The folks behind the Francesca's Family of Restaurants are at it again. They've turned the cave-like space beneath Francesca's on Chestnut into a rustic Italian lounge.
DiSotto Enoteca has a small menu of cheese, charcuterie and bruschetta with all kinds of quirky toppings. Instead of the typical tomato and basil, DiSotto Enoteca's bruschetta is gussied up with combos like pear, Taleggio and toasted pistachios or rapini, pancetta, provolone and spicy olive oil. I couldn't get enough of the bruschetta with roasted portobellos, Fontina cheese and rosemary. One of the most unexpected bruschettas is made with albacore tuna, white beans and onion. For you traditionalists, there is a classic tomato, basil and mozzarella option.
The menu may be small, but the wine list is long. There are plenty if Italian reds to wash down your bruschetta, and a smattering of refreshing white and sparkling wines. The walls are literally lined with wine bottles, so take a look around and order whichever bottle catches your eye or if you prefer a more conventional approach to wine selection, knowledgeable servers are on hand to offer recommendations.
The wine is just fine and the food is above average, but what will keep me coming back to DiSotto Enoteca is the atmosphere. It's a cozy windowless refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. Low, vaulted brick ceilings, soft lighting from candle chendeliers and overstuffed leather chairs invite you to linger. After a couple of glasses of Chianti, you may start to feel like you've been transported from Chicago to Tuscany.
DiSotto Enoteca is the ideal spot to unwind after a long day at the office or an afternoon of shopping on Michigan Avenue. And, you can indulge in vino and Italian nibbles well into the wee hours. DiSotto Enoteca is open until 2 a.m. during the week and 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturdayfor those nights when a ho-hum burrito or greasy slice of pizza just won't do.
DiSotto Enoteca is located at 200 E. Chestnut; call 312-482-8727.
Do you need some more Sugar & Spice in your life? Follow me on Twitter: @SugarAndSpiceMS — for inside scoop and commentary on Chicago's dining scene.