Elina's

“Elina’s is the place that you find and you love so much you don’t want to tell your friends about it because you’re afraid it’s going to get too crowded and you won’t be able to enjoy it the same way. Even though it’s already incredibly well known in Chicago, I still feel like I want to gatekeep it. The atmosphere is comfortable, friendly, and lively. The interior is small, dim, and cozy. The seats are still spread out to feel like you have your personal space and they’re all filled with people talking and enjoying themselves. The staff is attentive and high spirited. All contributing to a refreshing setting that is lost in other Chicago restaurants. Everything you’ve heard about the food is right - it’s incredible. Complimentary starters, no fuss classic staples that hit every time, and family size portions that truly let you savor the meal. If you’re coming for the first time you have to get the famous rigatoni alla vodka but after seeing the whole menu you’ll realize you’ll be back soon to enjoy more. Don’t overlook the side of broccoli carbonizado - the fish sauce vinaigrette they serve it with is truly standout. There’s plenty of good Italian in Chicago, but I promise Elina’s will jump to the top of your list for good reason.”

“I went to Elina’s with a friend for dinner, sat out on the patio, and had a wonderful time. The service was great, the staff were very friendly and had great recommendations. The food was delicious, it was served family style, and was perfect for splitting an appetizer or two and an entree. It was also well paced, giving time to actually eat a little bit before the next course came out. The drinks were well made, all in all it was a great experience!”

“We came to Elinas while in Chicago for a few days. Celebrating my birthday with Italian food always, and this restaurant did not disappoint. Complimentary starters included silky salami, pickled artichokes, garlic bread and cheese bread basket. Perfect to hold us over for the main dishes that we ordered. For our mains we ordered the chicken Parmesan and the rigatoni alla vodka to share. As dishes are served family style, these two dishes were plenty for me and hubby. We even had some leftovers! The chicken parm was thinly battered and crispy on the outside. Both my husband and I agreed it was delicious and paired wonderfully with the rigatoni. The rigatoni with its spot on sauce was topped with some tasty breadcrumbs. I can see why both of these dishes are their most popular ones. Cait, our waitress, surprised us with a celebratory cannoli on the house. I shared it with my hubby and we both agreed that it's the best cannoli we've ever had. Its outer shell is dipped in chocolate, filled with a delicious lemon ricotta filling, and dipped in crushed pistachios. We're still talking about that cannoli. Huge thanks to Cait for the above and beyond service. She really made our night with her recommendations and taking such amazing care of us. If you're looking for some of the best Italian food in Chicago and an intimate, romantic setting, Elina's is your place. Highly recommend making a reservation, as there are only ten tables inside and this place gets booked up fast. We will definitely return next time we're in the Windy City.”

“I recently came in for the second time because the vodka pasta is so good but this time I decided to get the lobster Angel hair and it was amazing! The food was good. The service was good. I always love coming in there and the music is always great. So thank you. I will be back soon.”

“Elina’s in Chicago’s West Town is hands-down one of the best Italian-American spots I’ve ever experienced—easily deserving every single one of those 5 stars! From the moment we stepped inside, the vibe was perfect: intimate, cozy, and effortlessly stylish with warm wood tones, leather seating, and just the right amount of Sinatra playing overhead. It feels special without being stuffy—ideal for a date night, celebration, or just treating yourself. The food is outstanding and hits all the right notes for classic, comforting Italian done with real care and skill. We started with the Italian chopped salad (crisp, fresh, and addictive), then dove into the legendary vodka rigatoni—creamy, perfectly balanced, with that ideal kick—and the chicken parmesan, which was crispy, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying. Portions are generous enough to share (or not!), and everything tasted homemade in the best way. Service was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable without hovering. Our server made great recommendations and kept the evening flowing smoothly. The whole team made us feel genuinely welcome. If you’re craving top-notch red-sauce Italian in a buzzy yet intimate setting, Elina’s is a must. We’re already planning our return—highly recommend reserving ahead, as this gem fills up fast! 5/5 stars all around. Worth every penny and more. 🍝✨”