Best Hidden Gems Heaven Italian Restaurants in River North
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop
True late-night New York–style slices and subs steps from River North bars.
Notable Picks
Since 2014, Dough Bros has been the go-to New York–style slice window in 60654, staying open as late as 4 a.m. on weekends. Counter service, foldable slices, and subs make it the quintessential post-bar pizza stop near the State & Hubbard cluster of nightlife.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke & Spinach Slice, Mushroom Slice, Custom Build-Your-Own Whole Pie
What makes it special: True late-night New York–style slices and subs steps from River North bars.
8.1
Torchio Pasta Bar is a compact, pasta-first restaurant where the focus is on extruded shapes and rich sauces rather than a sprawling menu. With fewer seats and a small, frequently praised menu, it serves as a more intimate alternative to the big-box River North Italians.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rigatoni alla vodka, Spaghetti carbonara, Rigatoni with chicken and pesto cream
What makes it special: Small, pasta-centric dining room where most of the menu centers on housemade shapes.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Opened in 2025 by Boka Restaurant Group, Zarella does both tavern-style squares and artisan round pies alongside starters and a few Italian American plates. Its grab-and-go window and relatively moderate pricing make it a newer, more casual entry into the River North Italian landscape.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soppressata & Mortadella specialty pie, Spicy vodka pizza, Sunday Salad with salami and ditalini
What makes it special: Chef-driven tavern and artisan pizzas with a grab-and-go window in the former GT Fish space.