AVVIO
AVVIO — top-tier italian in Irving Park. Nothing about this place is trying to impress you, and that's the point. Cocktails here aren't an afterthought, and BYOB. [$$$, patio]
What 444 diners keep saying
What 444 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“The drinks mojitos weren't good at all I think she used tequila instead of rum”

“While scouting out Italian restaurants in the area, we stumbled upon AVVIO. From when we walked in to when we left, it was a great experience. We started out with a side of Meatballs and some bread. Both fresh and juicy! Then moved on to our mains. Across the table we ordered the Bone-In Ribeye, Fettucini A Mare Chiaro, Homemade Baked Lasagna, and the Penne with sausage. Mine was the Ribeye… and it was the best steak I have received at a restaurant in a long time. As for the tastings I had of the other dishes, I was also impressed. Overall, this was a great food experience. The service was a bit slow but the food made up for that! We will be back soon!”

“Grandma, mother and grand-daughter loooooved warm bread, appetizer, soup, dinner entries and homemeade dessert!”

“Went to Avvio for a weekday dinner, my husband and I absolutely loved it! This is a restaurant that has been built with love and intention. The Aperol Spritzes were HUGE and so tasty, also cheap for Chicago at $13 each. They bring out a warm, fresh loaf of bread to start your meal. It's a personal touch that makes the homemade aspect of the place come to life. The pasta was absolutely delicious and definitely homemade. Our server and all of the employees were kind and courteous. We will definitely be back for their Happy Hour deals!!”

“Where do I start? This place is amazing. From the atmosphere to the food. You walk in and you feel like you are in a family restaurant. The food is ridiculously awesome. You get the bread, and you can then order pizza bread and an appetizer. The calamari is super tender and greatly flavored. Next is the soup or salad. You cannot go wrong with the stracchietella or minestrone, both are amazing. You can also get a salad! Then here comes the main course. You have to get the veal parmesan. BEST MEAL ON THE MENU. Make sure you get an extra side of the meat sauce. ITS A MUST. 10/10. After you enjoy the best meal of your life, you must get a dessert. A coffee and Bailey's is never a bad choice.”

“Our server, Lynette, was wonderful! Great cocktails, fantastic entrees, and peppermint ice cream for dessert! The entire staff was welcoming and efficient. Definitely recommend. Definitely will come back again!”

“Ok, I have a soft spot for Sabatino’s. When I heard that this spot was from their old staff or some such I was super excited. They did away with the pizza bread at the table, and now offer soup or salad instead of both. And the banana foster is not done table side. However I still left absolutely stuffed and happy. I will be coming back here, and recommend.”
“Top tier food. Great service when it's not super busyz but can get messy during peak hours. Plenty of street parking and cheaper than downtown though, so it's worth it.”
“Another fantastic experience at Avvio! We came in as a party of 11 with two small children for an early 5:30 reservation, and Linette was amazing from start to finish. Our group arrived scattered, but she stayed on top of drinks, got our hangry 2-year-old’s food out right away, and kept everything running smoothly all night. The food was incredible as always. The veal special cooked three ways was a huge hit, my gnocchi with meat sauce was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the meatballs were soft and flavorful. I also highly recommend the espresso crème brûlée. We placed a to-go order for family who couldn’t make it, and Linette had it perfectly timed and ready as we were leaving. We’ll definitely keep coming back and asking for her section!”
“Wait staff is amazing and very professional. The food is amazing and great value. They are staying true to the "Sabatinos" legacy. Bake Alaska is wonderful dessert.”
“The food was delicious. I had the veal parmigiana and my wife had the white fish. Same preparation as my old time favorite Sabatinos. Service was outstanding and we enjoyed the piano music. Can’t go wrong at Avvio.”
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