Introduction to Pasta Via
FULTON MARKET — For more than 40 years, the Bartucci family has been crafting and delivering fresh pasta from Chicago’s Northwest Side. This summer, their beloved pasta and sauces will be served at Pasta Via, a new fast-casual restaurant from a member of the Bartucci family.
Gino Bartucci Jr. Credit: Provided
The Concept Behind Pasta Via
Pasta Via, 179 N. Morgan St., will feature order kiosks where customers can select their pasta type, sauce, protein and toppings like mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. There will be add-ons like burrata and prosciutto in addition to a grab-and-go counter with panini, pasta salad and other sides.
Bringing Fresh Pasta to the Masses
Gino Bartucci Jr., owner of popular West Loop restaurant Gino & Marty’s, is launching Pasta Via to make the family’s fresh pasta accessible as a quick, on-the-go meal.
“Having accessibility to something fresh, fast, healthy and cost-effective is something that is missing in a fast-casual market,” Bartucci said. “Italian is one of the most popular food genres in the United States, and it’s not really represented in a high-volume, fast-paced environment other than, let’s say, Olive Garden.”
Menu Highlights
Bartucci also plans to include his family’s panzerotti — which he described as a “homemade pizza puff” — on the menu.
“The idea is [a meal] under $15 in under five minutes. So, getting something that has the ability to be gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian,” Bartucci said. “We [can] accommodate keto, we have some kids’ options, but to get that for under $15 under five minutes is our goal, and I think that’s very important.”
Giving Back to the Community
With the focus on daily fresh food, Pasta Via will donate unused ingredients to local food banks and organizations. Bartucci said he’d also like to establish a work program at Pasta Via for people with mental and physical disabilities.
Future Expansion Plans
If the venture is successful, Bartucci plans to open several Pasta Via locations in the next few years in neighborhoods like the Gold Coast, Old Town, Lincoln Park and Logan Square.
Bartucci has already been approached about opening a location in suburban Oak Brook and even out of state, he said.
“I really want to raise all levels of the legacy of what we built in Chicago and really have one business support another,” he said. “I think this is a great way to display the art my family’s been creating for 40 years. And like I said, hopefully we can take it to other cities as well very soon.”
Conclusion
Pasta Via is set to bring a fresh and exciting dining experience to the Fulton Market area, with its unique concept, delicious menu options, and commitment to giving back to the community. With plans for future expansion, this new restaurant is sure to make a mark on the Chicago food scene.
FAQs
Q: Where is Pasta Via located?
A: Pasta Via is located at 179 N. Morgan St. in the Fulton Market area.
Q: What type of cuisine does Pasta Via serve?
A: Pasta Via serves Italian cuisine, specifically fresh pasta and sauces.
Q: Can I customize my meal at Pasta Via?
A: Yes, customers can select their pasta type, sauce, protein, and toppings at the order kiosks.
Q: Does Pasta Via have any plans for expansion?
A: Yes, if the venture is successful, Bartucci plans to open several Pasta Via locations in the next few years in various neighborhoods and possibly out of state.
Q: What is the price range for meals at Pasta Via?
A: The goal is to offer meals under $15 in under five minutes.
