RPM Italian

Nestled at 52 West Illinois Street in Chicago’s bustling River North, RPM Italian is a sophisticated restaurant from RPM Restaurants, a partnership between celebrity couple Bill and Giuliana Rancic and Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. Since its 2012 debut, this upscale venue has enchanted VIPs, celebrities, and food lovers with its modern Italian cuisine, focusing on house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and shareable plates. Open Monday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., RPM Italian is a vibrant cornerstone of Chicago’s dining scene in 2025.

The atmosphere at RPM Italian is a seamless blend of contemporary charm and inviting warmth. Designed by Studio K, the spacious dining room features sleek marble accents, plush velvet seating, and soft ambient lighting, creating a polished yet approachable setting. The lively bar, adorned with mirrored panels, buzzes with energy, while private dining spaces like the Board Room cater to intimate gatherings or high-profile events. Curated Italian music enhances the ambiance, making it ideal for romantic dinners, upscale group celebrations, or exclusive private functions. Attentive service ensures every guest feels like a VIP, though some reviews note elevated pricing or minor service delays during peak times.

Reservations are highly coveted, often requiring bookings weeks in advance via OpenTable or by calling (312) 222-1888, particularly for prime weekend evenings. The restaurant’s popularity, amplified by its celebrity ties and culinary acclaim, makes securing a table challenging. Concierge services like www.myrsvp.com are essential for navigating this exclusivity, ensuring a flawless dining experience tailored to refined tastes.

RPM Italian’s menu celebrates modern Italian flavors with premium ingredients. Starters include Mama DePandi’s Meatballs ($18), a nod to Giuliana’s family recipe, and Sicilian Tuna Crudo ($22) with citrus and chili. Mains feature Lobster Cappellacci ($38), delicate pasta with shellfish sauce, Cacio e Pepe ($28), and Grilled Branzino ($42) with herb salsa verde. The Short Rib Bolognese ($32) is a crowd favorite, rich and hearty. Sides like Brussels Sprouts with Lemon ($12) and Truffle Polenta ($14) elevate the meal, while desserts such as Tiramisu ($12) or Bombolini ($14), Italian doughnuts with espresso cream, pair with cocktails like the Limone Basilico ($16), a refreshing gin-based drink. The wine list, featuring Italian varietals, complements the menu, though some guests note high costs balanced by exceptional quality.

With its chic design, vibrant cuisine, and prime River North location, RPM Italian is a standout Chicago destination. Leveraging a concierge like MyRSVP ensures access to this elegant Italian haven, delivering a memorable dining experience steeped in modern sophistication and authentic flavors.