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Enoteca Roma Ristorante
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Enoteca Roma Ristorante
8.1
This cozy Roman wine bar has served authentic cuisine from the Eternal City since 2004, with an extensive bruschetta selection and tableside polenta that creates dinner theater. The hidden tree-lined back patio transforms into one of Wicker Park's best warm-weather destinations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bruschetta Flight, Spaghetti Nonna Giovanna, Tableside Polenta
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic Roman cuisine with a magical hidden back patio and connected bakery
Who should go: Wine lovers and romantics seeking patio vibes
When to visit: Summer evenings for the secret garden patio
What to order: Bruschetta flight, venison bolognese lasagna, gnocchi
Insider tip: Ask for overflow seating at Letizia's Bakery next door when it's packed
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive in Wicker Park, especially after 6pm. SpotHero shows nearby lot options if you prefer guaranteed spots.
Dress code: Smart casual - jeans are fine, but lean slightly dressy for the intimate, candlelit vibe
Noise level: Moderate to low - intimate atmosphere feels like dining at a friend's home, easy conversation throughout
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, especially patio season (May-Sept). Book via OpenTable or Tock.
Weekday lunch: Not open - dinner only starting at 4pm Wed-Sun. Closed Mon-Tue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - excellent options including pear ricotta ravioli, eggplant parmigiana, multiple gnocchi varieties, bruschetta flights, and salads
Vegan options: Limited - can modify some dishes (salads, bruschetta with certain toppings), but cheese-heavy menu requires asking server for guidance
Gluten-free options: Yes - menu clearly marks GF items including risotto, eggplant parm, polenta dishes, and GF pasta available. Note: shared fryer for fried items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Exceptional choice. The intimate, narrow dining room with copper pots and chalkboard specials creates effortless romance. Request the hidden back patio in warm months for a magical garden setting. Tableside polenta adds a memorable theatrical touch.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive at 4pm opening or after 8:30pm. Weekend walk-ins are risky - the space is small. Pro tip: If the main room is full, ask about overflow seating at Letizia's Bakery next door (same owners).
Is it kid-friendly? Workable for older kids (8+) who enjoy pasta and pizza, but no kids' menu and the wine-bar atmosphere skews adult. Best strategy: early seating (4-5pm) on weekdays when it's quieter. Stick to familiar items like spaghetti or Roman-style pizzas.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Roman specialties like tableside polenta, bruschetta flights, and handmade gnocchi in a neighborhood gem atmosphere. The hidden back patio rivals any in Wicker Park. More intimate and less scene-y than Division Street competitors.
Skip if: You want deep-dish or Chicago-style pizza (the Roman-style squares disappoint), a kids' menu, or need lunch service. Also skip if you're in a large party over 6 - the narrow room struggles with big groups.
Enoteca Roma Ristorante
8.4
Enoteca Roma is a Division Street standby built around Roman-style comfort food, a deep Italian wine list, and a leafy back garden that feels far from the street. Couples come for long, shared meals built around polenta boards, handmade pastas, and bottles that linger through dessert.
Must-Try Dishes:
Polenta board with rotating toppings, Gnocchi alle erbe, Pear and ricotta ravioli
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A cozy wine-focused trattoria with one of the area’s most charming back patios.
Who should go: Wine-loving couples who share plates and linger over dessert.
When to visit: Warm evenings to take advantage of the secluded garden patio.
What to order: Polenta board, gnocchi alle erbe, pear ravioli.
Insider tip: Build your meal around a polenta board to share, then split a pasta.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Division and nearby side streets; it can be tight during peak dinner hours, so allow extra time.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean a bit dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is comfortable indoors and quieter on the garden patio.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer in peak patio season.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — dinner-focused restaurant.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options, especially among pastas and starters.
Vegan options: Limited — some dishes can be adapted, but options are few.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free diners can be accommodated on some dishes; ask staff in advance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy atmosphere and wine-forward menu make it ideal for relaxed conversation and a slower-paced meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays or earlier in the evening, but reservations are strongly recommended on weekends and during warm-weather patio season.
Is it kid-friendly? Children are welcome, but the vibe skews romantic and adult — best suited for older kids or family gatherings rather than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Long, romantic dinners with thoughtful wine pairings and a charming garden setting.
Skip if: You want ultra-modern Italian, very fast service, or lots of vegan choices.