📍 Chicago · Must-Try Italian Cuisine 🇮🇹 Nonnina

5.11 officially kicks off my food recommendation journey in Chicago—hoping to keep this channel going strong! 🥳 Happy Mother's Weekend (a bit sudden, but I love my mom ❤️). 🇮🇹 Nonnina, a classic Italian restaurant near Millennium Park. The interior is lovely, especially the window seats that remind me of those new outdoor garden restaurants in NYC's SoHo. Lunchtime usually allows walk-ins; on Friday nights, try your luck at the bar tables. Must-orders: Calamari Fritti (fried squid rings) – huge portion, light batter, served with a refreshing dipping sauce. Eggplant starter – think of it as thin fried eggplant "sandwiches" with fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze. Absolutely stunning—crispy, cheesy, tangy, with great texture and no greasiness. Main: Squid ink pasta – never disappoints! Loaded with seafood, al dente noodles, and a rich, slightly spicy tomato-based sauce. Saw a neighboring table order gelato—served in a giant retro banana boat bowl. If you love tart flavors, try their raspberry gelato—perfectly tangy and sweet 🥰. 💰 Average per person: $35 #ChicagoEats #DowntownChicago #ChicagoLoop #ItalianInChicago #ChicagoSummerVibes