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Olio e Più
Master Critic Review
Olio e Più
8.0
The Chicago outpost of Olio e Più brings a coastal-trattoria feel to Dearborn, with a menu built around tableside cacio e pepe, rich gnocchi, and photogenic cocktails. It draws a style-conscious crowd that prioritizes ambiance and presentation alongside familiar pasta and pizza staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spaghetti cacio e pepe (tableside), Ravioli di short ribs al ragù, Gnocchi Castelmagno e tartufo
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Design-forward trattoria known for tableside cacio e pepe and visually showy plates.
Who should go: Guests prioritizing ambiance and pasta in equal measure.
When to visit: Weekend evenings for full buzz and dining-room theater.
What to order: Tableside cacio e pepe, short rib ravioli, truffle gnocchi.
Insider tip: If you care about the tableside preparation, confirm cacio e pepe is available in your section.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in River North; expect to use nearby paid garages or rideshare. Occasional valet is offered during peak evenings, but availability varies — call ahead if you’re relying on it.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jeans are fine if styled up, but most guests opt for elevated night-out attire.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during prime hours — you can hold a conversation, but it’s not a quiet room.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours; walk-ins are sometimes seated at the bar first.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, except during convention or corporate rushes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage — several pasta, pizza, and salad options, with some dishes modifiable on request.
Vegan options: Limited — a few salads and vegetable sides can be adapted, but pasta and sauces are largely dairy-based.
Gluten-free options: Select items can be prepared gluten-free (sauces, salads, some mains); gluten-free pasta availability may vary — confirm with your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the lighting, design, and tableside presentations create a romantic, high-energy atmosphere. Just note that it can be lively rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — small parties may be able to walk in early or late, but peak weekend slots usually book out. Have a backup nearby or be prepared for a bar or patio wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Occasionally — older kids and teens will be fine earlier in the evening, but the vibe skews adult, social, and cocktail-forward during prime hours.
Best For
Better for: Design-driven ambiance, presentation-focused dishes, and tableside cacio e pepe that delivers more theater and ‘night-out’ energy than traditional trattorias.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, rustic Italian, value-focused portions, or low-key neighborhood dining without a scene — a simpler trattoria may be a better fit.