Topo Gigio

23 hours ago
1 min read

Topo Gigio is a classic Italian restaurant in Old Town that’s known for its old-school charm and timeless menu. Despite its long-standing reputation, this was my first time dining here, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to finally experience one of Chicago’s iconic Italian spots.

We started the meal with a classic Caesar salad and fried calamari, which were light, crisp, and ideal starters. The calamari was perfectly fried, while the Caesar was fresh and well-balanced — a simple but satisfying way to begin the meal.

Classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and parmesan cheese.

Fried calamari served with lemon at Topo Gigio in Old Town Chicago.

For my main dish, I ordered the Conchiglie alla Sarda, featuring seashell pasta tossed in a tomato cream sauce with ground sausage, peas, and pecorino cheese. This pasta was packed with flavor, thanks to the richness of the sauce and the subtle spice from the sausage. Every bite felt indulgent without being overly heavy.

Conchiglie alla Sarda with seashell pasta, tomato cream sauce, sausage, and peas.

Topo Gigio is the perfect stop for anyone craving classic Italian food in Chicago. From the lively, old-school atmosphere to the comforting pasta dishes, it’s easy to see why this Old Town staple has stood the test of time.