Seemor
Il PorcellinoA-Worth Trying
59 W Hubbard St #2, Chicago, IL 60654
· Italian restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (4452 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively River North Italian with standout burrata lasagna and strong pastas; service is usually warm but can slip at peak times; reservations and an appetite are smart.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Il Porcellino delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by its celebrated burrata lasagna and hearty pastas, supported by strong service knowledge and warm, inviting design. However, inconsistent execution and tight seating during peak hours prevent the higher distinction needed for grade A territory. The restaurant excels as a reliable neighborhood favorite with genuine repeat loyalty, competitive with the area's better Italian establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with dim bottle-glow lighting and family photos, a River North staple where servers often make birthdays feel special. One diner summed it up: "The lasagna and short rib melted in my mouth." However, expect peak-hour crowds and the occasional service delay when the room is slammed. The cooking leans elevated traditional Italian hearty pastas, a famed burrata-topped lasagna, crisp calamari, and Chicago nods like Chicken Vesuvio. Portions are generous, prices fair for the area, and staff can guide gluten-free swaps without fuss. Best for those who crave comfort-first flavors over culinary theatrics. Families do well here: kids gravitate to spaghetti and meatballs, rigatoni alla vodka, chicken parm, and the giant chocolate cake. The menu offers many familiar choices and a dedicated gluten-free pasta list; just know the room can be lively and tables a bit tight at rush hours.
At a Glance
- Signature burrata lasagna and hearty pastas draw repeat visits
- Cozy, lively ambiance ideal for dates and celebrations
- Generous portions with fair pricing for River North
- Service can lag and seating feel tight at peak times
- Delivery/takeout quality and timing can be inconsistent during rush
What Sets It Apart
- signature_burrata_lasagna
- dedicated_gluten_free_pasta_menu
- warm_old_school_Italian_vibe
What People Love
- Rich, comforting lasagna and pastas
- Welcoming, old-school Italian vibe
- Attentive staff who personalize celebrations
- Portions that feel generous and satisfying
- Dependable favorites like calamari and tiramisu
Points of Concern
- Peak-time service delays and occasional order mishaps
- Takeout and delivery can be slow or arrive less hot during busy periods
- Tight seating; some find tables cramped
- Isolated reports of underseasoned dishes; eggplant parm and Alfredo mixed feedback
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-64 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Share antipasti (garlic bread or burrata & pears) then split the Baked Burrata Lasagna.
- For lighter mains, choose Salmon Piccata with roasted artichokes.
- Gluten-free diners: opt for GF fettuccine with bolognese or spicy scampi.
Perfect For
- Date night with classic Italian comfort
- Birthday dinners with shareable starters and desserts
- Visitors exploring River North dining
- Gluten-free diners seeking real pasta options
Location Insights
Area: Bustling River North dining district with bars, galleries, and after-work crowds; popular with locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, heavy foot traffic and good lighting; standard urban precautions at late hours.
Nearby: Near downtown hotels, offices, and nightlife; strong pre- and post-theater and event traffic.
River NorthRiver North is renowned for its lively dining scene featuring upscale restaurants, trendy bars, and art galleries. The area attracts a mix of locals and visitors seeking nightlife, fine dining, and cultural experiences in a stylish urban setting.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:30
Tuesday16:00–21:30
Wednesday16:00–21:30
Thursday16:00–21:30
Friday16:00–22:30
Saturday16:00–22:30
Sunday16:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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