98 Years Of Sauce And Secrets: Unveiling The Three Distinct Worlds Of Italian Village Chicago

Few Chicago institutions can boast a century of continuous operation, but the venerable Italian Village Restaurants, now nearly 98 years old, stands as a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and exceptional Northern Italian cuisine. As of December 10, 2025, this multi-story dining complex in the heart of the Loop continues its legacy, offering not just one, but three distinct dining experiences—from the charming, old-school atmosphere of The Village to the modern, award-winning wine program of its newer concepts. This is a deep dive into the Capitanini family's American Dream, the classic dishes that built their empire, and the recent updates that keep this Chicago landmark a must-visit destination.

The story of Italian Village is one of an immigrant’s success, starting with a humble beginning in 1927. The Capitanini family, now in its fourth generation of ownership, has meticulously preserved the original charm while strategically evolving its offerings. Whether you are seeking a comforting bowl of Manicotti on the second floor or a sophisticated, contemporary Italian meal, the vertical village at 71 W Monroe St provides an unparalleled culinary journey that spans nearly a century of Chicago’s dining history.

The Founder's Dream: Alfredo Capitanini and the Capitanini Family Legacy

The foundation of the entire Italian Village complex rests on the vision of Alfredo Capitanini, an immigrant from the picturesque, rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy. Alfredo arrived in Chicago in 1924 with little more than ambition and a passion for the cuisine of his homeland. He began his new American life as a dishwasher, quickly saving enough to secure a restaurant lease and open The Village on September 20, 1927.

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The original restaurant, located on the second floor, was designed to evoke the feeling of a quaint Italian hillside village, complete with charming, dimly lit decor and booths that resemble little houses. Alfredo’s commitment to authentic Northern Italian cuisine and his famous dishes, like Chicken Vesuvio, quickly made the location a favorite among the Loop’s financial and theater district crowds.

Today, the Capitanini family continues to run the operation, making it a true Chicago Legacy Business. Third-generation owner Gina Capitanini has been instrumental in maintaining the restaurant's historical integrity while guiding its modernization. The involvement of the fourth generation, including Jonathan Capitanini, ensures that the traditions of hospitality and high-quality Italian-American food remain at the forefront for decades to come.

The Three Worlds of Italian Village: From Old-School Charm to Modern Elegance

What makes Italian Village unique is its vertical structure, housing three distinct restaurant concepts, each offering a different atmosphere and menu. This "stacked vertically" approach allows the establishment to cater to a wide range of diners, from tourists seeking a classic experience to business professionals looking for upscale dining.

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The Village: The Timeless Heart of the Operation

The Village is the original restaurant and remains the most popular for those seeking a nostalgic, old-school Italian spot. The atmosphere is intentionally unchanged, providing a truly classic Chicago dining experience. Located on the upper level, it specializes in the traditional dishes that made Alfredo Capitanini famous.

• Classic Menu Highlights: Diners flock here for comforting staples like Manicotti, Fettucine Alfredo, and the hearty Minestrone soup. The Calamari, available either classic fried or grilled with garlic and olive oil, is a long-standing appetizer favorite.
• Atmosphere: The interior features the iconic "village" decor, complete with painted facades, twinkling lights, and a cozy, traditional atmosphere that transports guests back to 1927.

Sotto and Bar Sotto: The Modern Glow-Up

The most significant and recent update to the Italian Village complex is the redesign of the former La Cantina space into Sotto and Bar Sotto. This transformation has brought a fresh, contemporary energy to the lower level. Sotto (meaning "under" or "below" in Italian) and its accompanying bar have been pivotal in ushering Italian Village into a new era while still honoring its roots.

• New Concept: Sotto focuses on a more refined, modern Italian approach, offering a different vibe than the classic Village upstairs. This update ensures the restaurant remains relevant and competitive in the dynamic Downtown Chicago dining scene.
• Vibe: The space offers a sleek, updated ambiance, perfect for pre-theater dining or a sophisticated night out in the Theater District.

Vivere: The Upscale and Award-Winning Experience

Situated on the main floor, Vivere (meaning "to live") is the most upscale and elegant of the three restaurants. It is often reserved for Private Dining events, but when operating, it offers a more modern interpretation of Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an extensive, award-winning wine cellar.

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• Wine Program: Vivere is renowned for its deep, carefully curated wine list, which has garnered national attention. The wine program complements the restaurant’s focus on regional Italian specialties, moving beyond the traditional Italian-American fare found upstairs.
• Cuisine Style: The food here is generally more sophisticated and contemporary, providing a stark contrast to The Village's rustic charm. It represents the evolution of the Capitanini family's culinary journey.

The Enduring Legacy of the Chicago Loop Landmark

For almost a century, Italian Village has served as a culinary anchor in the Chicago Loop, situated conveniently on Monroe Street, straddling the Financial District. Its longevity is a rare feat in the notoriously competitive restaurant industry. The establishment’s ability to offer three distinct experiences—rustic comfort, modern sophistication, and a lively bar scene—all under one roof, is the secret to its enduring success.

The Capitanini family’s dedication to quality, from the simple perfection of their Chicken Broth and Pastina Pasta to their commitment to a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, is what keeps generations of Chicagoans and visitors returning. Whether you are a fan of the original Meat Sauce or interested in the latest menu at Sotto, a visit to this vertical culinary hub is an essential experience for anyone seeking to taste the history and future of Italian dining in the Windy City.