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Francesca's On Chestnut
Master Critic Review
Francesca's On Chestnut
8.2
Part of the Francesca’s group, this Chestnut Street location has served rustic trattoria fare to the Gold Coast since 2009. The menu centers on pastas, roast chicken, and hearty antipasti that work as well for neighborhood regulars as for hotel guests and pre-shopping dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pollo Arrosto Romana, Pollo Milanese, Rigatoni alla Vodka
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Gold Coast trattoria pairing rustic pastas and roasts with steady service.
Who should go: Neighborhood diners seeking reliable, mid-priced Italian comfort.
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8pm for lively but not overwhelming energy.
What to order: Pollo Arrosto Romana, Pollo Milanese, rigatoni alla vodka.
Insider tip: Happy hour deals can trim the bill on drinks and small plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot; street parking is scarce in the Gold Coast, and most guests use nearby paid garages or hotel valet along Chestnut & Michigan Ave.
Dress code: Smart casual — polished jeans and a button-down or nice top are common; business-casual is typical at dinner.
Noise level: Moderate — busy during peak hours but generally suitable for conversation at a normal tone.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait except during convention or hotel rush periods.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pastas, salads, and antipasti can be ordered vegetarian or adjusted on request.
Vegan options: Limited — a few salads and pasta dishes may be modified; best to confirm with the server.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pasta available on request; some dishes can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the setting is comfortable and moderately upscale without feeling formal, and the menu is approachable enough for selective diners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights or earlier seatings, but weekend dinners fill quickly — walk-ins should expect a wait or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — staff is accommodating to families, and the menu has familiar dishes, but the room leans adult-oriented during dinner service.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, crowd-pleasing Italian classics in a comfortable Gold Coast setting with reliable service and predictable pacing.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge regional Italian, tasting-menu dining, or a very quiet, special-occasion atmosphere.