Club Lago, Chicago

Brothers GianCarlo and Guido Nardini run Club Lago with the same passion for classic Italian food as their grandparents who first opened the restaurant in 1952. This iconic spot maintains its friendly, old-fashioned feel, despite River North’s constant development. The menu is known for its baked clams and giant portions of pasta, as well as traditional entrees such as chicken vesuvio and eggplant parmigiana. The restaurant also features extensive wine and beer lists.

Conveniently located right next to the Brown Line and Kennedy Expressway, the spot is a popular stop for watching baseball and hockey games and also for the pre-opera and theater crowd. Major damage from a boiler explosion in the neighboring space forced Club Lago to close for a spell in 2009. Luckily, after extensive repairs and support from their loyal fans, the restaurant is back to its former state—pressed-tin ceilings, checkered tablecloths, and all.