The only reason I'm giving it a 4/5 is because for $19 I wish the sandwhich was bigger (or the price was lower...). I'm not going to lie... I can't stop thinking about the sandwich I ate here. They have two vegetarian options on their menu and I went with the Modena sandwich. It was perfectly sweet, a little salty and had the most delicious pistachio cream. The focaccia bread it was made on was perfectly chewy as well. I wish they had more sides on their menu so I could try! read more

Lizzano - Modena - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Lizzano is a true neighborhood staple--we've ordered from here and stopped in at least 10-15 times since they opened, and it never misses. The bread is always fresh, the ingredients taste high-quality, and everything just hits. Our go-tos are the Il Carnivoro, Sicilla, Piccante, and the Italino... but honestly, I'd trust anything on the menu at this point. Also, their happy hour is such an underrated gem--Wednesday through Sunday from 5-7pm. They do 50% off Italian boards (perfect for a girls' night) and $9 spritzes. We're heading there this week and already looking forward to it. read more

Lizzano - Il Carnivoro - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I joked a few days ago about wanting a panini, and then we happened to come across Lizzano while walking back to our hotel. We decided to stop in, and I'm glad we did. The space was very clean, and you can see the fresh deli ingredients being prepared right in front of you. The guy behind the counter was incredibly helpful and kind. He recommended three different paninis, and we decided to go with the Lizzano. It was our first time trying it, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. My significant other only ordered one since we were just trying things, but in hindsight we definitely should have ordered two. I would love to see a location back home in Atlanta. Unforgettable! read more

Lizzano - Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Saw it on Instagram so a coworker and I made the 30 minutes trek to check it out for lunch. Yes, we treated ourselves to a super long lunch that day and hopefully also walked off our calories in the process. It was a nice day outside, sue us. The ingredients were fresh and my sandwich was pretty loaded. I thought it was a bit pricey for a sandwich for lunch but it was filling enough without the "I'm so full I can move" feeling. read more

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I hadn't noticed this place since it snuck into the neighborhood: a new boutique sandwich store with Italian style sandwiches on focaccia. The bread is the best part, but the whole sandwich is also fantastic--very meaty/oily and good for the mediterranean diet fans. Service was nice and quick, it wasn't too busy when we went. The only thing to moan about is the price, but that's the cost of business anymore (close to $50 for lunch for two, sharing one bag of potato chips, one soda each, only in cans), it will be a nice place to visit when I'm in the area time to time. Nice eating space right on Michigan Ave with a lot of light, stylish and clean design. read more

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I'd been curious about Lizzano ever since it opened in River North earlier this year, so I finally gave it a shot and placed a to-go order after work. They were running a two-for-one deal on the Il Carnivoro sandwich, two for $24, which felt like a solid downtown deal for what I assumed would be a high-quality artisan Italian sandwich. Pickup was super easy and seamless, no complaints there. I had one sandwich when I got home and planned to bring the other to work the next day. Unfortunately, I found the sandwich a little underwhelming overall. The bread and ingredients weren't bad, but nothing really stood out. The sandwich was smaller than expected, and it ended up being kind of dry. The prosciutto and other meats were just okay, and there really wasn't much in the way of dressing or flavor. I ended up eating half of the second one right after the first because I was still hungry so I was glad I had two. To be fair, this was a takeout order, and maybe the dine-in experience (with some of their spritzes or other menu items) would be better. But based on this first try, I'd say it was just average. Not bad, just not quite the standout I hoped it would be. Would maybe go back to try something else in person, but probably wouldn't rush. read more

Lizzano - Il Carnivoro (Limited edition) - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This place had been on my list for a while and I finally stopped by earlier. Tl;dr ok, pricy sandwiches on sad focaccia. No AC so would recommend sitting outside if you're visiting on a hot day. ===== Tried the Lizzano and the Milano sandwiches. The focaccia for both was very dry and crumbly and not toasted or warm at all. Ingredients within the sandwiches are exactly as listed on the menu, and felt a little skimpy in relation the the bread. I wish they would add fresh lettuce/more veg or something to them so there would be something to balance the salty meat and dry bread. Sandwich size was regular/maybe on the smaller side. I liked the cute wooden boards the sandwiches came on. What toppings they did have in the sandwiches were tasty, though quite salty since the slices of cured meat dominated the flavor profile. Slight preference for the Lizzano since the fresh mozzarella and small slices of tomato helped perk it up a bit, though the Milano wasn't bad and had some tasty pesto. The temperature inside the shop when we visited was 83 degrees and the AC was off. Normally I dislike eating outside since I detest bugs and sun burn, but it was significantly cooler outside. The interior overall was fine and there was ample seating, even for a largish group. Outdoor seating was a little dirty, and unprotected from the sun apart from earlier in the day. Service here is very casual and you pay when you order and pick up a buzzer. Staff seemed friendly overall. One nitpick is that the cups they give for water are disposable and the smallest I have ever seen. The lack of AC combined with that and the small, dry sandwiches just made me feel like the owners are really trying to cut costs. Not sure I'll be back, but I appreciate what they're trying to do. If they would turn on the AC a little on hot days, and put a teeny bit more care into their water cups and focaccia, I would definitely consider coming back. read more

Lizzano - Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Lizzano recently opened nearby and I spotted it strolling by seeing the tangarine orange Aperol umbrellas along the sidewalk. Curiosity lured me inside and I decided to order a panini ($18). I would say the portion was good and overall quality ingredients, but the focaccia bread (as others have also commented) doesn't have any taste, possibly lacking garlic or sea salt to the dough and the sundried tomatoes were oddly dry which usually should be moist from being soaked in olive oil. The basil, mozzarella, arugula and meats were fresh! Came to learn this is a family business and this is the first of two locations in the city. Yay I love to support small businesses vs. Corp. The girl who took my order was very sweet and helped me decide which panini to get. She also let me know about their Wednesday through Friday apertivo discounts on the patio, to include half off boards - which I'll definitely come back to check out with some friends. The interior ambiance was reminiscent of a delicatessen in Italy and very inviting. I hope they do well as a new addition to the neighborhood. I always love a good panini and don't always feel like going over to Eataly. read more

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Came by for a quick bite after being in the area. The place was quiet around dinner time on a week day so we got food quickly. I was excited to try it, as I heard good things about this place. I got the Lizzano classic sandwich, and it really was just okay. The sandwich had plenty of prosciutto and mozzarella but it really was lacking basil and tomato. The ratio was off, and for the focaccia being house made, I was not terribly impressed. We sat outside on the patio and there is plenty of seating. Overall, The sandwich was tasty but for the price they were charging, I would not pay that again. read more

Lizzano - Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Lizzano is a charming addition to River North, offering a cozy atmosphere cute. The staff is exceptionally friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. The sandwiches are tasty, but I found them a bit pricey considering the modest amount of filling. Prices range from $15 to $27, which seems steep for the portion sizes. Additionally, Lizzano operates as a cashless establishment, accepting only card payments. While the ambiance and service are delightful, the value for money regarding the sandwiches could be improved. Nonetheless, it's a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal, especially if you're in the mood for a cozy Italian café experience. read more

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Was so excited to have a delicious Italian sandwich shop open in River north and it totally lived it up to the hype! The ambience is cozy with cute decor and is the perfect addition to the neighborhood. The service was also excellent! We tried the Sicilia sandwich and got it on foccacia bread with fresh tomatoes instead of sundried and it was phenomenal. Took me back to Florence where I had one of the best sandwiches. The sandwiches are decently sized so we just got 1 to share since we weren't too hungry and they cut it in half for us. Highly recommend and would totally come back!! read more

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I'm glad to have Lizzano open in River North. It's a cute shop and can't wait to go for spritzes in the summer. The sandwiches are good and relatively large, but with not a ton of filling. For the price of $15-$18 I would expect more meat and cheese. I really hope this place makes it and I will be rooting for them to make a few tweaks! They are doing a happy hour on weekdays to bring more folks in. read more

Lizzano - Lombardia - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Okay probably one of the best Italians sandwiches I've had. It was so delicious!!! We got Napoli and Sicilian sandwiches and they were so fresh and flavorful. The Sicilian has pistachio cream which was so good and I added arugula to for more greens. They also do happy hours from 4 pm-6 pm on their drinks and talegiri if you're into those. The service was amazing. The interior is super cute and they also have outdoor seating. Highly recommend trying this place. I'll be coming here more. read more

Lizzano - Sicilia and Napoli subs - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Lovely lunch spot -- great service & the sandwiches were reallyyyy fresh & delicious!!

Milano -Made By Gabbie. Great quality food, Always friendly. Clean seating. Fast service. Open Late. read more

Lizzano - Milano - Made By Gabbiie - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This placed just opened and it was so good. Had the Lizzano and the bread was soft and felt so fresh! Will definitely come by here again. Also there was a lot of good seating and lighting here as well. read more

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This brand new spot in River North is so cute! It gives all of the Italy vibes with the interior decor & the food / drink menu. Their focaccia sandwiches are light and airy, and the espresso martini and Aperol spritz pair perfectly with any of their sandwiches. The owner is so friendly and welcoming. Great spot for lunch or happy hour :) read more

Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is mid-size with several seating. The items start at fifteen and goes to twenty seven dollars. The staff and service is very good. P.S. This is a Cashless business. read more

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If drinking an aperol spritz and eating the best Italian sandwich in Chicago is wrong, I don't want to be right. @lizzanochicago just opened in River North and I enjoyed every single bite. From perfectly crafted sandwiches on seriously good focaccia, to refreshing spritzes, this spot brings super cute delicious Italian vibes to the city. Bonus? They've got happy hour specials. You can enjoy meats, cheeses, focaccia and spritzes at a discount. Run, don't walk! 636 N Wells read more

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Stopped by for lunch. The sandwich filling is tasty and reminds me of Italy. I liked the presentation. I thought the bread was just okay. Could've used some toasting. read more

Staff was extremely friendly, kind, and helpful. The food was light and delicious. Beverages were delicious as well and gave me a buzz. Everything you could ask for! Oh and music was poppin! read more

Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A place that specializes in focaccia with bad focaccia... was thrilled to try this place as sandwiches are my favorite but it was a disappointment. Their focaccia was dry and flat. Pricing was honestly a bit absurd but the sandwich is large. read more

Excellent sandwiches. I had the toasted Brie and walnut adding prosciutto. Husband had pastrami. Both were delicious. Bread was great quality and perfect thickness. Ingredients were high quality. Downsides: low fat chips? Not that amazing. Regular please. Meat in sandwiches wasn't warmed. Would elevate the flavor even more. Shop could use a bit more atmosphere. read more

I live nearby and was excited to see Lizzano was coming to the neighborhood! I visited during the grand opening and it was very busy (great to see!). I ordered the Lizzano sandwich which was prosciutto, mozzarella, basil and tomato on foccacia bread and it was delicious - fresh, flavorful and just the right amount. Very reminiscent of the sandwiches I love to get when I visit Italy. I waited quite a while for my sandwich but was expecting it and the staff were so friendly and attentive. They checked in a couple times with me to let me know the food was on its way and gave out samples of panna cotta. It is also cool that the owner went to college in Chicago and I enjoy supporting local establishments. I highly recommend and will be back! read more

Lizzano - Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is a new upscale sandwich shop in River North. It opened in within the last month or so seems to just getting its footing. I wish Yelp would allow for half or quarter stars this spot is currently between a three and four stars The Pros: First, the food, especially the sandwiches, is excellent. They are make their sandwiches to order and made then with fresh and delicious ingredients. The meat is very tasty and legit Italian, the bread is perfect and tasty and their veggies are fresh. The sandwiches are also large and can be a meal in and of themselves. The Lizzano was my favorite of the sandwiches that I tried. The Tagliere Italiano features great meat and cheese and is fun to share with friends. Second, the ambiance is fun and bright. They do up the shop with decor, like a vintage bicycle, to make it look and feel like a hole in wall restaurant in Italy and it really works. The Cons: First, it's expensive. Most do the sandwiches of are $17 or $16 and range between $14 and $17. Yes this is River North, but the prices of the sandwich does not come with a drink or a side. For that money, you get a sandwich plus extras, even in River North. Second, they don't have potato chips. I understand that they might be trying to be "authentic". However, sandwiches shops in Italy do sell potato ship and Italians in Italy so eat potato chips. I would have loved a side of kettle chips or even some potato chips from Italy as an option. Third, service is a work in progress. Everyone was friendly and they do make the sandwich's to order. However, service was slow. I went at lunch time on Saturday with only one or two other customers in the shop, but it took 35 minutes form the time I ordered to the time I received my first food item. For the prices paid, I expected better service. At the time, only two staff total were working in the restaurant. They need to hire more people and work on speed. In sum, this spot is worth visiting, but improvement is needed. I gave them four stars (my precise rating would be 3.5-3.75 stars) because of the uniqueness of concept in this neighborhood, the excellent quality of food and the sandwiches and the potential for greatness if they improved service and offer some extras like potato chips. read more

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If ambiance was everything this new restaurant would be 5 stars but alas I am there for the food. First, I have to push back against the reviews based on value. Make sure you are comparing apples and oranges. I'm quite sure you haven't done the food cost for this place so consider what they're putting on their sandwiches. This isn't Subway or Quizno's. They are using expensive ingredients. They probably could lower their food cost and the prices if they made their own focaccia. As long as I am on that topic, let's talk about the focaccia. It's dry and bland. There's not a lot of love put into this at all. You need a longer fermentation or at least a pre-ferment to bring out the flavor of the wheat. It's also going to keep it moist longer. Sandwiches are simple. Sometimes the simplest food is the hardest to accomplish. Anyone can go to Eataly and buy these ingredients and slap their own sandwich together. You'd better make it special and you failed here. The insides are great but everyone but the owner knows that a sandwich is only as good as the bread. You can just tell by the color of this focaccia that it's not a good one. I told an employee and he says everyone says it's fantastic. I'm the 8th person to review this place so I can't really see that to be the whole truth and I must be nobody. Not an ex-chef and a classically trained baker but a nobody. Best of luck with this place. I won't be returning. read more

Loved my recent visit to Lizzano! The Milano and Lizzano sandwiches were amazing - perfectly balanced flavors and the bread was spot on. Large portion (great to share). And the Aperol Spritz? So refreshing! The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it a great spot for a quick, delicious bite. Friendly staff too. Highly recommend! read more

Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The panini are too good! The staff is quick with the order and plenty of seating options! The location is prime and also good spot to work from! They have an happy hour as well, W to F : 4 to 6pm. $9 spirits and wine plus 50% off on Italian boards! Nice ambiance. read more

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My first review for them was 5 stars. Although pricey, I thought it was worth it due to the quality of the meats and cheeses in the sandwiches. However, since they've opened a few months ago, they've already increased their prices. AND any extra add-ons are $1.50/ea (including salt & pepper!!!). I can understand premium add-ons having an extra charge but not everything. read more

Sandwiches are delicious and the workers are always so kind. The drinks are good too and they have a nice outdoor seating area as well. Definitely recommend stopping in if you're looking for a relaxing stop for a drink or bite to eat in River North! read more

Finally stopped in to the south Michigan Avenue location. Wonderful food. Large sandwiches. Meats and cheeses are freshly cut and delicious. Lovely staff. Will be back! read more

Their new location on 200 N Michigan Ave is absolutely incredible! It's a must stop whether you're visiting or live here. Best sandwiches around! read more

Lizzano - Carnavoria - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Good local establishment. Recommend the meat, cheese & bread boards, very nice people. What's not to like!

Love this place! Food was delicious and Stephanie was so kind and helpful in making our selection. Will definitely be back!!

The ambience is way more of a day cafe than a happy hour or night spot. They're newly opened, but I could see them scaling back their hours. The happy hour was good. I don't know what kind of white wine they served us, but the pour was very generous. The board was a fun snack. Probably wouldn't come back just because the ambience isn't there and there's so many places in Chicago that are better but if you stop by during happy hour hours, it's not a terrible deal. read more

Lizzano - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great caprese sandwich and express martini It's just very pricey for a sandwich shop. read more

I have come twice in the past two days! This place is great. Playlist is amazing, drinks are so refreshing, paninis are fantastic, and the staff is so friendly! This will be my new go to place for a spritz! read more

Lizzano - Campari Spritz, Hugo Spritz, Limoncello Spritz - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Can't stop thinking about the espresso martini! The sandwiches and service were great also! read more

Lizzano - Aperol spritz and the best espresso martini - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Fantastic sandwiches. We were looking for something different other than pizza, Italian, burgers and this place was perfect

I can't say enough about how delicious this sandwich was and it was worth every penny! It was so nice to have fresh, real ingredients!!! I got the Lizzano and my daughter got the Napoli. They were both amazing!!! The portion was very ample and all the ingredients were so delicious. The focaccia was so light and drizzled with a very lovely olive oil!! It was a very balanced sandwich. All of the ingredients worked together. We each had a spritz which were also well balanced and very good! I am so excited about this place in the neighborhood. It took me back to Italy! The people working the counter were also very professional and pleasant. You need to go and check it out! It's really, really great! read more