Set the Scene
Tucked away in the serene oasis of Chicago’s Lakeshore East, Tre Dita Cucina Toscana and Bar Tre Dita seamlessly blend rustic Italian charm with contemporary sophistication, all framed by sweeping panoramic views of the downtown skyline and Lake Michigan.
Upon arrival, a warm glow reflects off the marble and limestone-tiled hallway, guiding guests toward two distinct experiences. Bar Tre Dita offers a rich Art Deco environment with checkered floors, a sweeping marble bar top, and plush lounge seating, all fit for a lively atmosphere. The restaurant offers a slower pace. In a dark marble hallway, there is a large window into a pasta viewing lab. Beyond the culinary theater is a vast room with 40-foot floor-to-ceiling windows supported by warm wooden pillars offering dramatic city views. The white linen-covered round tables and cozy leather booths, lit with dim, warm lighting, create a romantic Tuscan villa atmosphere.
What the Food is Like
The menu, crafted by two-time James Beard-nominated Chef Evan Funke, showcases masterful dishes. To begin, try the Schiacciata Rossa, made with focaccia toscana, salsa di pomodoro, erbe, and extra-virgin olive oil, or the Polpette Di Brasato, crafted with braised beef short rib meatballs, sugo di brasato, and pecorino dolce. A standout is the Gnudi Di Spinaci, a hybrid pasta between gnocchi and ravioli that includes heirloom spinach, morel mushrooms, and parmigiano fonduta. Tre Dita also features an upscale steakhouse menu served family-style. The showstopping Bistecca Alla Fiorentina is prepared from a 60-day dry-aged 32-oz prime bone-in ribeye, sea salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. To close on a sweet note, the Torta All'Olio D'Oliva (olive oil cake), served with seasonal marinated fruit, is an absolute must-order.
Let’s Talk About the Drinks
The cocktail menu mirrors the kitchen's complexity with an expansive, curated spirits list, alongside an exclusively Italian wine cellar featuring around 900 selections from all 20 regions of Italy. On-staff sommeliers are always on hand to guide pairings with your meal. The mixology program shines with signature libations: The Tre, made with Vulcanica vodka, baldoria umami, caper, and Castelvetrano olive; and The Dita, made with Sazerac rye, sfumato rabarbaro, Punt e Mes, Cynar 70, Luxardo Antico, house bitters, and cherry. Both rotate seasonally. La Permaccia, a refreshing blend of Lyre's Italian orange, organic raspberry purée, fresh lemon, and Lyre's sparkling, is a refreshing booze-free pick.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking to toast a milestone or searching for a romantic evening, this Italian gem demands a spot on your Chicago bucket list. Just be sure to book well in advance, as reservations fill up quickly.
Fast Facts:
Location: 401 E. Wacker Dr, The St. Regis Chicago, Chicago, IL 60601
Cuisine: Tuscan-style Italian, Family-style
Vibe: The bar is lively and loud, while the restaurant is more romantic and sophisticated.
Pricing: $$$
Our Favorite Thing on the Menu: Gnudi Di Spinaci: heirloom spinach, morel mushroom, parmigiano fonduta
Reservations: Reservations can be made by phone or OpenTable. Reservations open 14 days prior to the date.
Standout Dishes: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Pappardelle con Ragù, Torta All'Olio D'Oliva
The Attire: Business casual to semi-formal, but not mandatory
Hours: Tre Dita Cucina Toscana: Sunday-Thursday 4:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Friday-Saturday 4:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Bar Tre Dita: Sunday-Thursday 4:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. (bar remains open until midnight), Friday-Saturday 4:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. (bar remains open until 1:00 a.m.)
Chicago, Illinois, United States
