Club Lago
Club Lago — one of River North's strongest italian spots. Unpretentious and comfortable, exactly what you want. The bar is worth the visit on its own, and owner-operated. "Everything we had was phenomenal and the service was impeccable" — Carole Sorensen [$$, patio]
What 656 diners keep saying
What 656 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“From the moment we walked in, the place just felt right—classic, lively, and full of personality. But the real MVP of the night was Jenny, our server/bartender. Charismatic, quick-witted, and effortlessly funny, she turned a great meal into an unforgettable experience. The kind of service that makes you want to stay for “just one more.” And I have to give a legendary shoutout to the hot pepper 🌶️ guy—because when I said I wanted heat… he absolutely delivered. That pepper didn’t play around, and I respect it. Amazing food, even better atmosphere, and a staff that knows how to make you feel like a regular on your first visit. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in town from South Carolina!”

“i was hungry and it was wildly cold out side. i got to sit by mySELF and eat some incredible eggplant parmigiana and have a glass of wine. it was so awesome to be ALONE idk why but i just needed a spell. so thank you. YUM. and i reheated the rest in the oven the next day. incredible. thank you to the waitstaff who thought my thoughts for me bc i was too hungry to think. lol”

“Had to wait 11 years for our second visit, but so worth it! My sister and I enjoyed an incredible evening. Club Lago checked all the boxes. Outstanding service, warm friendly old school vibes and absolutely delicious food! We will definitely not wait so long to get back.”

“Never not left feeling better than when i arrived. Always an excellent meal. But it’s the people that make this place like no other. The staff make you feel like family. Club Lago is the best!”

“Old school neighborhood bar. Amazing food and service! The Chicken Parmigiana was awesome!”

“The best meal I have experienced in months. The scene is perfect, the music on point and the best Mayor Daily behind the bar you could hope to find.”

“A stylish restaurant and lounge with a relaxed atmosphere and excellent cuisine, perfect for an evening with friends. The cocktails are delicious, the service is meticulous, and the vibe is cozy and casual.”
“Some of the best rustic Italian I've had. Staff is amazingly friendly. Felt like I was being treated like a regular. Best calamari ive ever had. Had the chicken marsala and the sauce was rich and not overly sweet. The basic meat sauce on the side of pasta had depth and good flavor. Not overly sweet or acidic.”
“We have visited Club Lago many times over the years and love it. Good traditional Italian food, great service and fun atmosphere. And not the craziness you’d find in the more popular food areas. A nice local kind of place and the food never disappoints.”
“Came in for a couple drinks and was met with incredible hospitality, loved chatting with the staff, Jenny and Jean Carlo. 5/5 thank you guys!”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Italian in Downtown & River North
See the ranking →In the same lane · Italian, mid-range
If it's packed, walk to…



More good rooms in River North, minutes away.






