforting, this dish is a must-try.
  • Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa — A Southern Italian staple with tender ear-shaped pasta, bitter greens, garlic, and chili flakes. It’s simple, bold, and packed with flavor.

Pizzas

  • Quattro Formaggi — A creamy dream with four different cheeses melted together in a wood-fired oven.
  • Diavola — Spicy salami, mozzarella, and a touch of chili oil for that extra kick.

Appetizers

  • Bruschetta Trio — Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread. It’s light, refreshing, and the perfect start to your meal.
  • Calamari Fritti — Lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty marinara dip.

Desserts

  • Panna Cotta — A silky, creamy dessert with seasonal fruit compote. It practically melts in your mouth.
  • Tiramisu — Rich, coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream. It’s a classic done right.

And of course, don’t forget the wine list. The restaurant offers a wide selection of Italian wines, many of which pair perfectly with the dishes on the menu. Whether you're sipping a full-bodied red or a crisp white, it’s the perfect way to round out your meal.

Location and Ambiance

Olio E Più Chicago is located at 445 N. Clark Street, which puts it in a pretty convenient spot for both locals and tourists. It’s just a short walk from the Merchandise Mart and within easy reach of downtown Chicago and the Riverwalk.

Inside, the space feels warm and lively. There’s a mix of booth seating, tables, and a bar area that makes for a great spot to grab a drink before dinner. The lighting is soft but not dim, and the background music is just loud enough to add to the ambiance without making it hard to talk.

The walls are lined with vintage Italian posters and antique-style chandeliers, giving the space a retro yet elegant vibe. It’s not too flashy, but definitely has character. The staff is friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do — which only adds to the overall experience.

Reservations and Hours

Given its popularity, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend or during peak dinner hours. You can book a table directly through their website at www.olioepiu.com, or via TripAdvisor, where you’ll also find recent reviews and photos from other diners.

As of the latest update, Olio E Più Chicago is open for lunch and dinner throughout the week, with slightly extended hours on weekends. Here’s a quick breakdown of their typical schedule:

  • Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM (Monday through Friday)
  • Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Monday through Sunday)
  • Bar: Open during lunch and dinner hours

Of course, hours can vary slightly depending on the season and holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead before making plans.

Customer Reviews

With a 4.8 rating on TripAdvisor and over 190 reviews, it’s clear that Olio E Più has made a strong impression on its guests. Many diners praise the restaurant for its consistent food quality, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service.

Some of the most common themes in the reviews include:

  • “The food tastes like it came straight from Italy.”
  • “Perfect spot for date night or dinner with friends.”
  • “Great wine selection and knowledgeable staff.”
  • “The calamari was some of the best I’ve ever had.”

Of course, no restaurant is perfect. Some reviewers noted that the space can get a bit noisy during busy hours, and the menu prices are on the higher side — but most agree that it’s worth it for the quality and experience you get.

One reviewer even mentioned, “It’s not just a meal — it’s an experience. You leave feeling like you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home.” That kind of sentiment shows up again and again, and it’s a big part of what makes Olio E Più special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Olio E Più Chicago family-friendly?

Absolutely. Families with kids are very welcome, and the menu offers plenty of options that even picky eaters will enjoy. There’s also enough space between tables to make it comfortable for groups of all sizes.

Does Olio E Più offer takeout or delivery?

Yes, they do. If you’re not able to dine in, you can order directly through their website or use third-party delivery services like Grubhub or Uber Eats. The food travels well, especially dishes like pasta and pizza.

What’s the dress code like at Olio E Più?

It’s pretty relaxed. You’ll see a mix of casual and smart-casual attire — nothing too formal. You can dress up or down, and either way, you’ll fit right in.

Final Thoughts

Olio E Più Chicago is more than just a restaurant — it’s a celebration of Italian culture, food, and community. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or staying for a long dinner with friends, the experience is always warm and memorable.

If you’re in Chicago and haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? You can visit their website to see the full menu, make a reservation, or check out their other locations in New York and Washington, D.C.

And if you’re curious about the other side of the Olio brand — the one that focuses on food sharing and reducing waste — you can learn more about it on our site.

New York's Olio e Piu Opening in Chicago by End of the Year | What Now
New York's Olio e Piu Opening in Chicago by End of the Year | What Now
OLIO E PIÙ - Updated March 2025 - 1606 Photos & 526 Reviews - 445 N
OLIO E PIÙ - Updated March 2025 - 1606 Photos & 526 Reviews - 445 N
OLIO E PIÙ - Updated July 2025 - 1715 Photos & 556 Reviews - 445 N
OLIO E PIÙ - Updated July 2025 - 1715 Photos & 556 Reviews - 445 N

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