Ella Elli
Julie Hermes · 114 Google reviewsElla Elli — top-tier italian in Lakeview. Good cocktails round out an already strong menu. Ask questions, the staff has answers. "We also tried the grilled artichokes, which were tender and well-seasoned" — Kinsley Mercado [$$$, patio]
What 746 diners keep saying
What 746 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“We sat on the patio and enjoyed a beautiful dinner. Carissa was a wonderful server, and the pace of the restaurant was perfect: didn’t feel rushed at all, and the coursing was timed so well, we really got to relax and enjoy our food and drinks, which was so appreciated. We weren’t familiar with the concept at all before sitting down, but all the small plates we ordered were delicious, ESPECIALLY the scallops. You guys, add the fourth scallop to the order, you will not be disappointed. The flavor was full and savory and they were cooked perfectly. We were talking about them all night! Thank you to Carissa and the Ella Elli team for an amazing dinner :)”
“Our waitress Paige was so lovely, completely knowledgeable on all wines and food menu. Gimlet was so refreshing, creamy mushroom toast was the best thing I’ve eaten in a long time. Pizza, tuna, and beet salad were all amazing as well. Cab franc was excellent. The outdoor patio was stunning with plants and outdoor lights. A new go to spot 100%.”
“First time in to this restaurant and I can’t wait to return. Everything was delicious! That beet salad was amazing. Scallop plate emptied. Pink squirrel for dessert? Who knew it would be a MUST have! Our server Christopher gave exceptional service from start to finish. Every time he came to the table he was knowledgeable and enjoyable. Well done, Ella Elli!”
“Should you go here? YES. ABSOLUTELY YES! No other review needed. GO!”
“One of Chicago’s best kept secrets in Southport. You feel like you’ve stepped inside a different world. From an amazing wine list, great service, housemade pasta it’s all so good. Loved the mushroom toast and hubby loved the French Onion one. The Sea Bass was excellent. Get that gooey butter cake. Ask for Paige as your server!”
“Went here for dinner during Chicago restaurant week, and it was amazing!”
“It was AMAZING!!! From the food, to the service, everything was great! We had amazing food and even better dessert. I highly recommend the Gooey Butter Cake. The texture was like no other, and I have never had anything better. The drinks were perfect and even though the courses were small, they were very filling. Definitely coming here again next time I’m in Chicago.”
“One of my favorite places in the city! They offer a consistently tasty menu with fresh, seasonal offerings. The space itself is beautiful, cozy, and perfect for any occasion.”
“A criminally underrated restaurant on the Southport corridor imo. If you’re looking for a cozy date night option with good food and a great wine selection, this is your spot. The service was so attentive. The bartender, Bear, was super knowledgeable about the entire menu and recommended some really great dishes. Highly recommend everyone try the artichokes and the rigatoni.”
“Perfect cozy elegant spot for a nice dinner. Beautifully curated menu. The charred octopus was SO tender. My personal favorite was the Lamb Scottadito.”
“If you’re looking for the perfect date night spot, Ella Elli should be at the top of your list. Everything we ordered was outstanding. The house marinated olives were the perfect start, and the French onion toast was the star of the apps. The crispy Brussels sprouts were packed with flavor, and the red shrimp ceviche quickly became my wife’s favorite. The tomato pizza with burrata was light and fresh, and the ricotta gnocchi with truffle was rich and had incredible texture. The cacio e pepe was a bit too overpowering on the pepper for our taste, but the noodles were excellent. For dessert, the Profiteroles and Gooey Butter Cake were both incredible. The cocktails were also impressive. The Rosemary Gimlet was light and smooth, the Say Less was my favorite, and the Double Eau was strong with a unique olive oil finish that looks and tastes super dope. Warm lighting, cozy seating, and a fireplace make the space feel both elegant and relaxed, and the service was friendly and accommodating.”
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