Sotto Brings Elevated Flavors To The Basement Of Italian Village
A New Chapter for a Chicago Staple
Italian Village Restaurant, 71 W. Monroe St., has been a Chicago staple since 1927, and its latest addition, Sotto, is set to elevate the dining experience.
Sotto opens Thursday in the basement of Italian Village, following an extensive makeover that replaced La Cantina Enoteca, one of the restaurant’s three dining concepts that closed during the pandemic.
A Mix of Italian-Inspired Dishes
The menu features a mix of Italian-inspired dishes from Chef Steve Mendez that blends Mendez’s background and his restaurant experience, with touches of Japanese, French, and Scandinavian cuisines.
“He has dishes that I think are a reflection of both himself and his experience, as well as the city of Chicago and America and the diversity that we have here. And that’s what we kind of pushed to do,” Jonathan Capitanini said.
Dishes include housemade pappardelle pasta with black garlic and white wine that’s topped with black pearl mushrooms and pine nuts, mixing Asian and Italian flavors, and smoked sweet potato-filled tortellini, a take on Polish pierogi.
A Chicago-Centered Dish
For a more Chicago-centered dish, there’s giardiniera-braised short ribs with a “luxurious polenta,” said Jonathan Capitanini.
A Basement Renovation
Crews updated plumbing and electricity throughout the space. They also preserved some of the historical aspects such as the Italian cypress wood paneling, which was salvaged and repurposed throughout Sotto’s dining room.
“The renovation was, interesting to say the least,” Jonathan Capitanini said with a laugh. “I think we did a really good job both fixing the systems in the building to allow us to operate effectively, but probably more from the design perspective … combining that new and old.”
A New Era for Italian Village
As the Loop has changed, so has Italian Village. The family-run business, which at one point operated distinct restaurants on each floor inspired by various types of Italian cuisine, has seen itself through the Great Depression, World War II, the financial crisis of 2008 and the pandemic, to name a few.
Whatever’s next, the restaurant is in it for the long haul, owners said.
“The one thing we know for sure is that you don’t bet against the Loop,” Jonathan Capitanini said. “We’re very excited to be done with our renovation finally and see what the demand is right now.”
Conclusion
Sotto’s unique blend of flavors and cozy atmosphere is sure to attract a new crowd to the basement of Italian Village. With its rich history and commitment to quality, Italian Village continues to be a staple in the Loop.
FAQs
Q: What is Sotto?
A: Sotto is a new restaurant opening in the basement of Italian Village Restaurant, featuring a mix of Italian-inspired dishes with international twists.
Q: What is the menu like?
A: The menu features dishes such as housemade pappardelle pasta, smoked sweet potato-filled tortellini, and giardiniera-braised short ribs, among others.
Q: Is Sotto open for reservations?
A: Yes, Sotto will be open 5-10:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday starting Thursday. Click here to book a reservation.
