This is the part where I wax poetic about how ill-designed dining is for solo diners, and how this is doubly if not quadruply true in Italian restaurants. I want to have the pasta, but this is meant to be shared amongst the table, not devoured by one person, but I digress. I walked in during what ended up being brunch, and while the regular menu was not technically available, the bar-server offered to ask the kitchen if I wanted something specific. That something was the Tuna Tartare, which the kitchen obliged (thank you very much). While a simple dish, it was executed supremely well. The olive oil was of such quality and robust flavor I asked the kitchen what brand they use, the avocado was at the peak of ripeness, and the house-made chips were oozing with homemade perfection. The fish was of high quality, and the ginger-orange gelatine added a subtle flavor and texture which was very unique, both as a flavor, but more so in execution! Now, to be fair, while this was not my favorite iteration of this dish, it doesn't take away from the quality and precision of execution. As my main, I ordered the Basil Pesto Brunch Gnocchi. The sauce was, true to form, very earthy, creamy, and basil-y without being overpowering. The gnocchi themselves were soft and pillowy, some of the best I'd had! The accoutrements of egg, sun-dried tomatoes, and mushrooms helped add new dimensions to the dish, adding those lightly meaty, acidic, and generally umami notes. The pork belly, meanwhile, was lost on me. Coming back to this review, I was frankly surprised they were included! Maybe this is me showing why I can't hack it as a professional, paid, restaurant critic, or maybe they were in fact, omitted. An area where Ascione Bistro shines is the service. The bar-server was friendly and attentive, and the food came out reasonably fast, especially since I could see into their kitchen, the pace of which reminds me of The Bear (don't worry, no yelling or profanity could be heard). Final verdict: Ascione appears to be a very busy spot, and for good reason. They have well executed, unique, and flavorful dishes, complemented by great service. If we pretend me not picking up on the pork belly is a 'me' issue, then the experience was flawless... except that I should have found more people to come with me, as the gnocchi loaded me with carbs, and I ended up taking half-ish home. read more

Ascione Bistro - Basil Pesto Brunch Gnocchi - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Ascione's kept popping up on GMaps, Resy and Yelp as a highly rated restaurant, so even though it was a 30 minute Uber ride, I decided to give it a try. The local area is very busy and the police presence is very obvious, so keep that in mind, but I'm glad I made the decision. The Hostess seated me immediately and took my drink order right away. My Server, Gaby, was quick and attentive so my Wedge Salad and Grilled Octopus was delivered to my table in record time considering how busy it was. The grilled octopus was perfectly cooked and flavored and the wedge was amazing. The only issue was that the wedge salad was so big I couldn't even finish it. To end the night I had a glass of Barolo and a slice of the "made-in-house" key lime pie. It was great and paired perfectly to complete the meal. I can definitely recommend Ascione's for a night out for dinner or a date night. It's not terribly loud and it's a relaxed vibe. I would also ask for Gaby, she is a great Server. read more

My last visit was just a glass of wine outdoors during the summer. I've been wanting to come for a meal. Finally had my chance today. Came for an early lunch. We were greeted warmly. Our server made our mouths drool describing the specials. I even drooled over food I don't normally eat. We were given fresh out of the oven bread. We ended up with the following: Sausage and peppers Beet salad with chicken on the side. My husband enjoyed his sausage / peppers dish. It comes with potatoes. I've never had such delicious potatoes. I stole a good number of them. I shouldn't have , not because it was "rude" towards my husband, but I physically have no stomach (due to cancer not a bypass- just to make that clear. Almost 17 year survivor). I was setting myself up for fullness-too-early failure. Worth it. Ha! In my random sample , none were underdone. All perfectly seasoned. Perfectly crispy/ soft. My beet salad was light and refreshing. Each ingredient was the perfect marriage of flavor. The almonds are a good touch. Because my stomachless body requires protein, I got a side of chicken. It actually complemented the salad well. But yes I got too full. In a good way, at least. Such a nice place to have lunch! We made a good Resy choice today. read more

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Came in for a brunch on Sunday afternoon and was seated without a reservation. I ordered the shrimp and polenta with a limoncello spritzer. My friend had a crab cake and French fries. We both thoroughly enjoyed our meal. Service was amazing and the ambiance was great for a girls day, date, or time with family. Music was at a comfortable level for table conversation and a nice vibe. Will be back. read more

Ascione Bistro - Shrimp and polenta - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Accione bistro is a great spot to grab a meal and a drink in Hyde park. A fairly small place but the attentive service and care was great. The food was delicious as well if you are looking for something light or more filling they have options for both. Our filet mignon was cooked to a great medium rare temp and the wedge salad and potatoes complimented the steak greatly. Also the octopus was a great option as it wasn't too crunchy or soft. I would definitely go back to this spot again for lunch or dinner. read more

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This Hyde Park restaurant is it's not necessarily a hidden gem but one that easily I forget about and I hate that I do because the food is so good here. My friends came in here after a long day of Pickleball so we were in need of some carbs and protein and it's definitely fit the Bill. The pasta was absolutely amazing and I have them add on lobster to mine, but I was very jealous of my friend risotto that she got because hers actually came with the actual lobster tails on it which next time I go, I would definitely be getting if they still have it on the menu. The drinks were amazing and of course the bread was a favorite of ours. We were able to do a walk-in and was seated right away, which was pretty cool. Our waiter was very nice and good with recommendations to which I appreciate it because I'm sometimes gonna be a picky eater and so when asking probing questions, he answered them with grace read more

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Most of the 5-star reviews seem fake probably written by friends or family and because this place doesn't even deserve one star. The food isn't good, the service is extremely slow, and the portions are very small for the price. I enjoy trying different restaurants, but this is definitely not one I'd ever return to. read more

This is my go to restaurant for a quick date night or solo when I'm feeling like sitting down This restaurant is one of my favorite hidden place in Hyde park Chicago . The have #unlimitedmimosas for 18$ and one of the cheapest so far in Chicago . I had the *Basil Pesto Brunch Gnocchi *Pork belly, sundriedtomatoes, wild mushroomstopped with poached eggs And my date had the Nutella French Toast (V) (Which was vegetarian friendly ) Ganache, nutella , strawberries. Service was great and waiter was very attentive and come around often to ask us how we were doing and refill our water as well . Both our meal was delicious and the French toast was so good and fluffy . read more

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The wife and I eat here once a week. The food is great. The atmosphere is chill and the owner, manager and service is top-tier. Highly recommend recommended. read more

We were sat outside in their heated and fully covered patio, so I can't comment on what the actual restaurant looks like. Cozy vibes regardless though! It was windy out, but I felt none of it inside their safe haven! Our water was never even half empty, the wait staff were super attentive! They start you off with a bread basket and olive oil mixture. My friend and I shared the tagliolini, which was an incredibly rich black truffle cream pasta. Bonus points for being hand made with egg!! The pennoni was 75% sausage and 25% pasta - I do wish the ratio was a bit more even. Def had a tiny spicy kick here, and the flavors were bold and layered perfectly! The tiramisu was definitely the best dish of the night - a very shareable portion with a nicely whipped fluffy cream and a delicious cake base. One of the best I've had - Yum!! Would order again! read more

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Ascione Bistro can no wrong in my eyes! Everything comes out fresh and hot. The service is always top tier and very attentive. I live their brunch but their dinner is the show stopper. The interior is small yet cozy and intimate. read more

Ascione Bistro - Lobster Ravioli - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Another fine meal at this restaurant. Started with the arugula and truffle oil salad. Delicious. Then the Branzino, which was prepared perfectly. I don't often order this fish because it is shipped so far. Once in a while is OK. For dessert, I had the Affogato. Espresso over their vanilla ice cream is a delicious wake me up. Service here is a team effort and they were very attentive. The space is comfortable, and the tables do not appear to be pushed too close together We were seated in the back close to the kitchen and the bar, but the servers went back-and-forth without bothering us with their proximity read more

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I've dined here several times, not of my own will, but because many post-conference lunches/dinners are hosted here. The food here has rarely impressed me, especially at the price point, but the desserts are fantastic - the creme brulee is delicious. The ambience is pretty but highly charmless; devoid of personality. The servers have always been solicitous and very accommodative of my fellow diners' allergies - hence the stars. read more

Very tasty reasonably priced nice interior Italian restaurant. Server was very friendly food came out at a good timing. Would recommend all dishes we got esp house meatballs came with delicious sauce and cream sauce read more

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I love Ascione Bistro in Hyde Park. Great location and nice dog-friendly patio. The steaks are exceptional. Salads are good too. Pricey, but worth the splurge. read more

Went here for lunch and the food was absolutely delicious . Ordered the fish with spinach it was so good o didn't take a picture nothing was left. The service was amazing and the atmosphere was perfect beautiful restaurant and the drink was in a mule cup absolutely perfect. This is one of my favorite restaurants. The food is fresh and you don't feel heavy when you're done. I did have pictures of the desserts lol read more

Ascione Bistro - Tiramisu delicious - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Tried this place based on the recommendation of a friend. It was a cozy restaurant and the food was amazing! The lobster ravioli was a perfect portion and it was delicious!! The service was also great. The waiter was very attentive to our table read more

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This place is great! I went here for the first time on a Monday evening at 5:30 and it was super busy. We were seated within a few minutes, as we made a reservation. Service was very good and FAST. Our server strongly recommended the lobster ravioli, which my friend and I both ordered, and it was absolutely incredible. The value was good considering what we had. I didn't sample any beverages but the wine list is extensive and the cocktails looked amazing. There is a nice outdoor patio, but it was approximately one million degrees outside so we sat indoors. I wish the air conditioning was a bit stronger in the restaurant, but that is my only gripe and I won't knock a star off for that (and again, it was legitimately one million degrees out). I can't wait to go back here: highly recommend! read more

Ascione Bistro - Lobster ravioli: DELICIOUS!!! - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The best place I have found since moving to Bloomington two months ago. It's also, possibly, one of the best Italian restaurants at which I have dined. We skipped past the apps to make sure we'd be getting desert. I ordered the Linguine al Fruite de Mare. This and Cioppino are my favorite Italian dishes. And this was right up there with the best. My wife ordered the Duck Breast with Mushroom Risotto and a Blood Orange Sauce. I'm not a duck fan but she absolutely loved it. We had both ordered desert, carrot cake for her and key lime cheese cake for me. Both were excellent. Service was excellent though out our meal was excellent. Our server was always there seemly without hovering. The restaurant has both indoor seating and a large outdoor area under a canopy. We dined outdoors. read more

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Love this neighborhood bistro. Service always friendly and attentive. Food is consistently good. Gnocchi and ravioli are favorites for pastas. I have had fish and lamb chops here and always consistently good. Surprising wine selection. Great south-side gem. Recommend a reservation or calling ahead. read more

Ascione Bistro has rapidly become our favorite brunch spot. The service from Gabriella was OUTSTANDING! Today we tried something a bit different for us, but the food was delicious as always! My wife had the Eggs Benedict (Poached egg, toasted English muffin, hollandaise) with short-ribs -- a great value at $16.00. I had The Egg Xperience (Two Eggs scrambled, rosemary potatoes, and nueske's bacon for $12.00. read more

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Went here for an early dinner. When you arrive they have bread and olive oil with spices. The bread was room temperature but was okay. I ordered the wild boar ravioli and it was really good. They added fresh parmesan. Iced tea to drink. The server was attentive and friendly. The vibe is very community oriented in the sense that there was a mix of everyone there, families, friends, even individuals dining by themselves. The building is pretty small but the warmer it gets they open the outdoor courtyard for additional seating and that is a mood all in itself. Will be back to try additional items on the menus. read more

Ascione Bistro - Wild Boar Ravioli - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I went to this place for a group outing with my coworkers since we all live close in the area. We all ordered something different and it looked amazing. I had the lobster ravioli that was simply delicious and would definitely order it again. This place is quite small inside and can get busy so making a reservation is recommended. Our waiter was attentive making sure the group had everything they needed. We are planning another outing and come here for brunch next time read more

Solid Italian spot in Hyde Park with tons of options. Portion sizes are pretty big in my opinion. Service is very good. It's a great spot for larger groups/more formal gatherings/parties. I really like their gnocchi (they prepare it differently each day). Do be aware that the dishes here are pretty heavy. If you aren't in the mood for a heavier meal, I wouldn't recommend this place. read more

Ascione Bistro - Lobster Risotto - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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My hubby and I ventured to this restaurant due to a recommendation from a friend. They have a lovely patio covered and heated for the cool months. They have a nice wine list, which I will be back to try more. I had a glass of Riesling, which was ok. They are standard italian restaurant that service pasta, meats, salads, and fish. My favorite was the bread and happy hour maguerite pizza. That bread was fresh and hot! You have to ask for their happy hour menu! Boo to the hostesses and waiter for not providing that information when we sat down. I found that information on their social media page. My husband did not like the tuna tartar. The manager came out and chatted with us about the tuna. He assured us that the tuna was good, but my husband just wasn't a fan. I wasn't a huge fan of the octopus, but it was edible. I will definitely be back to try some of the happy hour drinks, bread, and enjoy their patio. read more

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Walked into the restaurant- atmosphere - warm and welcoming. Hostess and waitstaff EXCELLENT. Drinks - lemon drop martini - totally on point. The food...... SO GOOD. My daughter had a taste for risotto. The lobster risotto - chef's kiss. I had the sea bass. Also chef's kiss. Prices were very reasonable too. Going back - I want to try the short ribs and my daughter, the salmon. read more

Came on a Saturday at 4 am and there were a surprisingly amount of people, maybe 1/4 full. An upscale vibe, but they were gracious bringing a high chair and letting us dine with toddler. Very strong food across the board. San Daniele Prosciutto & Burrata - 5/5. Delicious prosciutto is the star. Lovely burrata. Arugula with balsamic is a nice complement. The crostini is good and my only complaint is there were just 2 pieces for a large dish. But absolute must get. Gnocchi with Vodka sauce - 4/5. Simple but well executed. Very well cooked gnocci, soft and pillowy. Rich vokda sauce. My toddler ate 3/4 of the dish :) Chianti Braised Short Rib - 4/5 (wife review). The components were all well executed. The price is high at like $34 but the dish is massive, at least 2 meals. Chocolate Cake - 4/5. Smooth luxious frosting. Good base. Simply a cake you like eating and want to another bite of. read more

The service was amazing! I say this with a party of 12 who did bottomless. Our server made sure our glasses were topped off the whole time. There is a decently selection of food for brunch as well! From pasta, sliders, and your regular brunch offers. There was also a patio outside which would have been a perfect day for us to be out there. Linguine Carbonara: the pasta was al dente and full of flavor! Made sure to mix the egg in well to get it incorporated with the pasta. Would have loved a little more bacon, but overall portion was perfect. $16. 8.2/10 read more

Ascione Bistro - Linguini Carbonara - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is becoming a go to spot whenever I'm in Hyde Park. The homemade pasta is fantastic, and the al fresco dining is beautiful. On my most recent visit for work, we didn't have reservations but the maitre d' worked us in and our waiter gave unfailing advice. I'd highly recommend this to anyone visiting. The locals already know it's quite special read more

I had been wanting to try this restaurant for awhile & finally did so on such a beautiful day so we sat outside. We were seated right away & started with appetizers. The crab cake and Mediterranean salad were delicious. Had the lunch special & short ribs--again, both delicious! I'm not a dessert person but he suggested the carrot cake & it was outstanding, so moist! Our waiter was great & he gave great recommendations. I would highly recommend you give them a try! read more

I've been here for brunch and really excited to come back for dinner. We had a reservation and were seated pretty quickly. The meals are good portions and seem to be family share style which I love. When I came for brunch I was so happy about the drinks, but ehh about the food. But dinner has completely changed my mind! We got the Caesar salad, braised short rib, and tagliolini pasta. Everything was amazing! I can still taste the black truffle writing this. For drinks I got the spritz limoncello (hugeeeee) and the lychee martini which both were great. My partner got the park old fashioned (gross but I'm biased lol) and the raspberry sour . I was pretty surprised that the second drink was pretty tasty as a dark liquor hater. Service was great, staff even moved over another table for us to really eat family style which was nice. I love that they have a heated patio, haven't tried it, give me indoors, but a cool nice to have. Really looking forward to coming back! read more

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July, 2025. Food was pretty good. We also liked the outdoor seating. What I did not like was when we arrived on a weekday considerably before dinner rush with very few guests, we walked in from the patio and there was a hostess standing at the podium who absolutely refused to acknowledge us. Literally, started talking to another employee while we were standing there. Mind you when we first walked up to her she wasn't talking to anyone but she looked at us as though we were discards. I think it was age bias and she didn't want to welcome an older couple. If they want to discriminate that way just blast some really offensive music. That should do it. read more

Ascione Bistro - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Ascione is a wonderful option in the Hyde Park area, located close to both the downtown area and the UChicago campus. Fantastic homemade pastas, shareable salads, and creative cocktails are served by a lively waitstaff. The decor is very muted and relaxing, making for nice conversation. It's not a large restaurant so book early. read more

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Went to see the cherry blossoms at the Museum of Science and industry and stopped here randomly. They were packed, but in a good way. Everybody was having a good time and enjoying their meals. Burger was really good, and fries also. Bartender knew what he was doing, guys on the line we're working as a well oiled team and the guy ( I assume manager) was running expo really well. I was impressed and will go back again for sure to explore the menu! read more

Everyone loves Ascione because it's a lovely place and the menu is interesting. They have bought Nella Pizzeria. I am writing about the same problem in both places. Recently I ordered a bianco/ Nero pizza at Nella. One of the ingredients that it used to have under the prior owners was truffles. Nope, no truffles - just a sort of paste that tastes maybe like olives. The other day at Ascione, the taglialini (sp) had a nice cream sauce but again, no truffle taste was detectable. I was told that could order a $10 up charge for black Italian truffles, but I declined because the menu said that there were truffles in the "regular" version. Nope. So be wary of promises of truffles. read more

Roberto was very attentive and friendly very knowledgeable and fun an amazing food experience in a great atmosphere highly recommended place great food Thanks !! read more

I enjoy the excellent food. Portion sizes are ample. My favorites ate always available. And the bread and olive oil! Fabulous. Ive had the seafood dishes, the poultry dishes and the pasta. I eat here 1-2 x month since they opened. It is a comfortable place. The waitstaff is attentive and not intrusive. The wine and cocktail menus are extensive. I love this place! read more

The food was delicious. The service was excellent. It was a really cool Chicago vibe great drink great everything the crabcakes were excellent. The bacon was delicious. read more

Ascione was a wonderful brunch in the most beautiful space. The colors are all creams, navys and golds, which is such a vibe. Service was wonderful, though we were seated at the small booth closest to the door and it was COLD. We asked to be moved, but they couldn't accommodate us, which was the only bummer of the experience. Food was excellent. I had the lox Benedict, which was delicious, paired with an aperol spritz. My friend and I shared the salted caramel apple tarte, which was flaky and sweet, but the ice cream was definitely the best part. Parking is easy, too, because they do have a lot, which is always a plus! I would definitely return! :) read more

Ascione Bistro - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Had the Basil Martini at the bar , perfect balance. Not too sweet and you don't event taste the Vodka ! read more

Ascione Bistro - Had this drink at the bar- Basil Martini , was the best , perfect balance. You don't even taste the Vodka! - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois