Monteverde - Chicago
A former "Top Chef" finalist, Sarah Grueneberg has made her West Loop eatery one of the hottest destinations in the country. Monteverde, which is her collaboration with industry vets Meg Sahs and Robert Mosher, is her interpretation of modern Italian cuisine.
Grueneberg's successfully combined the experience she gained while working at the Michelin-starred Spiaggia restaurant with influences from her global trips and family heritage to create her dream restaurant. Monteverde represents her vision in a very sophisticated and energetic manner.
Fresh, house-made pasta is the star of the show, and it's made throughout the day behind the bar in a custom-designed pastificio. The most coveted seats are at the bar, where guests may view staffers mix and roll out dough, then craft the delicate pastas. A vintage mirror hanging above the butcher-block counter focuses on the detailed handwork involved so that guests can see exactly what they're getting.
The menu is broken down into snacks, small plates, pastas and share-able plates. It's highly recommended that guests choose from all lists--and they've made it very tempting to do so. Some of the highlights include prosciutto butter toast (snacks), cabbage stuffed with porcini bolognese and crispy polenta (small plates) and the arrabbiata and pork cheek tortellini pastas.
The menu is rounded out by craft cocktails, plus a curated list of wine and beer.
