Gioia
It’s rare to find a Chicago dinner spot I haven’t heard of, so when I was surprised with a birthday dinner at Gioia before a Blackhawks game, I was excited to experience a new place. Gioia turned out to be a great pre-game restaurant, and I loved the flavorful menu items we tried. We started with a celebratory glass of champagne, always a favorite way to kick off the night!
We began our meal with a variety of starters, including Mussels, Meatballs, Calamari, and a Caesar Salad. Each appetizer was fresh and perfectly prepared, and the meatballs were definitely a table favorite with their tender texture and big flavor.
For our main pasta dishes, we couldn’t resist ordering the Tableside Cacio e Pepe, a showstopper spun in a classic cheese wheel that enhanced every bite with rich, creamy flavor. We also ordered the Vodka Rigatoni, which added a bold, savory aspect to our meal.
To end the night, we enjoyed a round of espresso martinis — the perfect, energizing cap to our dining experience. The lively atmosphere at Gioia grew even more vibrant as the evening went on, creating the ideal mix of energy and elegance.
Gioia was a hidden gem that exceeded expectations. Although our early reservation was planned to make it to the game, the place was really buzzing by the time we left. Unique touches like the tableside Cacio e Pepe and the top-notch Italian flavors in every dish made this a standout meal.
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