Full disclosure: I dream of Topo Gigio’s fried calamari, so much so that after gorging on fried squid and Topo Gigio’s soft, warm bread, served with cheese and olive oil, I usually take most of my entree—which is a huge portion—home. This old-world Italian joint is reliably filled with a well-heeled and energized Old Town crowd, who come here for the pastas, like the popular rigatoni al filo di fumo (rigatoni in tomato sauce with pancetta, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil, topped with pecorino cheese) and traditional proteins, like veal saltimbocca and Lake Superior whitefish al limone, plus reasonable wine prices. Despite the perennially busy speed, servers are attentive and down to earth.
Chicago› Restaurant
Topo Gigio
1516 N Wells St. (btw. North Ave. and Schiller St.), Chicago, IL 60610
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Lincoln Park & Old Town
Hours
Mon–Sat 11:30–10:30pm; Sun 4–10pm
Transportation
Subway/El: Brown Line to Sedgwick St
Phone
312/266-9355
Prices
Main courses $14–$24
Cuisine Type
Italian
Web site
Topo Gigio
Other
Reservations not accepted for garden or sidewalk seating
![2 star(s) 2 star rating](/assets/rating/fromm-rating-2star.png)
Map
1516 N Wells St. ChicagoNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.