Across from Millennium park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar is a treasured destination for those who appreciate authentic and approachable Italian food in a conversation-friendly atmosphere. Acanto serves seasonally-driven Italian cuisine from both regions of Italy utilizing artisanal ingredients from Midwest farmers and producers. While Acanto is well-known for its expansive, award-winning wine list that showcases more than 700 bottles, the libations menu is rounded out by Italian classics including spritzes and negronis along with craft cocktails, beer, and spirits.
Salumi, pizza, pasta & other Italian fare plus cocktails & a large wine list in a relaxed setting.
Jordan C
Stopped in for a late lunch and was excited to find happy hour from 2-5 which included a decent variety of food and drinks. I had an aperol spritz, along with the panino prosciutto which was amazing. It came with a side salad – I’d definitely order it all again. The place itself is a darker eloquent wine bar with plenty of seating.
… morePamila Davenport
Visiting in Chicago for a couple of days. Did some research on great restaurants and decided on Acanto. We are so glad we did! Acanto is gorgeous — the candles were plentiful and cast beautiful reflections throughout the restaurant. Phillip, our server, was attentive and really seemed to care that we had a wonderful time. The food — absolutely incredible! We started with a couple of items from the happy hour menu — the star was the Aroncini! We have traveled the world and had it in many places from street food vendors to high end restaurants. This was absolutely the best! We then ordered and split the Apple Panzanella — another winner. For entrees I had the Pumpkin Agnolotti, the pasta was amazing and the pumpkin filling so yummy. My husband had the Fusilli which was loaded with seafood. I really enjoyed the Angnolotti and would definitely order it again. We shared dessert, the Torta Barozzi, a flourless chocolate cake, but with a twist — rum caramel! Oh my! It was a lovely way to end the evening. Pic’s of my favorite items are below. We’ll be back!
… moreIlene Rothman
Wow, this restaurant made my trip! Lovely romantic, cozy vibe paired with phenomenal, high-quality, and delicious food. I originally came to try a dish from the Vegan menu and ended up ordering their Seafood Fusilli dish off the regular menu. This seafood pasta is truly an artisan plate. I’m looking forward to having it again! The waitress Jaclyn was also wonderful. The location can’t be beat. I can’t wait to visit here again.
… moreJudy Grados Ghassemi
Loved, loved, loved my dining experience at Acanto. We started with the arugula salad which was phenomenal! For a salad it was flavored packed. I had the rigatoni and it was so good, flavorful and hearty. Of course we had dessert which was these Italian like donuts which were oh so yummy. Drinks were good too, orange wine and margarita. The atmosphere was so cozy and romantic. All tables were candle lit (we dined in the evening). This is your next date night!
… moreD Rose (drosemusic.com)
Acanto and The Gage are neighbors. Acanto features a more exclusive Italian vibe and culture. We sat at the bar and had very tasty cocktails. We visited around 6pm on a Tuesday. There was no wait. Bartender and staff were very friendly and welcoming.
… moreCarl Wong
We stopped for a light dinner, the location is strategic, on Michigan Ave across from Millennium Park after checking out the Christmas tree lights. However, we were disappointed by the underwhelming food. The octopus is heavily dressed and too spicy and sour. The batter on the calamari is not good. The pane della casa is mixed taste, the cracker is a bit bitter as if it’s over toasted. The apple panzanella, however, is surprisingly good, it looks simple but has complex taste and texture.
… moreErin Summers
My first dining experience at Acanto was absolutely amazing! I live downtown and have been to so many Italian restaurants around the city. The attention to detail and depth creativity of the cocktail and food menu, the intimate and cozy atmosphere, and the incredibly attentive and impressive staff are unmatched! I had the pleasure of meeting and being taken care of by Emily, who was an exceptional server and very genuine person. She ensured my experience at Acanto was unforgettable! I can’t wait to visit again! Cheers!!
… moreDan C (Daydream)
I walked into Acanto right as happy hour was starting, and it was exactly what I needed after a visit to the Art Institute. I was solo, but they treated me like a regular—super welcoming and relaxed vibe.
I sat out on the patio and ordered the arancino and the burrata with prosciutto off the happy hour menu. Both were excellent—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Perfect portion sizes for a light early dinner.
My server, Bree, was awesome—friendly, attentive, and had great recommendations. Even though I didn’t order a full meal, she made sure I had a great experience.
This place is a gem if you’re looking for a classy but comfortable spot near Millennium Park. I’d definitely come back—next time, maybe for the pasta!
… moreYevhen Stupchenko
The restaurant has a very cozy atmosphere. The warm, dim lighting and the candle on the table made the evening romantic. The host quickly gave me a table.
I’m not sure the food at this restaurant was anything unique for me. The prices are above average, and the food quality is quite ordinary. We found the pasta too peppery, but they remade it very quickly and without any problems.
The waiter was very polite and friendly. However, after they brought us dessert, they immediately presented us with the bill, which I hadn’t asked for. There was still a whole hour left before the restaurant closed. I interpreted this gesture as a request to leave as soon as possible.
… moreStojancho Cholev
The place seems very nice inside . The people working there they do their job ..
Our service was top notch, great , 10 out of 10 .As far as food we had high expectations considering the prices .
We started off with happy hour arancini and polenta fries and I feel like this was the best part of the dinner we had .
The main entree , chicken piccata and rigatoni bolognese- NOT good .
Rigatoni were undercooked and lacked flavor . Not worth for the 30 bucks .
Chicken piccata was probably the worst I had . Salty boiled chicken sitting on top of some broccolini.
Skipped dessert.
Due to the great service , I may consider coming back and giving it another try .
Thank you for the hospitality.
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