Franco's Ristorante

4.6 ( 812 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM See Hours
$20–30
300 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
+1 312-225-9566

Franco's Ristorante, located in the heart of Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood, is a quintessential Italian eatery that captivates both the palate and the heart. As echoed in numerous reviews, the restaurant exudes a quaint charm that feels like stepping into a cozy movie scene. Diners rave about the extensive menu filled with authentic Italian delights. The Grilled Calamari and the seafood pasta are standout choices, praised for their freshness and flavor.

Reviewers have applauded the inviting ambiance and attentive service, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings. Many describe their dining experience as elevated yet relaxed, emphasizing the restaurant's ability to make guests feel special while enjoying perfectly executed dishes like Veal Marsala and Chicken Giardiniera.

The warm bread and creative desserts, such as the deconstructed cannoli, add to the restaurant's appeal, making it a must-visit for anyone craving delicious Italian cuisine. With reasonable prices that don’t compromise quality, Franco’s Ristorante remains a hidden gem that truly embodies the essence of Italian hospitality. Each dish is crafted with love, leaving a lasting impression on those who dine within its charming walls.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Has no-contact delivery
    • Offers delivery
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Serves great dessert
    • Has great wine list
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Romantic
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • Popular with tourists
  • Planning
    • Dinner reservations recommended
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Paid street parking
    • Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For Franco's Ristorante

Walker
Jun 18,2025
Amazing little old school Italian restaurant in the Bridgeport neighborhood. The small charming and quaint restaurant can be tight at times. Wonderful authentic Italian food. The Grilled Calamari was made perfectly with a light balsamic glaze. All 4 dishes Pan Seared Salmon, Veal Marsala, Shrimp Fra Diavolo (spicy), and the Buccatini were delicious.
Pablo Hernandez
Jun 10,2025
We had a wonderful experience at Franco’s Ristorante in Chicago. Everything we ordered was truly delicious. The seafood pasta was exceptional, perfectly cooked with fresh ingredients and a rich, flavorful sauce. We also had baked eggplant, which was absolutely fantastic. The atmosphere is warm and intimate. It’s a small place, but very cozy and beautifully decorated. The service was friendly, attentive and made us feel very welcome. Prices were reasonable, especially for a nice dinner in Chicago. I would definitely go back. If you’re looking for authentic Italian food in a charming setting, Franco’s Ristorante is an excellent choice.
DT
Jun 7,2025
Franco’s is such a classic vibey neighborhood Italian restaurant that walking in you would think you have stumbled into a scene from a 90s romantic comedy- perhaps Jennifer Aniston and Paul Rudd are having an awkward first date at the bar in this charming, picture perfect jewel box of an eatery. The service is welcoming , attentive and kind. Food is excellent, classic pastas expertly made, with chicken and fish dishes also. Marsala was excellent, a chicken Caprese special also delicious. The deconstructed cannoli dessert is a stroke of genius. The atmosphere has to be mentioned again; convivial and warm. A delightful place for a date night or dinner with the family. Some might think it’s too small- I say it’s the Midwest, chat up the next table. Make lifelong friends out of perfect strangers. It’s that kind of place.
Mark Soehn
May 9,2025
Phenomenal Dining Experience in Bridgeport! We had an incredible dining experience at Franco's Ristorante. The food, wine, and service were all top-notch. I ordered the Chicken Giardiniera, and it was nothing short of phenomenal—perfectly cooked with just the right amount of heat and flavor. I didn’t capture a great photo of the dish, but trust me, there were two generous pieces of chicken buried under that delicious giardiniera—it was hearty and satisfying. The wine selection was equally impressive. We enjoyed a Super Tuscan glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo - Carletto. The staff deserves special mention—they were attentive, warm, and made sure every detail was perfect. From start to finish, the experience felt genuinely elevated, yet welcoming. If you’re anywhere near Bridgeport, make this your next stop. You won’t be disappointed!
Alissa Aranas
Apr 28,2025
recommending this spot to everyone i know. their seafood is fresh, their bread is warm and crispy on the outside, and their serving sizes are perfect. my husband and I got their fried calamari, bruschetta, linguine and mussels in white wine (special), beet and goat cheese salad, and their molten lava cake (special). you can taste the love in their food and it’s the perfect spot for a date night. our server Aida was very sweet and attentive and the restaurant’s vibe was very cozy. can’t wait to come back here!
Paula Silva Artistry Co.
Apr 28,2025
Such a great local hidden gem. The attentive friendly customer service and overall ambience highlight the delicious food. Great spot for a date night or girls night out.
Lydia Ngomba
Apr 26,2025
Family owned location in Bridgeport, food is amazing. The staff is great. The portions are huge and every thing is fresh.
Emily
Apr 10,2025
I went with my family of 5. We arrived on a whim while visiting Chicago and are pleased to say that we haven't enjoyed a restaurant this much in quite some time. The vibe was quant and relaxing and the service (particularly Isreal) was impeccable -- but the food was the show stopper. It was absolutely delicious and flavorful. I appreciated the staff accommodating my vegetarian requests with no hesitation -- highly recommend a stop to Franco's!

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