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Main dining room - Acanto, Chicago, IL

Acanto

4.8 (4514)
$31 to $50
Italian
18 South Michigan, Chicago, IL 60603

Make a reservation

A photo of Acanto restaurant

Acanto

4.8
$31 to $50
Italian
Downtown / Loop

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 52 times today

About this restaurant

  • Good for special occasions
  • Charming
  • Great for fine wines
Across from Millennium park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar is a treasured destination for those who appreciate authentic and approachable Italian food in a conversation-friendly atmosphere. Acanto serves seasonally-driven Italian cuisine from both regions of Italy utilizing artisanal ingredients from Midwest farmers and producers. Acanto boasts one of the most lauded wine programs in the US, including a 3-star rating by World of Fine Wine and a two-glass “Best of Excellence” rating by Wine Spectator. The libations menu is rounded out by Italian classics including spritzes and negronis along with craft cocktails, beer, and spirits.

The word Acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus, the flowery leaf featured prominently in Roman architecture. Famed architect Louis Sullivan used Acanthus in his distinctive terra cotta ornamentation found on the facade of the historically-landmarked building that houses Acanto.

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Italian, Wine Bar
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon–Wed 11:00 am–9:00 pm Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Fri 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Troy Jorge
  • Private party facilities
    The intimate dining room is ideal for rehearsal dinners, engagement celebrations, showers and post-wedding brunches, while Acanto’s patio on Michigan Avenue is a dream setting for cocktails. Up to 75 (seated) or 100 (cocktail) guests, inclusive of outdoor space.
  • Delivery & takeout
  • Neighborhood
    Downtown / Loop
  • Cross street
    Between Madison St. and Monroe St. across from Millenium Park.
  • Parking details
    The nearest self-park garage is the Grant Park North Garage. Enter from Michigan between Randolph and Monroe Streets. Exit at the far southwest of the garage (the green section); the exit is steps from our front door. We offer a discounted parking rate for the Grant Park North Garage. Every day, enjoy a $13 rate for parking for up to 12 hours. Please see our host stand for parking discount vouchers.
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

All Experiences

  • Learn to Speak Italian Wine Class

    $55.00 per person

    1 - 8 people

    Multiple dates available
    WELCOME BACK TO (WINE) SCHOOL! Our crowd-favorite series of wine classes continues. Enjoy a wine tasting and fascinating lecture with Acanto’s Wine Director Torrence O’Haire, and earn new confidence in the field of Italian wine! Tasting of 4 Wines | Wednesdays 5:30-6:30PM **View full class schedule at https://www.acantochicago.com/learn-to-speak-italian-wine PRICE VARIES BY CLASS; class is held on our temperature controlled patio.
    Learn to Speak Italian Wine Class Photo

Concierge
AI Beta

Our AI assistant, Concierge, is here to answer your questions about this restaurant.

Videos

Shared by creators who recently dined at this restaurant.

  • Profile image

    itsjessgameng

    you’ll never make it through your restaurant list if you only save it for occasions. SEND THIS TO SOMEONE THAT NEEDS TO HEAR THIS 🗣️ must get items: 🍖 bruschetta di prosciutto 🍝 lobster cappalletti 🍫 bomboloni 📍Acanto, Chicago (Loop) #hosted by @acantochicago . . . italian restaurant chicago loop, best pasta chicago, downtown chicago dining, authentic italian food chicago, chicago loop restaurants #italianrestaurants #chicago #chicagorestaurants #chicagoloop #italianfood

  • Profile image

    artsialexi

    One of the best pasta dishes I’ve had IN MY LIFE 👏 #hosted Check out this romantic Italian restaurant on Michigan Avenue! ✨ #chicagofoodie #chicagoitalianfood #chicagorestaurants #wheretoeatinchicago #michiganave #magmile

  • Profile image

    sherriesavorsthecity

    🍷🍝✨When the temperature drops, my cravings for pasta or any cozy food is stronger than ever. @acantochicago which is conveniently located across the Millennium park offers soul-satisfying Italian food that hit the spot and a wine list that’s next-level (we’re talking 700+ bottles!). With the kitchen helmed by the talented executive chef, @troy_jorge, you know you’re in for a treat. They recently celebrated their 10th anniversary and everything we had was 💯. SO GOOD! #italianrestaurant #chicagoitalian #acantochicago #tenthanniversary #sherriesavorsthecity

  • Profile image

    sophinchicago

    This $59 dinner menu is worth checking out for the upcoming @choosechicago restaurant week! Choose from an appetizer, main entree and a dessert! This is the perfect spot for a romantic date night, love their dark interior and decor! Everything we tried was amazing! You cannot skip dessert, look at these delicious options! Where are you headed for the 17th annual Chicago Restaurant Week? . . . #sophinchicago #chicago #chicagogram #chicagobar #chicagofood #chicagoland #chicagofoodauthority #chicagoblogger #chicagoeats #chicagofoodie #chicagolife #choosechicago #eaterchicago #chicagostyle #chicagogrammers #downtownchicago #chicagorestaurant #chi #foodie #chicagobucketlist #explorechicago #chitown#chicagofoodscene #312chicago #windycity #chicagoland #eeets #instagood

Videos are powered by Seekeasy. How this content is generated

Reviews

OpenTable reviews from verified diners

Reviews from people who have dined at Acanto.

4.8

4.8
(4514)
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Acanto delights with "excellent service" and "fabulous food," offering a warm, welcoming ambiance perfect for any occasion. The menu features standout dishes like cacio e pepe and squid ink pasta, complemented by a "great wine selection." Although lively, the atmosphere remains "conducive to conversation." A must-visit Chicago gem!
4,514 Reviews
  1. Alex Gold

    Chicago47 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We came here for our anniversary – the staff was amazing - Austin took such great care of us.
    AcantoResponded 1 day ago
    Thank you for choosing Acanto to celebrate your anniversary! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and that Austin took such great care of you. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with him. We hope to welcome you back for many more special occasions! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  2. Barbara Gold

    Chicago29 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Acanto is our favorite restaurant. The food is great along with the service and ambiance. We live in the suburbs but we try to go here every time we come up to the city. Acanto is the best!
    AcantoResponded 1 day ago
    Thank you so much for your wonderful review and continued support! It means the world to us that Acanto is your favorite restaurant and that you make us a part of your visits to the city. We’re truly grateful for your kind words about our food, service, and ambiance. We look forward to welcoming you back on your next trip to Chicago! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  3. christine

    London5 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 5 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 5
    Loved the food and atmosphere! It was a great dinner.
    AcantoResponded 3 days ago
    Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you enjoyed the food and atmosphere and had a great dinner with us. We appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you back to Acanto for another memorable experience! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  4. OpenTable Diner

    Chicago1 review

    2.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 2
    2. Food 2
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 3
    Food was just so-so and over-priced. Had reservations and still sat us right by entrance despite other tables open. Won't go back.
    AcantoResponded 4 days ago
    Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your dining experience did not meet your expectations. We apologize for the disappointment with the food and value, as well as the seating arrangement despite your reservation. We take your comments seriously and appreciate the opportunity to learn from your experience. Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  5. David

    Chicago2 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Still elegant and special…. relaxed and expert service. interesting wine list.
    AcantoResponded 1 day ago
    Thank you for your wonderful ratings! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed your experience at Acanto. Your support means so much to our team, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable dining experience soon! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  6. Carlo

    Chicago1 review

    5.0

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great pasta! Excellent service and a great ambience for dates and anniversaries.
    AcantoResponded 4 days ago
    Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed our pasta, attentive service, and intimate atmosphere. It’s always a pleasure to be part of such special occasions, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Acanto for another memorable experience! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  7. Jill

    Chicago4 reviews

    4.0

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 2
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 4
    I am a regular patron of Acanto and in all the years going there this is the first true disappointment: the calamari, olives, peppers were dry, hard, cold and overcooked; the buratta al'ortolana had soggy watery tomatoes and the artichokes were tough and undercooked. Extremely disappointed, we didn't order dessert and spécial coffee as a result.

    Is this helpful?

  8. Lizabeth Gold

    Chicago29 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The food is just excellent and we are a group of foodies. Everything from the bread to pastas and the chicken piccata was just perfect. Way too full for dessert, but we split one anyway. Good wine list. Superior and helpful service from wait staff. First timers but will be back again, especially because it is so close to Orchestra Hall. Much quieter and more intimate than Gage.
    AcantoResponded 4 days ago
    Thank you for such a wonderful review! We’re delighted you enjoyed everything from our bread and pastas to the chicken piccata, along with our wine selection and attentive service. It was a pleasure welcoming you to Acanto, and we look forward to seeing you again for another memorable evening before or after a performance at Orchestra Hall! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  9. Elli

    Chicago6 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on October 29, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    I Try to eat at Acanto as much as possible. Great service. Great food. A little loud but lively. Squid ink pasta is amazing. Never over cook Salmon. I don’t think I have had a mediocre meal there— alway top shelf. we always get crudo or carpaccio as a starter. Gelato is a nice finish or affogato if you’re feeling like a strong night out.
    AcantoResponded 7 days ago
    Thank you for your continued support and wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled that Acanto remains a favorite and that you consistently enjoy our food and service. It’s always a pleasure to welcome you, and we look forward to your next visit! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

  10. Lynne

    Chicago37 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on October 28, 2026

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Excellent service and fabulous food! The cocktails were also delicious!
    AcantoResponded 7 days ago
    Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the food, cocktails, and service. It means a lot to us to know that our allergy protocols helped you feel safe and comfortable enough to truly relax and enjoy your meal. We want every guest to feel well cared for, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Acanto for another wonderful experience! Warm regards, Kim Lynch Manager-Acanto

    Is this helpful?

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Italian, Wine Bar
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Mon–Wed 11:00 am–9:00 pm Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Fri 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm Sun 4:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Troy Jorge
  • Private party facilities
    The intimate dining room is ideal for rehearsal dinners, engagement celebrations, showers and post-wedding brunches, while Acanto’s patio on Michigan Avenue is a dream setting for cocktails. Up to 75 (seated) or 100 (cocktail) guests, inclusive of outdoor space.
  • Delivery & takeout
  • Neighborhood
    Downtown / Loop
  • Cross street
    Between Madison St. and Monroe St. across from Millenium Park.
  • Parking details
    The nearest self-park garage is the Grant Park North Garage. Enter from Michigan between Randolph and Monroe Streets. Exit at the far southwest of the garage (the green section); the exit is steps from our front door. We offer a discounted parking rate for the Grant Park North Garage. Every day, enjoy a $13 rate for parking for up to 12 hours. Please see our host stand for parking discount vouchers.
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

FAQs

Tuesday evenings can be a lovely choice, one guest enjoyed a relaxed Tuesday date-night with easy last‑minute booking and a pleasant crowd.

Guests describe portions as well sized, several reviewers call the servings "perfectly portioned, " and others said they left satisfied without feeling overly full.

Yes, Acanto is frequently recommended for date night, praised for its intimate, candlelit atmosphere and attentive, wine‑savvy service that suits anniversaries and special evenings.

Acanto fills up at peak times, guests report waits and recommend making a reservation, especially for pre-theater and evening meals; weekday lunch and early-afternoon visits tend to be calmer and often seat immediately.

Yes, Acanto offers patio seating (including a covered patio) that guests enjoy, with outdoor tables looking toward Millennium Park and pleasant al fresco views on nice days.

Acanto is an intimate, candlelit Italian spot with a conversation-friendly atmosphere and warm wood tones, ideal for date nights and special occasions; the patio brings park-side views, and busy evenings can feel energetic while daytime lunches are more relaxed.

Smart casual is the guide, polished but relaxed, and many guests dress up a touch for anniversaries and other special occasions.

Yes, families dine comfortably at Acanto; guests report bringing children and one reviewer specifically noted their son loved the rigatoni and gelato, making it a friendly choice for family dinners.

How FAQ content is generated

  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois
  4. Chicago
  5. Downtown / Loop

Make a reservation

A photo of Acanto restaurant

Acanto

4.8
$31 to $50
Italian
Downtown / Loop

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 52 times today
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