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Name: Pasta Palazzo
Address: 1966 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL, 60614
Telephone: (773) 248-1400
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.15

Pasta Palazzo

1966 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL, 60614

(773) 248-1400
Store is closed

Pasta Palazzo Menu

Appetizers

Garlic Bread

Bruschetta

Grilled Calamari

Grilled Portabella Mushroom

Grilled Asparagus

Baked Goat Cheese

Polenta
Salads

Mixed Greens

Mixed Greens

Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad

Cucumber Salad

Vegetariano Salad

Caprese Salad
Zuppa Del Giorno

Soup Of The Day
Pasta

Spaghetti Marinara

Capellini Pomodoro

Farfalle Alfredo

Linguine Pesto-cream

Cavatappi Pollo

Conchiglie Gorgonzola

Penne Alle Melanzane

Farfalle Pomodoro Formaggio

Penne Bolognese

Penne Funghi

Conchiglie Classico

Penne Con Salsiccie

Spaghetti Frutti Di Mare
Handmade Pasta

Gnocchi

Jalapeno Gnocchi

Tortellini

Ravioli
Healthy Pasta

Healthy Chicken

Healthy Primavera

Healthy Scallops
Sandwiches

Grilled Chicken

Meatball

Caprese

Vegetariano

Grilled Portabella
Extras

Add A Vegetable

Add Chicken Sausage Beef Or Meatballs

Add Shrimp Scallops Or Calamari

Add Goat Cheese Or Mozzarella

Add Sundried Tomato

Add Pine Nuts

Side Of Marinara

Side Of Meatballs

Side Of Broccoli Or Spinach

Substitute Whole Wheat Pasta
Beverages

Soft Drinks

San Pellegrino

Coffee & Tea
Desserts

Today's Specialties

Healthy Meal suggestions for Pasta Palazzo

Appetizers

Garlic Bread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bruschetta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Calamari [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Portabella Mushroom [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Asparagus [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Goat Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Polenta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads

Mixed Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mixed Greens [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caesar Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caesar Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caesar Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cucumber Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetariano Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caprese Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Zuppa Del Giorno

Soup Of The Day [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Pasta

Spaghetti Marinara [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Capellini Pomodoro [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Farfalle Alfredo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Linguine Pesto-cream [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cavatappi Pollo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Conchiglie Gorgonzola [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Alle Melanzane [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Farfalle Pomodoro Formaggio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Bolognese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Funghi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Conchiglie Classico [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Penne Con Salsiccie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spaghetti Frutti Di Mare [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Handmade Pasta

Gnocchi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Jalapeno Gnocchi [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tortellini [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ravioli [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Healthy Pasta

Healthy Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Healthy Primavera [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Healthy Scallops [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sandwiches

Grilled Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Meatball [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caprese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetariano [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Portabella [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Extras

Add A Vegetable [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add Chicken Sausage Beef Or Meatballs [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add Shrimp Scallops Or Calamari [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add Goat Cheese Or Mozzarella [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add Sundried Tomato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Add Pine Nuts [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side Of Marinara [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side Of Meatballs [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side Of Broccoli Or Spinach [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Substitute Whole Wheat Pasta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Beverages

Soft Drinks [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

San Pellegrino [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coffee & Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desserts

Today's Specialties [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

J P.

Cavatappi Pollo! Excellent! Simple. Inexpensive. Great service. Better food!
(5)
Christina S.

I've deducted half a star for the cash only policy and half a star for the plastic cups. It's a rare evening that I have cash on me, and I almost spilled my iced tea four times. Otherwise, I really dig this place. All of the specials always sound good (that's a great sign), the waitresses are fast and cheerful, and it's got a cool we're-inside-but-it-feels-like-we're-on-a-patio vibe. And I'm starting to love shared tables.
(4)
Kara G.

What a great place! Food is reasonably priced, and EXCELLENT! Plus, the portion size is such that you can either opt to share with a friend (which I don't normally like to do since I love food too much to share and because most of my friends have cooties), or take home the leftovers for tomorrow's lunch or dinner. Either way, it's a great! The cream sauces are a little rich, but otherwise, no complaints! The staff is super friendly as well, and of course, it's located in a terrific neighborhood!
(4)
Kris R.

i honestly don't think you've had their best dish if you haven't tried the gnocchi w/ alfredo sauce. it's little heavy, yes, but it is effing FANTASTIC. pillows of heaven. other favorites: -mushroom penne. try adding sausage. mmmmm. -the POLENTA. good lord. if you're in the mood for something lighter, maybe lunch, try their salad w/ grilled chicken and the asparagus app. palazzo is one of those places that has delicious bread - when you eat it, it's like, mmm, oh yeah, i remember why i like this place. slather on some olive oil, cheese and pepper. definitely one of my easy, inexpensive, casual go-to places. highly recommended.
(5)
Bethany L.

My roommate loves this place, which she has mistakenly called "Pasta Palooza" for about a year now; I don't have the heart to tell her she's wrong. I ate there for the first time awhile ago and was not extremely impressed. My ravioli seemed undercooked and otherwise mediocre. The inside is nicely decorated, but the place has a very chill vibe. Our waitress was attentive, friendly, and gave good recommendations. The cash only thing is really annoying, and definitely didn't help their cause. Just okay.
(3)
Brett G.

One of my friends recommended we have dinner here.... Everything is fresh and tasty. The prices are really great. I tried all three of my friends' dinners and enjoyed them very much as well. We all had pasta so I can't attest to the sandwiches, but fellow reviewers seem to enjoy them as well. I'm indifferent to the shared tables. Downsides: CASH only (I've been to only one other Chicago restaurant that's cash only). The service wasn't prompt, but again it seemed short-staffed. The wine is served in orange juice glasses; water in plastic glasses. Maybe that's how prices are kept down! I'm sure I'll be going back. I will have to remember to bring more cash with me so I don't almost spit out my wine again reading those eight shocking letters: "C-A-S-H O-N-L-Y".
(4)
Elise R.

Great variety in the pastas with all the ingredients fresh! (You can smell them as you're waiting for your food!) Bread is brought out to you while you wait, and there is olive oil, pepper grinders and Parmesan cheese on the table so you can make dip for yourself. The vibe of this place is in between a nice sit-down Italian restaurant and a fast food Italian restaurant (like Fazzoli's). The service is great, and the food is cooked fresh for you... but it's not fancy and it looks a little better than an old style diner (not 50s). It's not too expensive either! What they give you is definitely worth the price! And don't forget... this place is CASH ONLY!
(5)
Meghan H.

I eat here all the time. It is inexpensive and a great place to even eat at alone. They have some "heavy" dishes but you can also be healthy. I like the healthy chicken pasta and the cucumber salad. Yum! They take credit cards now too which is awesome!
(4)
Katie R.

good lord. SO SO SO good. i had a dish with bowties, tomatoes, and goat cheese and it was absolutely fabulous. i don't think it is only because i love goat cheese - my friend got a dish with shells, spinach, and gorgonzola sauce which was great as well. it was VERY rich so you might not want a whole dish to yourself. we also had garlic bread which was wonderful with fresh garlic. the price is right and there are a lot of different dishes to try. i will be coming back often!
(5)
Scott H.

Great for dates, with friends or carry-out any night of the week. Great food & casual atmosphere. Orders can be customized with your choice of pasta or sauce (given its on the menu). S&JMar08 1649Boyz07-08
(4)
Michelle H.

Pasta Palooza is adorable and affordable. The food is pretty straight forward but beyond fills my pasta cravings. They only take cash so this is a must know before going, but I'm fine with that. Places that only accept cash I have a certain amount of respect for, and also know that they truly are a serious small business. The food is fresh, flavorful, and just what you ordered. The space is small but comfortable. The service was fast and on point. Overall pasta palooza is a place to visit when you get your carb cravings, but then again I have yet to go to the pasta bowl....
(4)
Kirk J.

Great little italian place. Very friendly server. 2 cops were in there eating lunch. That's always a good sign. I had the seafood rosoto. Calamari, shrimp, scallops, and spinach in a creamy tomato sauce. FOR $10.00? I thought it was pretty cool that you could watch the chef preparing your meal right in front of you. I will go back for sure.
(4)
Bada Bing L.

Gotta give 5 star props to this place. Casual and inviting yet top notch quality Italian food. Thats an all too rare combination. There is plenty on the menu to keep anyone in your group happy too.
(5)
Katie S.

This place is amazing. There pumpkin ravaioli is the bomb... Best I have had. Definitly going back.
(5)
Heather K.

I love Pasta Palazzo! I've got a little rotation of dishes that I normally order - cavatappi pollo, gnocchi or ravioli (both marinara and Bolognese sauces are yummy) - and all of those get 2 thumbs up. Just tried the goat cheese appetizer last week and it was heavenly (totally agree w/ Natalie R!) But my advice is to resist the urge to eat bread and olive oil beforehand if you decide to order that dish ;) CARB OVERLOAD! Cash only, but all of the entrees are $10 or less. Friendly, fast service too. One note - if it's a busy night, sometimes you are forced to share tables with other parties. This can either be hilarious or extremely awkward. Just a warning...
(4)
Yujin A.

really 3.5 stars, but I think this place has potential of becoming a solid 4 star place. My food didn't have a wow factor, and the service definitely has room for improvement. But I will be back and try different dishes. It's a casual place where you can get upgraded Italian food. You won't spend much more than 10 bucks per entree. Right after I ordered, I noticed "today's specials" on the wall, which the waitress did not mention. All three specials sounded so good I almost wanted to order a second entree for myself. I had spaghetti with seafood, and my bro had angel hair with marinara sauce+Italian sausage. I personally liked my brother's food better although I am a huge seafood fan. They also have three healthy pasta options Cons: ONLY Cash for payment-shady, but that's probably how they keep the price down, too few wait staff (they had one person running around when all tables were full) I didn't think service or food was all that quick. It wasn't that slow, but you would spend as much time as you would in a rather fancy Italian restaurant. Seemed like they get a lot of business from takeouts.
(4)
Jessica S.

I got my food for carry-out. It was good, which made up for the few downsides. My only complaints were 1. I didn't get what I thought I ordered (it was some version of the healthy primavera, I don't know if they just mixed up the vegetables or changed it without changing the menu) and 2. the carryout came in a flimsy plastic bag which didn't keep my food level (too hot to hold the whole way home) and so the sauce started leaking out. Aside from those mishaps, it was good. Maybe next time I'll grab a friend and eat there. It was before 5 and I was the only one. The lady who helped me was very nice and gave me some water and a magazine (US weekly, I love those things) to read while I waited for my food.
(4)
Candice H.

This is the best pesto I have had in a long time. My mother ordered the gnocchi with sun dried tomatoes, and normally I am the sun dried fan, but it seemed a bit plain. But like I said, the pesto was amazing. So fresh. You get to view the entire cooking process over the counter, the waiter was very polite, and I got plenty of refills when needed. This is worth the price. In fact, it isn't even that expensive. 8 dollar pasta! in Chicago! is actually pretty cheap. Don't be intimidated when you get a small plate, because I can eat......a lot.....and this plate filled me up before I was 2/3 of the way done. It's like the starbucks for the people who avoid caffeine or love great food. Highly recommend trying this place at least once.
(4)
erin m.

You can't get more bang for your buck than Pasta Palazzo! Fresh, homemade pastas right in front of your eyes- all under $10! The food itself definitely deserves a five star rating. I've tried the appetizers (love the goat cheese!), many different pastas, the meatballs and the vegetables. Everything I've had there has been fantastic, and I've been there on multiple occasions. They have this one pasta there which I refer to as cheesy chicken goodness- I swear, I dream about it! The restaurant itself is super cute, but it can get super crowded, especially on weekends. They have long, high tables so you might end up sitting with strangers. It's very busy, with the crowd, and the pasta cooked in front of you, so I was forced to take off a star for the ambiance.
(4)
Kris O.

I love simple pasta without too much fancy schmanciness going on, and this place has it. Cappellini with basil and tomatoes, pesto fetuccini, - a little too creamy for my taste, meatball sandwiches, cucumber salad.... Nice sit down atmosphere and reasonably priced.
(4)
Erin H.

Yummy, zesty dishes that cost far less than the bland bar food at other local hotspots. It's cash only, and that's frustrating, but they're very cool about letting you walk down the block to use an ATM. Pluses: -fresh bread -any of the primavera-type pastas (they don't skimp on the veggies) -ASPARAGUS -usually there's no wait, even during peak hours The one thing I didn't like: -the "spicy" ravioli that is served in a pool of greasy, odd-tasting tomato-jalapeno-cream sauce. Yipe.
(4)
Abby D.

Pasta Palazzo is one of the best pasta places in Chicago for a decent price. I recommend the Jalapeno Gnocchi-- the sauce is to die, I only wish the portions could be a little bit bigger!
(4)
tony c.

i've carried out from this place a few times now, and have to say that i've been impressed every single time. they're nice, fairly fast and have a quality product. admittedly, everything under 'pasta' that i've tried is good, but nothing really to write home about. so.. go for one of the handmade pastas! bar none the best gnocchi i've ever experienced in my entire life, and the alfredo is rich and creamy.
(4)
Tim J.

One of my favorite places to eat in the city! I didn't give it five stars because I wouldn't call it a "destination" spot. But they do quality Italian food -- and everything is good. Background: Lunches and most recently, dinner at 8 p.m. on a Saturday. Food: I've tried everything from the homemade Gnocchi to Tomato dill soup and many other pasta dishes along the way -- everything has been very good. Top Three: Entree - Gnocchi. App - Grilled Calamari. Soup - Tomato dill (love the risotto in it!). Service: Good service, no complaints. Cost: Unbelievably inexpensive. Entrees at $10. One note: This is a small restaurant. I'm estimating they have table seating for no more than 40 or so.
(4)
cynthia w.

We always look forward to Pasta Palazzo. The food is simply prepared with lots of cream in the dishes we often order, so we don't visit as often as we'd like to. The salads are fresh, too. They have a healthy section on the menu which is nice for those days and sandwiches. The meatball sub is quite good. I am not a fan of basil, and they always honor my request of "easy on the basil" in the bolognese. They also will substitute pastas for the one you prefer, too. Specials are always tasty. We like the window seats the best. They also offer carryout.
(5)
Caroline L.

Upon revisiting Pasta Palazzo, I'm bumping it up to 5 stars because I've tried much of their menu now, and it keeps on impressing me! Definitely the best value in that area and you will absolutely leave full and happy. My current favorite is the mushroom pasta!
(5)
Zach F.

My girlfriend had been pushing me to go here but I was turned off by the cheap prices (!!!) I thought to myself, "A restaurant this inexpensive can't be good." It's always nice to be positively surprised. The cavatelli pasta was delicious, as was the calamari appetizer. They have a decent foreign beer selection as well, and the service is always prompt and satisfactory. Food comes out super quick no matter how packed the place is. Only downside is during crowded times you'll be seated next to other people at larger tables. In the words of Arnold -- I'll Be Back!
(4)
Nicole C.

I went to Pasta Palazzo for the first time last night for dinner with friends. I had the homemade gnocchi with gorgonzola, which was delicious even if a bit on the salty side. The gnocchi were perfect light airy pillows of goodness filled with ricotta. The prices are unbelievably reasonable for homemade pastas and sauces. I'll definitely be back! :)
(4)
Adam E.

I love little independently owned places like this! They have an open kitchen so you can watch them make the pasta, and the service is great. FYI the Conchiglie Gorgonzola will essentially change your life! the only downside is cash only.
(5)
Marjie W.

This is my favorite place to eat, ever!! The food is simple, and cooked basically right there in front of you. The service is great and the place is so cute. Not expensive at all. They also have take out which is great for people on the go. They only take cash which I sometimes forget, but there are ATMS all over. And it is a great place to go on a date or just with friends. All in all.. I looove their food!
(4)
Mike L.

I'm so surprised of all the great reviews. I realize this is not gourmet Italian, but it was subpar for me. Had about a 25 minute wait on a Friday which was good. Sat down and the bread they give you is rock hard. Sure they have olive oil and cheese. I had the jalapeno gnocchi, it was pretty good and interesting but wasnt mindblowing. My gf had a dish (cant remember the name of it for the life of me) that was barely edible. It was recommended to her over another and the sauce was horrible. If it was prepared correctly I would be embaressed to have it on my menu. Portion size is on the small end, but so are the prices. Best part of the meal was the polenta which did hold its own. Was deciding on giving another star for that app alone, but I came here for a full meal
(2)
Paul W.

For the money, this place is freaking awesome. Well I shouldn't even say for the money, the way the food tastes I could easily see the dishes costing $20-30 at uppity places. I had the penne funghi with chicken added in, and it was delicious. My gf had the jalapeno gnochi which was also great. They also have a smoked chicken ravioli special that I've had which was also phenomenal. But the penne funghi with chicken is my fav so far. And the best part is you are totally stuffed at the end of the meal, and the bill is only $30!
(5)
Lauren L.

This place has great food at a reasonable price. I'm usually very picky about Italian food, because nothing compares to my grandma's cooking, but this was as close as it gets. I recommend all the homemade pastas, and the marinara sauce was very good. Especially the gnocchi. I will definitely be back soon, it was well worth the money, but beware: they only take cash!
(5)
Jason H.

I'm bored by mediocre pasta. if it isn't fresh, i don't want it. i went alone. i had a garlic bread, feta appetizer and a feta, pine nut, tomato entree. hey, i'm a sucker for strong cheese and pine nuts. but then, sadly, it was just pretty boring. the garlic bread wasn't made from good bread. the pine nuts were a bit soggy so what if it is cheap? cheap pasta can be better. go to any non-tourist restaurant in italy: delicious. cheap.
(2)
Kris T.

Pasta Palazzo is one of my favorite spots in town; i bop in on a regular basis. Never disappointed with the service, quality or freshness. Some of my favorite dishes: -Cucumber Salad -Asparagus Ravioli (in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce) -Conchiglie Classico Portions are more than generous...eating last night's leftover dish now! And because I'm a poor college student, I love the menu pricing. Oh, and I've always paid with a card, not cash like what some reveiwers have mentioned.
(4)
jennn j.

i love this place. i hate that they only take cash. such is life. the staff is so nice, i'm only momentarily annoyed. i also love mushrooms, so is it a surprise that two of my fav things on the menu are the grilled port. mushroom w/ gorgonzola and the penne funghi? just thinking about the mushroom app makes my mouth water - but the other reviewer is right. it is a bit lemony/balsamicy/tangy. but does that mean you are done eating yours? the sangria is good, but i wish the glasses were larger [am i showing my alcoholism?]. also good for carry-out when you want to come off like you can cook, but you really can't.
(4)
Erich B.

This place is really great, I just discovered it. Great food, great vibe, friendly wait staff and so cheap! I have payed double for pasta half as good before. Its the total package, and a cool place to bring a date if you are low on dough.
(5)
Lisa T.

I am completely obsessed with Pasta Palazzo. I live very nearby the place and dine often. Not only is it the cutest little place, but the food is extremely reasonably priced for the enormous portions you get AND it's delicious. I'm extremely picky about Italian food (being a good little Italian girl that can cook myself), and Pasta Palazzo is amazing.
(5)
Allyson C.

I only went here because my first choice was closed, so I didn't put much thought into it. It was pretty good but definitely not a place I'd go back to with so many other fantastic Italian places to choose from in this city. My food was just ok but nothing special. Prices were really reasonable and they do take credit cards now which was nice. I liked the atmosphere & our service was good too.
(3)
Midori G.

Cash only, so obviously this place is a front for the Italian mob, and thus it is actually run by Italians, giving us patrons a nice selection of simple, yet elegant, pasta dishes. One of the things I remember from my first time here was that they only served RC coke AND they served it in plastic cups. One of the things I keep on coming back for; their bruschetta. An extra bonus every time I go there is the high table-top dining. Last thing that you should know --- this is a great place for a special night with the sigfig or a great place for you and no more than three of your close personal friends.
(4)
Katie R.

3.5 stars. Because my caesar was sort of tasteless. And while my linguine pesto-cream was tasty - the pesto needed to be a little more pureed (it was a little crunchy). I would go back though, try something different. Room inside is scarce and you might find yourself sharing a table with strangers (which didn't seem all that weird or uncomfortable). This is more like a "fast" pasta joint (in the vein of Pasta Bowl) than an italian restaurant. Worth a trip if you're shopping around on Armitage...
(3)
Karan M.

Best Tiramisu ever!!!! And phenomenal service!! You have to try it.. Very well priced too!
(5)
Jaime R.

Everything was amazing. The service was great and the food was even better. Can't wait to go back again soon.
(5)
Julio G.

It's snowing outside! This is the perfect place to warm the tummy. Staff is wonderful, the food is great!
(5)
Adrian D.

Dr. Keith and I always enjoy visiting Pasta Palazzo! Always great service and food. In that order too! We will surely be back soon. Thank you !
(5)
Lauren T.

You must try the cavatappi pollo!!!!!! It's so good. I crave it all the time! And their baked goat cheese appetizer is incredible! I can't say enough great things about this place. If you haven't tried it - you definitely need to add it to your list! all the prices are affordable, the food is delish, the staff is friendly. What more could you ask for from this quaint little neighborhood pasta joint?? :)
(5)
Rump S.

My sister and I came in for the first time today for lunch. I've been wanting to try this place base on the reviews and it's always nice to try somewhere new in Lincoln Park. Everything came on a timely fashion and the food was delicious. Big portions and very affordable. the best part was their SERVICE. the waiter thought we had both ordered the same things but actually I ordered a different pasta than my sister, when the food came it was immediately obvious that it was the wrong pasta, but I said I I will just keep it since I was hungry and I hate to waste food. However the manager approached us again to ask again if I would like my original order, and I said yes because after 2 bites of the creamy pasta I knew I wasn't gonna eat the rest; it was totally different from what I wanted which was no cream and penne instead of shells. In 10 minutes my pasta came and they gave us the mistaken pasta in a to-go box so we can still have it for later :). It's just so nice to know that the food won't go to waste and they were more than willing to re-make my order in a helpful manner. I really appreciated the gesture. We will definitely go back again, and again!
(5)
Amelie G.

This place is AWEmazing. I kid you not. I've been there twice now and I loved it the first time so much I didn't think it could get any better but IT DOES! Guys, you Have to try their gnocchi. They are little pillows of awesomeness that melt (yes, melt!) in your mouth. And their seafood pasta is also very good. And their garlic bread. The only thing I wish the restaurant were bigger with a sitting/waiting area. But the good is uber good and not too expensive.
(5)
Abby J.

This place is just ok. I ordered from the homemade pasta section of the menu and there's no way the pasta was really homemade. Our order came less than 10 minutes later! And it didn't even taste homemade. Probably won't be going back here.
(2)
Susie T.

I was visiting from out of town and looking for a great, yet not too expensive meal to enjoy solo. Their counter was the perfect place to sit, read my book and drink some wine while I had a front row seat to the kitchen. I ordered the bolognese and it was by far the best I have ever had! The mushrooms add a great earthy flavor layer and i loved how much sauce! This was place warm and inviting and a perfect fit! I want to go back and try the gnocchi! TiP: ask for extra dressing on the caesar and if you sit at the counter... sit towards the door as it can get alittle warm so close to he stove!
(5)
Josh V.

Big-a meat-a ball-a! Is not what I had, but I felt like trying to sound Italian and that's what popped into my head. Don't ask why. I wouldn't call Pasta Palazzo an authentic Italian restaurant, but I would call it darn tasty! Before we get to the food, a few words on the place in general. It's a small space and can get kind of noisy. It's a pretty casual atmosphere. Most the tables are high, and there is a long counter/bar along one side. There isn't a lot of space for waiting for tables; if you're seated in front people might get all up in your business while they wait. This is a table service spot, and the staff seems pretty nice and efficient. They serve alcohol (at least wine, I didn't really look closely). Now to the fun stuff. The food is really darn good! We shared the baked goat cheese and grilled asparagus appetizers and they were both excellent! For my dinner I ordered one of the specials of the day: a risotto with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms in sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It was delicious! Super tasty. I had to stop myself from eating it all so I wouldn't explode. I took the rest home and it was just as yummy left over. We were too stuffed for dessert, unfortunately. The prices here are pretty reasonable. I think our two apps (plus garlic bread), four entrees, a couple wine drinks and a couple non-boozy drinks was around $80 and we were all very fully when we left. Gratzi, Pasta Palazzo! P.S. Some older reviews mention cash only, but they now take credit cards.
(4)
Rebecca B.

Pasta Palazzo manages to fill my belly without emptying my wallet. They have a menu filled with delicious pasta, salads, and appetizers, and their specials board is always worth checking out as they have some seasonal items that are out of this world (their Pumpkin Ravioli keeps me coming back every week during the fall). My personal favorites include the delightfully decadent Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Sauce (plump, flavorful gnocchi covered with a sauce so delicious that I have been known to lick my plate), the tasty Cavatappi Pollo (corkscrew pasta in a cream sauce with chicken, sun dried tomatoes, and mushrooms), amazing Grilled Asparagus (perfectly grilled and drizzled with a tasty lemon vinaigrette), and a truly delightful Caprese Salad. Despite what other reviews have said, Pasta Palazzo is no longer cash only. They do accept credit cards and have been taking them for a couple of years. In fact, I used a card at Pasta Palazzo yesterday to pay for lunch.
(4)
Kristen C.

One Word. Gnocchi. I crave the gnocchi and the bolognese sauce. There is just no other that compares. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are huge. Service is always great too. I love treating myself by stopping in here after a day of Armitage shopping. My two favorite specials are the red pepper stuffed gnocchi in gorgonzola sauce and the cavatelli shrimp. Hands down, THE BEST PASTA IN CHICAGO.
(5)
K L.

Pasta Palazzo is a pretty great place. I always get the same thing - Cavatappi Pollo. Yum! The baked goat cheese appetizer is also very good. It is a cute restaurant and I have always had good service. Prices are very reasonable, especially for Italian-style food, and the portions are a good size - not huge, but definitely enough. This is a smaller place that is good for small groups or a date.
(4)
Jim S.

OK, what's going on here? Boutique Italian in a trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood (near corner of Halsted and Armitage) in a fancy city. This place is so cheap, you have to ask yourself what's wrong with it. Apparently nothing. Maybe tables a hair close together, service excellent - maybe just a tad rushed (but at those prices, they better turn over the tables to make any money). Atmosphere is fine, most tables are the "high chair" variety, also seats at the bar. Had rigatoni w/sausage in a sundried tomato cream sauce ($10). SO had a pesto linguini thing ($8). Both were great. Shared a nice salad of apples, greens, gongonzola, candied walnuts - but at $4 you only need to share if two is too much food, they had an "entree-size" version for a whopping $6. Portions large. Kitchen in full view so you know they're not microwaving it. I'm hesitant to write this review because we may never get back in - we got the last real table at about 6:15 on a Wednesday. Not much place to wait except standing in the doorway, not sure if the bar is available for that, as all the bar places had place settings. Wine/beer the only things that have their usual restaurant markups, but hardly out of line - glass of chianti was $7. They had a few desserts but we were full so I can't comment. Please, more places like this.
(5)
Ella M.

Went to dinner with my girlfriends and the food was amazing. My gnocchi was so creamy and delicious.
(5)
Rick T.

Sign me up! I live by a restaurant with a similar concept over on Clark...and I love that place. So, I went into Pasta Palazzo ready to hate everything. Imagine my "disappointment" in being completely satisfied! Cheap eats, great tasting, quick, and casual. They kept the soft drinks topped off and handled a lunch time rush with aplomb. Pasta Palazzo even offers extra bread upon request with olive oil and Parmesan on the table (HEY! My place over on Clark doesn't offer extra bread. Or olive oil. Or Parmesan. Harumph.) I can't just dump my neighborhood joint. I've known her too long, she's convenient, and she knows me inside and out. But Pasta Palazzo has become the "other woman."
(5)
Ruma T.

Went there recently for the first time and its really cute from the outside! Was a fan of the decor. Our server was very real and friendly, and both me and my friend were of the same opinion that he'd be cool to hang out with :) Had some wine and pasta. Its a lot more casual and a bit more fast foody than I expected. I had pasta with shrimp and it was alright. What my friend had was better but I think I just ordered the wrong thing. I wouldn't mind going back to try something different. The mango cheesecake we had was delicious! Great location and relatively easy to find parking.
(3)
Richard R.

Wanted to give 4.5 stars. Thank goodness for Pasta Palazzo. I have eaten here close to 100 times over the last twelve years and the food has consistently been good. I usually get the healthy chicken pasta but everything I've tried has been great. The wines by the glass have also been tasty and well priced. It's one of the last economical choices in the neighborhood and quite possibly the best value.
(4)
May H.

Love! Love! Love! Friendly service and awesome homemade pastas. I've enjoyed dining there multiple times and have never not like anything I've ordered. Great Italian food at a reasonable price.
(5)
Jenny H.

So this was my favorite restaurant in Chicago. (Sorry, Piece.) It was a few blocks from our apartment, and was my ultimate comfort food. First of all, we went several times over the space of a year, and I never had anything there I didn't like. (As a matter of fact, I think my boyfriend ordered the same thing every time we went -- the Penne Bolognese -- because he liked it so much that he didn't really want to get anything else.) The prices are very reasonable, especially for the portion size, and the dishes are fairly customizable by adding meats, veggies, etc., although there is an extra charge for that. You also get free bread, which is nice, because it means you don't have to pay to get an appetizer unless you're really into it. The restaurant itself is also super-cute. I always described it as an Italian diner, due to the size, and the counter, and so on, but the bright decor is much nicer than that description would make you think. It's also kind of fun to see sudden bursts of flame as the cooking goes on not far from your table. The waitstaff varies, of course, but I never had any problems, and some of the servers were very nice and attentive.
(5)
Jeremy C.

This place is cheap and tasty! Original and nice pasta, very good sauces and good quantity plates. Service is very friendly and the room is well decorated. A great meal for a cheap price!
(5)
Kevin L.

Great little place! Small little mom-n-pop shop. Very friendly service. This is a place you are willing to spend your money at.
(4)
Peter g.

If you have not tried this place yet, what are you waiting for???? I have made some good and some bad quick choices in the first time catageory, but this was one of the best first timer choices I think I have ever made. For a quick serve pasta place, the menu has a lot to offer, bigger and more tasty choices to add on to your dish then other places I have been. The garlic bread is a must try, it melted in my mouth and was not crusty or hard at all, very tasty. The caprese was great, the pasta was fast and hot, and you get plenty to choose from in sauces, pastas, and add ons, this is a Must vist. Its small, quaint, and not fancy by any stretch, but for what this place is, its acces. Badda Bing- You gotta try dis, it's an offer you can't refuse...
(5)
Krissy H.

Food is amazing! Unfortunately the service was terrible. Came in for lunch and sat for almost 20 mins before even giving our drink order. Our waiter had zero personality, didn't check on us, and we had to hunt him down for our check. They weren't even busy at the time because we (boyfriend and I ) came after their lunch rush. If it wasn't for their reasonable prices for really delicious food, I would never go back. I'll most likely order takeout in the future, and call it in ahead of time.
(3)
Randy N.

Figures, as soon as I post about the specials at Pasta Palazzo, they start slacking - they used to change specials almost daily, but now it seems every once in a while. :( They've lost me as a regular customer because the specials are not changing enough.
(3)
Angie K.

Don't even walk on the same street as this place if you're on a diet. I've made that mistake and ended up with two bowls of cheesy deliciousness on my table moments after. I don't know how it happens, but Pasta Palazzo hooks me in every time. It's a casual spot, where you don't really spend a lot of time lingering, since the waitresses are really quick at seating, getting your order and bringing your food out to you. The space only fits about 20 people, so I guess their fast pace is useful in keeping business going. It smells like pasta heaven when you walk in and you get bread on arrival (for free, yay). If you don't order the conchiglie with the ricotta, don't even walk in. It's to die for! It's extremely decadent and rich but worth every calorie. I've always been so full from the bread and pasta, I've never had dessert, but they always look pretty good. The jalapeno gnocchi is pretty good, as it's different, but I'm more of a cheese fiend and this place gets it right. It used to be cash only but they got their act together, so you don't have to worry about that anymore. The prices are affordable, but I feel like they went up recently which is a little frustrating since the food is great, but the ingredients are not anything exquisite or fancy. Either way, this is a must during the cold winter season!
(4)
Amanda F.

Pasta Palazzo...more like Pasta Palooza! This teeny restaurant is more like a Pasta cafe than an Italian restaurant. If you are looking for anything other than pasta, including even lasagna, you are out of luck. Word to the wise, order from the homemade menu. You won't be disappointed. The Gnocchi is frankly gluttonous, but worth it. I also like that Pasta Palazzo has healthy options like whole wheat pasta and a lighter red sauce. However, you will come to dislike your Pasta Palazzo experience if you are in mixed company ordering from the healthy and unhealthy menu. The groans of enjoyment from the other side of the table will kill your appetite for your healthy pasta. Fortunately, the portions aren't overwhelming and neither is the bill, so you won't break your waistband or budget. The tiramasu and sangria are also favorites. Just like all popular Lincoln Park hole-in-the-walls, Pasta Palazzo doesn't take reservations and will get VERY crowded, so go early or late or expect to wait.
(4)
Art C.

We left a Wrigley Field after an afternoon Cubs-Sox game & didn't want to fight rush hour. We found ourselves looking for a stop in Lincoln Park. Pasta Palazzo was within a block and had four stars and two dollar signs. Looks good... We walked in at 5pm, were cheerfully greeted and offered any seat in the empty house. The olive oil and grated cheese were waiting for us at the table:) Great bread rapidly followed once we sat down. Here's our choices; Appetizer: Grilled Calamari with lemon-herb vinaigrette. Four large tender (not the deep fried rubbery kind) pieces enhanced by the nice vinaigrette. Hers: Penne Funghi - penne with porcini, portabella and white mushrooms in a light marsala sauce. Amazingly light, flavorful and made with fresh mushrooms. Mine: Gnocchi - ricotta filled dumplings with marinara. These are the soft "pillows" you hear about, light and delicious, the sauce was perfect! As we ate the place happily filled up for dinner. With our plates and one drink the bill was a reasonable $30. As I write this, I'm still dreaming of the gnocchi "pillows" they were that good!
(5)
Emily Z.

I'm thinking I didn't get the right thing since all the other reviewers think this place is AMAZING !! Pretty laid back Italian restaurant. 1 app, 2 pasta entrees, 1 dessert came to $31. They start you off with bread, which was perfect considering we were obviously famished, there is plain olive oil at the table, we spiced it up a little by adding pepper and Parmesan cheese that were on the table, quite delicious if I do say so myself ! We got the bruchetta as an appetizer which was nothing special but none the less pretty good. For our entrees I had the Farfalle Pomodoro Formaggio, bowtie pasta with goat cheese and pine nuts, the sauce was definitely homemade pretty thin and made mostly of stewed tomatoes perhaps. Honestly nothing special. My roommate had the Spaghetti Frutti di Mare, she seemed to like it. The highlight of the meal was definitely the dessert !! We got the chocolate mousse, it was not what I expected, it was better ! It was served in a slice like pie, 3 layers, dark, white, and regular chocolate. Very smooth and delicious, though pretty rich so sharing is a must !! For only $5 I may stop by again when I'm in the area shopping and need a little sugar rush !!
(3)
Stacy F.

Friendly very fast service. It's a small place, but you have enough room between tables to not be on top of one another. The food was enjoyable;--Served hot and fresh! Reasonably priced ... & I would go again..
(4)
briar r.

Perfect simple Italian food while shopping the Armitage/Halsted corridor. Good variety of options on the menu and prices are reasonable. I've visited twice in the last month and both times and enjoyed a delicious lunch. I plan to start ordering take out in the evenings as well. The only thing I wasn't crazy about was the last time I was seated at the bar overlooking the kitchen area and I watched a chef dig his hands (no gloves) into a bowl of fresh basil and sprinkle it over my food. Was a little unappetizing. He should be wearing gloves or use a spoon and not handling food with his bare hands. Wouldn't stop me from going back, but I hope they take notice and up their hygiene standards a bit.
(4)
Leanne A.

This place is adorable. The setup is almost like a quick takeout place, but it actually is a sit down restaurant. You can get out of there pretty fast if you choose to sit at the 'bar'. The bar seating faces the cooks, and you can watch all the giant pans of pasta sizzling right in front of you. Everything we had here was good. I enjoyed the sangria, but it was probably the least inspiring thing I ordered. The garlic bread was so delicious, but it really does fill you up. I would recommend skipping an appetizer unless you are totally starving. The prices are so so reasonable. It's so much less than what you would expect at a yummy italian restaurant, especially in Lincoln Park. I think everything was around 9-12 dollars. ummm, that's like 5-10 dollars less than the average at many other italian restaurants. I don't know if a group would work well here, as it's a small place and the tables are pretty close together. But it's great for a casual date night.
(4)
Jeffrey Z.

I've never had a less than stellar experience here, even when I've taken my food to go. The polenta appetizer is so good that I struggle not to order it every time, and every pasta dish I've tried has been superb.
(5)
Jasmine B.

You will not pay $20 for a plate of pasta and feel ripped off if you come here. Everything is reasonably priced between $8-$12 and it's all really good. I would recommend the gnocchi, the pasta bolognese, and the polenta appetizer.
(5)
Simeen A.

**Not cash-only anymore! Non-cash-carriers rejoice! I really enjoy this place-- it's straightforward and GOOD. Don't come expecting a formal meal, this place is casual. Food is simple and delicious. A couple of times my guy and I have started planning to head somewhere for Italian and after a few options are thrown around, we look at each other and say, "want to just head to Pasta Palazzo?" The baked goat cheese is good but my favorite appetizer is the polenta. Creamy and delicious, lots of cheese and sauce. I have a hard time not eating it all. Pastas are all good. The gnocchi is very good, though I don't love the red pepper sauce for the jalapeno gnocchi (only because it's almost too strong a flavor and the gnocchi flavor gets a little lost). Tortellini is tasty and the sauces are all good. The vodka tomato cream is delicious and if you like it spicy, ask them to make it spicy for you-- it's great. Portions are good and we always have leftovers. I haven't ever had room for dessert so can't speak to that. Overall a solid, consistent casual Italian place. Prices are low (most entrees under $10 or right around there) so it doesn't have to be a splurge.
(4)
Mary H.

YUM. Pasta Palazzo is a local spot that offers quick, affordable and delicious pastas. Great for eating in -- their restaurant is super cute -- or takeout. I've done both and no complaints either way. Great location and everything is super fresh. One of my favorite local spots for an easy and reasonably priced meal.
(4)
Diana R.

Holy cannoli, this place has delicious gnocchi. I ordered with a sauce that was something like a combination of marinara and alfredo. I can't remember the name of it, but the server suggested it when I couldn't make up my mind between the two and getting half/half is not an option. Delicious, satisfying and immense portion! I visited as one of a party of five. Each of us ordered something different and sampled from one another's plates, but I have to say my combo of gnocchi/sauce was the best (among tortellini, ravioli and some kind of seafood-y flavors). We ordered bruschetta as a starter, and it was nothing too special. Main dish is where it's at. Friendly service, good food, large portions, well-priced.
(4)
Sharon N.

I would come every day for the tomato dill soup if I lived nearby. It's SO good, and quite reasonable in price, just like everything here. I also like the vegetariano salad, since most of the time I'm on some diet or another. All of the pasta is good, every single thing my husband, daughter and I have tried or shared. This place is wonderful, and everything is reasonable--that's in a small part because they don't take credit cards. Be sure and brung cash! Oh, forgot to say that everyone is nice and the service is good. Not much ambience, but that's not what the place is about.
(5)
Sadie P.

Im obsessed with this place! Great location with lots of street parking, awesome atmosphere. Great service, loved the menu. I have tried the farfalle with goat cheese and the cavattappi pollo, both were perfect. Bruschetta for an appetizer was delicious. I was shocked at how reasonable the prices were as well. Cant wait to come back.
(5)
TJ D.

So good. So cheap. So happy!
(5)
Jasmin V.

I got the Tortellini with Marsala Sauce. Mmm yum! Super good! I'd get it again. I wish this place was BYOB though. $30 for a bottle of pinot wine. Takes Visa & MasterCard now.
(4)
Chris M.

I LOVEd this place for a long time. Sent friends and family in the direction of this restaurant. As of today I noticed the olive oil tasted kinda funky along with the dish I always order. I thought it was just cheap olive oil but as I was leaving I saw just how cheap it is: one of the servers was filling up the olive oil dispensers with a canola/olive oil blend. Now that's just freaking GROSS. I don't know if this is a new thing they are doing but I won't be going back any time soon.
(1)
Boystown R.

I gave this establishment 3 stars, because that represents the average between the 5 stars I assign to the food and the 1 lone single star for the hideous service I received. Seriously, once the food was delivered, I was completely ignored. My drink went unrefilled (and the waiter guy saw it), a replacement knife was not brought for the one I dropped on the floor (and the waiter guy saw it), and I would like to have ordered a dessert, but the waiter guy couldn't have his chat with his friend interrupted - a friend who was not dining and therefore not paying. On the other hand, I paid $29.43 for damn good food but the worst service imagineable. I hope the 57-cent tip I left for the waiter guy was appropriate.
(3)
Erika C.

pasta palazzo, i love you. what a hidden gem this place is. my boyfriend and i ventured out today for lunch today to find you, and we were not disappointed. the food made us feel like we died and went to heaven. and not to mention the prices and location! everything on the menu (for the most part) was 10 and under. this place has an open kitchen and bar stool high top seating. very casual atmosphere, we really enjoyed it. for starters, i tried the bruschetta (four pieces of amazing) and my boyfriend tried the small (which was not small at all) ceaser salad. for our entrees we both had the gnocchi w/ alfredo sauce. so fluffy and filled with ricotta cheese. delicious! something about it makes this place really memorable. although we came here today, on a Monday, and were the only ones eating, i would assume this place gets pretty busy on the weekends. (only about 12 tables) highly recommend. will be back! :)
(5)
Kristy K.

If you are anything like me and love a good gnocchi, you have probably searched Yelp aimlessly for the "best gnocchi." Search no more. I have had some of these so-called "best" and can full-heartedly say that they hold no candle to Pasta Palazzo. I grew up in an Italian family of gnocchi lovers(my mom makes her own), and I can honestly say Pasta Palazzo has the best gnocchi in the city. Pasta Palazzo produces delicious, mouth-watering, succulent gnocchi. I can openly admit I have regular cravings of these pillowly, soft morsels. I would eat these babies on their own, but Pasta Palazzo allows you to pick your sauce. If you want a sensory overload, ask for the Gorgonzola sauce. The combination of the gnocchi and Gorgonzola sauce is enough to send me to another world. The sauce is outstanding. They also have a marinara, bolognese, or alfredo sauce to choose from. Pasta Palazzo also offers many other delicious entrees for those who cannot handle the richness of the Gorgonzola sauce and gnocchi. I have had the Jalapeno Gnocchi, which is nothing short of amazing, so full of flavor and truly an innovative dish. The gnocchi come in a wonderful roasted red pepper puree. The Farfalle Pomodoro Formaggio is also fabulous, for it is so fresh and prepared with quality ingredients. Even if the gnocchi was crazy expensive, I would still return weekly. However, the dishes at Pasta Palazzo are very reasonable. So, if you want to experience what I think is the best gnocchi in the city, definitely make sure to give Pasta Palazzo a try.
(5)
Heather P.

A casual spot like this is easy to overlook among the shops and boutiques that line Halsted, but it's a real shame. Regardless of whether you need a break from shopping or you're looking for a lunch spot that isn't like the rest- here's your best bet. It's really bright and airy with dark wood tables and colorful mosaic tiled walls. I love the charming touch of daily specials posted on the large chalkboard. The prices are very fair and the food is very fresh. Behind the bar counter is an open kitchen so you can see the chef prepare your food. I don't know about you, but anytime there's an open kitchen, I can't help but feel better about what I'm about to eat. Enjoy snacking on the fresh bread dipped in parmesan cheese and olive oil while hearing suggestions from the always friendly staff. Personally, I'm all about splurging on the cream based pastas here especially ones that have like five different types of mushrooms in them. The meatball sub also won't disappoint.
(4)
Chip P.

Amazing Risotto with sausage, mushroom in Gorgonzola sauce! Sitting at the bar watching the action makes the food taste even yummier!
(3)
Richard S.

Best polenta we have tasted. Great location for people watching!
(4)
Megan S.

Such fantastic food. Kind of a smaller place, but they've made it seem larger than it is. The tortellini is awesome, and homemade. The gnocchi is also so great.
(5)
John T.

Here for a pre theater dinner. High table in window was wheelchair friendly. Nice service. Grilled calamari was a nice appetizer and I thought fairly priced although my wife thought the portion was small. My healthy scallop pasta was a nice portion and tasty and my wife liked her meat pasta. Lemon coconut cake was just ok. Solid restaurant and value. We will be back
(4)
Hugo P.

Love, love, love the homemade pasta! Fantastic flavor & variety of rich sauces to work with too! The polenta appetizer was a wonderful opener. The wine selection, although limited, had enough choices to please the palette. #foodie
(4)
julie l.

I love Pasta Palazzo. I'll make this easy: Always weekly specials like mushroom risotto or roast chicken ravioli, mmmmm. The standard menu items are also good- the corkscrews with chicken are awesome. Tip: Don't overlook the sandwiches on the back of the menu. If your like me, all those tempting pastas might steer you away from a sandwich, but their really good. The open kitchen means you will be eyeing what to order next time. My only critique is the close seating. It's a small place and the tables are pushed together. But considering the quick service and surprisingly reasonable prices, I can easily overlook this.
(4)
Larry B.

It was one of those 100 degree days, and I was at Pasta Palazzo for lunch. The waitress was as nice as could be, and iced tea kept coming. My lunch was excellent. A lot of pasta-oriented emphasize the quantity of carbs over flavor. This place went for flavor. The price--and the friendly service--made my meal a bargain. I will return.
(4)
Mat M.

Pasta Plazzo is a slam dunk! I had the opportunity of dining at Pasta Palazzo on Tuesday night. I had ridden the lovely #8 bus past this fine establishment many, many times and was always curious to find out what it was like. Tuesday night a friend and I were trying to figure out where to go and though yeah, lets try Pasta Palazzo. The service was spot on, two gentlemen running the place. The bruchetta was only $4 and delicious. I had the jalapeno gnocchi and my friend Kate had the cheese tortellini with Gorgonzola sauce. Needless to say our plates were empty at the end. It's a great atmosphere too. It's a cozy little place . . . intimate and so so affordable. I'll defiantly be recommending to all of my friends and to the guests of the Chicago Getaway Hostel where I'm general manager.
(4)
Katie B.

Inexpensive, delicious, hardly ever a wait for a table. You get bread and olive oil for free, woo! The seating arrangement is a little awkward (small parties share large tables w/ a bit of space in between) which is why I give it a four star rating. I'm not a fan. If you love pasta you need to go! I haven't had a thing on the menu that I don't like.
(4)
Erin G.

Atmosphere is nice. I think I must have gotten a bad order because there was burnt garlic all over my noodles making the taste very bitter and hard to eat.
(1)
Lon T.

With the cooks out in the open and small environment, you kinda feel like you're in someone's over sized kitchen and this is a good thing. The service is friendly and this is a great spot for good Italian at very modest prices. I had the asparagus and garlic bread appetizer along with their chicken Parmesan special main course. Tiramasu dessert was great. Very nice experience and great casual spot.
(4)
Christine J.

For Lincoln Park, this place is a steal. Where else can you have a sit down meal with wine for $9-10 an entree? The restaurant, located at the busy Halsted/Armitage intersection, is pretty small. It's an open kitchen with a bar around it along with tables along the wall. They don't take reservations, and it's cash only. The menu is comprised of simple $9-10 pastas where you can add meat, veggies, etc for a couple bucks more. It's seriously no frills Amer-italian place that is affordable good eats. It's got some neighborhood charm as well. Along the wall ledge are some pictures of who I can only assume to be the owner's kids. I think it's the owner who answers the phone and greets people from behind the cash register. My go to dish here is the housemade gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce. It's probably one of the richest dishes I ever had. For 13 little nuggets of potatoey pasta, I'm fall over full. The sauce is rich. I once watched them make it and saw the cook pour a whole lot of heavy cream into the pan. But it's more than that - the gorgonzola gives it an earthy funk, which makes it stand out from any alfredo sauce. It tastes a little toasted too, like what happens when pasta sticks to a pan, even though there's no crunchy bits. The gnocchi is plump and chewy. The tiramisu dessert is pretty good. For $5, it's a huge portion. The cream is light and not too sweet, the coffee flavor is distinct but not overwhelming. The ladyfingers are spongy.
(5)
Raju S.

We love Pasta Palazzo. I really like pasta but i don't love it but Pasta Palazzo has become one of our favorites in the city. Pasta Palazzo is quick, affordable and delicious. I highly recommend the gnocchi bolognese, cavatelli pollo, and goat cheese appetizer.
(5)
Alex M.

I love this place. Can't find better Italian for the price in the city.
(5)
Olivia M.

I've been wanting to try this place for a while and was finally in the area so decided to give it a go. I chose the seafood risotto with broccoli which was one of their specials. It was flavorful and filling with tons of shrimp and calamari. My friend had the penne con salsicce which was another great dish full of sausage and portabella mushrooms. The portions were great and the entrees were relatively cheap compared to other italian places near by. We also shared the calamari as an appetizer. It was perfectly grilled but there were only for large pieces. I thought they could have given us more for the price we paid. The place itself is pretty small but very inviting. I wouldn't bring a huge group here though. I appreciated how clean the chefs were in preparing their meals, but with an open kitchen you kind of have to be. Overall, a really great place for a great price. I'll definitely be back soon!
(4)
Eleanor S.

I absolutely love this place! I've been going since they opened. They are very consistent. delicious, fast and friendly. There are always tasty specials. This is a neighborhood place I love to introduce to friends and out-of-town visitors. Everything is super fresh and if you sit at the counter you can watch your dish being made from scratch! Serious props to the chef's. The Cavatelli special is my favorite.
(4)
Patrick E.

I haven't been here for a few years (moved out of the 'hood) but when I came back on Saturday, it was as good as I remember it. My GF is a chef and so, she can be picky about how her food is prepared and she's not really a fan of Italian food in general. However, we both loved the Grilled Calamari. She complimented its tenderness and absolutely loved the sauce (more bread for sopping this up, please?) yeah baby! My favorite dish is usually the Conch shell with gorgonzola cheese. This time I added Chicken to it and had enough for leftovers. I also get the special when I can if I'm not in the mood for such a rich meal. Yes, its casual, and its never been loud when I'm there (usually post-hangover, after 2pm on saturdays or sundays) but hey, at least its not a sports bar, or overpriced. Bonus: hot italian food is great for walking around armitage window shopping!
(5)
Justin B.

Good food....very friendly service....wish I could pay with credit/debt....nice neighborhood restaurant.
(4)
Felix M.

I have passed this restaurant many times but this past Friday was my first time eating here. It is a small place that seats about 40 & even tho they were crowded the service was fast & friendly! I recommend this place if you want some good Italian food.
(4)
John H.

I love their pasta and you can watch them make it by sitting at the bar four feet from the stove, yea, I said four feet from the stove. Food is good, specials always change and the price is reasonable at $10/dish more or less.
(5)
Marjorie F.

My boyfriend, Mr. Italian himself, is always looking for new pasta and pizza places to check out. Since we live in the area, we popped in for a quick dinner. Past Palazzo is a small restaurant, but cozy. Seatig is a little tight, but still comfortable. The ambiance was warm and inviting. Service was friendly and fast. Unfortunately, my meal was just OK. It wasn't terrible, I just wasn't bowled over by it. I can always tell how much I like the food based on how clean my plate is. Sadly, I didn't mind leaving food on my plate. I ordered the ravioli with bolognese sauce. With all the fantastic Italian restaurants in this town, I guess I was hoping for more. My boyfriend ordered the penne with alfredo sauce. His reaction was the same. Although I liked the atmosphere and the service, the food isn't enough for me to go back to satiate a craving for pasta. However, since it's the neighborhood, I would be willing to give it another chance.
(3)
Holly M.

Best pasta ever. All of it. Affordable and awesome.
(5)
Mary C.

Never disappoints. I go there about once a week and the dishes are all great, inexpensive and consistent. The staff are always helpful and kind. My fav is the handmade ravioli and the chicken pasta. They will always swap out the pasta for your choice and give great portion sizes. Try if you haven't. You can thank me later :)
(4)
Kelly C.

I got takeout from here one afternoon after reading all the reviews about the Jalapeno Gnocchi and I think all the reviews built it up too much. Don't get me wrong the gnocchi was good and I quite enjoyed the red pepper sauce, I'm just not sure it blew me away as much as I was anticipating. I also got the polenta and it was okay but nothing to write home about. Probably wouldn't get it again. The prices were reasonable for the amount of food I got. I would go back again and try more dishes.
(4)
Trisha F.

I really like this place. The homeade tortellini with alfredo sauce is outstanding! The lemon asparagus appetizer is really good too. The goat cheese on bread starter is okay, but I wouldn't order it again. Our server was friendly and I liked sitting at the elevated table! Great place!
(4)
Sara P.

The food here is great and well-priced. I had the housemade tortellini stuffed with ricotta in a gorgonzola sauce. The pasta was made and cooked perfectly, and the sauce was rich and delicious. I liked the bread and the fact that they give you olive oil, salt, pepper, and parmesan for the table. The house pinot grigio was pleasant. Service was attentive and quick. I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Kit G.

I stopped in around 8:30 on a weeknight to grab some takeout. I figured that I might as well grab a beer while I waited. My food was ready before I finished my beer - but they kept it warm for me until I was ready to go. The gnocchi was delicious and it was still hot went I got home. Pasta Palazzo is definitely the perfect place to grab some quick takeout or have a casual meal. It is far better than other quick takeout options. It is not a fancy gourmet Italian bistro. I think there are so many haters on this page because they have false expectations.
(4)
Diego M.

Been here a few times. The place is pretty clean, service is good and you can watch your dish be prepared right in front of you (if you sit at the bar). I've had a few different plates here, but the one that caught my taste buds was the gnocchi. Very good portion, enough for left overs for sure. If you don't like what you see on the menu, you can customize your pasta with virtually any ingredient available. Definitely worth a try.
(4)
Kelly S.

This place is delicious comfort food at a comfy price! You can get a huge pasta dish with meat for about under $10! The food here is so good that after eating here with my family, my parents refuse to go anywhere else when come visit me! They make their sangria fresh daily and it's very tangy and summery. The food is very fresh, comes quickly, and is always hot. The polenta here is amazing and so are the pasta dishes!! They even have healthier pasta options for those who don't want all the calories usually tacked onto a traditional italian pasta dish. The decor is very cute and the the open kitchen gives it a great feel. The staff is friendly and the place is family owned. It's small, but very popular so it gets crowded. Call ahead to save a space. This place is a must do!
(5)
Ryan F.

Such a great local spot. My wife and I are in from DC for Lolla and looked for a great neighborhood yelp. We were not disappointed. Inexpensive. Good portions (not huge, but large enough for take home). Cucumber salad was awesome - light vinaigrette, crispy cukes, great greens. Baked goat cheese was good, not great. Balance of creamy and chalky, as it should be, but didn't stand out. Ordered 3 entrees because we couldn't decide. JalapeÃ±o gnocchi was a total surprise. It looks like Buffalo wing sauce, but tastes delicious. Creamy, ricotta-stuffed gnocchi with a slightly bitey red pepper sauce. Tortellini were tiny, cheesy pockets of goodness tossed with the nice house tomato sauce - excellent flavor and texture. The best was the penne salsiccia - perfectly done penne with well-grilled bits of sausage. Nice spice, great flavor, and tons of meat. Only knock is the wine list - pretty basic. But with a restaurant so small yet reasonably priced, not sure I should expect much more than they offered. We enjoyed our malbec. Server Jeff was attentive and friendly. Steered us away from a couple items based on our comments. There were only two servers and the owner on a busy Thursday night, but they covered the place really well. Great prices for great food served by friendly and efficient staff. Can't ask for much more.
(5)
Nicole L.

Working only 2 doors away from this place is dangerous. I love pasta and I think this place hits it right on the money. The chicken cavatappi pasta is delish!!! Minus the mushrooms of course ;) The portion sizes are pretty gracious as well. I always leave there with a full tummy and ready for a nap!!!
(5)
Anne M.

I have come to refer to this place as Pastapalooza. And Pastapalooza has hit the spot each and every time I have been here. They always have several tempting specials to choose from, and their pasta and dishes are really fresh and delicious. I recently got a spicy shrimp dish with creamy vodka tomato sauce - SO good. The spice was definitely there, but not too overpowering, a perfect balance. They serve bread before entrees come out too - a plus. Beware, CASH only! It surprises me every time still..
(4)
Michelle L.

Everything here has such a home made taste and the place itself is adorable and very homey. I definitely recommend the tortellini!
(4)
Matt R.

Like an ash hunter hot on the trail of carved out caverns in Pompeii, Pasta Palazzo is a smoldering gem of a locale recently unearthed. Walk too quickly along the myriad of shops, restaurants and bars on Halsted and you might miss this hole in the wall. The facade is muted and the building on the small side, but that prevents wandering vandals and schoolchildren from hoarding out front and shaking down food-goers for change and artifacts. There are many fine Italian locales in the city, but what propels this place to prominence is the combination of aesthetically pleasing interior and delectable dishes at prices more picturesque than looking down on Napoli from Mt. Vesuvius. The interior is ideally lit and the brightness of the decor and openness of the space create the feel of an exclusive yet friendly venue for eating stuffed gnocchi or viewing shadows burned on stone. I've made the pilgrimage here multiple times and favorites includes sangria ($5 is a deal), any of the homemade pastas, and the tiramisu. The only word of caution: seating is somewhat limited so if you do load up the family cruiser for Wally World during prime hours, understand that waiting in line to see the sights may be required. Pasta Palazzo delivers on food without falling into the all-to-common Lincoln Park (and south into the city) tendency to increase prices simply because one can. Fear not, neither wallet nor stomach will end smoldering in Faustian inferno.
(4)
Sara L.

When we first got here, I was afraid that there would be a long wait due to the people lined up outside. However, we were seated within 10 min. The environment is very laid back and chill..very casual. There's also an open kitchen, so you can smell all the yummy goodness being cooked. I ended up getting the gnocchi in bolognese sauce. The gnocchi here is stuffed with ricotta cheese, so you don't get the thick doughy chewy characteristic of traditional gnocchi. I think that is why I didn't really like what I ordered. Also, I normally don't order bolognese sauce, so having the meat made the dish a little too salty for me. This dish could be perfect for someone else, but it wasn't fit for my liking. Overall, I liked this place, and I will definitely be back to try other things on their menu.
(3)
J S.

I had to try this place out since I always passed this place on my daily walks and boy was the food delicious. I went there during the week and the place had no waiting. The food was hot when it was served, the portions they serve was enough to take home and the place was clean. I am glad I stopped in and ate.
(4)
Tripti S.

Ambiance: casual 9/10 service: good 8/10 Food: very good 9/10 veggie friendly: 10/10 We reached at 8:30 on Friday night. It was a 30 min wait for a table for 4. We promptly got a table at 9:00. The service was fast. There house sangria is very nice and house chianti is good too. We ordered Bruschetta - 7/10. there special - Asparagus Ravioli in Sun dried tomato bream sauce - 8/10 Jalapeno Gnocchi - 9/10 (pretty spicy) Ravioli in marinara sauce - 8/10 Penne alle Melanzane - 9/10 Will definitely go back!!
(5)
Brett F.

Pasta Palazzo, being cash only in this day and age is just annoying and tremendously inconvenient. Buck up and deal with paying all of your taxes so we, the customer, can resume life as King and pay however we damn well please. Debit, credit, dna, first born... any of the aforementioned methods are more accommodating than the cash that nobody carries anymore. It's a shame PP that your dishes aren't less tasty, then I wouldn't mind if I never saw your Uncle Sam evading face again. Sadly, that is not the case... I love your quaint intimate surroundings with communal tables and open kitchen where I can see my dishes prepared as I sip on a juice glass of Cabernet. You are especially warm and welcoming in the winter when I can sit by your window watching the snow fall and passers-by beside a steamy bowl of pasta. Your appetizers, especially the baked goat cheese and grilled asparagus with lemon vinaigrette, are generous and wildly tasty. Then, of course, there is your pasta... Take a tip from me and do not order off the PP 'healthy pasta' list. Pasta is not intended to be dietetic and you won't enjoy heaping mouthfuls of tasteless, bland pasta bathed in a lackluster sauce. Go for the rich complexity of the jalapeno gnocchi or penne alla melanzane with a spicy marinara, eggplant, buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil. Mmmmm, much better, handmade carbo-overloading at it's finest. Now I'd love to knock you up a star Pasta Palazzo, but until I can sign my life away on credit for some friggin' farfalle I'm still heading over to Rose Angelis for my funghi fix.
(3)
Kwoky L.

It is almost impossible to find a decent dinner at a sit-down restaurant in Lincoln Park these days without spending a fortune. Well, not until you find yourself at Pasta Palazzo. Most entrees here are less than $10 and the taste is actually pretty decent. I don't suppose they handmade all their pasta and no, there's none of those rustic slow cooked osso buco or ragu that's simmered for hours. We're talking quick pasta, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dive style. I like their gnocchi with gorgonzola and they had a special one evening, which was a delicious seafood risotto that I like too. So if you're on a budget, this is a decent place to check out.
(3)
Delightful D.

Only reason I gave this place four stars is cuz of the small and tight seating arrangement and hard bread but other than that awesome spot. Great great pasta I had the pasta with chicken, red cream sauce, spiral noodles, and mushrooms. It was simply amazing and the portion size was way more than enough. Somehow I ended up eating the entire plate I just couldn't stop. Sangria was also delicious. Can't wait to go back and try another pasta dish.
(4)
Mas I.

Good portions. I love wine served in a stemless glass - feels much more casual, like dining al fresca at a roadside country trattoria in Umbria or Tuscany whilst gazing over rolling green hills from the shade of a bough choked by an errant grape vine. As the neighboring table of minstrels who have just finished eating pull out their lutes and play for their fare as you tap out time on your thigh sending out plumes of the dust from the road that yet lies thick upon you. Or maybe I'm just really psyched about the first beautiful Spingarn afternoon.
(4)
Allison H.

As far as quick, cheap pasta places go this one I'm definitely a fan of. It usually gets pretty busy and it's small so there really isn't much room to wait anywhere. I recommend going for an early or late dinner to avoid a long wait since they don't take reservations. They do take credit card - some people here said it's cash only but that is not true anymore. The menu consists of a bunch of different pasta dishes - nothing more than $10. I went with the jalapeno gnocchi and my husband got the shells with italian sausage. The gnocchi was good and very flavorful with just enough spice. I thought my husband's shell's were a bit bland. We also got the grilled calamari for an appetizer. It was very good and cooked perfectly. One other time I came here I got the Cavatappi Pollo - definitely my favorite thing I've had here. Overall, if you're not looking to spend to spend a ton and want a simple, quick meal this is a good bet since nothing I've had here is bad. Try the cavatappi pollo!
(4)
Jay C.

Best Italian for the money! Used to eat there once a week when I lived down the street. Love this place.
(5)
Bobuzzi C.

Really good and GREAT price. Place is small so if you don't go early you'll be stuffed waiting or wait outside. You could sit right next to others so it's not a place for a quiet, romantic date. Food is fresh and really well prepared though.
(4)
Dustin F.

Great restaurant! Great atmosphere with an open kitchen so you can watch your food being made. Good selection of entrees and delicious chorizo penne! Would certainly consider eating here again.
(4)
Kate H.

Oh my god. That is the only phrase I can use to describe the dishes at Pasta Palazzo! I cannot get enough of their gnocchi. I stumbled upon this place with a few friends, and now we make it an event to go almost every month and try something new! Their specials are always fantastic. I once got portobello gnocchi with champagne cream sauce and fresh spinach. The best part was that it was inexpensive! My friend got a sandwich and she wasn't very fond of, but I think the creativity and flavor of the rest of the menu makes up for the occasional lousy sandwich! Five stars! ps: Everytime we go we always get good service!
(5)
Ashley R.

This is me and the boyfriend's favorite date night spot in the city. That's pretty much the highest praise any place can get from me, so that's saying something! It's got so much going for it: 1. A cozy, eclectic interior with candle-lit high tops and beautiful mosaics 2. An open kitchen with bar seating where you can watch cooks prep your dish from scratch, to order 3. Delicious pasta dishes, traditional and creative alike - there's always an interesting special on 4. Really decent prices and generous portions - we always end up with leftovers Not to mention good service in a city where some things feel like they come at a premium - waitstaff is friendly, and they serve you crusty bread and olive oil as you wait. Our favorites include the Conchiglie Gorgonzola or Classico, Jalapeno Gnocchi, and Pumpkin Ravioli!
(5)
Colleen R.

The Gorgonzola sauce was to die for! It's a little place but the food was amazing and the wait staff was friendly and helpful! Can't wait to go back again!
(5)
Amber L.

My sister and I went here when she was in town for the week. The bread the give you is great and the grilled calamari was fabulous with the white wine sauce! The pasta is OK. We got the pesto cream and the seafood pasta. The seafood pasta was better than the pesto cream, a little too much cream for my taste, but I'm a basil lover! The service was great, and the venue is pretty classy!
(3)
John M.

Went here the other day and while I am sure I will go back someday, it left a lot to be desired. My friend and I ordered the bruschetta and two of their specials at our waitress' recommendation: the Smoked Chicken ravioli and the pumpkin ravioli. Bruschetta would have been much better if they used a higher quality and properly browned bread but I really enjoyed it nonetheless (great tomato flavor even though they are out of season). The pumpkin ravioli was a very interesting experience... almost felt like a dessert and I happily ate every piece. My friends smoked chicken was just okay, we couldn't figure it out but it just tasted a little fake and off. The service was great but a couple of things strongly limited our experience to three stars. First, even though the food was decent, my friend and I did not even come close to getting full (might be because the specials are smaller portions?) and I needed to stop on the way home to get something else to fill me up. Second, I ordered some green tea after our meal and was presented with Lipton's green tea (the type you see for at the grocery store that costs next to nothing). I know it isn't a big deal, but that stuff is honestly trash and I wouldn't dream of selling it in a otherwise nice restaurant... especially for $2!
(3)
Suzy D.

Really tasty, fresh food. This place is very consistent. Every time I've eaten here I've been pleased. I really like the calamari appetizer. All of the pastas I have had here have been great. They also have some good salads. We used to live a block away from here so we frequented it quite often. I don't know if it's worth a trek to eat here, but if you live near by, you should definitely check it out.
(4)
Matthew M.

Been going here for years. Always great, inventive pasta dishes and the price is right.
(5)
Alison S.

Exactly what I want when I go out for pasta. Flavorful, cheap, and portions large enough to take home for the next day's lunch. I love their tomato dill soup more than any soup on this planet. My other favorites are the Conchiglie Gorgonzola, Cavatappi Pollo, Goat Cheese Appetizer, and seasonal Pumpkin Ravioli. Also great for take out. They only take cash, but there are multiple banks on that block in case you forget.
(4)
Nikki M.

This place is casual and cramped. I didn't like the seating at all. Service was just okay, and food was just okay too, but it was really cheap! I think I'll have to go back to try the gnocchi like other reviewers have suggested in order to make a better judgement. One thing that's cool is that they have green river. Talk about a blast from the past, but I enjoyed that!
(3)
Michelle E.

Just recently came in to Pasta Palazzo for a quick dinner with Mr. Man. I had been talking up the grilled calamari, and he was very much looking forward to it. The place was packed at 8ish on a Friday night, so it looks like they are still doing steady business. Mr. Man and I sat at the bar. It was nice to watch the chefs, even though it gets HOT up there! The calamari is still as tasty as ever! Love the lemony zip! I had a piece that was a little undercooked, which kinda freaked me out, but it was still pretty good. The only complaint I have is that both of our pasta dishes were WAAAAY over-sauced. Totally doused and drowning in it! Don't get me wrong, our food was still good. It's just that having a plate of SAUCE set in front of you is a turn-off. (see pics) My tortelloni with marsala sauce was a special that night, so I thought I'd try it. The sauce was pretty good, and while I had to fish around to find the mushrooms in the sauce, they were big and tasty. Mr. Man's gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce was better than mine, even though it was must simpler. The wine is still good and cheap! I would STILL come back just for the calamari. The pasta is hit-or-miss, I guess. I still love the green pasta special, but I wouldn't come back just for the gnocchi or tortelloni.
(3)
Joseph R.

Never did I imagine that a place with the color scheme of a preschool serving cheap pasta would become one of my favorite Chicago dining spots, but somehow Pasta Palazzo makes it all work. The colorful and vibrant space adds a bit of summer grace to even the coldest Chicago day, while the friendly, unpretentious staff quickly serves up some of the best pasta this side of Italy. The short, simple menu is all pasta entrees, with a few seasonal treats. The gnocchi is pure perfection! It is ricotta-stuffed and adorned in just the right amount of a velvety red pepper sauce. The tortellini was cooked to perfection and had just the right amount of firmness. It was tossed in a vary flavorful Marinara sauce. The penne salsiccia is a beautifully hearty and well balanced dish with perfectly grilled slices of sausage. Every fall, I return at least once for the pumpkin ravioli layered beneath a soft, brown butter sauce. If you are looking to dine at a hip new restaurant, Pasta Palazzo is probably not for you. It almost feels like it was mistakenly dropped into Lincoln Park, as the colorful atmosphere seems better suited to Andersonville, and there are no chic cocktails with edgy names - only beer, wine and sangria. However, if you want a living testament to the maxim "do one thing and do it well", Pasta Palazzo will not disappoint. Don't miss the made from scratch gnocchi, which is the best in Chicago, the perfectly grilled calamari, and the pumpkin ravioli, which they offer every fall.
(4)
Mike E.

Brought here by friends my first night back in the city and was very pleasantly surprised. Great food, very reasonable prices, and an comfortable atmosphere made for a very nice overall experience. I wouldn't call it the very best Italian ever, but it was above average and came in generous portions at a "fast-casual" (Panera Bread, Cosi) prices. The service was prompt and friendly and best of all, the other diners seemed to linger, enjoying the food and ambiance. That last bit may be a negative in that the actual space is on the small side. Seating a table three for a midweek dinner took about 15-20 min. No big deal if you're not in a rush and definitely worth it.
(4)
Samantha K.

Gnocchi. I normally don't like the stuff. I have no idea what they do here, but it tastes so different from other places that I've tried! My friend got it and I'll admit that I was extremely jealous. I wasn't feeling very adventurous that day and got the healthy scallops. My dish was pretty basic. Scallops in a tomato, basil white wine sauce. It was good. Nothing too spectacular. I probably wouldn't get it again in the future. Now... on to the good stuff! Gnocchi!! The jalapeno ones sound really good and I'll probably be ordering that on my next visit and I can't wait! The service was very good. Drinks were filled right away, the waitress wasn't too nosy on how the food was. (Yeah, you know what I'm talking about... those annoying waitresses that won't stop coming to your table asking the same effing questions over and over again.) The place itself is small and homey. The walls were pretty and colorful. I'll definitely be back when I'm in the area. :)
(3)
j f.

just delicoius good food! everything is amazing, for dining in or takeout (just cant get beer for takeout too, haha) great service with friendly faces!
(5)
Reed N.

Great food, great value. We had gorgonzola cream sauce and mushroom marsala cream sauce pasta plates. Both were excellent. The place can be a bit loud with kids or t"volume impaired adults" dining there, but that is the only drawback. NOTE: CASH ONLY! [but there are three ATMs on the corner : ) ]
(4)
Hillary L.

A friend and I set off for an adventure on Monday, and the restaurant where we planned on going happened to be closed - I tried to use my trusty Yelp app but for some reason it kept saying that my location didn't exist or something along those lines...so we ended up eating at Pasta Palazzo because we stumbled upon it. We awkwardly stood waiting for awhile until someone acknowledged us and told us to sit down. We picked a table that they needed to clean because it was near all the sunlight and didn't want to sit in the back where it was barely lit. They cleaned the table and gave us water promptly - but that was about all they did quickly. We probably sat at least ten minutes with no one acknowledging us and that we were ready to order... finally they got there and we had brief interactions related to what we wanted to order. The bruschetta was very good - you could definitely taste the balsamic vinegar. We decided to split one of the specials of the day which was only OK - seemed very basic and something I can whip up at home. Their portion sizes are gigantic, so if you don't feel like eating a few pounds of pasta, I would definitely suggest sharing - or actually, I wouldn't, because I don't recommend this place. The service was apathetic- there were two people working and only a handful of customers on a Monday afternoon - we shouldn't have to ask for bread that we saw you give to every other table...except for us. We also shouldn't feel like we are imposing you when we would like to order. Maybe this place was having an off day - but I wouldn't chance it again.
(2)
Rachel R.

The perfect quintessential neighborhood Italian joint. Small space, with warm and friendly decor. No reservations accepted, so plan to get there and manage a small wait at popular dinner hours. As other reviews have mentioned, the jalapeÃ±o gnocchi is truly fabulous. (jalapeÃ±o stuffed dumplings with roasted red pepper puree) I love the open kitchen and sitting at the bar. You're able to see all of the fresh ingredients being tossed and cooked and perfected just for you. I literally haven't had a bad meal at Pasta Palazzo and I've eaten there (or taken out from there) no less than 30 times. I recommend this for catching up with friends or a nice family dinner. It isn't a highly romantic setting, so I wouldn't recommend it for a first date. Overall, it's a great experience at a good value.
(5)
Emily D.

I came here for the first time last night. Unfortunately, I wasn't very hungry, so I just ordered the vegetarian salad which was delicious. Fresh greens, grilled vegetables and balsamic dressing - I even saw them grill my veggies as the kitchen is exposed. My boyfriend had the cheese ravioli which I tried as well. It was average--the noodles were good with lots of filling, but the sauce didn't have that fresh taste I expect when dining out for Italian food. The bread before the meal was just ok as well. Wine comes in a little juice glass which was a little strange, but fine. The restaurant was smaller than I was expecting and pretty noisy, tables are close together. Everyone around us dishes looked good when they came out and portions are large for a reasonable price. I would definitely go back to try one of their pasta dishes. If you live in the neighborhood, Pasta Palazzo is worth a shot for a quick, cheap meal.
(3)
Dennis S.

Hungry for pasta with no pretenses? Try Pasta Palazzo. Wonderful straight-forward Italian dishes in a casual setting. With prices that reflect your eating a simple pasta dish, not Prosciutto di Parma. Friendly service, bar-stool chairs and bare tables, clean and comfortable. Not the place you'd take clients, but a great place before theatre or just when you feel like some good pasta.
(3)
Laurent B.

"I had Shrimp Primavera and it was absolutely delicious! Staff were attentive and personable. Decor was minimalist but elegant. Great place for a casual date with that special someone!"
(5)
Billy W.

I have dined here a couple times with my girlfriend, who is maybe their biggest fan. The main reason this place is top notch is the value, their fresh delicious pastas are all under 10 bucks. You can get wine by the glass or the bottle very affordably. It's always hoppin, it's a little on the small side but it's cozy. We're getting takeout tonight and I'm excited bout it....
(5)
Tory w.

If I'm in either Wrigleyville or Lincoln Park, Pasta Palazzo is my go-to Italian joint. I've never had a pasta there that I didn't love. It's casual and friendly, not too fancy, just your basic, no frills Italian. For an appetizer, the grilled asparagus is fantastic. I've been there so many times that I don't have one pasta dish in particular to recommend, they are just all that good, as are all of the homemade sauces. Yum!
(4)
Edward W.

Not fancy. A little cramped but that is part of the atmosphere. We always sit at the counter and love the show. The open kitchen is right there and always try to pick up some cooking tips. Love the risotto. I always try one of the daily specials. Always good.
(4)
Julie H.

Let's be honest, pasta doesn't have to be pretentious and Pasta Palazzo knows it. That's why I can come in with a craving for shaped semolina and they give me a wealth of options to tame my taste buds. At 9-11 bucks a pop, it's so savory and affordable it's criminal. I LOVE their Farfalle Pomodoro Formaggio: tomatoes, basil, goat cheese and pine nuts. So fresh and simple, the flavors melt in your mouth like a symphony in springtime. The healthy dishes they list on their menu are also pretty damn tasty so you can save some room for that 7-UP or GREEN RIVER. Oh yes, Pasta Palazzo has the RC collection on tap. Slurping a Dr.Pepper while dining on top-of-the-line pasta dishes never felt so sophisticated! Even if pasta isn't your poison, they have yummy sandwiches and refreshing salads. They also offer whole-wheat substitution and other add-ins to your dish for an extra charge. If you walked out of here with something you didn't like, you'd have to be committed.
(5)
Aurore L.

Sunday, around 1pm. After a morning of writing,Thanksgiving recipes browsing at the nearby Borders and a poor banana for breakfast I was S-T-A-R-V-I-N-G. My quest for food ended right away when I saw the magic words: "Pasta Palazzo". Nothing sounds better to my ears than lovely Italian; nothing looks better than refined carbs swimming happily in a pool of yummy home-made sauce. Nothing tastes better either. I ran in. Three words for you guys: jalapeno stuffed gnocchi. Perfect comfort food, served with a scrumptious roasted red pepper coulis (with a hint of cream)................paradise on earth. For $10 I am a giver-taker. I was so ecstatic that I hardly paid attention to my surroundings; I vaguely remember bright walls, colored tiles and whimsical lamps. Bar stools and regular tables. Shiny floors. Unexpected surprise. And they did take our credit card. Just sayin'. I'll be back for more.
(4)
Sarah P.

I am a frequent guest at The Pasta Bowl - maybe too frequent. So it was a big deal for me to step out of my comfort zone and head to Pasta Palazzo. Overall, the two places are quite similar; the seating, neighborhood atmosphere, prices, bar area where you can watch the cooks and even the menu. A great surprise was the bread and olive oil given to us open arrival (doesn't happen at The Pasta Bowl). Our server greeted us promptly and was very friendly. Our meals were prepared quickly and were very good. Plus, the food was really hot. There's nothing worse than luke-warm pasta. The portions are plentiful and enough to take home for a second meal. Contrary to some of the previous reviews, they do take credit cards now! Great dining experience. I'll go back for sure!
(4)
Michael S.

Overcooked pasta for a pasta restaurant? Really? Definitely not the best takeout experience, especially for something soooo basic. 2 orders capellini with pomodoro sauce, with the second ordered with "no tomatoes" (which, essentially meant, please no crushed tomatoes). The two orders came exactly the same way, despite there being written "no tomatoes" on one. Then, capellini was completely overcooked, which in my eyes, is inexcusable for a restaurant that specializes in pasta. So, because of the very limited limited order, they are getting the benefit of the doubt with 3 stars. Still, I doubt we will go back to make the same mistake 2xs, especially with so many other options available.
(3)
Shannon R.

Solid 4 stars. Delicious food, wonderful service, decent price for the area. Honestly, it seems silly, but the only reason it's not 5 stars is because it has all high top tables. It's just so awkward to try and scoot in those chairs! It's a great atmosphere for friends, not too romantic, but could be a good place for a first date.
(4)
Dennis K.

Small restaurant, excellent menu with daily specials. Dined on a Sunday morning. Opens 11:30 am. Not to dissuade you, but there were several young couples dining with small children. Efficient servers. Cooking area is at a customer bar-seating so you can watch as meals are prepared. Seating is on chair/stools at high-topped tables. My dining partner raved about the tiramisu. My meal was home made pasta. I am bringing my friends back here for MY birthday! Price is right!
(5)
Karen N.

Great lunch spot! Prices are reasonable and you get a good amount. Food is great and friendly service. Love their calamari and gnocchi. And you will have leftover for tomorrow's lunch!
(3)
anna c.

From the mosiac interior and friendly service to the delicious pasta and cold bottles of Peroni, I just love this little neighborhood place. The cavatappi pollo is my usual, along with the goat cheese appetizer. I'm also a big fan of the conchiglie gorgonzola, but only when I'm really in the mood to hef out because it is definitely super rich. PP has some really great specials, as well, like the spinach fettucini with marsala sauce. If you're trying it for the first time, definitely order one of their homemade pastas (the gnocchi and ravioli are both winners). It's also great for carry-out because it rarely takes more than 15 minutes for your order to be ready. WAAAAAY better than Pasta Bowl (in terms of food quality and speediness).
(4)
Eric V.

The pasta comes out hot, fast, fresh, and tasty. Feeling like a calorie splurge? Order your favorite pasta and drown it in the Alfredo sauce. I could probably eat a 2 x 4 if it was covered in that stuff. Don't forget, cash only!
(4)
Amy W.

This place gets 5 stars for value and quality--it is no French laundry, but what you get quality and quantity-wise for the money is AWESOME. I really like the flexibility of the menu (you can add anything to your base pasta order for a nominal charge. I boldly ordered the mushroom pasta and added Sausage. My tabled crowned me "best order"! It was a ton of food (I know I should have had leftovers, but sadly I woofed the whole thing down) The service is casual but professional. Also there is often a wait and the place is pretty small, so don't expect lavish surroundings.
(5)
Robert W.

Pasta Palazzo is a wonderful italian restaurant. The food is delicious and the price for such quality cuisine can't be beat! The atmosphere can be a bit noisy at times, but they found a way to open up a relatively small space and yet make it still feel cozy. The kitchen is in view from almost anywhere in the restaurant, so you can see just how fresh your food really is. The only downside is the popularity of this place since it's such a great value!
(5)
Zo O.

3.5 ? No longer cash only ! :) Cute restaurant.. & it's cheap. Came here last year for their whole wheat pasta (not that great..lol) but I came here last weekend and got the jalepeno gnocchi. My friend got the gnocchi w/marinara sauce. The jalepeno gnocchi wasn't spicy at all, though my tolerance for spicy food is really up there :P Not the gnocchi I'm used to though. I thought it'd be the regular ol' potato dumplings.. the ones that look like huge maggots? LOL.. but this was a pillow of fluff filled with cheese(oh no...). Oh well, it was good.
(3)
Marcia T.

I can't believe this place has so many good reviews....Is this suppose to be an Italian restaurant?really?hmmm If you want canned tasting pasta then this is for you...lol
(1)
Andrea H.

Great neighborhood place. The pasta is always fresh and very tasty...and inexpensive! New specials are offered each day so you have a chance to mix it up a bit. It's a pretty small space, but kind of cozy and it's nice to see the chefs cooking your meal right in front of you. Makes you feel right at home. Great place for a casual meal, just make sure you go hungry!
(4)
Virginia T.

I heard about Pasta Palazzo from Yelp. I love pasta and Lincoln Park isn't too far from J's so we ordered takeout. The place is SO LOUD- the 1st time we called we were hung up on because they couldn't hear us yelling. The 2nd time we called they got the order wrong when they repeated it back...bad sign. We corrected them and were quoted 15 min for pickup. We ordered an appetizer and two entrees. The appetizer (Polenta) was the highlight. Creamy, cheesy-delicious. The entrees....eh. We ordered the gnocchi in bolognese sauce. I've never had mushrooms in my bolognese before, but theirs had them and J's allergic. We didn't notice it on the menu since next to the gnocchi it doesn't describe the sauces- just says to pick. There were more mushrooms than gnocchi. However, the texture was pretty good, light and pillow-y. The worst part-I ordered the pasta primavera, with whole grain pasta and goat cheese (and paid $2 extra for that). We got it home and it wasn't whole grain and there was no goat cheese. Plus, the veggies were lackluster- some were still crunchy. We called back and complained. They refunded our money for the messed up primavera but I think this experience has made me want to stay away from Pasta Palazzo in the future.
(2)
Jessica S.

Helllllllllllo delicioussssssssssssss! A fellow runner friend and I decided to carb up before the Shamrock Shuffle so we headed over to Pasta Palazzo for quick bite to eat. Little did we know how packed it was going to be at 8 p.m.! But we managed to hold out on our hunger and wait the 20 minutes it took to get a table. We probably should have just ordered for carry out like the other smart people walking in there to pick up their dinner but so be it... At least the lady working the register gave me a Dr.Pepper (yes! DP is served here!) to quench my thirst while we waited. I had a hard time figuring out what I wanted to eat since the menu is full of some great options but thanks to a fellow Yelper's suggestion I went with the jalapeno gnocchi with the red pepper puree. No disappointments there! The gnocchi is homemade and stuffed with a ricotta and jalapeno mixture. It has a sort of kick to it because of the jalapeno flavor but yet it wasn't spicy which I almost missed since I love spicy. But the red pepper puree sauce can't be beat, it has a perfect consistency and lots of flavor. My friend ordered the risotto with calamari special and she was in carbohydrate heaven. I had a bite and couldn't put my finger on what it was but there was some magical flavor in there. Sage? Rosemary? Oregano? I don't know what it was, but keep it up PP. I'll be back soon to try one of your cheesy cream sauce dishes...they look heavenly.
(4)
Jason C.

I usually come here the night before a race to carb up. Simply put, if good pasta is what you want, good pasta is what you will get. I am a fan of their all Healthy Pasta items. The salads are pretty tasty too. Service was good, wait time was not too long, and the food came out quickly considering the pasta is made when you order. My buddy Gabe S. just notified me that Pasta Palazzo now takes credit card! WOOT!
(4)
Jim M.

I love this little (and I mean little) place. It's been one full week and I am still craving both the grilled calamari and the jalapeno gnocchi. The calamari was as well cooked as any I've ever had. We all know it's easy to jack up calamari and tough calamari is a crime. It was tender and not overseasoned. Wow, it was just fantastic. The jalapeÃ±o gnocchi was served in a roasted red pepper sauce that was at the same time light (not thin) but substanitive. The flavors where all distinct but none overpowering. They also managed to maintain all of the pepper flavor with none of the heat. I'm getting so worked up as I write this that I may jump on the brown line and go by myself this afternoon. The service was fast and friendly, though inexperienced, and the kitchen is open. If you sit at the bar you can watch every step of your being food prepared. The only downside is the size. I was with a large group and it was a little tight. But for a two-some at the bar watching and smelling the open kitchen it's just perfect. And if I need to find a place for group in the area we'll deal with the cramped quarters. It was just that good. Both of my dishes were perfect.
(5)
Chad W.

This place literally has the best Italian food I have ever had in my life, no joke.
(5)
Risa P.

When you walk in here, it smells amazing, I would go back just for the smell. That being said, I would not go back for the food. I was so excited for the food, since this place was so cute and it smelled delicious. My food, was just okay. I ordered the farfalle with pine nuts and goat cheese. I feel like the pasta was cooked more than al dente and there was hardly any goat cheese. I also feel like I could have easily made this dish at home with a lot more flavor. The bread was hard too--I love good fresh bread to put into olive oil and this was just hard (not crusty, just hard) The service was prompt and the place is cute. The company was fun and it was a cute place for a cozy Italian dinner. Maybe they were just having an off night with my dish.
(2)
Lauren P.

if your looking for great dinner on a budget, look no further! the pasta portions here are huge, and on average, 9$. its basically two dinners for the price of one. all the ingredients are super fresh, and you can even see the chefs preparing your meal right behind the bar. their sangria is also so good, and only 5$ a glass! I've gotten take out from here once before as well, and it was still just as good! oh, and dont forget to check out the daily specials...amazing!
(4)
James Michael S.

Great local spot for some in-expensive but delicious italian food!
(4)
Lauren M.

I LOVE PASTA PALAZZO! They have a great selection of pasta that all come out quickly and fresh. It's a smaller resturant, but I feel it adds to the restaurant's vibe of keeping it simple. There are times you find yourself standing next to the tables where others are eating, but I think its worth the short wait. The staff knows what they are doing and keep things flowing well. I wouldn't pick this place as a place to sit and chat all night, but its great if you want to grab some great food in a casual environment. I can honestly say I've never had a bad meal here. They also have great sangria! AND BRUSCHETTA! They just do simple things, but very well.
(5)
Gee S.

My favorite restaurant in Chicago. I'm a regular for several reasons. 1) Hands down, this place has the best service I've ever received. The waitstaff and hostess greet everyone who enters with a genuine smile and a kind hello. The service is swift, the portions are generous, and every customer is genuinely appreciated. 2) The show. I highly recommend sitting at the bar and watching the amazing chefs cook your fresh pasta right before your very eyes. These guys have their routine choreographed beautifully. It's like watching Pasta Ballet. 3) The food. Fresh & tasty ingredients, skillful execution. They rotate a few specials every day, but I usually stick to the Healthy Scallops, seared and served over fettuccine, topped by a zesty basil tomato sauce. "Healthy" is a dubious claim, but it is one of the few dishes that doesn't use a cream sauce. Their grilled calamari appetizer is hands down the best Cephalopod I've ever had, served with a divine butter lemon sauce and fresh tomatoes. People seem to adore their bolognese sauce (particularly with the homemade gnocchi), and I like it a lot, but it is quite heavy, with chunky mushrooms and hearty ground beef. 4) The drinks. Delicious red sangria with fresh citrus fruit chunks. 5) Atmosphere. Unpretentious, contemporary, fun. The restaurant is sunny, airy, and open. It is hard to believe this unassuming little pasta joint is located in this neighborhood, where trendy & high-concept businesses are the status quo. They used to be cash only, but now you can pay with credit, as well. If you're headed there, Bon Appetit. I'm jealous.
(5)
Andrew H.

Jalapeno gnocchi. It's the only entree I've tried because it's so unique and delicious that I can't bring myself to try anything else. It's kind of tacky that you have to pay extra for any additional ingredients to your dish. In general, it's overpriced, given that it is sort of a glorified noodles and company, but the homemade gnocchi have never disappointed. The $5 sangria is also always satisfying. It's a little cramped, but the do seem to have pretty good service. Good for a casual night out.
(4)
Maura S.

I very badly wanted to give Pasta Palazzo four stars, but my pasta wasn't all that great so I am sticking with three. This place is quiet and small and the mosaic decor inside is nice. I also like that you can see the cook making your food while you sit at your table. The service was great and we had plenty of bread/oil to snack on before our meal. The dish that I had that I didn't love was the Linguine Pesto-Cream. However, despite my disappointment in my dish, the other people in my party liked their food (a couple of them got the Conchiglie Classico).
(3)
Melissa M.

Great little, casual Italian place! Been here a few times for lunch and have always been satisfied. They have daily specials and a decent menu with salads, pastas, and sandwiches. FYI - cash only.
(3)
Payden C.

Ok let's just get this out of the way... I love this place, I (personally) have never had a bad meal here! It's a small italian/pasta place. They have some entrees but you don't come for them... you come for the pasta. Again it's very small, the sign says max 42 but I would say 20-25. The tables are mostly arranged family style, all right next to one another so if you want to come here for a intimate meal you may not get what you want. If you want a good meal and rub elbows with other people who want to eat some good grub, then this is your place. I went here the other night with a friend. We were seated right away at the counter and ordered two sangrias, that were fruity and strong (fine by me). we also shared a caprese salad, which was delicious. I had the special which was seafood risotto and my friend had some sausage dish. My risotto was AMAZING and my friend said hers was fine... except that she found a bone... in her sausage! The waitress was very nice about it and offered to have the kitchen fix her another, but seeing that my friend was almost finished she declined. At the end of the meal we were both quite full and happy. The waitress even comped my friends meal. Very nice and reasonable for the amazing food you get.
(5)
Kista W.

This place is the real deal. Fresh pasta with great flavors. Great bread with olive oil and parmesan. Tiny place, so go at an off time or prepare to wait while you watch people savor every bite of their delicious meal. Dangit...now I just want to go gorge myself on pasta. Mmmmmmmmm Pasta Palazzo.
(5)
Jessica F.

I have loved this place for a long time! It is really great food at a very reasonable price. Portion sizes are pretty large as well. For only $10, you can get a great pasta dish! I really love the caprese sandwich. The sandwich consists of french bread with fresh basil, a thick slice of creamy mozzarella cheese, and tomatoes with olive oil and spices. The blend is perfect!! Only $8 dollars! What a steal! Totally recommend it! It was so large that my boyfriend and I split it as a meal for lunch! :) This place only takes cash though! So bring your dinero! I would totally recommend this place for a first date! :)
(4)
John M.

This place is the best. You can usually get a table here within 5-10 minutes. Food comes fast and HOT. Everything is delicious. Very warm and comfortable place to eat in the wintertime.
(5)
Nimit P.

One of my favorite spots in the neighborhood. Pasta Palazzo offers tasty pasta dishes and appetizers that will fit just about any budget. Most of the entrees are around $10 and are well worth it. The ingredigents are fresh, the staff friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere comfortable and lively. If you're strolling by and looking to grab a bite, this spot will surely satisfy. For my fellow Lincoln Park dwellers, take out is just as good and usually ready in 15 minutes or less. This is one of my go to spots when I want to skip making dinner. Good for couples or small groups.
(3)
Tricia S.

I went here for the first time today. I ordered one of the specials ($11), and it was delish! It arrived super quickly. I also enjoyed the bread, olive oil, and cheese. Very tasty! The woman serving me was very friendly too. Good amount of food for a good price! I'd definitely return.
(5)
Aly R.

I never rate restaurants 5 stars! This place truly deserves it. With a fun decor, close intimate seating and an open kitchen this place has it all. Not to mention their prices are pretty good for the quality of the food. I have been a few times, and this past time I ordered the Frutti di Mare. Although it wasn't large shrimp and it was bay scallops there was a ton of seafood and flavor. We also got the caprese salad to share, i'd say it was kind of over priced ($7) and needed balsamic, but after that to share between 2 people it was so fresh and they used great quality tomatoes. One of the friends I was with ordered the Gnocci with bolognese and it looked amazing! I'd really recommend Pasta Palazzo to anyone looking for fresh, flavorful, fun and quick italian in the Lincoln Park area!
(5)
Jackie N.

Love this place! My roommates introduced me to this joint way back. I love the food (the Gorgonzola shells with spinach and tomatoes are the best) and the prices can't be beat! It is not terribly difficult to find a seat here, even on the weekends. Plus, you can graze on free bread and olive oil while you watch your food sauteed over an open flame. They also receive take out orders (on the phone and online) and usually have them ready in ten minutes. Last time I was there it was cash only, but uh...it's so cheap...why are you charging it anyway! Oh and a foodie lesson...if cops frequent a joint , as they do Palazzo, it is either 1. a great deal for a hearty meal 2. it is owned by the mob or 3. they give cops free meals...
(4)
Jake C.

Really nice casual Italian place, specializing in (you guessed it) Pasta. Nice specials, congenial atmosphere, tall tables of various sizes. The pasta dishes and appetizers were all good. Cheap wines by the glass. Very reasonable prices. If you are alone, you can sit at the counter and watch the cooks while you eat. Located on Halsted, just south of Armitage, next to the bank.
(4)
Amy R.

YUM! This place is great staple. Portions are just right - not huge, but not puny either - which also makes the price right. Majority of seating is cafeteria style - you may end up sitting with strangers, but I've never had to sit right next to a stranger, so it's okay. Chairs and tables are bar height, so probably not good for kids or wheelchairs to dine in.
(4)
Jen N.

I don't mind a restaurant being cash only, although I think it's uncommon now. This is a small and casual restaurant that has high seating similar to barstools in a small dining area with a counter where you can see the cooks up front. You can't really go too wrong when pasta is your menu, but some dishes are better than others. There are dishes without meat that still have flavor and taste to them. The jalapeno gnocchi made my eyes water, it was kinda too soft and just alright, like it needed some vegetables or something else to it. It does get pretty hot in here in the summer! the atmosphere is casual; not quiet or intimate, it's lively.
(4)
Elizabeth H.

When it comes to dining, I am not a fan of repetition. I like to try new places as much as possible, in an attempt to embrace everything my neighborhood offers. That being said, I will confess that I have eaten at Pasta Palazzo about once every 2-3 weeks since I moved to Lincoln Park. The menu offers really great comfort food, and an even more comforting price. I usually opt for one of the specials of the day to keep my life exciting, but my super picky-only pizzia eating-roommate absolutely swears by the conchiglie gorgonzola. The decor is bright and fun, and the service is always good. I would, however, recommend going on a week day, as the small space can get backed up pretty quickly. Oh, and my coworkers are always jealous when I have half of a huge portion left over for lunch. But then again, that's their problem, not mine.
(5)
Joe E.

Pasta Palazzo is a great neighborhood joint that serves Italian food for a low price. They offer most of their pastas for $9 and have some handmade pastas for a little higher price. Its great because additional ingredients can be added to any of the pastas! The atmosphere is fun and the kitchen is wide open to the public; you can actually see them preparing the foods from pre-chopped items and constantly boiling pots of water. The staff is efficient; but in my visit, they were too efficient. I swear, they were watching us eat because right when I took a couple minute break from eating, my plate was gone and my friend's plate was also taken away to be packed up. We found this unwelcoming and frustrating. The bill soon followed and it appeared that turn around was more important to the staff. Some people consider this place "cheap eats" and I would give it a perfect 5 rating for this category, but when considering flavors, atmosphere, and cost, I would still give it an above average rating but its definitely not perfect.
(3)
Tiffany K.

Cute, small restaurant. The wait was 15-20 minutes (if that) around 8pm. I went with one other friend and we were starving. My friend got the asparagus ravioli with sun dried tomato cream sauce (a Thursday special) and I ordered the linguini with pesto-cream sauce. We also ordered the grilled mushroom (forget which one) appetizer with garlic bread. The pasta dishes were delicious, but the pesto-cream sauce was a little too heavy and I could feel my arteries slowly clogging up. The mushroom appetizer was grilled alright, but it had too much lemon/balsamic vinegar added to it and it was just too overpoweringly tangy. Our total was $26. Not too bad. I would go here again because it's a nice atmosphere, but maybe go for a lighter pasta dish and maybe order a different appetizer. Also, the menu said it was cash only but we saw people paying with their cards? And all bottled beer (Blue Moon, Corona, Fat Tire, and some other beers) is $5. They also have $5 glasses of sangria.
(3)
Elizabeth G.

It should never have taken me so long to write this review. Pasta Palazzo is a little gem in Lincoln Park. I prefer the pasta far above the passable pasta at Pasta Bowl. There is nothing particularly authentic about Pasta Palazzo, but it never pretends to be anything but a pasta bar that dishes out fresh, delicious creations featuring pasta (and sometimes risotto). My personal favorite is farafelle with goat cheese and pine nuts. My daughter (who begs us to drive to Lincoln Park to eat here, long after our move north) is more traditional with penne and marinara. My husband longs for the jalapeno gnocchi, which I would agree is spicy and delicious. Also delicious are the salads and the asparagus appetizer. Very simple food done very well. The only drawbacks are the lack of dining space, sometimes leading to long waits and uncomfortable seating, as well as occasionally pokey service. However, it is worth it for a place that is consistently good and loved by our consensus-challenged family. One note: dine at the counter on a cold day, unless you don't sweat.
(4)
Nisha E.

We planned to have dinner out on a Friday night with some friends. Of course, I checked the Yelp reviews first--and hey, they were good! I previewed the menu and decided..."I'll be good tonight. I'll just get a salad and snag a taste of my husband's pasta." When you walk in, you are hit with the wonderful aroma of pure yummy-ness. Yes, yummy-ness. We sat at our table and was immediately greeted by our server. Now, the communal table thing is fine with me, and wasn't a problem with anyone we were with....I think it was kinda cool, though we probably did weird the other folks out at our table as we stared at their pasta while we noshed on our bread......sorry guys! It just looked so good!!! We ordered the grilled calamari, and the baked goat cheese w/garlic toast for appetizers. I've always liked grilled calamari, so I LOVE it when a restaurant serves it (most of the time you are only offered the deep fried version....blah). The baked goat cheese appetizer was fantastic too! Mmmm my mouth waters just thinking about it! Garlic toast is awesome, but pair it with goat cheese and basil-tomato sauce.....party in my mouth! When it was time to order the entrees... I quietly pointed at the Vegetariano Salad to myself, and thought "Yum! That sounds great!!!"--but when it was my turn to order, "JALAPENO GNOCCHI" came flying out of my mouth - - - I couldn't help it!!!! Ugh, I "mistakenly" ordered the wrong thing! Oh well....I'm not going to confuse the server.... I'll just take the gnocchi. :) It was GOOD. My husband ordered the ravioli - it was very tasty as well! Usually, he orders the tastier entrees and I find myself picking off of his plate...this time, we were equally snagging tastes from each other's plates. We were both happy with our choices (and each others choices!) and we will definitely be back. The prices are great, the food is tasty, and the portions are great too! I didn't leave mad at myself for eating too much, but I was so satisfied! Mmmmmm... See ya soon Pasta Palooza!
(5)
Rebecca Huicha K.

YUM and CHEAP. can ya ask for more?! The place is small so even on a weeknight we had to wait about 20 minutes which isn't that bad esp for good and cheap food. Everything on the menu is about $10 or less but they only take cash here. I'm a credit card girl and never carry cash but thankfully i read other yelpers reviews before heading there. thanks fellow yelpers :)
(4)
Jenna S.

Nothing memorable about this place. I went on a Friday for lunch, and there were only about 2 other tables occupied in the place. Waitress was distant, but semi friendly, food was served quickly and not bad. I cannot actually recall what I ordered? Not memorable. It was something with a ziti noodle and bolognese sauce. The sausages in the sauce was chunky and pretty fatty...but go figure, it's sausage. I have had better...but for the location right off of Armitage, the speed of service, and the pricing...I guess I can't complain. I did notice, however, that the menu says "Cash ONLY" and there are several reviews which note the same thing; but I paid with a credit card and so did several other patrons? Maybe this is a new thing here?
(3)
Jody J.

This is a great place to get a casual, good Italian meal. A friend of mine took me here for the first time during Gluten Fest 2008 (the night before I gave up eating gluten for 3 months), and I have been hooked ever since, even if I did think the name was Pasta Palooza until said friend politely corrected me last time we ventured there. It will be forever known to me as Pasta Palooza... What is not to like...Baked Goat Cheese - Amazing My favorite entree is the Cavatappi Pollo (chicken, corkscrew pasta, sundried tomatoes, cream) and they have grape soda, what more can a girl ask for. I haven't had anything here that I didn't like. My mouth is watering now just thinking about it....must eat there soon. The place is pretty small and is usually busy so be prepared to wait or sit with a group of strangers at one of the larger tables if it is the peak of dinner time. It used to be cash only, but looks like they now take credit cards!
(4)
Jen K.

Today was my lucky day ... the special was cavatelli with shrimp, spinach and mushrooms in a spicy vodka tomato sauce. Wow! It was wonderful. I decided to save half for tomorrow and give the dessert a shot. My waiter mentioned that the tiramisu was homemade (they have a woman who makes it for them and brings it in). Another wow and it was huge. I'll definitely be back! The layout of the restaurant is very unique for an Italian place. It looks like it used to be a diner. You can sit at the counter and watch the chefs at work or you can grab a table.
(5)
Lawrence Y.

I love this place! It's small yet cozy, and I have been fortunate enough to always come here when there hasn't been a wait. The servers we have had have always been great and attentive. I have always ordered the Linguine Pesto-Cream pasta and love it! I don't think I'd order anything else. For being VERY reasonably priced, you get a good amount of food too! I am never able to finish my food and always take half of it home. The only negative things I could say are... 1) they only take cash and 2) it probably would be difficult to accommodate a large party
(5)
stephanie r.

As a pasta lover, I was really disappointed by this place. Living right down the street, I've dined here several times - each time leaving unimpressed. Funky atmosphere, & decent service were a plus. And don't get me wrong, the food wasn't bad, but I can't get over the feeling that I could prepare equally good pasta at home.
(2)
Steve T.

The gnocchi was delicious, and came out piping hot. The place is really tiny and cash only, but everyone liked their food. I would come back as the prices were pretty reasonable. They prepare the dishes right in front of you at the bar, so everything is really fresh. The only complaint I had was it seemed like the waitress wasn't paying enough attention and forgot some requests when the orders were placed and one of our party had to wait a little while for the shrimp to be added to his salad. We had to request refills and more bread which is something I really think should be just done and monitored while walking around the place. It's not that big so there really wasn't much of an excuse. I might be being hard on them, but, yeah, it had to be said. For you wino's out there, they have a liquor license, but allow BYO but charge a lot more than they should for it. $10 for a bottle seems a bit ridic but, I guess people gotta do what they gotta do. I would never BYO here because of that.
(4)
Reyna H.

FYI CASH ONLY!!! I didn't know that before I entered into the realm of the most amazing pasta I've ever had. I went there twice in two weeks, and am waiting for the chance and CASH to go back. It's very reasonably priced for how tasty their food is. I had Gorgonzola stuffed tortellini, and I'm salivating just writing this review. It's an extremely cozy place, with excellent food, and great service. Get there asap!
(5)
Val B.

I had to take a big fat nap after eating here! As per the reviews, I got the Gorgonzola tortellini. I got carryout, but thought the decor inside was cool and offbeat. The pasta was really creamy and flavorful...actually quite a bold taste considering it's almost all cheese. Nice large portion for just $10 (could feed two people if you got some apps). I loved it! Ugh and -1 star for being cash only. Give me a break...you're not fast food or cheap. I'm sure I'll be craving it many wintry days to come since it's just steps from my office. (Skip the mixed greens salad which is really just soggy lettuce drenched in dressing.)
(4)
Joe B.

I am not sure why this place has an average of 4 stars. I'm not sure if the Chef was on vacation or if he was out sick.. the food tasted horrible. It honestly tasted as if they opened up a can of chef boyardee and served it. We were the only people in the restaurant at the time and this type of quality shouldnt have been served. I was very disappointed.
(1)
Adam L.

The food there was quite good. If you have the option, sit at the bar and watch their cooks do their thing. It adds a bit of a show to your dining experience. When we came in we were greeted by a nice guy, but he was wearing a tee shirt, shorts, and sandals which was kinda weird. We thought he was some rando customer at first. Other than that it was a good dining experience.
(3)
Kevin C.

My fiancee is italian so I might be biassed. I thought the service was ehhh and the food was uninspired and subpar.
(3)
Maryn R.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. The food is fantastic! It comes out piping hot. The price is also great. Plenty of food! My husband and I usually share a dish and a salad. We have been coming to this place almost every Friday night for the last year. We started coming when our daughter was born. Shayna and Nicole are usually their and we really like them. They have great customer service. they know how order and basically can place it when we arrive. They always ask if we want anything different just in case The only issue I have with this place is that the bathroom does not have a diaper changing station or counter. There is no place to change a child in diapers. In the winter it is really bad because you cannot even change them on the floor. The bathroom has plenty of space to put one in. This place is family oriented so I would think they would have one. They even offer booster seats for the high-top tables so the kids can sit at them. The ironic thing is that I believe the owner has kid(s) so I would think it would be a priority for them seeing as they have kids. Go eat at this local restaurant in LP! You will not be disappointed. The only reason they do not get 5 stars is because of the changing station
(4)
Andrew B.

I usually have either gnocchi or jalapeno gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce and have never been disappointed. They give you about a gallon of sauce, which leaves plenty for the pasta and bread dipping. I've had the ravioli also, but wasn't that impressed. For about $12 you can't go wrong with the gnocchi.
(4)
k h.

While the food is great, the environment is not safe! I dined at Pasta Palazzo last Thursday (1/27/10) and my wallet was stolen out of my purse! While I don't hold the restaurant totally responsible for the theft, the kicker is that when I talked to my server the next morning to report the robbery she admitted to thinking the guy who was sitting behind me looked "shady." She said the staff had been watching him because he didn't look like their regular clientele, ordered only hot tea, talked on his cell phone the entire time he was in the restaurant, and kept reaching into his jacket pocket. Of course he kept reaching into his "pocket"--he was actually reaching under his jacket and my jacket to go into my purse! While I realize they couldn't have confronted the guy without a good reason, they could have at least warned me that something strange seemed to be going on. For some reason, I don't think Pasta Palazzo's food is worth the $8600 in unauthorized purchases, headache of replacing the contents of my wallet, and fear of identity theft I'm experiencing.
(1)
Karen C.

delicious food, even more delicious prices. i had the healthy chicken pasta, it was very tasty, and steaming hot! by the time i was finished eating, the pasta that was leftover was still steaming, actually. and i generally eat pretty slow. just be forewarned that they only accept cash.
(5)
Katelyn C.

I have only tried one thing here and it was take out! Take out is never as good as the dining experience I feel. I tried an appetizer that was goat cheese with pasta sauce and garlic bread. To be completely honest, it was okay. I feel like for seven dollars I should have gotten a larger serving, but again it was take out. The bread was a little burnt and kind of stale. Add some more garlic too! The cheese was warm and yummy, but the sauce needed some more pop. Maybe add some more spices. I don't want to say it was bland, but it was nothing too special. Yet coming from an itallian family I may be used to different tastes. Overall it was okay but I am more than willing to try it again and come back to write a better review!
(3)
Alicia V.

Expected a little more from this restaurant after reading most of the reviews. I came here with my family of 5 on an early Sunday evening. There was only 2 waiters and the tiny restaurant was almost at capacity. Waited 15 minutes for a menu. Waiter was sweating and gasping for air after running from table to table! We waited at least 15 minutes before getting a menu. Waiter never introduced himself or told us about the specials. We ordered the peso pasta that was described with a splash of cream. Unfortunately, it was more like a pool of cream and so it killed the flavor. I ordered the risotto con broccoli and pollo in a sundried tomato sauce. The risotto was super heavy with cream! The chicken looked and tasted like it came out of a package like Tyson or Perdue! There was a few pieces of broccoli drowned with the cream sauce. The seafood pasta was ok and the spicy eggplant was good, but super heavy on the sauce! The bread was cold, not fresh. I ordered coffee and although the taste was good, it was cold! Forgot to mention that the phone was ringing off the hook the whole time we ate there, but I never saw anyone answer! Wished we would have eaten somewhere else :(. Maybe they will read this review and cut back on the cream and sauce. Maybe they will even hire another waiter.
(1)
Neri B.

I had there special which was a Risotto with shrimp and mushroom in a creamy sauce which was delicious.
(5)
Jacqueline M.

I have been here twice, and I cannot figure out why people love it. I had the Cesar salad this time, and it was just ok. I mean it is pretty hard to screw up a salad. The dining room is cramped, and the service is not so great either.
(2)
Drea E.

All in all I' say dinner at Pasta Palazzo was just fine. I am really surprised by all the raving reviews here. The pasta was fine, as was the soup. Nothing to write home about or to complain about; just standard not-in-the-mood-to-cook-dinner-tonight food. The ambiance was nice and I particularly enjoyed sitting at the bar watching the cooks get down. Gotta' respect a line cook. The service, however, was terrible. Like, our food came out before our drinks did terrible. An we were sitting right next to the expo station! Our server didn't even have to take one single step to check on us, all she had to do was turn her head to look at us. I don't get it. There were about 12 tables and three servers it was about 7:30 on a Sunday night. Why in the weeds?
(3)
Tom I.

Was in the area and looking for somewhere to stop for lunch so I tried Pasta Palazzo, and was very, very pleasantly surprised. It's pretty small and the kitchen is out in the open (but not in a Zoo-exhibit way like Stir Crazy) so you can see them making your food fresh. When I went at 2:00pm it was basically full, but they said there is usually only a wait on Fridays. The food was great, and very surprisingly cheap (about $4-5 for appetizers and $10 for entrees) especially for the quality of the food. I got the Penne Bolognese (entree), bruschetta (app), and asparagus (app), and it would have been too much food if it didn't taste so good. I finished every bite and will be coming back here for lunch hopefully soon & often.
(5)
Paul K.

Went in the store looking forward to their gnocchi in a bolognese sauce to ease my pain but spotted a special on their specials board (cavatelli con gambero, funghi, spinaci in a spicy creamy vodka sauce). I still experienced the full satisfying al dente pleasure of the cavatelli (in lieu of the gnocchi which is also incredible). But with the mushrooms spinach & shrimp, in the slightly spicy and ever so creamy sauce... my little Italian grandmother was right. Eat this, you'll feel better...
(5)
Betty C.

Upon passing down Halsted one night after dinner, my friends and I noticed the quaint little restaurant with bright colors and quirky shapes. We were immediately drawn in and vowed to return some day. A month later, we finally got to try the restaurant and I have to say I was fairly impressed. I ordered the Jalapeno Gnocchi with red roasted pepper puree, and each bite was better than the first. I usually tread lightly when it came to Gnocchi since the potential of it being "mishandled" was high (bland and starchy seems to be quite popular) but I was pleasantly surprised with this dish. The Gnocchi was handmade and cooked to the right consistency and softness. If you have a fondness for spicy food, there's also a small kick with the jalapeno filling. I also thoroughly enjoyed the roasted red pepper puree it was swimming in - it reminded me of a pesto sauce of some sort. The staff was also very friendly and provided candid opinions on each dish. We were all quite satisfied with our dishes and her recommendations, while enjoying the cozy colorful atmosphere of the restaurant. Just don't forget to bring cash if you are ever there!
(5)
Genevieve S.

Cute place. Great food. Friendly service. Healthy options. Can't lose here! I went with two friends after creating purses at Lill Studio and we all devoured our food! Perfect ending to a perfect afternoon.
(5)
Jeni F.

I had a gorgonzola pasta with spinach and tomatoes. The ingredients were fresh and it was really flavorful. My husband didn't care for his pasta because it was really soggy. The sangria was decent but nothing to get excited about (sangria at an italian restaurant?). Although the service was good and prices reasonable, I agree that it is ridiculous to function as a cash-only establishment. Are they in cahoots with the Citibank atm across the street that charges a $3.00 service fee? REALLY annoying and I won't go back.
(3)
tiffany k.

I've been here a few times. The first time with my boyfriend and we didn't realize it was cash only. Luckily there were some ATMs just outside. The sangria is okay - kind of small. I only got it the first time I went. I went again yesterday and got the bowtie pasta with tomato, basil, goat cheese and pine nuts. I must say - this was exceptional. It was a very simple pasta with tons of flavor. I could only eat half and will have the other half today for lunch (can't wait!). One odd thing is the olive oil they have sitting out. It's kind of, uhm, not like olive oil. I mean, it's got the green hugh and all, but it tastes nothing like any olive oil I've ever tasted. I mean, it's oil, but OLIVE oil? Hmm... I know that they might need to cut costs in certain areas so perhaps they bought the most reasonable olive oil out there to save some money - especially in this economy. I suggest they put some basil or a garlic clove in their olive decanters to make the oil taste a little better. But that's not really why you're there, it's the delicious pasta dishes and sandwiches they make. Oh - and each dish is around $10. Not bad for really tasty food.
(3)
Apryl B.

just popped in to escape the cold weather for a warm pasta dish with my guy. atmosphere is warm and inviting, namely because of the friendly greeting and open gas fire kitchen. not bad at all. I ordered the penne fungi, three types of mushrooms in a creamy cheese Marsala sauce. the pasta cooked to a perfect al dente, mushrooms all had great texture, but the rub was the flavor. perhaps in the attempt to allow the freshness of the ingredients shine, the cook skipped the extra pinch of salt. marsala is not a strong flavor like a traditional alfredo, so a little extra seasoning would have set this dish of well. my guy ordered the penne con salsiccie, that's with chunks of Italian sausage, portabellas and tomato sauce. no lacking of flavor on this dish. we enjoyed the experience. portions are generous without being overwhelming. we'll be back.
(4)
Nick R.

Best bang for your buck when it comes to price, quantity, taste, etc. We go here all the time. Can't go wrong with the cavatapi pollo and the corkscrew. chicken. We went there once when the power went out, the overhead lights werent working. I'm not complaining, I really liked the atmosphere with the dimmed lighting. Think about trying it out PP. Everyone looks better with dimmed lighting and a couple peronis.
(5)
jenn m.

I have enjoyed the food from this place every time. Its great whether you dine in or order out. I love the polenta for a starter. For an entree I suggest the Conchiglie Gorgonzola, Penne alle Melanzane or gnocci with marinara. They are all fantastic! And pricing isnt bad for what you get! Definitely try the polenta, but share it with someone because its filling for a starter and can become bland if you need to eat the whole thing yourself. Servers/phone girls were cordial and friendly and its fun to watch the chefs cook up the food right behind the bar!
(5)
Sophia R.

Hands down my favorite place to bring friends. You've got great prices, excellent handmade pasta, great staff, and it's very casual. I recommend the Gnocchi Bolognese-- it's to die for! It is like nothing I've ever had before, they are fluffy pillows of ricotta cheese that melt in your mouth. You get to watch the cooks make your food right in front of you it's almost like a burger joint, but with pasta. The only downside: I always have to hit up the atm on the corner-- this place doesn't accept credit cards.
(5)
Brenda H.

Pasta Palazzo is a cute and quick Italian restaurant that serves delicious pasta and sandwich fare. The alfredo is to die for and they also have a "healthy" section featuring vegetable pastas cooked without butter or cheese. Even the bread and oil are delicious! Often the specials are quite good as well, featuring seafood, fish or other meats. For beverages, they have a small selection of affordable wines and beers and a few house wines for about $5 a glass. They also have RC cola, which I love. The prices are very cheap (on average less than $10) and portions are large. The ambiance is a perfect balance between colorful walls and quiet sounds. Street parking is tough, since this is Lincoln Park. Also, I think it's cash only.
(5)
Liz T.

Pasta Palazzo is an excellent value for the price. The food is always fresh and delicious. Until recently, Palazzo and I had a love/hate relationship. It's one of my boyfriend's favorite places, so we go frequently. I've had several different pasta dishes that were good, but it wasn't until I started eating the sandwiches that I enjoyed the meals more. I'm starting to realize that I don't like pasta very much. The grilled chicken sandwich is delicious and I love that all their sandwiches are served with salads. The tomato dill soup is really, really delicious as well, as is the baked goat cheese. We had the grilled calamari and grilled asparagus once, too, and the lemon vinaigrette they serve those with is delicious. My boyfriend always has the penne bolognese, which is rich, creamy and really flavorful. I'd order it if I wouldn't feel guilty afterward! Remember: Pasta Palazzo is cash only.
(4)
Kris A.

Great, affordable pasta. I had the spinach, ricotta ravioli. Nice atmosphere, and the staff is very friendly. Have daily specials. Not very much seating, which is my only negative. I kept bumping into the woman at the table behind me. Ample parking at meter pay boxes.
(4)
Laura W.

This place is great! We live within walking distance of it, so we have been known to go through spurts of eating there alot! I have never had a pasta dish there that I don't like. The bolegnese sauce is really yummy and they have great salads. It is an intimate place, but I like the open kitchen and the colors on the wall make this place very festive. Waitstaff is always friendly and as others have mentioned in this review....it is cash only, but you have 3 banks right there all with ATM's.
(4)
Brian L.

Go and get the pumpkin ravioli RIGHT. NOW. I have been there a few times, and am always pretty pleased. Tend to order the specials. Haven't had to wait long and the food is served quickly. Everything is reasonably priced.
(4)
Stove P.

I used to call this place Lollapalooza until just now when I decided to search for it. Pasta Palazzo, I would like to make you part of my regular top dining restaurants. For example, my friend and I will shamefully make fools of ourselves in the pride parade. Coming out (haha not really) exhausted from miles of walking and completely drenched from the rain, we will generate a list of possible places to dry off and indulge in. Our post parade stop was of course.......the place I'm reviewing! Bet you didn't see that coming your way! So I have come here twice. Both times, the pasta dishes were expceptional. My first pasta pleasure was one topped with marinara sauce--exquisite! My second was flavored and smothered with alfredo sauce--scrumptious! What also made me come back was the kick I got out of seeing this lady, who was obviously frustrated waiting for the ladies' bathroom to open, walk into the men's room. She was so infuriated as she took one final huff-and-puff and decidedly stormed into the bathroom of the opposite gender. Fantastic.
(4)
Jacqueline M.

Came here with a couple of girlfriends and really enjoyed it! Very yummy and pretty good selection. Not too pricy and you have the option to be seated (limited) or eat at the bar. You can watch the chefs prepare your meals! Really enjoyed the restaurant (especially the bread and olive oil served as an appetizer) and looking forward to returning! If I'm not mistaken, they only accept cash!
(5)
Liz N.

This pasta is unreal. I could eat their gnocchi everyday. Great sangria also! And when they have their tomato dill soup it's almost as exciting as my birthday.
(4)
Ang R.

Tiny little restaurant with fantastic food for reasonable prices. Loved the grilled asparagus and lemon vinegarette, and the meat sauce is very good.
(4)
Jamie H.

I have been coming here since it opened and it is my favorite restaurant in Chicago. I've had pasta at Club Lucky, Italian Village and other places but they just can't beat the price, portion size or the taste at Pasta Pallazo. The staff allow me to pick and choose my own pasta and sauce and they Dr. Pepper on tap, what more can you ask for? In and out for less than 16 is a a great deal. Yum. The only draw back are the high chairs and tables, very awkward to get in.
(5)
Erica T.

The first time I came here I had the linguine pesto-cream, which turned out to be OK, just too "pesto-ey" for me...but my boyfriend had a good dish. So, I decided I should give this place another chance, and ever since then it's been great. I love anything on the menu with pink sauce. The "healthy" pastas are really good, especially the scallop dish. They have some good wines available as well. The service is pretty good, staff are cool. I want to try dessert here, but never get around to it because I always fill up on the pasta. Cash Only...!
(4)
Blair B.

Quick, casual, easy, and delish all describe this spot. Way less pretentious than others in the area (Tilly's.. I mean you). I love the pasta with goat cheese.. they were very generous with the cheese! Prices were decent for Lincoln Park.
(4)
Stephanie M.

Service was good, that's why it gets 2 stars. Otherwise, may I please have some pasta with the plethora of sauce of my plate? I literally had to fish around for pieces of farfalle on my dish. As for my boyfriend's pasta, gross, gross, gross. Oh and by the way, the amount of balsamic vinegar used on the bruschetta burned my taste buds, not joking. Than again, I come from an Italian family where I grew up on mama's home cooking, maybe I'm being a bit harsh.
(2)
Matt G.

Went in here spontaneously after an afternoon bike ride, and it was quite the detour! The food was delicious! My wife got one of the specials, which was smoked chicken ravioli with a creamed gorganzola sauce. I got some standard shell pasta with peppers and sausage. It was nice because they put fresh ricotta on top to stir in to the sauce. The ingredients were very fresh, and the food's taste reflected that. Not to mention, it was very reasonable, and the service was fine. I'd go back for sure. It's not exactly the biggest restaurant in the world, but for a neighborhood joint, it's definitely a can't miss. I echo the comment about being able to see them cook. I wouldn't call it ballet, but it was nice to see the fresh ingredients waiting on deck.
(4)
Jon C.

quite possibly some of the best gnocchi i've had in the chicago area. a great affordable and delicious place for pasta. i love that the kitchen area is exposed so you can see what the chefs are putting into the food (lots of cream for the heavier sauces).
(4)
Mike J.

I have been going here since.... forever!.... this is the classic local Italian eatery at a very cheap price point - it is the perfect first date place. It does get noisy but its all part of the atmosphere.... I cant say enough good things about this place - I wish there were more of them around the city!
(4)
Erin C.

The restaurant is pretty small, but they are fast so I have never had to wait. I always go for their specials, which are really affordable. The grilled calamari is some of the best I've had. The atmosphere is casual, but the food is hardly ordinary. I also appreciate that they have a chenin blanc wine, which most small casual restaurants do not offer.
(4)
zamboni z.

stopped here after being away for at least a year.... things are still very solid - good, quick, reasonable pasta - and if the cops eat here, you know it's good. there were 4 cops there for lunch. enuf said. Bring cash - no fancy credit cards taken here.
(4)
Jennifer T.

I love this place- I go here all the time with my son and with friends. The food is delicious- order the cheese filled gnocchi with the Gorgonzola sauce and you'll be in heaven (split it with a friend because it's very rich). The grilled calamari as well as the warm goat cheese appetizers are wonderful. We've always had fine service every time we've been here. The house chianti wine is also really pretty good. and the tiramisu is really wonderful As many of the other reviews have mentioned they're cash only- but I find I always spend about 50% less here than any other place I might go for an Italian meal so I keep hitting up the cash machine and coming back.
(5)
Raysa M.

I read people's review and my husband and I decided to give it a try. The place is nice, and you can see your meal while they cook it. We ordered bruschetta first, and I really like them. They are bit sour for the vinegar of the tomatoes, but I liked it! I had creamy pesto pasta, it was ok. It was missing some salt and pepper (and I do not usually like much salt in my meals) and a bit too oily for me. My husband had gnocchi filled with mushrooms with a mushroom champagne creamy sauce. It was amazing! I really really like it and recommend it. We sat next to the window and we really enjoyed our time there.
(4)
A. A.

This is one of my favorite regular places to go out to dinner. I really love the food, especially for it being so moderately priced. Great dishes in all, occasionally the pasta is a little over cooked, but it's never enough to hurt the quality of the meal. The grilled asparagus rocks. I have yet to come here, even on weekend evenings, and have to wait any longer than 10 minutes or so, usually we can get seated right away. The staff here is always friendly and attentive, and they make there dishes right there in the main room of the place.
(5)
Natalie R.

A fun, fresh, incredibly clean place to eat really good food. I hardly ever eat pasta and never eat goncchi because it is heavy and packed with carbs, but Pasta Palazzo has an understated healthy twist on traditional Italian meals that I just love. The service is great! The girl I always see is helpful, always smiling, and efficient. Get the baked goat cheese with tomato-basil sauce, it is AMAZING. I love this place. Here's to you Pasta Palazzo
(5)
Eric M.

In America, and especially Chicago, it can be difficult to find a restaurant that doesn't serve portions that size of a Smart Car. Well don't fret my small stomach friends, Pasta Palazzo is here to save you. Their tiny restaurant with little to look at is made up by the great service and amazing food that is presented (at an even better price!). The wine list could use some help, but go check this place out before it becomes too popular.
(4)
Corinne W.

I've only been here once, but the food was fantastic. Super busy though, and they have 12 tables (or some ridiculously small # of tables) there, so Friday-Saturday nights it's hard to get a table. Everything was so good though, and I keep meaning to go back!
(4)
Patrick L.

Great restaurant. If i'm ever in the mood for good reasonably priced Italian food this is where I come. I love the baked goat cheese and I've picked off my girlfriends salads which have always been good. Trying to try every pasta on the menu and all have been great and filling. Only cons is that it's cash only but there's an atm next door and that since it's so popular it's usually crowded and sometimes it gets a bit loud.
(4)
Patti B.

This place feels very cozy with the rustic tables and tall barstools, and I really enjoyed the stuffed gnocchi. After asking me whether I preferred marinara or cream sauce, they whipped up a nice blend of the two and it went really well together. However, my boyfriend wasn't so happy with his pasta, which came with eggplant, tomato, and basil - the eggplant was hard and the flavors weren't as unique as my dish. Portions were very generous for the price though. I think I'll be back for the gnocchi, which you should definitely try if you've never had stuffed gnocchi before!
(3)
Erika K.

Hands down this is one of my favorite Italian restaurants in the city. It is our local neighborhood place! The ingredients and pasta are always fresh and amazing. They have yummy specials, good portions, and great prices. The only downfall, if I can even say this is one, is they only take cash, so I always have to run to the bank before I eat here. Other than that, I love Pasta Palazzo!
(5)
Ken G.

This is my favorite restaurant to go to for fresh pasta, awesome Italian bread, friendly service and a great experience every time. It's fun to watch the chefs make your sauce fresh and know it will be so good that you can't help but want to eat it all but know you won't be able to because of the generous portions. The baked goat cheese and Cavatappi Pollo are my two favorite dishes. Be prepared for a cozy experience (it gets pretty busy) but soak up the energy and enjoy a glass of wine.
(5)
Meg C.

I've been to Pasta Palazzo a few times and haven't been disappointed. Love the Jalapeno Gnocchi!!! Definitely like the laid back atmosphere. We will be back!
(4)
Jim M.

I just started going to this place and I'm a huge fan. It's a casual pasta joint that tastes great and you can get your food quickly. You can sit at the bar and watch them make your food also. Any time I'm in this neighborhood and looking for a quick meal I make it a point to stop here!
(4)
Erin C.

You just have to love pasta palazzo. From the vibrant veggie paintings on the wall, to the nice servers, to the no fuss excellent food, everything here is so lovely and neighborhoody. I really like the chicken rotini with mushrooms and sundried tomatoes. There usually isn't too long of a wait either!
(4)
Erin S.

Been there a few times. Place is fantastic. It is small, so going at off times is a must. It is cozy and lovely and the wait staff is friendly and great. All I've ever had here is the pasta, but it is flavorful and you get enough to take some home! I get something new every time I go here. The house wine is really good too!
(4)
Lauren H.

the food is ehhh... and yea, be warned! cash only and there are NO SIGNS to warn you. Is this 1996? Cash only??
(2)
rachel c.

The menu at Pasta Palazzo is incredibly cheap for the quality of food and service at this restaurant. 2 entrees and 2 drinks cost my boyfriend and I $30 for a Saturday night dinner! Not bad. The service was super friendly and quick as well. I had the penne bolognese, and my bf had the shells with spinach and Gorgonzola. Both were great. We'll definitely be back.
(4)
Megan P.

I work close to Pasta, and I can not count the number of times I have been here for lunch (and dragged my friends here on the weekend), and I enjoy it every time. For a while, I was sticking close to the pasta selections (which are all delicious) but then one of my co-workers encouraged me to try the vegetarian sandwich, and I haven't gone back to pasta dishes since! Fresh grilled vegetables and goat cheese and some other stuff that is just so yummy.... Also, it helps with the not falling asleep post carb-heavy lunch! (And if you want an alternative to the bread/oil/cheese which is so hard to resist while waiting for food, the asparagus appetizer is quite good) In addition to the great (and reasonably priced) food the service is great, and they are always willing to change the order slightly if you want, (e.g. light cream, extra pine nuts, etc.). Just make sure you have cash (but there is a citibank across the street if you need an atm) as they don't take credit cards. Take out is also super quick and convenient.
(5)
Alexis H.

Definitely a bang for your buck kind of place. The food is pretty good, but not to-die-for fantastic. While some pastas are made fresh, most of the dishes are made with dried pasta and taste a lot like what I could make at home. A previous reviewer got it right: if you're into saucy dishes with nothing special pasta, this place will work. If you want something where the pasta itself brings the flavor and the sauce is just a lucky addition, I would try one of the many other authentic Italian restaurants in the city. One other tip: the food is a bit too heavy and rich for lunch. I definitely enjoy my experience much more when I go there for dinner.
(4)
courtney g.

Great, reliable Italian comfort food; interesting specials; a decent, and decently priced wine list; a cute dining room; good service; and it's very inexpensive. Be advised - they take cash only. I've had several really pleasant meals here. [And, if it doesn't make you disgusted to know, around Valentine's day, they do a giant, heart-shaped ravioli. Awww... if you're in luuurrrrve, it's irresistable. If you're not - get out your knife and go to town. How can you go wrong?]
(4)
Allie N.

This place was fabulous! We took a friend from out of town here and we were thrilled. The food and service was very pleasing. They start you off with warm bread, olive oil and Parmesan cheese (to die for!), and shortly after they bring out your orders. I order the jalapeno gnokie (spelling?) and it was fabulous! I would definitely get it again. As for the ambiance of this restaurant, it's small and very cozy. It's not a place for big groups but definitely for dates or a small groups. Definitely recommend this if you're willing to spend a little more on some great Italian pasts dishes.
(4)
Cupcake C.

Good Food. Cash only. Love the goat cheese, and Heathly Chicken pasta made with veggies and no oil. Limited seating but awesome food.
(4)
Whitney S.

Came here on a Friday night (it's a small place so go just a little before the evening rush to avoid waiting). The prices are great so it's perfect for a night when you want restaurant food but don't want to pay a ton. However, I thought the food was just ok. I had basic spaghetti and meatballs and I felt like the meatballs were the kind you buy frozen in bulk. They were pretty tough and had an aftertaste. My b/f's meal was better than mine (don't know remember what he had). Really, for the price, it was not bad and we might come back (and order something other than meatballs). My other complaint is that the open kitchen makes the place smokey and your clothes soak up a lot of restaurant smell. Overall, just ok.
(3)
Emily N.

I've gotten carry out from this place a like 3 or 4 times and it's always been on the money. First time around I got the conchiglie gorgonzola, or as the BF calls it, stinky cheese pasta. What can I say? I'm a HUGE fan of all things cheese, stinky and otherwise. It was soooo tasty. Aside from being a cheese fan, I'm a true carnivore. I almost don't consider a dish a meal unless it contains meat. This, however, definitely cut the mustard. The BF got spaghetti and meatballs. He's boring. It was good though. They definitely serve generous portions and weren't stingy w the meatballs for his dish. We also got the garlic bread which is awesome and the Caesar salad. I would've like a tad more dressing, but it was super fresh and quite yummy. I've also had the linguini pesto-cream which was delish. I'm a sucker for pesto. I added the shrimp and felt it was a fair amount for the $3. And the penne melanzane - like a party in my mouth! The place is cute and every time I've been in, it smells wonderful and the place is jumping. Next time around I'll dine in and fill you in on my opinion (which should be highly regarded hmph!) of the service. If you're in the area, it's a def must try. You won't be disappointed. BRING CASH! otherwise you'll be doin dishes for your meal
(4)
Tom P.

.Had the Jalapeno' Gnocchi and Calamari, so good I returned the next night. My favorite restaurant in the area. Inexpensive, very friendly, I can't say enough good things about it.
(5)
Kristine L.

i fully enjoy this restaurant. I love Italian food, I prefer it over most. And I think it is hard to impress me with pasta, but I'm impressed with Pasta Palazzo! The sauces are delicious, the tastes are creative and you get bread and oil! Fantastic. Small place and cash only, but a great atmosphere
(4)
E S.

The staff is friendly and the food is great!
(4)
Curt S.

They now accept cards!!!!
(5)
Phil D.

I have to agree with what's been already said about PP. If you want quick straight-forward tasty pasta dishes then this is the place. Service was good. Also makes for great take-out as well. Grilled Calamari was fantastic. Prices are excellent.
(5)
Emily and David S.

Really, really disappointing. This place serves the kind of food you'd expect to find at the Olive Garden or maybe some sort of institutional cafeteria. We ordered the Jalapeno Gnocci (weird and bad, like marshmallows filled with some type of spicy cheese) and the Penne alla Melanzane (unforgivably overcooked pasta with sauce that tasted like it came straight from the can). The dishes we tried were very far from authentic Italian food. The ingredients are clearly not fresh, and the preparation is careless. Not coming back anytime soon.
(2)
Alycia B.

The smell of the food lured me and my hungry friend into Pasta Palazzo. The place was really cute inside with small wooden chairs and big tables where customers are combined which today i didnt find very cool because i wanted to have a personal convo with my friend and this loser dude was all up in the convo and it was extremely annoying...anyway we had a crappy waitress that seemed irritated immediately with our presence and inability to comprehend the Italian entrees (cause everyone knows Italian???!!!??). The food was prompt , took about 10 minutes but it was only decent/ my friend found her hers very bland and mine had nothing special to it. We both ordered pastas and it was pretty forgettable, we ate there today and i cant even remember exactly what i got. The other waiters seemed fine though so we might of just been dubbed with a bitchy waiter. As for the bill it came to $20 for both of our pasta dishes which was not bad at all. I wouldnt say i feel ripped off but definately not satisfied and the waitress brought a stressed vibe for no reason=/.
(2)
Sam J.

Awesome food, in a fun laid-back atmosphere. Really friendly staff, super accommodating with really fair prices. Nothing fancy or life-changin, but a good spot all around. Highly recommended.
(4)
sandhya k.

Ok food, but the staff are always really nice. Maybe I need to go with the dishes that aren't the specials?
(2)
Ed H.

I think this will become a favorite of mine. Great food, good service, and fun atmosphere. The kitchen is behind the wood be bar, and it is pretty fun to watch.
(5)
Six B.

i crave their jalepeno gnocchi! the gnocchi is homemade and the cheesey pepper sauce is amazing! very rich but worth the heaviness! haven't had much else there...it's a cute space.
(4)
Marissa D.

definitely a fan. came here with a friend a few weeks ago and we were happy to find out that they are now accepting credit cards. always a plus. delicious, simple italian food, affordable wine, nice casual atmosphere, and very friendly service. i highly recommend the bowtie pasta with fresh tomato, goat cheese, basil, and pine nuts. will definitely be back the next time i am in the mood for affordable, good italian.
(4)
Niki C.

Oh! I really like this place. I found out about it a handful of years back when my friend got a job there. It has mouth-watering dishes that do not even come close to breaking the bank (make sure to bring cash, though). Their farfalle with goat cheese is so delicious & unlike a lot of pastas I've had for some reason, heats up very well the next day for lunch if you happen to have a small stomach like me.
(4)
Juliana P.

the food is amazingly fresh! if you go you must try their polenta which is always fantastically hot and delicious.
(5)
mae b.

i have lived i Lincoln park for 6 years and can't believe i haven't review pasta palazzo yet! i love their food, staff, and atmosphere! i order take out here at least once a week. good for casual dates and lunch :)
(5)
Sanjay B.

Fairly cheap, the staff was nice enough. A lunch time meal at 3pm so it wasn't very crowded. I liked the ambiance it seemed very relaxed. The waitress told us we could sit wherever we wanted. As for the food, nothing was truly distinctive or outstanding, but overall was not bad. Had the Palota (Pelota?) for an appetizer which was reminiscent of grits. Also had spinach pasta, fairly enjoyable meal.
(3)
Kristin B.

My friends and I stopped in here for dinner on a random Saturday night. It has a cute and friendly atmosphere. We all ordered sangria which we loved! I thought it was a relatively large glass for the price and it was delicious. I ordered the conchiglie gorgonzola. I love that they make the dishes out in the open and they have homemade pasta! It makes it more authentic. We all loved our food and the atmosphere there. None of us had an issue with cash only. I think 8-$11 is pretty cheap for good pasta. I'm taking off a star because my friend found a hair in her food... I prolly would have taken off more if it had been in mine (ick)
(4)
Katie C.

Love this place. So good and so fresh. Everything is tasty - especially the jalapeno gnocchi if you're in the mood for something spicy.
(5)
Kristin G.

My food was just ok. The pasta had too much garlic and I was left tasting it for the next 24 hours. The food was too hot to eat for almost 5 minutes, which was annoying because I was starving! Also, the chicken in the pasta is diced, which gives it a "processed" feel, rather than strips of freshly grilled chicken. Our waitress took my drink order and walked away, my date had to flag her down 10 minutes later to order a drink for himself.
(2)
Kathleen M.

Pasta Palazzo offers great food at amazing prices. I often get the Healthy Chicken dish and it is $9. They also offer free refills on drinks. It's a very small restaurant and you share tables. A downside is that they only accept cash (there are about 3 ATMs on the corner of Armitage and Halsted, however).
(4)
Jennifer H.

quick and convient. fresh ingredients which is really key to me. for the price, amazing food. variety of different pasta and cheeses too and they are more then willing to create anything for you. cash only, so thats importatn to remember. ive often been by myself bc its next ot my apartment and they only have a few tables so i often have to sit with a couple if the bar is full, which can be awkward. oh and great sangria
(4)
Rose E.

This homemade pasta place is a great find, as it is reasonably priced for Lincoln Park and the pasta is the real deal. It is small and cozy, with beautiful tiled walls and is quite close to the brown line and red line. FYI- when I was there a few months ago, they only took cash. Fortunately not a problem with prices like this!
(5)
Clare K.

this place was...odd to me. the pasta was pretty good-i don't think i have had bad pasta anywhere, though, but i am sure it happens. i was just really thrown off by the cash only thing (i never have cash, so that is a strike in my book), the plastic cups, and the seating style. it's a pretty small place, but if i were them, i would fill it with small tables, rather than larger tables that you have to share with people when its even semi-busy. The service was really slow even though there were not very many people there. i should have ordered dessert. a decent dessert will always get an extra star from me.
(3)
Pamela P.

Why is it difficult for so many restaurants to make good pasta? I really don't know, but Pasta Palazzo certainly knows what it takes to make great pasta at an affordable price. The small, but cozy space seats you European style (meaning you end up with people you don't know essentially sharing your table) and you immediately get some sort of rustic bread (not bad). The menu offers enough selections that everyone will be able to find something to eat and you will always find something new to try. I appreciate the ability to customize with the $1 add on's such as cheese and vegetables, not to mention the whole wheat pasta offerings. I am not hard to please, I just want consistently good food and they never fail. I have never received a plate with too much oil or runny sauce - a big plus. It can be truly frustrating to order a dessert laden with calories only to take a bite and find it wasn't worth the splurge, but the small daily dessert selection is worth every scrumptious bite. The best part is the prices are very affordable between $6 and $14 dollars beginning with the salads. This place is a definite must try and you will keep coming back for more.
(5)
Teddy J.

very good italian food with daily specials. not much seating if you head there during dinner hours. best to go early or later. but very good food for a very reasonable price.
(5)
C M.

One of the best kept secrets in Lincoln Park. Affordable, quaint, friendly, delicious. Good wines. I love the specials. If I ran a restaurant, it would be styled after this one. Each order is individually prepared, so special requests are no problem. I recommend adding chicken ($2 extra) to the pasta dish you like and that will make it even better. Downside - SMALL and sharing a table may not be your bag if you're on a date. Better to go during the week.
(4)
Michelle L.

Great food, each serving is cooked fresh in an open kitchen. I loved this place, and it's super cheap too!
(4)
s t.

With all of the good reviews and the fact that this place is never empty, I doubt they need my help, but my sweetie and I love this place so much that it seems almost rude not saying something. Pasta Palazzo is a great and affordable date night destination or for an evening out with friends. Not a good place to bring kids. The tables and chairs are high and unsuitable for toddlers and babies-we saw a two year old fall out of his seat on one visit while "mom" wasn't paying attention. It's busy but the acoustics hamper the noise you expect to hear. There's nothing boring about this place, but you shouldn't expect to feel overwhelmed. We always seem to take friends from out of town here and it always impresses. I somehow manage to crave everything they offer all at once. Sometimes I ache for their gnocchi, jalepeno or original. I love this place, just get out of my way if you go the same night as me. I want me some gnocchi!
(5)
Julia B.

This small and neatly decorated Italian place is great! The pasta dinners are delicious and they will basically use any of the ingredients you see on the menu. The food is never to pricey and for what you are getting it tastes great! I highly suggest coming here to have a quiet, possibly romantic dinner or to get a great pasta dish to go. Probably one of my top 5 Italian spots!
(4)
Chris B.

So a potentially blasphemous mixed review on Pasta Palazzo from me -- I am late to the draw on reviewing this staple neighborhood restaurant of ours...here's my problem: From a cooking and eating standpoint, I fall into the "less sauce, more fresh taste with my fresh pasta" school of thought...call me a "Molto" Mario Batali disciple, if you will. And PP is ANYthing but that...while flavorful, rich and delicious, the not-so-fresh "from the box tasting" pastas are drowned in a thick sea of sauce. I think that's where the debate opens up...do you like saucy, rich (dare I say...American "red gravy?") pasta dishes, or do you like more authentic, al dente pastas with a lightly tossed touch of whatever sauce is matched with it? Put me in the latter category... For a quick $10 neighborhood pasta with fresh veggies and belly filling goodness? Absolutely -- this is your place. It tastes good, it does. But if you want to try a REALLY authentic tasting pasta that opens your eyes, go to Merlo or Luna Caprese...
(2)
Tara V.

I love the food here. The menu is straightforward and has lots of tasty options. The atmosphere is pretty cool- I like the open kitchen and nonfussiness. Service was good. Only potential annoyance is that they are cash only- not a huge deal as there are ATMS all over that intersection but we don't carry cash in general so needed to do a cash run. Very yummy food at a very reasonable price.
(5)
Tedd M.

AMAZING!!! If you like italian food, and you're not a fan of a big restaurant then this is the place for you. It's a small space but they pack in the customers so that everyone can experience the wonderul food that they are dishing up. The server we had was extremely helpful and very wise when it came to their offerings. The servings are very generous, you'll definitely have leftovers for later. This is one of those places that you want to tell everyone about, but at the same time keep it a secret so you can still keep it for yourself.
(5)
Janette L.

Everytime I eat here I walk away happy. Prices are very affordable (which is good b/c it is cash only), service great, and food very tasty. For an app I definitely recommend the grilled calamari. The jalapeno gnocchi is something I crave on a regular basis. I once could not decide between that and the Cavatappi Pollo so on the waitress' recommendation got the gnocchi and the sauce of the other dish. *kissing fingers* Benissimo. Very rich but so GOOD. Dine in or carry out this place is great for tasty and cheap pasta.
(4)
Robyn T.

Great inexpensive dining option. I like to come here before heading to the theater or as a central meeting place with friends. Most all of the entrees are under $10 and are big enough for you to share or take home for leftovers. Wines by the glass are priced nicely around $7. Appetizers/Salads are also a good portion but are so good you'll want them all for yourself! I LOVE the grilled asparagus salad in a light lemon vinaigrette or the caprese salad with fresh tomatoes. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the pasta dishes. I do try to order the specials but seriously, anything on the menu is filling and delicious! *Cash only! Visit the ATM before you head here for dinner.
(4)
Brian L.

I have true love for Pasta Palazzo. From the second I step in to the second I leave I feel like an appreciated customer. Their service is really nice and on top of things. I have yet had a bad night here. The food is great! The price and the amount they give is really worth it. They do have a long wait later at night, especially on weekends, and don't take reseverations. They also are cash only. Still despite the wait, it's all worth it when you bite into what they've got.
(5)
Michael H.

Food is meant to be served hot, and Pasta Palazzo delivers on this. The grilled calamari is very tasty, but probably not big enough for two. Bread is important to me, and the italian bread with the meal is very good. I had the smoked chicken ravioli the past couple of times i've been there, and I can't get over the mouth watering smokey flavor. I've also had the sausage pasta special, which was excellent. I'm not saying this is THE place for Italian food, because Gemma's in Capri is tops. However, I think it's a good value, is tasty, and is consistent. Oh, and most importantly, the food is hot!
(4)
Rosie R.

The best pasta I've ever had!!!!! I love this place it's very comfortable to eat in and the food is totally awesome!!!!! Don't be fooled by the atmosphere and underestimate the food because the food here is the bomb ass!!! I even took pictures of my pasta and saved it on my phone!!!! This is the coolest italian casual food place Ive been in!!!!
(5)
Emily C.

Great friendly service and comfortable vibe. The gnocchi with bolognese is great, even for a picky eater like me. The prices are very reasonable and the food is great.
(5)
Eliza B.

Adorable, delicious pasta, inexpensive wine... What more do you need? Great neighborhood restaurant.
(4)
Jennifer R.

Jalapeno gnocchi...DO IT! Great prices. Friendly service. If that jalapeno idea sounds weird, try your best to get over it. The roasted red pepper sauce is beyond delicious. If you aren't going to go there, all the gnocchi seem to be good...my mom loved her regular gnocchi with bolognese.
(4)
Tom C.

Get the: Conchiglie in gongorzola sauce and Jalapeno Gnocchi (with chorizo added) The pasta was perfect in every way. They added just enough sauce and other ingredients to make the overall flavor wonderful. The free bread at the beginning was "meh", but HEY, free bread! I would skip that and fill up on the pasta. They had a nice wine list, but I would have liked if they provided wine glasses. However, I can chug faster from a normal water glass anyway, so this worked in my favor. Will definitely be back.
(5)
Mickey M.

JalapeÃ±o Gnocchi, please order it. The softest and most delicious I've ever had. I recommend adding a protein to it as well, but even if you don't it's amazing. Smaller place with many shared tables which is nice when not crowded, but not ideal when it is. Also love that the kitchen is right in front of you. Great spot for casual date or cheap but delicious dinner.
(4)
Andres G.

Very nice neighborhood restaurant. It is kinda small place but very nice. My first time there was a good experience. The food there was very delicious and the price was right. I expected the prices for the dinners to be higher but they were right on par with the portions given. We ordered two different meals and shared them and both were very good. Their staff was very friendly and accommodating. They were very detailed in describing the meals we had questions about and gave good recommendations. Overall, our food selection was top notch. My only complaint was that they only had two gentleman that were working the whole floor. They were taking orders, bussing tables, refilling drinks, bringing out food: they were doing it all. And because of that, it was a little slow getting our food ordered and drinks refilled but it was Friday night and they were slammed so I'm not going to hold that against them. The next time I go, I'll try during the week when its not so busy but I will be back again.
(4)
Karolina T.

I have been trying to make it to this place for weeks! The pictures of their food look amazing and I'm shocked it to me this long to make it to this place that is so near by. I finally had the chance to come here for dinner with my bf and a group of friends before a concert at Joe's. It was Friday about 6pm and we were seated immediately. This place is actually very small and filled up super fast shortly after we got here, plus they don't take reservations. What I love about this place is that you can see your food being made for you and it smells amazing and comes out pretty quickly. We ordered a variety of items including their mac and cheese and artichoke ravioli in champagne sauce (both were daily specials), bruschetta, calamari, mariner tortellini and jalapeÃ±o gnocchi. Everything was made to order, steaming hot, and you could tell it was fresh. I really think all of their sauces were really flavorful and the gnocchi like little soft pillows. Also, for such quality food, it is very reasonably priced. The plates are not huge but just enough to fill you.
(4)
Crystal R.

We went here for my daughters birthday dinner. We were a table of 8 and we all ordered different plates. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and of course pasta. It was all very tasty everybody seemed to enjoy their meal. The waiter was awesome. He made sure we all had refills. He even brought our daughter a piece of cake with a candle. He was very attentive. It's a pretty tight place but we never felt pressured to leave. Then again the restaurant wasn't busy. It turned out to be a great dinner with family.
(5)
Krystin M.

Really loved this place! The bruschetta was so good! This is definitely going into our regular rotation!
(5)
Shahzad A.

I imagine if I grew up in an Italian household home cooked meal would be like what you get here. The sauces that are made in front of you taste amazing! Must try the polenta appetizer here.
(5)
Brett B.

This place is the best Italian Food value in the city. I have been coming here for six years and the food is always amazing and the service is fast and friendly. Try the homemade Gnocchi with meat sause, amazing!
(5)
Maggie T.

Pasta Palazzo has quickly become one of my go-to spots after moving to the Armitage / Lincoln Park area. Affordable prices, quick service, and decent portions. Only downside is that the food is pretty greasy, but that's not too surprising when eating out.
(4)
Karen D.

Pasta Palzazzo is the only place in Chicago in the Lincoln Park neighborhood for pasta! A friend and I stumbled upon Pasta Palazzo a few years ago and its a must for any visit to Chicago. Check out their daily specials, all of their pasta and sauces are amazing. Their vegetariano salad is one of the best salads I've ever enjoyed, great mix of perfectly grilled zucchini, peppers, eggplant on mixed greens On this visit smoked chicken ravioli with gorgonzola was one of the specials, my friend and I devoured it and would have loved more! If you like pasta, friendly service in a great neighborhood, look no further than Pasta Palazzo!
(5)
Anne W.

I adore Pasta Palazzo. I've eaten in once and ordered takeout about three times. I must admit that I've only ever ordered one thing here - the gnocchi. I can't help it. I don't want to order anything else because I love these soft little pillowy pockets of deliciousness. The price is also great - $10. I'll be honest though, I always find myself wanting more more more! Maybe one day I'll finally find the courage to venture out and try something new on the menu but let's be realistic, I'm probably never going to stray from my beloved gnocchi.
(4)
Kathy S.

My new love! The husband and I heard about this place from a friend and decided to try it last night. We were really impressed and cannot wait for our next visit. Here's all you need to know: 1. Delicious food - We had the conchiglie gorgonzola and jalapeno gnocchi 2. Awesome price point - Entrees are only $8-$10 3. Great service and friendly staff It's the perfect no frills restaurant. I would love to try their entire menu!
(5)
Isabel C.

This is my second time coming to Pasta Palazzo. After the first time I kept bringing it up as a spot to go, finally I got my chance and it was worth the wait! They don't take reservations so we showed up at about 7. We were told we would have a 30 minute wait but ended only waiting about 10! Under promise and over deliver is always the way to go. We ordered appetizers of the goat cheese, garlic bread, and bruschetta along with sangria which were all amazing. Onto the main course. I had the Cavatappi Pollo & it was great, I finished every last bite! Perfect portion for the price and tasted fresh and delicious. I'm assuming this is the same for everything on the menu! My only wish for pasta palazzo is that they expand to a bigger space and have a few more waiters on during the busy time. We had a hard time flagging someone down when we needed them since the only 2 people working were so busy! Can't wait to go back for whenever I have that pasta craving.
(4)
Vrati D.

This is my 2nd time here and the jalapeÃ±o gnocchi is by far my favorite! I have attempted to try other dishes but nothing beats the gnocchi! Great service and tastes great to go as well!
(5)
Hadie B.

Go here all the time. Food is solid and service it fast and very nice. My only complaint is that you leave smelling of too much food.
(4)
Thu D.

I came here for dinner with 2 friends on a Saturday night because of their recommendation that it was cheap, good eats and Pasta Palazzo did not disappoint! All the pastas were $10 or under, which is a crazy price for handmade or seafood pasta. Everything looked good on the menu, but I decided on something I knew I couldn't make at home and went with the gnocchi, which was filled with ricotta and topped with bolognese. The dish was sooo good and comforting and each little gnocchi was a soft little pillow that just melted in my mouth. My friends got the spaghetti frutti di mare and conchiglie gorgonzola, which was also really tasty. They portions are very generous for $10 and they even had leftovers to spare (sadly I completely cleaned my plate). Will definitely be back to try other dishes!!
(4)
Claudia C.

I LOVE pasta. Typically, I peruse the menu of any place to find the pasta section and here, the entire menu is a pasta section!! The service is fast and friendly. It's a cute urban vibe. I recommend the pesto tortellini.
(5)
Daniel G.

I haven't been here for a few years, so I thought I'd give it another try. Scott, my waiter, explained in detail how the Pumpkin Ravioli were made, so I had an order. Awesome in their buttery sauce, sage and a little Parmesan, pan fried. Then I had the Tomato Dill soup. Great! The cook, Poncho, explained to me that he's been here 17 years and watched nearby restaurants come and go. This one is still here with the same quality. Scott will explain any food you might want in detail. Reasonable prices. I'll be back.
(4)
Matt M.

My fiance, daughter and I were strolling around Lincoln Park on a Monday, doing some school clothes shopping and enjoying a beautiful summer day when we all decided it was time to eat. Not being from the area, we didn't have any real knowledge of the nearby dining options, so we just looked for something that looked appetizing. We saw Pasta Palazzo, checked the menu in the window and needed about three seconds to decide to give it a try. Best decision of the day. Small, but warm and welcoming, we were immediately greeted by delicious aromas and our friendly server, Russ. The menu was full of interesting dishes that were as creative as they were inexpensive. My daughter had the Farfalle Alfredo and raved that unlike most Alfredo dishes that are too thick, chunky, and uneven, theirs was smooth, creamy, and delicious. My lady had the Caprese sandwich and the tomato dill soup and loved them both. I had the Fruitti di Mare, and I couldn't possibly use enough adjectives to describe how delicious it was. I could try, but you'd stop reading. Everything was cooked perfectly, including the extra vegetables I was easily able to add to my dish. Russ was attentive, the food was served quickly, and the portion sizes were just right. It was a perfect lunch. This place serves up tasty, authentic Italian food at reasonable prices. This is no Olive Garden or Macaroni Grill crap, this is wonderful food that anyone should try when they are in the area. Seriously. Eat there.
(5)
Meghan S.

This is an amazing Italian restaurant. Please note: THIS PLACE IS NOT BYOB. You can byob but there is a $10 corkage fee. Regardless, great food, great atmosphere. They have wine, Italian beer, etc. Don't buy a $10 bottle at 711 and double the price of the bottle from this mislead rumor. But eat here everyday. Yum.
(5)
J B.

The food here really is excellent and it's in kind of a funky neighborhood. However, the service is nothing less than horrific. The servers were all busy texting. Almost all of the seating is on high chairs, very uncomfortable, and some of the table placements almost guarantee you will literally be elbow-to-elbow with other diners. I've been twice and both times the experience was ruined because of the "table neighbors." The first time it was some idiot yuppie couple with bratty obnoxious children. The second time it was with a gnarly sweaty couple who together topped out at about 600 pounds. The ambience is terrible. I don't know if the acoustics in the room are shit or what, but you practically have to yell to converse with your dining companion as well as the servers. Also, they make it pretty clear that they don't like solo diners. Never going back!
(2)
Kari H.

This place never disappoints! It is very reasonably priced with generous portions. The caprese appetizer is delicious, especially when adding balsamic vinegar. My favorite is the pasta funghi with chicken added. A must stop for a great dinner!
(5)
Mondher B.

What a little gem... Great place. Simple and genuine Italian specialties. The gnocchi are great. Try the jalapeÃ±o option. The goat cheese appetizer is also great.
(5)
Nikki M.

My friend and I had not planned on coming here but found that the places we wanted to go to had an hour wait and we were starving! We stumbled upon this cute little pasta place and decided to check it out. I personally am not a fan of pasta because I am gluten and lactose free so I had planned on just getting a salad. The menu is short but to the point and they actually had these healthy pasta choices that are made without butter and cheese! OMG how wonderful is that! This excited me, now I just had to find out if they had gluten free pasta...they did! WOOHOO so I got one of the healthy pastas with gluten free noodles and it was DELICIOUS! There is an up-charge of $2 for the gluten free noodles but unfortunately I understand why, gluten free is more expensive :/ My friend and I also split a caprese salad and that was also very good and very easy to split. The service was also good! The waiter was very kind and understanding when I asked about the gluten free noodles. They also split our check for us. Because I am not a huge pasta fan in general I probably won't come back here too often, but my friend LOVES pasta and will be going back!
(5)
Brenda L.

I come here every time I visit Chicago. It's a must. Small but cozy Lincoln Park restaurant that makes you feel you're in a real neighborhood place. You are feeling lucky when you get a window table for people watching. Specials are posted on a blackboard plus the selections on the regular menu. Portions are good, prices are better and the food is terrific. Always looking for grilled calamari and this place does it well! Service is sometimes slow, but never enough to make a fuss.
(4)
Greg H.

Really nice neighborhood restaurant with great food. We went into Chicago for a show and found this place for dinner with the family. My only complaint is the price of the wine. Very tiny glass at a high price. Stick to the soft drinks.
(4)
Sandra M.

My husband and I live south but try to make it here whenever we're in the area. Be prepared to leave stuffed. The fetucinni Alfredo is absolutely delicious! Everything is made fresh when you order and I always try to sneak a peak at how the cooks prepare our meal. I also always get the asparagus with the lemon butter sauce. Hmmmm. My husband has actually learned how to make that at home and it comes out perfectly. The service is good and fast, although we purposely come during the week for an early dinner because we know it can get crowded.
(5)
P 3.

Casual, good service, nice portions, and good price for the location. Nice place to go for a good bite to eat when you don't feel like dressing up but is too lazy to cook at home.
(4)
Rob R.

Very good food. The service is very good. The ladies are very nice and friendly. Great casual place for great pasta.
(5)
Jess P.

I've been here twice and each time I hated it. I had the gnocchi recently and it tasted like bland mashed potatoes. The food in general is poorly prepared and is just lacking. Two stars but their staff deserves five. They are amazingly friendly and sweet. If only they took as much time to make the food well as they did to hire great people.
(2)
Katie I.

Love, Love, Love Pasta Palazzo. Live in the neighborhood and really enjoy ordering take-out. Food is always ready in under 20 minutes and is still piping hot by the time I get it home to enjoy! Favorite dishes include the Meatball Sandwich and the Cavatappi Pollo - a must try for both. Oh and did I mention they have a great website, love the design and ease of use. Soo happy to have you as a neighbor!
(5)
Kara B.

Great place. Awesome food, even better prices. We went on what was quite possibly the nicest Saturday night Chicago has seen in 7 months...expecting an hour or two long wait. We must have come at the right time (a little before 7) because we only had to wait 20 minutes and we sure didn't mind waiting outside with the rest of happy people of Lincoln Park. The hostess was so nice and offered us a seat at the bar earlier than our 20 minutes, but we decided to wait for a table. Sangria..fresh, fruity, $5. Can't beat that. We got the garlic bread for a whopping $2.50, which was very yummy. For entrees I got the Conchiglie Classico and my husband got the Cavatelli Shrimp special....both under $10...in Lincoln Park....what?! Atmosphere is very quaint...only 12 tables but definitely worth the wait. The menu has a large variety of pastas for anything you could be craving (and a healthy pasta section too), and it seems they do it all well. Will definitely be back here soon.
(5)
Zenah F.

Honestly my favorite pasta spot in Chicago. The environment there is so great and the food is sooooooo good! You will not regret going here
(5)
Vaidehi T.

Chicago is such a wonderful city. No matter what neighborhood you are wandering in, you will find something great to eat in the most unexpected of places. We went here on a Sunday for lunch. Its a pretty small hole in the wall place. But still has an elegant and warm ambiance. The service is awesome and very friendly. We ordered the asparagus soup which was one of their specials for the day. We also ordered the jalapeno gnocchi - which was a revelation. It came in a red pepper sauce. The gnocchi looked very vibrant and packed a flavor punch. One of the most unique gnocchi dishes I have eaten. The home made gnocchi, is soft, fluffy and doughy and had a great kick from the jalapeno. Hubby and me loved it. The soup was very flavorful and had real asparagus pieces in it. It is a gem of a place... i definitely want to go back to try some of their other pasta dishes.
(5)
A C.

Ordered grilled calamari for 10$ it was discussing and raw sent it back waiter said nothing because this bearded no showered ass was more concerned with his cell phone and full plate of pasta he decided to eat at the bar three feet in front of us that he could care less about his job. He never washed his hands between attending to us and his meal and talking on his phone making plans for after work clearly because we could hear every word it was gross we walked out no apology I will never visit
(1)
Catherine C.

An excellent place to grab a top-notch, well-priced Italian meal! Service is great with a quick wit and great timing. Open kitchen with extremely fresh food and a fabulous bolognese! Very reasonably priced - I would pay more for this quality of food! Serving sizes are spot on, too!
(5)
Eva D.

I'm still having dreams about the food here. I've only been here twice, but I'm already planning my next trip. I was here last Saturday and had the asparagus ravioli. It was a special so if you see it again, get it! And if you're a calamari person, the grilled calamari here is a must. I should also mention the jalapeno gnocchi that I've had in the past and it was amazing. I'm not usually down with spicy, but these were so delicious that I could not stop eating it.
(5)
Lerida C.

My Favorite Italian Restaurant , I have been coming to eat/ order food here for the past 10 years, yea since I was pregnant and had the weirdest tastes for food. They will always made my baby and me happy even burning the cream I wanted that way so go ahead and keep it longer on the stove. Great food, great service, great owners, Pancho is a really nice Cheff .
(5)
Michael M.

A very delicious place to grab a plate of pasta. Super convenient and doesn't take too long. Not too many tables, so expect a wait when you go during peak hours. Also, I went with my cousin who has a severe fish allergy, they NEVER cross contaminate. It's always nice when a restaurant accommodates their customers like that. Hand-crafted pasta with sausage is the best!
(4)
Tara F.

Love this place! What to say, great food, really friendly service, and all at exceptional prices. The always fresh grilled calamari is light with a nice lemon citrus sauce. Don't forget to try the jalapeÃ±o gnocci the sauce is incredible (for those who love sausage add it to the sauce for added flavor, not that it needs it at all). Try it I've never brought friends or family that didnt enjoy it.
(5)
Jonathan A.

Solid fresh made pasta in a small casual environment. I had the jalapeÃ±o gnocchi and tried some bruschetta. Very glad I checked this place out. Wish I had something similar in my neighborhood.
(4)
Bryan L.

Rockstar Pasta in a little neighborhood store? HELLS YES! I guess the first shout out should go to Yelp. It was lunch time. I was looking for some fresh pasta while roaming the streets of Chicago. Pulled out the phone, dialed up the Yelp app, and searched for "Fresh Pasta". This place popped up. I skimmed some reviews and started walking. A few (ok, probably closer to 20) blocks later, I had arrived! The restaurant is very charming. It's small, and cute, and fun, and smells super yummy. It's everything you want it to be. I sat at the counter and began my journey of Lunchification. I first survey my surroundings. It's an open kitchen which I love. There is one chef cooking up tasty treats for all. He what looks like a 30 gallon pot up there stewing with marinara sauce. He moves about with effortless efficiency. That whole place could be sat at the same time and he wouldn't break a sweat, would cook everything perfectly, and would have it out fast. I swear.. it's worth the price to come here JUST to sit at the counter and watch this master cook. I was mesmerized.... I spotted the daily special menu. Pumpkin Ravioli? YUP! I'll have that! Also ordered up some gahlic bread, and a side of Marinara. OMG! OMG! OMG! The marinara sauce is SOOO FREAKING GOOD!!!!!!! Is this what you Chicago folks get to deal with every day? LUCKY!!!! So yeah... That marinara was exceptional to say the least. I ordered some Tomato dill soup and was surprised to watch him cook that up. It wasn't in a pot waiting around. He cooked it fresh to order! I had been watching and I saw him start a new dish and as the cream and stock and veggies went in I slowly realized this was my soup. IN about 2 mnutes he was done, I had my soup and ohhh man.. It was soooo goood!!! I wish I had ordered a gallon of it! The Punkin Ravioli with browned butter sage sauce was up next. I was super excited about this. I love punkin dishes in the early fall! This one did not disappoint. Fresh hand made pasta stuffed with a soft fresh pumpkin filling. Quick saute'd in a brown butter sauce with fresh sage. wow.... Sooo good. All told, I should have stayed longer and ate more. No telling when i'll find this good of pasta or Italian food again. I wish I could have brought this place back to TN with me. I'll be back!!!!
(5)
Hayden C.

This is at home cooking, at moderate prices, in a very nice location. I have been here a hand full of times and been very satisfied. They have amazing pasta, and phenomenal appetizers. I had their jalapeno gnocchi with sausage last time I was in, and let me tell you I will have it again very soon. It is an amazing place and I would recommend anyone to try it.
(5)
Tom S.

Stopped by last Sunday around noon. No waiting! Very hungry and limited options in this neighborhood. Ate here once before over 15 years ago. Remember it was pretty good. Limited menu but everything very fresh and with open kitchen you can see it being made . Had pasta with Gorgonzola and spinach. Very creamy and rich. Good flavor without being overwhelming . Came with some bread. I typically don't go out of my way to eat pasta as I make it a lot at home but worth the stop. Prices are reasonable which you would hope for with pasta!
(4)
Kyle S.

The stuffed gnocchi is phenomenal!! Reasonable prices too! Definitely worth checking out!
(5)
Mark D.

How do I say this? I.literally.cant.even. I used to live around the corner and would drop in often. Each time the staff treated me like a friend visiting their house and the chefs treated me like the Queen of England. I moved to LA last year and recently was craving Italian...I dropped by palazzo just to reminisce - it's that good. Casual, laid back, the jalepeno gnocchi and Spaghetti Frutti Di Mare goes down the hatch better than they roll of the tongue. Bon AppÃ©tit
(5)
Kavi P.

Always looking for a pasta joint...and this just may be the perfect place! It's inexpensive and there are so many different options. Yummy yummy yummy! Will definitely be coming back here. The waiter was very nice as well!
(4)
Marlon F.

My girlfriend got me to try this place and I've been coming here several times since. I love this place. The service is so friendly and accommodating to a wide variety of tastes. Pasta Palazzo works its magic! I've mostly had the Conchiglie Classico. The sausage in this dish is GREAT. I've also had a special, crab filled ravioli. This dish didn't look filling at first, but was definitely enough food. If you love Italian food, Pasta Palazzo is a must visit!
(5)
Stephanie S.

Get the JalapeÃ±o Gnocchi. Both times I have come here, I've ordered or shared this dish and will continue to do so on my future visits. I also had the Ceasar Salad with freshly grilled shrimp on top, which was very tasty. The service it also great and quick.
(4)
David S.

My girlfriend and I wanted to try someplace new so we gave it a try. We sat right up at the bar and it was fun to watch the cooks work plus it kept us warm from the opening and closing door. I tried the Shrimp ravioli with spicy tomato sauce. It wasn't very spicy but I didn't mind because I love shrimp. My girlfriend had the gnocci which was tasty as well. Very affordable. Fun atmosphere. We will be back.
(5)
Jerome M.

Are you sick of "Italian" restaurants charging an arm and a leg for inexpensive pasta dishes? Well, Pasta Palazzo is here to save the day. Great prices for delicious pastas! Super nice staff, easy dining experience. If I'm not making pasta at home, I'm letting them make it for me here.
(5)
Emily B.

Italian food can be expensive, especially for yummy Italian food! I was so impressed with their prices, their quality of food and great service! Russ, our waiter, was charismatic, helpful and an absolute delight! Their Chicken Risotto was really great! Make sure to catch it on special. Their appetizers, Grilled Calamari and Bruschetta was just as yummy. My co-worker loved her dish as well! Make sure to try their Sangria too! I've worked in the neighborhood for a year now, and finally tried it. Got seated right away on a Friday late night. I can't wait to go back/order take out. Like I said, their prices are incredible for how great the food is.
(5)
Jane C.

I don't usually write reviews, but do for places that are well deserved. I've frequented this place many times and each time the food, and service has been consistently great! I used to live right behind Pasta Palazzo and that was my definite go to spot for good affordable food. Now that I moved, I still travel to go there. The newer restaurants next to Pasta Palazzo have been on my list, but I still seem to walk thru Pasta Palazzo's doors instead! Pasta palazzo, I love you! We always get the bruschetta, and mushroom(add gorgonzola) appetizer and the cavatappi pollo! so good!!
(5)
Lisa F.

Great food & atmosphere!! It's a little small on the inside and we had to wait for a table for a bit, but it was worth the wait. Mushroom risotto with chicken and broccoli with a Marsala cream sauce (special) was amazing! As were the baked goat cheese and calamari appetizers. Yum yum yum!!
(4)
Clare C.

A friend and I TRIED to eat all Pasta Palazzo, but left after we were ignored for five minutes after we walked in the door. Granted, it was a busy Friday night, but there was more than one table available. The servers were too busy sipping their sodas to even acknowledge us. Will we be going back? Doubtful.
(1)
Carlo B.

Was looking for a good Italian meal and Pasta Palazzo nailed it! Started with grilled calamari. It was the best calamari I have had in a very long time. The garlic bread was made fresh and came to the table warm. Very good, a must get. The salad was delusions with the house balsamic vinaigrette dressing. The main course was parts with chicken, mushrooms, sun dried tomatoes in a cream sauce. OMG was it delicious. I had the house Cabernet (Root1) which was very good. I highly recommend pasta palazzo for the great service, reasonable prices and portions that don't overwhelm. Thanks for a great meal! Ciao!!!!!
(5)
Mike B.

My wife and I love going here for a really good and inexpensive dinner. I rotate between my two favorite meals, the Conchiglie Classico and Penne Con Salsiccie. Both are so good that I have a hard time venturing to other dishes on the menu. I would suggest getting here earlier in the evening or doing carry out. It is somewhat small inside and gets very busy on the weekends. Waiting outside in the summer is fine, but there is not much room to wait inside when it is cold.
(4)
Sonny P.

Went here again last week after a few years and things haven't changed. Portion sizes are still large and food is still tasty. They did add a couple extr dishes on the me u. I had the Jalapeno Gnochi last time I went but the spicyness wasn't overpowering. If you are looking away from the flashy restaurants and want something quiet and small restaurant type atmosphere then i would highly consider checking this place out.
(5)
Matt N.

I've been here a few times and it is fantastic. Went with the Seafood risotto with broccoli in a tomato cream sauce on the most recent visit, and it was by far the best pasta dish I've ever had. Service is always great.
(5)
Karyn C.

We have been here about 4 times, and each time has been delicious and pleasant dining experience. Every meal I've had so far was delicious but my favorite dish by far is the gnocchi-- like little pillows of amazing goodness! If you are looking for a pasta joint for a casual lunch or dinner, this is definitely the place to go!
(5)
AndrewSumi G.

This is my go-to pasta place in the city for the past 5-6 years. Their pasta dishes are simple but delicious. I like that you can do whole wheat pasta if you choose and extras to your pasta. The staff is always friendly as willing to offer suggestions. They dishes are always very well priced. I am also very happy that they now accept credit cards. Also,all the food is made right in front of you!
(5)
Erica L.

Giving this place 4 stars because it is great for what it is. It has an open kitchen, cash only, and you pay at the register in the front. For being such a casual place, they have excellent pasta. The rest of it, eh. We ordered the Bruschetta as an app. It was fine -- like how Bruschetta should taste. Didn't blow me away. I got a glass of wine as well which was also "eh" but honestly what you come here for is the pasta. I think they would benefit from becoming a BYOB actually. Anyway, for entree I got the Jalapeno Gnocchi because it was one of the highlights on Yelp for this place. Very good, and reminds me of the Jalapeno Gnocchi from Twist (a tapas place in Wrigley). My boyfriend got the Tortellini and I thought it was better than the Jalapeno Gnocchi. It was heartier and more filling. Bolognese was flavorful and the alfredo mixed in with marinara added a creaminess that was delicious. I will definitely go again as I live in the neighborhood. Will max out the Handmade Pasta section before I try anything else, as I am guessing that is really their strong suit.
(4)
Gena B.

We were on vacation in Chicago and wandered into this place on accident. Usually we do a lot of research while on vacation, trying to find the places the locals love. We just got lucky with this gem. We ate here our first day and have been wanting to go back ever since. We have had some of the best food in Chicago and yet this was our absolute favorite. It's very small but quaint. Marinara sauce and Alfredo were AMAZING!!! Don't pass this one up!!!
(5)
Jack S.

I have been to Pasta Palazzo many times, and it's consistently very, very good! I work in the area, so I've had both lunch and dinner - and have never been disappointed. The owners and servers are relaxed and friendly. Expect quick service and fresh, flavorful food! I particularly enjoy the cucumber salad or the tomato dill soup as an appetizer. Then I usually go for either a daily special, or the Jalapeno Gnocchi. In fact, I'm heading over in a few minutes for the Cavatelli with shrimp, spinach, and mushrooms in a spicy vodka tomato cream sauce. Yes!
(5)
Emma K.

I think this place should change their name to "Pasta Palooza" since that is much more fun to say. Anyways, this place is a steal for the quality & quantity of food in Lincoln Park. I've had a few of the different pasta dishes and never been disappointed, although I think the gnocchi is my favorite. The free bread is delicious, and the bottles of wine are decently priced. The interior of the place is adorable and comfortable, although a bit chilly on cold days if you sit by the window. The kitchen is open in the restaurant, so the smells are delicious. The seating area is tiny, but the wait never seems to be that long. The only thing holding this one back from a 5 star review is the service. I know that quick table turnover helps the generally short wait times, but I have often felt rushed. The last time I was here with two friends, one of my friends asked for a box since she knew she wasn't going to finish her meal. She still had her fork in hand when the waitress came over and boxed her meal before she was done. I'm sure I'll be back again soon :)
(4)
Esther G.

With cheap prices, big portions and superb service, this little pasta cafe is a triple threat. Honestly, it feels like highway robbery with the giant portions of steaming pasta that's made right in the dining area. This actually makes the place really warm, as well, no matter how cold it is outside. I ordered the healthy primavera with chicken added ($2 addition) for $11. It came PACKED with grilled eggplant, peppers, zucchini, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes and basil in tomato white wine sauce. I do wish a dish labeled "healthy" had the whole-grain pasta automatically, instead of charging extra for it. By the time I was finished, it didn't even look like I touched my plate. Although that may have had something to do with the complicated slices of bread, which had the perfect combo of crispy crust surrounding the super soft insides. The sangria was also very good (it tasted of a drier red wine), filled with an assortment of fresh fruit. Everyone was super friendly, from the busy, busy waitress to the cashier. We were left waiting for our checks a little longer than we had wanted, but that might have been because our plates were all pretty full. No matter. The waitress was nice enough to bag up our food, which we had offered to do ourselves. We were sitting at a table the farthest from the entrance, which means closest to the bathrooms. It wasn't ideal because every time the door opened, we'd feel a whoosh of cold air. But minor gripes that didn't spoil the overall experience. Um, I should also add that my friend did get super sick afterward... (she was the one who brought us here, and she had ordered her dish before. For whatever reason that night, her stomach wasn't happy with it).
(4)
Katti G.

My husband and I love this place. We have been coming here since we were in college. We love the fact that it is GOOD FOOD that isn't over priced, its pasta for God's sake! They always have daily specials, great portions, good atmosphere. Prices are great, and I always have leftovers. I have introduced this place to so many family and friends, and have never had a complaint! They don't take reservations, so if you come on a Friday or Saturday night, you'll probably have to wait a little while for a table, but trust me it will be worth it! Love Pasta Palazzo!
(5)
Earl P.

Cavatappi pollo! Best thing on the menu. The sangria is great as well. The service here is always wonderful too. Small quaint place with nice service and great food.
(5)
Sid P.

Exactly what you would expect for Lincoln Park: a cool, upscale pasta restaurant. Open kitchen is very small and right out there for the cooks to show how easy it is to make a great pasta meal with fresh ingredients and the right amount of seasoning and finesse. Delicious if a bit pricey but the portions are very good and the combinations are well balanced. Remember this is not a full blown Italian restaurant; it's a pasta place. They DO accept credit cards now. Don't let that prevent you from checking the place out. It's a nice place and more impressive than, say, Noodles & Co. Friendly staff, efficient and quick enough. Don't be afraid to ask for a custom order, combining items of what they have on hand.
(4)
Janis W.

It used to be amazing. But I took my friends here and I was so embarrassed. None of us liked our pasta, none of us took more than a few bites. The waiter didn't even say what's up with that? He just took it away when we said, no we don't want to take the leftovers.
(2)
Linsey R.

Two words: Conchiglie Gorgonzola If you like Gorgonzola at all, this will change your life for the better. So simple with the fresh pasta, gorgonzola cream sauce, fresh tomatoes, and spinach. It's amazing. The casual, friendly ambiance makes it even better. I'll drive across the city for this one!
(5)
Dib D.

Dinner for 2 for $14.37... Sounds fake, right? It was delicious, the guys in the kitchen work like a well oiled machine.
(4)
Brenda V.

Had the healthy scallops, very happy with my meal. Also enjoyed the sangria! Small but quaint.
(4)
Ryan L.

This has been my go-to place for years when we've been too lazy to make pasta for my silly carboloading sessions. There is a spinach chicken marsala dish that they at times have on special and it's killer. In fact, I'm a fan of all of their marsala dishes. My old reliable is the penne funghi which fueled me for many runs over the years. The food is reasonably priced, seating is communal, and it gets kinda loud in the dining room at times. That doesn't bother me too much, and if it doesn't bother you, this is a nice place for a quaint dinner. I would venture to say this is a nice 1st or 2nd date spot, if you decide to go the dinner route. I'm glad Pasta Palazzo decided to join the 21st century awhile back and accept credit cards.
(4)
Alex B.

Another Lincoln Park restaurant that's never let me down. Every dish I've had was delicious, the daily specials are always interesting, and the sangria is a perfect companion to all their meals.
(5)
Joe A.

Cozy Italian joint with very reasonable pricing. Great location, staff, and food. Enjoy!
(5)
Andrea W.

What a welcoming place! I was visiting Chicago by myself and, just by looking in the window, I knew I would be comfortable. I sat at the bar and the staff made me feel so welcome. I had a simple but delicious meal of ravioli with marinara sauce, triple chocolate cake that was even more addictive than it sounds, and nice glass of California chardonnay. I wish I had found Pasta Palazzo before my last night in Lincoln Park!
(5)
Andrew H.

Whenever we are in Lincoln park we try to stop in for lunch or dinner. Reasonable for the neighborhood. Delicious homemade Italian. Plenty of vegetarian options. Good portions. Consistently satisfying.
(5)
Amy A.

Hmm, I just don't get it. Ate here a while ago and it was "meh" at best. The pasta was flavorless and bland. Maybe my Italian background clouded my judgment standards but just not digging it.
(2)
Sarah M.

All my friends call me a food snob and that that goes double for Italian food. This place is amazing!! The staff is wonderful, they really make you feel at home. The food. I got Spaghetti Frutti di Mare and everything was spot on. I have never had such perfectly cooked sea food with pasta. I don't normally like red sauce but I scraped my plate clean to get all of it because it was one of the best sauces I've ever had. This is definitely a place to check out and become a regular!
(5)

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Address : 1966 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL, 60614
Phone (773) 248-1400
Website https://pastapalazzo.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:30 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes

Claim Restaurant

Italian Cuisine

The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.

Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.

If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.

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Pasta Palazzo

1966 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL, 60614

Pasta Palazzo Menu

Appetizers

Salads

Zuppa Del Giorno

Pasta

Handmade Pasta

Healthy Pasta

Sandwiches

Extras

Beverages

Desserts

Healthy Meal suggestions for Pasta Palazzo

Appetizers

Salads

Zuppa Del Giorno

Pasta

Handmade Pasta

Healthy Pasta

Sandwiches

Extras

Beverages

Desserts

J P.

Christina S.

Kara G.

Kris R.

Bethany L.

Brett G.

Elise R.

Meghan H.

Katie R.

Scott H.

Michelle H.

Kirk J.

Bada Bing L.

Katie S.

Heather K.

Yujin A.

Jessica S.

Candice H.

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Kris O.

Erin H.

Abby D.

tony c.

Tim J.

cynthia w.

Caroline L.

Zach F.

Nicole C.

Adam E.

Marjie W.

Mike L.

Paul W.

Lauren L.

Jason H.

Kris T.

jennn j.

Erich B.

Lisa T.

Allyson C.

Midori G.

Katie R.

Karan M.

Jaime R.

Julio G.

Adrian D.

Lauren T.

Rump S.

Amelie G.

Abby J.

Susie T.

Josh V.

Rebecca B.

Kristen C.

K L.

Jim S.