
Adalina is an upscale, modern Italian restaurant in the Gold Coast, led by Michelin-starred chef and Top Chef alum Soo Ahn. The menu blends traditional Italian flavors with contemporary innovations, earning recognition for the best pasta in Chicago, complemented by a romantic ambiance and a thoughtfully curated beverage and wine program.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 912 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 820-9000
Website: https://www.adalinachicago.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Adalina Italian | Modern Italian in Chicago’s Gold Coast
Menus | Adalina in Chicago, IL
Adalina Italian Restaurant – Chicago, IL | OpenTable
Reviews
Do yourself a favor and add the bread service. It’s a commitment, and it’s undeniably filling, but it’s worth the carb-induced coma. We kicked things off with the Blue Fin Tuna Tartare, which is a surprisingly sizable shared plate. It’s incredibly fresh with a slow-burn heat that sneaks up on you without being obnoxious. For the mains, the Spicy Vodka Rigatoni was a pleasant surprise—mostly because it wasn’t actually that spicy, which was a relief for my palate. The portion was massive, as was the Chicken Parmesan. I was a bit baffled that a chicken parm would show up without a sidecar of pasta, but it was so high-quality I almost forgave the omission. Both traveled home with us and, in a rare turn of events, tasted just as good for lunch the next day.
The real plot twist, however, was dessert. I am historically not a strawberry ice cream person, but their strawberry soft serve with the chocolate chip cookie was fantastic—refreshing, authentic, and not that artificial pink flavor you find at a grocery store. To top it off, the service was impeccable, and the dirty martini comes with the kind of theatrical presentation that makes you feel much more important than you actually are.
Their bread service was good was well. I loved how they have rotating sorbet to try and the tiramisu was really good and creamy. Loved how everything was decorated for Christmas.
We started with the market oysters. They were fresh, clean, and had a great briny flavor. The cocktail sauce complemented them perfectly, and it was a great way to begin the meal. The baked bay scallops were another hit. The anchovy butter and lemony breadcrumbs added so much richness and flavor. They were salty in the best way, although the portion felt a little small for the price.
The spicy vodka rigatoni was the highlight of the night. The sauce was creamy with just the right amount of heat, and the pasta tasted soft and handmade. It was one of those plates you wish wouldn’t end. Easily one of the best pastas I’ve had in Chicago.
The main entrées were more mixed. The chicken Milanese had a nice salad and dressing, but the chicken itself was dry and felt pretty plain without any sauce or accompaniment. It just didn’t feel worth the price. The salmon vesuvio was cooked well and had a good crust, and the gnocchi on the side was tasty, but the overall seasoning fell short. For a $37 dish, I expected a bit more flavor and substance.
The cocktails were excellent. The Fume e Frutta had a beautifully balanced smokiness from the mezcal, and The Spice of Life was refreshing and enjoyable.
Service was one of the strongest parts of the evening. The staff was friendly, kind, and never rushed us. They brought complimentary champagne and surprised us with strawberry sorbet and candles for the celebration, which was a really thoughtful touch. The restaurant has an upscale, cozy feel with dim lighting, and it was especially inviting on a cold winter night.
Overall, Adalina delivers great hospitality and some truly amazing dishes, especially the pasta and cocktails. A few entrées missed the mark for the price point, but it’s still a place I would return to, particularly for another bowl of that vodka rigatoni.
Adalina is one of those restaurants that knows exactly who it is—sophisticated, stylish, and delicious from start to finish. From the moment we walked in, the vibe felt right. The lighting, the decor, the music—all set the tone for a night that felt both elevated and relaxed.
We started with cocktails, and I’ve got to give them credit for creativity. My drink literally said “Friday Vibes” on top, and that’s exactly what the night felt like. The espresso martini was smooth and strong, not too sweet, and it paired perfectly with the rest of the meal.
The food was a knockout. The pasta was rich and comforting, coated in a tomato sauce that actually tasted homemade—fresh basil, crushed tomatoes, and just the right balance of seasoning. The lamb chops were tender, cooked perfectly, and the flavor had that deep char that makes you slow down and appreciate every bite. The sides were no filler either—everything had its own spotlight moment on the plate.
And then there were the cookies. I’m not exaggerating when I say they might’ve been some of the best I’ve ever had—gooey centers, melted chunks of chocolate, and that warm, buttery smell that just hits right.
Adalina easily earns a top spot on my Chicago list. Whether you’re out with friends, on a date, or celebrating something special, it’s the kind of place that guarantees good food, good drinks, and great memories.
caviar, gnocchi, and my friend had the salmon. The gnocchi had way too much sauce so you couldn’t really taste the pasta. And my friends thought the vodka rigatoni portion was too small. For dessert my friends ordered Tiramisu and chocolate hazelnut cake but it was too fudgy for me. The tiramisu wasn’t moist and filled with flavor. I evidently lucked out on my birthday raspberry gelato, it wasn’t sour, just sweet and subtle. I loved the bday cocktails as I wanted that my first time around since it’s a special touch. I ordered the steak my first time here, but it was salted extremely heavy. Overall, if you want authentic Italian food I would suggest another spot. But if you want a boujee/pretty ambiance vibe for instagram pics, this is your go to spot! They also have a side room that holds up to 20 people I believe, for private parties(see video). It is super cute for a nice intimate vibe!