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Name: The Rosebud
Address: 1500 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60607
Telephone: (312) 942-1117
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.90

The Rosebud

1500 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60607

(312) 942-1117
Store is closed

The Rosebud Menu

Appetizers

Bruschetta

Baked Clams

Fried Calamari

Spicy Calamari

Stuffed Artichoke

Sausage & Peppers

Stuffed Mushrooms

Scampi Alla Rosebud

Steamed Mussels

Minestrone
Salads

House Salad

Caesar Salad

Caprese Salad

Garbage Salad

Antipasto Plate

Rosebud Fish Salad

Rosebud Chopped Salad

Tomato & Onion Salad

The Napoleon Eggplant Salad

Mama's Sunday Meatball Salad
Steaks Chops & Seafood

Filet Marsala

Strip Steak Vesuvio

Strip Steak Italiano Style

Skirt Steak With Onions

Veal Chop

Pork Chops Calabrese

Pork Chops Cacciatore

Lamb Chops Oreganato

Tilapia

Salmon Vesuvio

Whitefish Francese
Pasta

Baked Lasagna

Baked Cavatelli

Baked Manicotti

Baked Ziti Genovese

Eggplant Parmesan

Penne Bolognese

Fusilli Carbonara

Fettuccini Alfredo

Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Cavatelli Arrabbiata

Cavatelli Alla Rosebud

Pappardelle Marinara

Cheese Or Meat Ravioli

Linguine With Mussels Or Clams

Linguine

Spaghetti
Veal

Veal Braciola

Veal Francese

Veal Marsala

Veal Milanese

Veal Parmesan

Veal Saltimbocca
Chicken

Brick Chicken

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Milanese

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Bracciola

Chicken Vesuvio Bone In

Chicken Cacciatore Bone In
Sides

Sauteed Rapini

Crispy Potatoes

Italian Sausage

Sauteed Escarole

Mama's Meatballs

Vesuvio Style Potatoes

Italian Sausage With Rapini

Mama's Meatballs & Sausage Combo

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Rosebud

Appetizers

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

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

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

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

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

Sausage & Peppers [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

Scampi Alla Rosebud [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

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

House 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 ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mama's Sunday Meatball Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Steaks Chops & Seafood

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

Strip Steak Vesuvio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Strip Steak Italiano Style [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Skirt Steak With Onions [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

Pork Chops Calabrese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Chops Cacciatore [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lamb Chops Oreganato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eggplant Parmesan [ 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 ]

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

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

Rigatoni Alla Vodka [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

Cavatelli Alla Rosebud [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

Cheese Or Meat Ravioli [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Linguine With Mussels Or Clams [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chicken Cacciatore Bone In [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sides

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

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

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

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

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

Vesuvio Style Potatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Italian Sausage With Rapini [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mama's Meatballs & Sausage Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Harry M.

Oh yes. If you are near Taylor Street, you need to eat here. The food is extraordinary. Went it comes to Italian food, I rate it by how their chicken marsala is prepared. The chicken is thick and moist. The mushrooms are freshly sliced. The sauce, oh the sauce, is tasty. You almost want more some you could dip their bread into it. The service is terrific. Attentive but not hovering. If you need anything, they are available. They are eager to correct anything you find amiss. These are the factors that have my wife and I returning every time we are in the area.
(5)
Betty H.

Food: 5 seafood pasta was huge enough to feed 4 people, fried calamari was delicious Service: 5 Cleanliness:4 Ambience: 3 too cramped and dark
(5)
Fanny V.

Thank you!! Walked in today on Friday around 5:30 PM and had asked for a table for 6. I really appreciated the two managers on duty and hostess for being able to squeeze us in last minute on a busy weekend night without a reservation. We had had a long day at the hospital, exhausted and starving we decided to finally jump out of highway traffic to grab some food. Our server was Amanda B. and she as well as the bus staff were attentive and kind. Perfect timing on food, it was delicious as always! My family doesn't get to dine out too often so thank you for making it great!
(5)
Andy M.

Nice spot on Taylor street! Love this place huge portions of food!! My dinner is always my lunch the next day!
(4)
Samantha G.

Dear rosebuds, Thank you for your existence. And your amazing lamb chops. And chicken parmigiana. And the biggest pork hops I've ever seen in my entire life, which happened to be the best leftovers I've had for breakfast. I'm glad I got the ones without the spicy sauce (make sure you get it in the side instead!). Very pricy, but totally worth splurging once in a whole ;)
(4)
Linda R.

Perfect and delicious tonight! Service was impeccable - attentive but not pressing. We had a party of 4 and all 4 dinners were wonderful and interesting and served hot and delicious. The calamari and shrimp appetizer was a real treat. I haven't been for awhile, but it is definitely on my favorites list.
(5)
David S.

Hmmm.....it's a nice cool evening out and I wanted something healthy but good. Head over to Rosebud on Taylor and sit outside. It's summer out and I like to eat lighter so the dinner menu is out. BUT the apps are in. For the same prices (ok a little higher but not too much higher than you can pay for a burger and fries somewhere else) I had the grilled calamari, baked clams and stuffed shrooms. The shrooms had a reduction sauce that was really creamy and garlicy while the calamari was olive oil and lemon fresh - there were even little baby pulpo grilled to char crisp. All were priced under $11 and were really fresh and especially tasty. For those interested I didn't eat all that food but split it with a friend. The apps and a couple of Pieroni's and I was immobile. OH, almost forgot to mention the warm Italian bread and Greek EVO w parm cheese.....burp.
(5)
Jay I.

Even if my initial review was 3.5, after trying numerous times during my days in Chicago, I should give this place 4 stars. I really got to love their food over time, and did a lot of take outs at least once every 1-2 months. Our favorite is spicy calamari. other pastas and meat entreÃ© are pretty good too. and as I said before, keep that in mind that the portion is enormous. If you buy an entree especially if you have small stomach basically you are buying it for 2 meals.
(4)
Linda E.

What a charming, authentic Italian restaurante! We walked in without a reservation and were warmly greeted and welcomed. Enza was our waitress who balanced friendliness and professionalism perfectly! We enjoyed their stuffed whole artichoke and pasta with Arrabiata sauce and Italian sausage... Nice wine selection, Italian bread served with flavorful olive oil. Rosebud's full house is testament to their success......Bravo!
(4)
Bianca F.

We came here for lunch and had a nice time. We were looking for outdoor seating and this place had a nice patio and family style appetizers that we could share. It had everything we wanted. My friends drank the bloody Mary's and I had some white wine. We started with the salad, which was followed by the calamari, ravioli, sausage and peppers and shrimp. Needless to say we were stuffed and had tons of leftovers! We will be back for sure. Our waiter was attentive and we easily found parking. Plus the yelp reviews were good!
(4)
Kelly B.

First time here! Gabriel was our outstanding waiter and the food is amazing! The portions are out of this world. We had stuffed mushrooms to die for! The Caesar salad is enough for 4 and I got the 8 finger dish added chicken. OMG! If you love spicy, this is the dish for you! Enjoy and ask for Gabriel!
(5)
Megan B.

Awesome experience! Amazing food! Excellent service! Owner greets you as you walk in and checks up on tables. Celebrities from the 1970's come here, from frank Sinatra to al Capone! It's a must eat! You're all missing out!
(5)
Katie G.

My boyfriend and I were looking for an Italian place for lunch and stumbled on this place in little Italy. I'm not a huge fan of Italian because it's carbs carbs and more carbs, but this place is worth all the calories. Started with the bruschetta, it was delicious and the tomatoes were so fresh. For entrees we had the spaghetti and meatballs and penne with bolognaise and a side of mixed vegetables. Both entrees were delicious, but the side of mixed vegetables were amazing with roasted garlic, it was worth the $9 dollars. I will definitely be coming back here, this cute place is very inviting with friendly management and overall a comforting place to enjoy a delicious meal. Prices are a little high, but the quality of food is well worth it and the portions are huge so you will definitely have left overs. Enjoy!
(5)
Christina B.

We visited Little Italy during our trip to Chicago, looking for some delicious and authentic Italian food. We already had some deep dish pizza from Giordano's, but we were looking for someplace to escape from the hustle and bustle. We were recommended to visit Rosebud, and we were satisfied, but definitely not blown away. Our waiter John was kind and cared for our needs, but I felt the food was overpriced for the serving. A few measly pieces of shrimp scampi for ~$10? I mean they had olive oil on the tables for dipping bread but in all I didn't get that rustic, flavorful Italian experience during my time here.
(4)
Wes N.

Quite a treat. We had eaten at Moto the day before and yearned for some traditional Italian. The Trump Hotel recommended Rosebud. Took a while to find it but once in, we had fantastic service and some serious,y impressive marinara sauce. Eggplant appetizer was very good. Chicken parmigiana was huge and shareable and delicious. Great experience.
(5)
Mark C.

Great Italian. Worth the trip. Ciopinno and Zitti were wonderful. My wife and I came for our anniversary. We had to take the metro here from downtown but it was worthwhile! Definitely visit.
(5)
Pranitha P.

One of the best Italian restaurants I've been to in Chicago! I am such a fan of Italian food just because of the vast amount of vegetarian options...so many yummy carbs. I came here with a friend early Sunday evening and we were seated immediately. I think it is wise to make reservations because the restaurant filled up as soon as we were seated. We were served bread and water as soon as we were seated and the waitress was very kind and attentive throughout the meal. I ordered the eggplant parmigiana and it was so wonderful! Not to mention the portions were enormous..I took more than half home. It was one of the best I've had, with four layers of eggplant topped with a generous layer of cheese. It even came with a side of pasta so I was stuffed by the end of the meal. My friend ordered the spaghetti bolognese, caesar salad, and a glass of wine and enjoyed her entire meal. There was a little too much meat for her taste in her spaghetti but she still thought it was delicious. Also, when salad came out, it was the wrong order but they kindly exchanged it out. I would definitely come here again, delicious Italian food and good service. The atmosphere is fun and it's right in the heart of downtown, close to magnificent mile.
(4)
Andrea A.

Had the chicken Parmesan which is my fav and it was great. The waitstaff were very nice. Will visit again pronto.
(5)
Nataysha D.

What a great place in the little Italy neighborhood in Chicago. The food was amazing! i had the Vodka Pasta with added chicken and it was amazing!! The wine list is great and I had a great glass of chianti that was divine. Service was great with authentic Italian employees who were so nice! When I get to Chicago again I will be eating here again.
(4)
Ang T.

Great service amazing food drinks were always filled and staff very attentive. The only thing I wasn't thrilled with was the dessert. It was good but not amazing like the rest of the meal
(5)
Frank F.

Great place to come with friends, the people are friendly and the food is good. Had the filet Marsala with crispy potatoes they are the best. The calamari with the spicy sauce and the Italian sausage was excellent. Desert, we you need to order the chocolate chip cheese cake, just do it, can't go wrong!! It's Valentine's Day today, in my opinion the worst day for a restaurant, they did a great job!!
(4)
Marshneil D.

Loved the seafood combo and the quality of food is really good. I liked their pasta and meat entrees. Highly recommended
(5)
Julie W.

This classic Italian restaurant does not disappoint. The service is top notch and the food is thoughtful and perfectly prepared. My only regret is not asking for the price of the special I ordered (they ought to have told us upfront) and it turned out to be about $20 more than I would have chosen to pay and above the range of most other dishes. But oh, well! The lovely fish was absolutely delicious.
(4)
Patrick H.

This is by far my favorite Italian restaurant ever!!! Even though I had a reservation I've had to wait a couple of times, which I'm really good with because I know what's to come always blows my mind. The great thing about this place is even though I am not Italian, I feel like I am at my Italian Grandma's house sitting down for the meal of my life. The lighting is low. So, could be romantic if you can either cancel out each others garlic breath or you don't mind the smell. My staple used to be Chicken Vesuvio, they have a claim in that says they invented it, although so do a couple of other places. But, it's so good... ask for just Chicken Breast if you're like me and think the bones make for a lot more work. Now though, I love the Brick Chicken... It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. They make the chicken with a brick on top of it so it's flat... and has some great crispiness to it. I'm not a drinker but they have a great selection of wines and drinks. Go here, now if you are like me and LOVE Italian food!
(5)
Sean P.

Decent service. Decent food. Altogether, just decent. Fettuccine Alfredo was good but no Fettucine Alfredo should be $30. Altogether, two plates, no drinks, no appetizers came out to $60 for two people... Probably wouldn't come back. Treat yourself to the other restaurants in the area. Also the quality in their burgers have gone down during the years.
(3)
Mike J.

What a delightful experience dining at the Rosebud with my daughter Friday afternoon, the 22nd of August. We were seated in the first 2 top just behind the hostess stand on the sidewalk right away on a beautiful evening. The weather was perfect, having never eaten here I had no expectations. We were given a basket of warm bread, wrapped in a nice white cloth napkin. Awesome. A nice bottle of light Olive Oil, some Parmesan cheese was placed on the table. Delightful. Our waiter introduced himself and explained the 3 specials. We ordered the bruschetta appetizer ($9). They send out 4 portions of crostini piled high with fresh tomato concasse, blended with olive oil and fresh basil, lightly salted. Lovely. My daughter loved the sound of and usually orders the pasta tutto mare and did just that. ($42) I ordered the salmon vesuvio ($28). Claire's portion of pasta was best described as colossal!! (see pics). Huge portions of a wide array of seafood covered the mega bowl. Somewhere beneath lies an enormous portion of linguine in a spicy tomato sauce. Not too spicy she declares. She enjoyed and took 3/4 of it back to her dorm. My salmon was excellent, a nicely grilled 10 oz. portion served atop this wonderful cream sauce, perhaps a lemon buerre blanc, not sure but very good and fresh peas covered the fish. A perfectly cooked whole potato cut into quarters accompanied the dish. I'm a big guy and finished everything, but could only eat half of the potato, probably because we are so much bread beforehand. The service was great, out drinks were kept full, plates cleared promptly, first Stella poured for me by our waiter, the manager came outside to check out us. Overall great experience. No room for dessert. Left happy and very full. Little did I know we had just eaten at what many consider the best Italian restaurant in Chicago.
(4)
Erin B.

Incredibly good food, friendly service.. Just be warned that the potions are huge! I was craving risotto and didn't see any on the menu but the chef accommodated with something that was just a mermaid short of the ocean's entire bounty. Very good but it could have fed a table of at least 8-10. If you read this in the next 5 minutes, please join us!
(5)
Gracie B.

We went here today after my husband's graduation. The ambience was old school Hollywood glamour. The wait staff were personable, well informed, and made you feel at home. The FOOD was AMAZING--fresh, flavorful, and incredibly large portions. The Creme BrÃ»lÃ©e was truly an experience of eating a piece of heaven on earth. I highly recommend the Rosebud on Taylor for it's ambience, great staff, and great food!!
(5)
Allison J.

Decent Italian food but not impressed altogether for the price. I've been twice and haven't enjoyed it as much as other Italian restaurants in Little Italy.
(3)
Allie P.

Can you believe this was my first time at this Chicago icon? And what a time it was! Fantastic in every way. We sat next to the most hilarious people. The waitress was awesome and the food.... Lobster ravioli. That's all I have to say.
(4)
Francisco M.

Over priced for mediocre food! The portions are generous but that doesn't really matter when the food is bland. First time going there with high expectations, but I was badly disappointed. The chicken and the pasta had no taste what so ever and was very watered down. Won't be going back that's for sure.
(1)
Ckardee A.

Great service and good food kinda expensive but a great place we enjoyed our romantic dinner
(4)
Adam B.

Killer Italian food. Huge portions - too big for lunch. Nearly had me in a food coma! The staff is friendly and attentive. The vibe is old school mob Chicago. Feels a bit touristy, but plenty of locals were having lunch and the food more than makes up for it. Will definitely visit again.
(5)
Bryan B.

If you're looking for a great pre-game meal before the Hawks, Bulls, Sox or Bears game, you cannot miss with Rosebud. They get you in and out like pros. And you'll be close enough to the sports venue to have a short pat-dinner commute. Careful: Portion sizes are crazy big, so if you don't want to carry leftovers, order appropriately.
(4)
J L.

Great customer service, delicious house salad, flavorful linguine with clams in white sauce. Food service was fast! Definitely recommend this place.
(5)
Harold B.

Great, hearty portions! Drink selection was thorough, as well. Hate their valet set-up, however!!!
(4)
Eunice V.

Great food.
(4)
Sarah C.

Meh. It was just alright. I was here for a reservation for a large group that was booked well in advance and everything that was wrong would have been better if they provided us with a second waitress for such a large group. Drinks didn't get refilled, some drinks were forgotten, we had to ask for butter for the bread and it came a half hour later. Some food was lukewarm and the wait time was long but I assumed that was because of dish variety. Maybe these things are super picky but when you pay for the prices you do at rosebud... You'd think the experience would be worth it. Overall it was just okay. I assume it would be a better experience for a small table and not a big group??
(3)
Mad I.

Okay, weirdest host/manager ever. He kept asking us if we wanted a bigger table.... it was just us two girls, pretty average in stature, my g/f is actually super petite. "um, no thank you sir, this 2 top is fine for the two of us" "are you sure?" "Yuuup" "Are you sure?" "YES!" Awkward, lol Onto the food: Ordered the special, lobster ravioli, comparing it to Francescas and Sapori Trattoria. It was kinda tasty but too salty and the asparagus was not needed all throughout. Pricetag for that $31 EKK, more than the other two places an not nearly as tasty as ST, but better than Fran, although that place was pretty bad.... Interesting ambiance, old Italian mobster like ;)
(3)
Bryn L.

Huge portions, fast service and delicious house wine. Only complaint was that the tables were a little too close together so we felt like we were having to talk over the louder man next to us. Can't complain too much though as we got in a reservation on a Saturday night within 30 minutes. Food was great and will definitely be going back to try the spicy calamari everyone is raving about!
(4)
Natalie V.

My family and I came here to eat during the Taylor Street Festa Italiana. I love eating at Rosebud to begin with, so to experience al fresco dining during the fest was beyond amazing! We split our dishes as usual because we like to try different things. We did not want to leave. Two of our friends wound up coming to meet us last minute and were accommodated with no problem. The GM Louis Folinazzo was of course seeing if we were taken care of like he always does. What a great choice in making him GM! He's fantastic! He brought us out 3 desserts even though we were stuffed from the delicious meal but it was well worth it. Loved trying them. Thanks Rosebud & Louis Folinazzo! We will be back again!
(5)
Dimple M.

Great place to take work colleagues or celebrate a special occasion.
(5)
Delightful D.

I been here a few times for lunch and each time is a success. The feel of the restaurant is old school typical italian spot nothing special but food is solid. I couldnt say its the best but its always good. Get there before three to get the lunch prices. I love their chicken parmesan, and ravioli with vodka sauce.
(4)
jaime g.

Amazing flavor in every dish. Huge portions and great service. A must. -brick chicken is the best chicken I've ever had touch my lips. - rib eye was perfectly cooked and seasoned. - simple pasta side with red sauce was to die for.
(5)
Erin M.

Rosebud is amazing! Some of the best Italian food we have ever had! It's an old school restaurant that has obviously been around for forever. We ordered the veal parm chop, a side of meatballs and the arribiata. Everything was incredible, they tailored the meal to my dietary restrictions and were happy to do so. Service was great, we will be back!
(5)
Tuan D.

I have just ate here tonight, my first time ever at rosebud. My girlfriend and I along with a good friend, we decided to have some Italian. What better than Rosebud! famous for Italian in Chicago. First off it's a Tuesday night so it is not busy, They sat us RIGHT by the bathroom entrance. We felt discriminated against being younger and little more casual than dressy, so they pushed it in the back(our thoughts). staring at the bathroom the whole time i had already lost my appetite. Our orders were the spicy calamari which was pretty good, especially the little spicy round peppers. I had the veal Milanese which was absolutely terrible i had only couple of bites, it was tasteless aside from fried breading taste. The salad that came along with it was decent only because it was a fresh greens. My girlfriend chicken dish with mushroom sauce was good rustic mushroom flavor. My friend had chicken Parmesan, The chicken was so thin he refereed it as a lean cuisine meal! All in all the place i believe it's a little over hyped, or maybe because i had really good Italian and this didn't live up to the standards especially a view of the bathroom and the price to stare at that bathroom...great birthday meal. Very ironic fact was that everyone i saw coming out of the bathroom had just "satisfied" their needs and i was the one the LEAST to satisfied. They did take off my veal off the check but i was left starving driving home. The server lady was very nice and checked up on us often i just said everything was fine not to be rude but the only reason they found out about my dis satisfaction was because i did not want my food to go and the plate was pretty much full. Left $25 tip for $75 dollar check.
(1)
andy w.

Had very nice dinner with my cousin. Great service. Very good bar selection. Classic chicago steakhouse. They accommodated our special requests as well. Recommended.
(4)
Fernando B.

The first thing that caught my attention was the atmosphere. Everything was beautiful, dim, and quiet.. Well, until we had a group sit behind us, but they weren't a bother. I felt totally underdressed, by the way. I didn't know what I was putting myself into because my girlfriend and I were feeling spontaneous. The food was delicious! I don't know what it was called, but it was goood. We did have an appetizer beforehand, the bruschetta. I didn't expect the appetizer to be much, but when it arrived it popped and looked pretty fancy. I did forget to mention that while being "spontaneous" we didn't know the average price for each plate; not very cheap, so we shared a plate. Forgive us. I loved the waiter. He was informative and polite. He looked clean and straight. Too fancy! I'm totally coming back dressed better than casual and ready for the prices.
(5)
Jen G.

Brought our family to the Rosebud on the recommendation by a friend. It was amazing! We ordered the Caesar salad and there was enough to share for the four of us. There's no kids menu, but not really necessary as the portions are huge! I had the house specialty of Paparedelle with Marinara, my husband had the rigatoni alla vodka with a side of jalapeÃ±o potatoes. The food was outstanding, ambiance of restaurant was great, and the service/staff was phenomenal- Amanda was our server and she was so nice and helpful! A must eat at place!
(5)
C N.

Good food! Big plates! packaging (if ordering for pick up) is great! I love the place, a little pricey, but good food!
(4)
Mai S.

Excellent fresh Italian pasta! Amazing mariana sauce...GREAT FOOD! I have been to this location maybe 4 times - great dishes every time! I am a fan of Centro's and Rosebud's Prime as well -part of the Rosebud's chain. The location on Taylor street is a little dark -- otherwise excellent dining!
(4)
Nicolas D.

Bravo! Best classical italian in Chicago. Meatballs are a must, they're HUGE. Spaghetti, Raviolis, Hot bread, Oil, Salad - it's all fresh & delicious. Fine dining experience and atmosphere. Everything is presented luxuriously.
(5)
Kate S.

Delicious food and a fabulous traditional Italian restaurant that accommodates my fiancÃ©s huge family without batting an eye (we're talking party of 19). We discovered them while staying in the Medical District when we made our annual pilgrimage to Chicago for Lollapalooza. House wine is delicious, and the brick chicken on the bone is awesome, too. They used to be family style, but they offer individual plates now. Reasonable prices for a good Italian meal and huge portions. And I'm from Jersey so we know good Italian! Oh and my fiancÃ© proposed here so it will always have a special place in my heart They even gave us a champagne toast and dessert on the house because of the engagement.
(5)
Karen O.

I am rating this place two stars because I was not satisfied with the taste of the food. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't up to my expectations. I went there about two weeks ago and it was on a Friday. My interest to go to Rosebud was serious! Every time I would pass through Taylor street it would be crowded, so I figured this place would be exceptional. I ordered Chicken Parmesan. I was in the mood for something simple and so I thought that what I ordered would be extra delicious since it's a simple dish. The portion of the food was a very generous amount. I have no complains. My main disappointment was the fact that the sauce was simply not as saucy, and it was a little on the bland side. How could Chicken Parmesan go wrong? Overpriced as well. Out all things on the menu why would something this simple not be delicious in an authentic Italian restaurant? It's very weird to say that the sauce wasn't saucy enough because the chicken had a good amount of sauce in it but it wasn't thick and rich in texture and flavor. I don't see myself coming to this place again. Cheesecake Factory over this any time.
(2)
Faye B.

Came here to carbo load with my husband. No frills Italian with a pretty standard menu. Our waiter was nice and friendly. The serving size for the entree was pretty large and I ended up with leftovers. We did get prime seating since a spot opened up by the window right in front and because it was so dimly lit it was a little romantic.
(3)
Ann H.

We had a wonderfully delicious dinner at Rosebud. Everyone was attentive and welcoming. Our waiter Patrick was very knowledgeable about the menu. They also had the most delicious appletinis!!
(4)
Oscar G.

Food was OK.... wait, so why the negative review? Our server Angela tried to pull a fast one. The final total was $87.00 and with a $50.00 gift card it should have been adjusted to $37.00, no? She walks away and quietly comes back with $87.00 on the bill. Gift card missing... So I go back and bring this up to the entire wait staff standing by the front. The manager takes care of it and Angela comes back to the table and says " I'm glad you caught that... YOU are fine!". No apology etc.... and made us feel like we were the ones that screwed up. And then she quickly walks away. There are times when honest mistakes happen but the whole thing was clearly not from her body language and just overall rude attitude.
(1)
Al M.

Mussels in white wine sauce were phenomenal as was the fried calamari. The lobster ravioli was very good as was the service. One of our favorites in the city.
(5)
Jennifer Q.

It's taken me THIS long to go to Rosebud, but finally did with coworkers last Friday. It was the first nice day in Chicago and we came for lunch and sat on the patio. It was really nice. I had the classic spaghetti and meatballs and it was really, really good. The bread on the table, the service...it was all really good. Everyone in my party was happy with what they ordered. I ordered a tiramisu to go and then devoured it a few short hours later. I will be back!
(4)
Harlow M.

The service was excellent, the food was very traditional Italian, the presentation was simple, and the portions are large. We shared a chop salad and Zuppa de pesh and had some to take home as well. If your looking for a fancy presentation with an apple cut up to look like a flower, or blank white plates with splashes of color i.e. scraps of food this is NOT that palace. Our servers name was Patrick I will be sure to ask for him the next time I go there. Overall an excellent experience!
(5)
Dan F.

Excellent. The food was very, very good. I only wish that I was in town for another day so I could go back!
(5)
Ginelle S.

I went here last weekend for an impromptu date night and was so happy we ended up here. From start to finish, from the hostess to the busboys, everyone was incredibly friendly. The decor is old school Italian - heavy colors, cozy seating, life-size Frank Sinatra portrait on the wall. And the food was delicious! We got the steak w portabellos, shrimp fettuccini, the grilled octopus for an appetizer, and the tiramisu and house-made limoncello to finish it off. It was all amazing - but the steak was incredible! Will definitely be going back the next time I'm in the mood for great service and hearty Italian fare.
(4)
Ana C.

Little Italy is really little here in Chicago. But had to see for ourselves. We decided to try it after reading reviews here on Yelp! Got in on a Sat night after a quick 15 mins wait. The food server was attentive though busy. The menu varied and has something for everyone. We tried pasta and it was quite good. The Sangria was also yummy. I'm sure there are other more authentic Italian restaurants in Chicago. There's not much to see in Little Italy, Also known as University Village. But if you're in the area it's a good option. Metered Street parking.
(4)
Peri R.

We did not know the area at all and just happen to stumble upon the place. The menu looked great so we stopped. The inside dining was lovely and quaint. We sat outside and it was just as pleasant on their patio. Absolutely top notch service from our waiter. He was phenomenal. The food is homemade and fresh and everything was delicious! They customized our order for us and we couldn't have enjoyed the visit more. Best italian food I have had in the US!
(5)
GabyandRoofy M.

I was really disappointed with my experience. The food was okay but not worth the price. This is a place where people go just because its fancy and because it has name recognition. It is not a place with great food. The decor was nice though.
(2)
Joanna T.

I come here quite a bit, both work lunches and friendly dinners. The service and food is always stellar, and everyone here is always welcoming and you feel like family! Summertime has great outdoor seating, and in the winter it's decorated like a Christmas wonderland. Makes for a festive atmosphere. Make a trip down to Taylor, you won't be disappointed! Friendly and warm atmosphere for lunch, dinner, or just a drink! And they do great food, pasta, salads, steak or fish. My absolute fave is the chicken Vesuvio, no one does it better.
(4)
Phyllis B.

This is hands down the best Italian food I've ever eaten. Everything was extremely fresh and delicious. The restaurant has a marvelous atmosphere like something out of 1930s Chicago. The extraordinary service truly made us feel special. Pricey, but worth every cent. A very special restaurant that deserves its reputation as an iconic Chicago restaurant!
(5)
Cee A.

Can't go wrong and The Rosebud! Everything is classic, quality ingredients and perfectly cooked. My spaghetti and meatballs was absolutely perfect and completely satisfying when you want the comfort of authentic Italian. Lobster ravioli and pasta carbonara were our other dishes at the table and everything including the wine, was just right. Service is thorough , informed and pleasant. The Rosebud is still around for a reason... excellent food!
(5)
Linh L.

For the most part I enjoyed my dining experience here. I'm glad it was nice outside because I hate super dim dining rooms (even though it's common). When we ordered our wine, the waiter walked away to get the bottle, but he turned around in 15 seconds and says, "Wait! you're all 21 right?" That was the only way he validated our age! My friends and I wanted to wait until the bottle was gone so we could say, "We lied. We're 19." He was a nice and mediocre server though. At our table, we ordered a bottle of pinot grigio, Parmesan veal, manicotti, linguine with clams, and my white fish stuffed with crab meat. The wine was good, but the other dishes that my fellow diners ordered was just ok. My white fish stuffed with crab meat dish... it light, fresh, and expensive. Market price was $36, but I didn't regret it. I felt satisfied without feeling like I'm about to explode. Everything with tax (not tip) was $155.
(4)
Brad S.

The food is just below my expectations. The service was poor, but it was late at night. Over all an average experience.
(3)
Stephen S.

The portions here are enormous so consider sharing when ordering. I'm told this was the original Chicago location and when you walk in and see the pictures on the wall, it's easy to soak in the nostalgia. The calamari as app and the ziti were executed perfectly!
(4)
Lindsay D.

My fiancÃ© and I ate at ROSEBUD on Taylor last night (Thursday) and it was absolutely delicious as always. I had the Zuppa Di Mare (SP?) it was on special....the portion was gigantic and looked as through I didn't make a dent in my plate, yet I left there very full. My fiancÃ© had their Veal Chop, which was also on special. He loved every bite of it. The service was impeccable as always. Our waiter was funny and extremely knowledgable of all their menu items as well as their beers. We live nearby and of course we will be back!!
(5)
Martin P.

I like most everything this Italian restaurant has to offer: valet service, old school Italian atmosphere, large portions, professional service, and generally a flavorful meal. On our last visit we began our first course with an eggplant salad with and an order of sausage and peppers. Both dishes were flavorful, prepared well, and presented wonderfully. Our entrees included angel hair pasta with marinara sauce and the filet marsala. The pasta dish was not as flavorful as I had hoped. The Filet was far from the best cut of meat I have tasted. I was expecting far superior quality. We ended the evening with coffee, cannoli, and creme brulee. This last course was excellent! I love dining here, and have done so many times, and will continue to do so. It is generally a great dining experience. Unfortunately, this time, the entrees were just a bit off the mark. You know, I will return again, hopefully, with an improved dining experience and review.
(3)
Don M.

Went here late Saturday afternoon and had no problem getting seated. As you walk in the deserts are on display and I really wanted the lemon cookies. Service was right on from getting water and bread to ordering a drink. We ordered the baked clams and they were small but good. Then I chose the veal marsala, what a plate full 3 pieces of veal and a can of mushrooms dumped on top. Wow this was good. I also tried the meatballs and I did not need them but just as good as they claim. When we finished the waitress came by and asked if we wanted coffee, we turned that down, but my mouth was watering for the lemon cookie. Waitress returns drops the bill and says thank you. Shit, did not even ask about desert. I know I said I'm full but I had room for cookies. I will go back and hopefully no I will get my cookies. Overall good service except desert part and good food.
(4)
Mary C.

Always a great time & meal , it's my BF & mines favorite date place
(4)
Kean M.

Any place where you 'share' chicken vesuvio for dinner cannot by any standards be called haute cuisine... Large portions, typical US Italian (i.e NOT Italian!) bad sauces, items cut into 1' cubes, no finesse. Too expensive and wow why popular there are so many better places to go.
(1)
Eric F.

As a regular at Rosebud, I can say after 50 plus times of dining that it offers consistent and high quality Italian fare. There house salad at $3.99 iis a deal considering it is made with romaine lettuce and has a large number of tomatoes. Among my favorites, I have tried almost everything on the menu, is the veal marsala, the chicken vesuvio, and the linguini with clams. Overall, I highly recommend the Rosebud for anyone desiring classical Italian fare.
(4)
Ann Y.

If you like gnochi this is the place for you. It seems to take up about half of the menu. The food is alright. I have had better in the city- especially in little Italy. The service last time was just bad. I ordered spinach and was charged almost $10 and the portion was small. When I said something to the waiter his response was "you are in the big city now". I eat in the city all the time- I live in the city and honestly this was overpriced, not to mention it was not on the menu. Anyhow, this place is overrated in my opinion.
(2)
Kris A.

This is one my favorite Italian restaurants in the City. I took my family here recently, and everyone loved it. The Taylor Street location is my favorite. We didn't have reservations but were quickly seated.
(4)
Eric J.

The five stars is for a truly wonderful group outing. A great Italian restaurant, was Frank Sinatra's choice whenever he frequented chicago. Great little intimate dining experience for a couple but much better when dining with a large group. I have been here 4 times with a large group, and as long as reservations are made a few days in advance, they will set you up with a private room with your own waiting staff and soft italian dining music in the background. I'm telling you, round up all of your friends and go here you will not regret it. Last time I was there, the total bill was around $500 for 11 people. This included at least 4 bottles of wine, appetizers, meals, and gratuity. very reasonable. Afterward head to Bevi Amo for a night cap.
(5)
A K.

we went there as part of the free restaurant week lunch, even though we ended up not ordering from the special menu. so the food is deeelicious, we stared out with the spicy calamari and maybe the price seems high on the menu for an appetizer, but the size is really large for an appetizer either, so it's definitely fair. the square noodles in vodka sauce was amazing, we also had tilapia in vesuvio sauce and it's so moist and tender, and last we have Baked Ziti Genovese...which is also amazing, the portions are very large so you can share, and since we didn't know that ahead of time ...we didn't get to finish our entrees because we were really stuffed by the appetizer and bread =)
(5)
Andy B.

Wow was really impressed with Rosebud, very nice atmosphere and great service. My wife had the square noodles which were delicious and quite a big portion. I had pork chops calabrese, which were honestly the best chops I've ever had. We finished off a wonderful dinner with a canolli which was great. Prices were very reasonable considering the portions and quality of food.
(5)
Albert C.

I have fond memories of special occasion dinners at Rosebud during college and med school. I have to say I prefer the Taylor street location (the original) over the other branches, particularly the downtown Naperville one. Excellent food - favorites include the sausage and peppers, calamari, eggplant parmesan and the pasta in general (I haven't had a bad experience with the fettucine alfredo yet). By no means cheap, but it's worth it for special occasions and the atmosphere inside the restaurant is classy and intimate.
(4)
Bill C.

I had not been at the original Rosebud for many years and was looking forward to re- experiencing my memories of good meals there. Myself and my fiancÃ©e were very disappointed and both agreed they must be skating on their reputation. The evening started out well with the very attentive service, but rapidly went downhill from there. The Pinot Grigio glass we started with was terrible and the more expensive replacement I had later was only marginally better. Even though we ordered our food 10 minutes after the couple next to us - it arrived 20 minutes after their entrees (this was 15 minutes after our server said "it was just being plated"). My fiancÃ©e's Tilapia was very boring, had a bone in her first bite, and was covered with clearly frozen peas. My linguini with clams was just ok - but again mostly uninspired. Both of us have had much better Italian meals in Lincoln Square and even in the suburbs. Hard to believe such boring food was made from the birthplace - Taylor Street - of the best Italian food in Chicago. We would not recommend Rosebud to anyone.
(2)
A C.

Definitely a fan of this restaurant. They have a couple other locations around Chicago but I favor this one the most! It is a more pleasurable setting, quite, with great service. The food is fantastic and the prices are fair.
(4)
carmen b.

Hello again, FOOD SNOB here. This past summer I was able to make it to Rosebud. It was 5PM, and the weather was perfect to sit at an outside table. Having dinner outdoors not only reminds me of my childhood but about days I spent in Italy around the family table. And of course those outdoor cafes along the Bay of Naples. After having grilled calimari at Bellagios in Homewood a couple years earlier, I never thought I would eat it again. Of course Bellagios is another rip off franchise. I thought I would give it a try. It was a special that day. Linguini with grilled calamari in a light olive oil and balsamic vinigar sauce. It was actually an appetizer that I had for my entree. I had forgoten how good calimari could be. It was grilled to perfection that it melted in the mouth. Calimari is like shrimp, cook it to long and it is tuff. It was also very flavorful. This Chef knew what he was doing. My wife had the canoloni. Two large pasta shells stuffed with meat, which I thought for sure she would not finish. But she did. Thats because it was not rich and spicy. It was flavorful. A good cook does not need to enrich the flavor of food with a lot of rich ingredients and spices. My compliments.
(5)
James G.

Great appetizers and seafood pasta. Staff was very friendly and helpful.
(4)
Hope Z.

What Changed? My fiance and I went here for a belated valentines dinner. We have lived in the area for 2 years, and tried all the delectable choices on Taylor Street many times. Prior to moving here, we have dined there several times prior to United Center events, or for an extra special dinner with friends. Its been about a year since we last visited, and the visit was nothing but disappointing. We started our meal with sausage and peppers, and they seemed to taste odd. We still ate happily, but both questioned is something was "off." My eggplant Parmesan was nothing but disappointing. The eggplant was tough, and bitter tasting, and left an awful aftertaste. My Fiance enjoyed his 8 finger cavatelli, but our overall meal was disappointing. you can find much better, more consistent choices on Taylor, or University village for that matter. I am sad that an old favorite will have to go on standby.
(2)
Jackie S.

Went here last Saturday afternoon with my comadre and my 5 year old daughter and had a great time. The inside of the place has a nic dark, intimate decor to it which i found inviting. I was a little worried that this would not be a good pick for my 5 year daughter but she did well. They do not have a kids menu so you either need to share your meal or order them a complete meal. The waitress said that they would be willing to do a side order of pasta for her but of course she wanted the ravioli. Our waitress was very attentive and did a great job. The food was excellent!!! I had the veal, my friend ordered the tuna and my daughter had cheese raviloi! My veal was the best I ever had! My friend who isnt a fan of veal even loved it. My daughters meal was great and she nearly finished the entire thing! We sat around after our meal and just talked and Im glad to say we were not rushed out of there! The only thing about this place is that it is a tad bit expensive and that while I would love to come back very often...I see this as a once a year type meal. Other than that everything here is great !
(4)
Mateo S.

No matter where you hail from, you've been to this restaurant in some guise or another... your Grandparent's 50th anniversary dinner, cousin's Bat Mitzah, your own graduation party, first date, or a post-funeral spread for a distant family friend. It reeks of all the years of special occasions and special occasion perfumes. You know it well: spit polished brass, low lighting, beveled glass, dark wood... the kind of place that feels a little naked in the wake of the smoking ban. You can almost remember the woolly scratch of your boyhood sailor suit. It (the atmosphere, not the woolly scratch of your boyhood sailor suit) compels you to order a Manhattan (they make them PERFECTLY here, not too sweet) or a Gibson and be a gangster or his moll. Red sauce is king, maybe Emperor, and portions ensure you'll have lunch taken care off for the next couple days. Service is old fashioned, friendly, unobtrusive and garrulously accented. More than once I found myself wondering where the checkered tablecloths were (the linens were white). Classic Chicago.
(4)
mariah t.

I love the chopped salad and the chicken vesuvio are the best. You should check out the italian cookies for dessert. They are wonderful. The service is always great!
(5)
Tiff B.

I went to The Rosebud with my family to celebrate my Dad's birthday. Decided to give it a try since none of us have ever dined there and it's supposed to be a legendary spot for Italian in Chicago. Our reservations were for early evening, so the service was very good as we were one of a few parties in the restaurant at the time. The whole staff there was very friendly and accomodating and wished my dad a happy birthday. We started the meal with the stuffed artichoke appetizer. Which was delicious and definately a good choice. I ordered the meat lasagne. Not an adventurous dish, but it's what I was in the mood for. The portions were HUGE. I ate about 1/4 of it and was stuffed. I had enough leftover for about three meals. It was good, but not the best lasagne I've ever had. Very solid though. I will say, that for the price-you get massive portions and great service. It's also easy to luck up on a parking spot on the street and therefore not have to spend money on valet.
(4)
Bernard M.

The original is not always the best, but in this case it is. The Rosebud is a classic Chicago Italian restaurant that you should go at least once... maybe 5 times :)
(4)
Maxxy C.

This is one of my all time favorite restaurants. I usually recommend Rosebud for work related dinners. I have never been disappointed. Servings are ample and very delicious! They have the best calamari ever! You got to get the calamari! This is one of the best Italian cuisines in Chicago!!
(5)
Kari S.

Delicious Italian no matter what you order. The service is very attentive and the atmosphere is just what you would expect of any Rosebud or Carmine's location. Its got that old world Italian feel. Who knew there was a little Italy in Chicago?! Not five stars because it isn't my favorite Italian spot.
(4)
L. R.

Coming from an Italian family, I was excited to try Rosebud because everyone says it's the Chicago standard of Italian food. I go to the Italian store down the street to get my olive oil so we combined the visit to eat here. I liked it a lot but I didn't love it. My husband loved it though. He had an appetizer of mussels and wine which he said was delicious. I ordered the standard lasagna with marinara. It was very good, the sauce is a little sweet for me. It was massive! I barely ate 1/3 of it. So, they have very generous portions (of course, it's Italian). I loved the bruschetta. Bruschetta is hard because it's dipped in olive oil and broiled. It needs to be hard enough and hot enough to melt the garlic over it. This is real Italian. I liked the atmosphere as well. It's a very nice place.
(4)
Nannette P.

It is what it is. There is history to the place itself and it does remind you of old Chicago. Dark wood inside the place, lots of little nooks and turns, dark candle it and barely lit restaurant. It's a unique place, but with standardized Italian food. We ordered the baked clam appetizer, 6 in all. It was nothing great or extraordinary, and certainly too little to share. They are clams after all. We shared a chicken vesuvio for dinner. Again, I partly blame myself for ordering something so basic. Everything else though seemed loaded with butter sauce or cheese upon cheese upon cheese. The vesuvio itself was okay. Again, nothing that knocks my socks off of something I've never had anywhere else before. We got the coconut cake to share for dessert, which was certainly the highlight of dinner (minus me choking on my chicken and potatoes dish halfway through the meal for trying to multitask and eat fast because I was starving). It was a huge piece of white fluffy cake with white icing (like a whipped cream icing) and coconut. It was light and fluffy and very good. The service was good ands he had a little sass to her, which I like and can appreciate, especially when you get a table of women who are taking forever and a day to order off the menu because they are catching up on twenty thousand different topics all at once. We tipped her extra for our indecisiveness. It's cozy, but nothing food wise that will blow me out of the water. It's a great place to bring a group of people, or some out of towners to give them that old school Chicago Italian restaurant feel.
(3)
Erin B.

Yum Yum Yum! Do I really need to say any more than that!? This restaurant is really delightful! I love coming here as everything I've ever eaten (from the fillet mignon to pasta) here is always tasty, and the portions are gianormous! The staff is super friendly, and the atmosphere is superb. Even if you come here to sip on a glass of red wine, you'll have a great time!
(5)
Nick B.

This place is everything you would want out of an Italian restaurant. Big servings, great food and friendly service. I would personally recommend the eggplant parmigiana or anything with their vodka sauce but honestly you cant go wrong here so just close you eyes and point at the menu and order what ever your finger lands on.
(5)
Patrick F.

This is absolutely one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. The atmosphere is nice, but unpretentious. It seems like it probably hasn't changed in the last 30 or 40 years (in a good way). The food is absolutely delicious. I can recommend the baked ziti without hesitation - totally out of this world!
(5)
Lisa D.

Having eaten at Rosebud prime (a pleasant experience) was shocked at the horrible service at this spot (maybe the Prime folks get that downtown working folks won't tolerate horrible service, unlike customers who frequent their little Italy location). The service stinks in this place. I went on Saturday night for dinner with a friend. True, being Saturday, and we did not have reservations, we expected a wait (we were told by the overly perky hostess that it would be 20 to 25 minutes). After an hour and 10 minutes (yes, she lied) waiting at the bar (note: we were never asked once by the bartender if we needed a refill) we were finally seated. We sat there for 10 minutes before a waitress came to take our drink order (she was nice but distracted). Another 15 minutes before she took our order. When our food arrived, it was tasty or luke warm. Eventually (I think our waitress sensed by my friend's sour mood that she would NOT be getting a good tip based on the lousy service) our service improved a wee bit towards the end of the meal. There's more, but won't go into it. In conclusion, for the money, I'd try another Italian spot. You'll probably get better service.
(2)
Amanda A.

My fiance and I went here with my mom and dad and some friends before they went to a concert at the United Center. I've been to Rosebud on Rush and the one in Highland Park before and so I knew what to expect. This is the original supposedly and it definitely had that flair of a classic restaurant that has fed politicians and mobsters as well as locals for years. The menu was larger than I remembered and was appreciative to our waitress for walking us through all the options including her own creative mix-and-match suggestions. So many things sounded delicious and so I had her bring me whatever was her favorite of the moment - I was not disappointed. Sausage filled sacotinis in a vodka cream sauce with a jalepeno kick - yum. I think this was the first italian restaurant where my fiance asked for something spicy and it actually was. If you want a little taste of Old Chicago in Little Italy - this should be a must stop.
(4)
Glen C.

Okay, so I went here on a continuation of a first date (see my Beviamo review). Things were going well so we decided to get dinner. It was very late on a Sunday night and some of the other restaurants in the area were already closed, so we decided on Rosebud. I personally thought Rosebud wouldn't be a cool enough place to make an impression, but since it was open, we stuck to it. It ended up being perfect. We were seated in a section with only one other party; we might as well have been the only two in the entire restaurant. It was quiet enough that you could actually feel the history inside and just enjoy the food and each other's company. Our waitress gave us excellent service. She was very nice--which is all I ever ask for. Every time she came to the table, she greeted us with a truly warm smile even though I'm sure we were her only obstacle to closing and heading home after a busy night. The food itself was good. I had the linguine w/ white clam sauce. The portion was huge-e-moungous! Although it was very good, I always find it hard to rate standard Italian fare like that as excellent--I mean, because it's ALWAYS good, it hard to find one of those standard dishes that sets itself apart. Finally, the tiramisu--awesome! While I did have an excellent first date here, unless it's another quiet Sunday night when everything else is closed, I think I'd rather return with friends and family where we can laugh, be loud, and stuff our faces.
(4)
Saba B.

Rosebud, even though a local mini-chain, is more than worthy of five stars from this stingy Elite. Cavatelli arabiata is the best I've had, a gleaming rock star of authentic Italian cuisine with perfectly spicy, not too garlic-rich red chile tomato sauce. The portions at RB are beyond heaping, and easily make two meals. The spicy calamari blew us away with flavor, lightly breaded in an aromatic white wine/garlic sauce with large, succulent pepper chunks. Mama's meatball salad arrived with four fist-sized, parmesan-crusted, dense meatballs that were juicy and tender. The extensive wine list paired gorgeously, and the service was beyond exemplary. Ambience: inside, slick polished wood floors, muted lighting, waiters in black and white whispering in Italian. I can't imagine a more intimate, romantic room in Little Italy. We were surrounded by what I imagined to be capos and mols, stylish and gregarious and talking expansively with their hands. Rosebud SHOULD be a chain, just as you'd want an Italian mother to hand down her recipes. For upscale Italian on Taylor Street, Rosebud is home base.
(5)
Bobby F.

6 guests, had a reservation. My wife and I arrived first, a little early and our table was ready and we were offered our seats immediately. The hostesses were extremely polite and happy and very well organized. Our server went over the specials and sold them perfectly. I am pretty sure our entire table got one of the specials for our main entree. The food was great, the wine selection was nice. The portions were a bit large but for the price that was ok. I would not recommend visiting Rosebud without an appetite. You will be fed. We had a great dinner and will definitely go back soon. I don't know what each item cost but our bill was about $290 total for 6 people before tip. Not bad for the amount of food and wine we had.
(5)
Jenny Z.

After just moving from Chicago to Wisconsin, we went to Rosebud looking for a Chicago Italian meal....and this place delivered. Good service, great beer/wine, large and delicious portions...all while sitting on Taylor St and listening to the Blackhawks getting closer to a win! I highly recommend the Salmon Vesuvio...it was a hefty portion but good quality. The only downer was the coconut cake...it was light and airy but with a processed Little Debbie taste....it wasn't even close to homemade. Rosebud, you can do better!! Overall, I really enjoyed myself on a beautiful Chicago evening.
(4)
Kenneth P.

Amazing! My mother in law is a big Rosebud fan (when she visits, she eats there nearly every day), but we usually go to the one on Rush St. This Rosebud was an entirely different experience. Huge portions, great ambiance, less crowded than the city and overall a great experience.
(5)
Michael D.

Rosebud is one of my favorites. I have been there numerous times and every reservation exceeded expectations. Rosebud is the premier place for authentic Italian food. The service is quick, the staff are always knowledgeable and the price is reasonable for the about of food your getting. The setting is very comfortable in the lightly lit dining area accompanied by the sweet sounds of Sinatra. Rosebud is elite in my opinion. I recommend the Rigatoni with Vodka sauce as an entree and the Sausage & Peppers as an appetizer. You will not be disappointed. I can't wait to get back to Rosebud!
(5)
Joelle S.

What a wonderful evening we spent at The Rosebud Restaurant on Taylor Street in Chicago!! We were immediately seated at "Sinatra's" table, it is in a non-traffic part of the restaurant. Our waiter was at our table without hesitation and offered us the specials for the evening and asked for our drink order. We asked for wine suggestions and he was very willing and able to help us with that! We started off with the Napolean Eggplant Salad, a Rosebud exclusive. Piled high: vine ripe tomatoes, arugala, fresh mozzerella, thinly sliced eggplant (battered and fried golden brown), drizzled with oil and balsamic vinegar. You do NOT have to be a fan of eggplant to fall in love with this salad! It was spectacular! Next we had the Zuppa di Mare, Pappardelle Noodles in a tomato basil sauce (Rosebud house specialty), Pork Chops Cacciatore, and Brick Chicken (another Rosebud specialty of the house). We were not disappointed by any of our choices! The Zuppa di Mare was a very generous portion of linguini smothered with the clams, mussels, & octopus. Wonderful! Pappardelle Noodles, large square noodles, prepared in a tomato basil sauce were cooked perfectly. Pork Chops were large portions with potatoes, mushrooms, onions and peppers were broiled then sauted in tomato sauce. yum! Brick Chicken was a WHOLE CHICKEN! with potatoes and rapini. We brought most of the chicken home, but enjoyed a little of it at the restaurant. We were full!! Two bottles of wine later, full from the wonderful meal, we all went home happy and satisfied! We will be back!
(4)
Jtnme T.

Ordered food for my husband and I today for dinner. Appetizers, spicy calamari was so soggy, but good spicy flavor. Stuffed mushrooms were tough. The stuffing was very salty. Wasn't worth my time or money. Spaghetti was so, so, but the bread was amazing.
(3)
Bob S.

very good. I love going to Rosebud when in Chicago.
(4)
Chris E.

Made my reservations thru Yelp for the first time. Worked flawlessly. Ate here during the Ryder Cup with three of my golf buddies in late September 2012. A buddy from Greensboro, NC said we had to try this place. Food was very good. I had the Linguine with Mussels and my buddies all had the Lasagna. Don't forget a side of Mama's meatballs and sausages. Can't wait till my next trip to Chicago. Veal Saltimbocca is my next dish to try.
(4)
Andrea M.

My husband & I came here for our anniversary dinner this past weekend and we were very impressed. We have a 6 o'clock reservation but were running late due to traffic. I called and advised them that we'd be a few minutes late - we showed up at 6:15 and were seated right away, at a window seat. The setting is very nice & intimate. Our waiter came to the table right away to get our drink orders. He was one of the best waiters we have ever seen. He knew/described all the night's specials and answered any questions we had. I started w/ the minestrone soup and it was so good. For the main course, my husband ordered the chicken parm and I ordered the linguine w/ mussels. Food came out rather quickly and wow was it good! They gave him 2 HUGE chicken breasts, lightly breaded just like he likes. My linguine and mussels were also scrumcious! I liked how they didn't overdo it with the linguine to replace the mussels. I had a ton of mussels on my plate and the amount of linguine w/ them was just perfect. We will definitely go back here and recommend it to friends/family.
(5)
Jonny P.

Full disclosure. We came here hungover... around 3 PM so obviously there was no line. It was a strugglefest. We liked it because it was dark... and we were hungover. But you really can't see much in the restaurant. IT'S DARK. LOCATION Semi-convenient... if you live near Taylor and Ashland. There are tons of restaurants all around... check it out. AMBIENCE dark. very dark. everyone has an accent. Can't see hands....... food... okay, that's an exaggeration but you get our point. FOOD Spicy Calamari: huge chunks of onions and peppers that weren't cooked through all the way... calamari was really soggy.. the breading was delicious but really needs to be revamped somehow. Carbonara: HUGE PORTIONS. peas.... typical, americanized... We're still looking for a GOOD, ITALIAN, EGG YOLK CARBONARA. leave us a comment if you know what we're looking for. yeah.... Baked Ziti Genovese: cheesy. so so cheesy. Diet cokes come in glass bottles. pretty cool... but no refills..... uhhhhhhhhh. Bread is good... especially when you're hungover.
(3)
Beth A.

the only thing i didnt like about this location was that in order to be seated u have to finagle ur way past the bar...not a seemingly easy task its loud its crowded and the food is worth every delicious penny my salad was a bit soggy but definitely still edible...the tiramisu is probably the best deal in town...the serving is HUGE & we were allowed to take our sweet time hangin out/chattin and sippin our coffee they also valet for $8
(4)
michael c.

Worst Italian food ever. This was our fourth and. Last try to the rosebud restaurants. Horrific spaghetti doused with a sauce that tasted like it was straight out of a can. The eggplant appetizer was also raw and ineatable. The bogolnese was very watery, served with parpadelle that was stuck together like glue. The minestrone soup was like flavored water with undercooked vegetables in it. And lastly, but by no means least, their best of the worst, calamari doused in a spicy "sauce" also disgusting and ineatable. A huge disappointment. MVC
(1)
Danny L.

This is hands down the best Italian I've ever had. I had the veal and the meatballs. So good.
(5)
Danielle V.

This place has amazing Italian food, and the portions are huge. Great prices too!
(4)
Pete B.

more like a 3.5 The restaurant was cosy (and very christmasy), and the service was great. The food, while relatively good, didn't blow me away. I got the garlic chicken (#2 on the list of chicken entrees), and we agreed that it's the best out of the 4 dishes we got. Unfortunately, being best of the 4 dishes we got still doesn't make it amazing. It was good, but nothing special. Would I come here again? doubtful. There has to be better restaurants in Little Italy.
(4)
Pamela K.

High on the list of Taylor Street eats. Yes, it's on the more formal side - think dark woods, fancy dining area, and pricier menu, but the food is more typical Italian. Even the candy bowl they have at the bar. hehe. Not Americanized. I take that from my italiano friend who says so :). Rosebud has their own "rosebud" (tomato-based) spicier sauce which I think most are a fan of. The pappardelle that one friend had and the sea bass and side of sauteed rapini my other friend had made my palatte sing. The heaping seafood special full of mussels, clams, fish, and calamari served with linguini tossed in the Rosebud marinara sauce was really to die for. It's several days worth of seafood and pasta! The pasta overall is mmm al dente. Yum. The chopped salad we shared is a nice departure from the typical. Wow. Yum. Could have just had a big bowl of this too. And well, maybe the grilled calamari. OMG, no skimping there and super flavorful. Great selection of delish wine. If you don't venture to Taylor Street often, you can try the Rush street or the other locations. The Rush one has a popular outdoor patio. Either way, try this sooner rather than later. You'll know what I mean. Metered parking and gets crowded so make reservations and plan ahead if you decide to come during the weekend or non-grandpa time.
(4)
Ed R.

Delicious food, great service. If seated outside, do not sit near the street storm drain. Unpleasant odor throughout the meal.
(4)
Chris S.

Food: Average at best; a notch below Olive Garden. Mussels were average, bruschetta was a bit wet, antipasto platter was swimming in oil. Service: Eh. Okay. Price: Obnoxiously high. $68 for three apps and two drinks? Are you nuts? If the food was actually *good* I'd have no problem with it. Don't bother unless this is the only place you can get a reservation.
(2)
Anne S.

This place is fine, but a little more expensive than I like ok places to be. I had the penne bolganese. It was big, and it was alright. But it was nothing special. I could have made a version I liked better at home for 1/4 of the price. It was nice to sit outside and enjoy the meal. I like dining outside, especially when I can have a drink!
(3)
Crissy W.

the rosebud was quite the trek from my hotel near the magnificent mile, but i made it work since i wanted to explore several different neighborhoods and on my way back from the rosebud, i would pass through greektown. i was dining alone and thought it was considerate of the waiter to seat me in the back. i took advantage of not having to impress anyone and ordered the pollo vesuvio, which is cooked in garlic and white wine sauce. it was very delicious and a nice change from the more common italian dishes that are on every italian menu. the pollo vesuvio can easily feed 2 people since it's half a chicken. too bad i couldn't take it home since i had a little journey ahead of me! the service was also very polite and attentive. i would come back with a small group if i'm in the area again.
(3)
Carol K.

Hands down, Rosebud is one of my favorites along Taylor Street. It's not fancy (anything but) but the food is always delicious, the servers friendly and I like that the "regulars" sit at the bar and talk to you. This is the original Rosebud restaurant. Located in what used to be the old Italian men's Supper club, this restaurant opened in 1977, and due to it's success, other outposts have opened since, but this remains my favorite. On a recent visit- we came on a slow Wednesday night. My friend had never been to Taylor Street before and was amazed at the choices before us. "How do you know where to go?" asked he. "Trust me", said I. "You'll be up to your eyeballs in Mama's meatballs soon enough". We were seated and rather than explore the entire menu- I took the lead and ordered some of my favorites. Caprese Salad, Antipasto plate and a lovely Chianti to start. For our entrees we split Mama's meatballs and a side of spaghetti along with the NY strip Vesuvio. The look on my friend's face said it all. He was in Rosebud bliss. And now for the "piece de resistance". We were on the quest for the perfect cannoli and I had promised that if there was a perfect one- we were going to find it on Taylor Street. We waited. And then the moment happened. The cannoli was placed down before us. Centered on a small plate, with that sweet ricotta spilling out of the end, pistachio nuts sprinkled about and a dollop of whipped cream, it was beauty on a plate. But would it satisfy this cannoli connoisseur? As I watched the smile come over my friend's face with just the merest fork full, I knew we had found a winner. Baked in Rosebud's own bakery, this cannoli is the winner on Taylor Street. Our evening of Italian indulgence done, we left Rosebud and headed home. But not without "visions of cannolis, dancing in our heads".
(4)
Mel M.

OMG! My hubby and I went for Valentines dinner last Feb. The brick chicken is the best. Flavorful and juicey! My husband and I shared the stuffed mushrooms- The sauce was divine! We enjoyed some wine and great service. On the down side, they crammed more tables in the place just for valentines day so our table was right up next to someone else's, thereby stealing our/their privacy and it was way too dark in there. The quality of the food made up for the bad things, though.
(4)
Rachel W.

I cater this place on a regular basis, so can't speak to the interior, but the food is yummy, and an awesome catering option. Mama's meatballs rock...they're huge and covered in homemade marinara Penne bolognese always goes over well, as does the cavatelli arribiatta. We always get Caesar salad & bread w/olive oil. I'm a huge fan of this place, it's reasonable, and the crew is always thrilled when it's on the list.
(4)
Kristen K.

Rosebud was always my "go to" place on Taylor Street - this past week took my friend who never has been on Taylor Street and kept gushing about Rosebud - I think I talked too much???? Sat outside, very nice waiter and no issues there but the menu seemed very unimpressive as for choices. Next the portions were big but the pasta seemed a little hard and not cooked through. Lastly, I would compare the food to a step above Olive Garden as for flavor, taste etc - nothing really impressed or stood out for me, companion who never there before agreed, just an average Italian place. Rosebud disappointed on the quality of food, everything else is still good.
(2)
Brandy W.

Well, our experience started off on a very bad foot. At one point of our 47 minute wait (after our reservation time), I considered finding another restaurant down the street. I was told to go to Rosebud and having only had one other (great) Rosebud experience in Naperville, this was our first downtown. We chose Taylor because we thought it would be great to eat at the first of the chain. I called one month in advance for a table. I made the reservation for 3. Then... two days before we were set to have dinner there, my husband called to increase our reservation by 2. Now, our party went from 3 to 5. In the restaurant business, this means a considerably fewer amount of options because standard tables accommodate up to 4. Given this change, I would have expected that if they had a large amount of parties in the 5-6 range, that they would mention this on the phone when we called to change the reservation. At that point, it would have been our fault. But... they acted as though it were no big deal and the accommodation would be fine. We arrived at 7:30 for our 8:00 reservation. We had drinks in the bar. Then we proceeded to wait until 8:47 when FINALLY they had a table available for us. They could've pushed together two tables. But they didn't. We had to wait until a table was up, though our reservation was 47 minutes prior. We were apologized to by the manager and given the "Frank Sinatra" table. He kept mentioning this as if it were a good thing and it was a nice table after all. We were also treated to two free appetizers for our table. Tony was our server and he was awesome. Our food was great and the recommendations were also wonderful. The bread was tasty and everyone enjoyed what they ordered... except... why must the entrees be enough for two people to share? Holy cow! When you order a pork chop, you get two... chicken parmesan, you get two full chicken breasts.... I guess it's better than not enough food, right? We left with plenty of food for a full meal the next evening. Except... 3 of the 5 were headed out of town (visitors) by plane the next day. Lots of wasted food-- but not the fault of the restaurant. For 5 people with a bottle of wine, entrees for all, one salad starter, 2 free appetizers (because of our wait time)... we spent $145 before tip. It was a nice dinner, though I'd never ever take 5 people to Rosebud again. I would only take 4 people or try another location. I will not be going back to the Rosebud on Taylor.
(3)
Natalie P.

You're kidding me right, fellow Yelpers? 4 stars? What have you guys been smoking? My boyfriend and I are visiting Chicago and, after quickly checking out the reviews on yelp, went to the Rosebud tonight as we're staying nearby. I was told by our driver that the portions are "large" - the understatement of the year. The portions are gargantuan, and unfortunately, the concept "quality over quantity" doesn't apply at this restaurant. When we first sat down, I should have known things were not going to be up to my standard when a metal bowl of cheap parmesan cheese was place on our table. Uh oh. To start, we shared the Caprese Salad, which was pretty standard. Although, I don't know what type of "traditional" Italian restaurant would bastardize Caprese with olives and roasted red peppers! The mozz was decent, but I would have rather them left off the "extras" and instead opted for Buffala Mozz and a little more balsamic reduction. For dinner, I ordered the fresh papardelle pasta with an alfredo sauce, mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli. When it came out, it nearly choked on my wine! It was seriously large enough to feed a small village. Before even taking a bite, I was nervous because portions *this* large are never good...and this time was no exception. The "alfredo" sauce was basically heated cream with the smallest hint of flavor. There wasn't even the slightest hint of nutmeg. The papardelle itself was perfectly cooked, but the rest of the dish did nothing to compliment the restaurant's 'original' creation. In hopes of salvaging some sort of goodness, I asked the server if they had any fresh parmesan - pecorino, reggiano, anything! - but he said no. NO FRESH PARM AT AN ITALIAN RESTAURANT? Oh god. My boyfriend had the Brick Chicken, which he said was good. He said he'd give it about a 7/10. It looked really tender although, being a vegetarian, I can't comment on the actual flavors. It did, however, come with one of my all-time favorite sides - broccoloni! Which he said was "yum!" We ordered dessert - opted for the carrot cake. Of course, it was also a huge portion, though not as gargantuan as the others. It was pretty decent, definitely the best part of my meal (but that's not saying much). It was really missing the sweet tang of the cream cheese frosting. I'm not sure if they call their frosting cream cheese - but I am a baker and I couldn't taste the slightest hint of it. So, that was a bummer for me. The service was OK. Our sever and busboy were friendly and the busboy really prompt, but I had to ask him to bring our server the check after waiting for 10 minutes. While the server was nice, he was often absent. I would have probably given the restaurant 3 stars if it weren't for the bill. I was already grumpy about my mediocre meal, but I got downright choked when I saw that my $18 on-the-menu pasta was now $28 because quote "the mushrooms and other stuff are extra." Sigh. I could have gone to a significantly pricier restaurant, had a killer meal, and been totally satisfied for $28. Our nearly $100 check was ridiculous for the quality of the meal and service. I have *zero* problem paying for great food, but when the food is blah and I could have bought a new pair of jeans instead, I'm not happy. Being that we are staying in a hotel, our insane amount of leftovers were taken by our driver to be delivered to a homeless fellow he knows. So, at least someone appreciated the meal! Overall, I'm pretty damn crushed that this is the experience I'm taking away from Chicago's Little Italy. Maybe I'm a food snob (ok, not maybe), and maybe I'm spoiled by Miami's insanely awesome selection of Italian restaurants (not maybe), and maybe my own Italian cooking is head-and-shoulders above the average Italian restaurant (definitely not maybe) but seriously. In no way, shape, or form is this restaurant worth 4 stars. And it's certainly nothing to write home about - unless you're a grump, like me!
(2)
Leonardo B.

$20 for an Alfredo Pasta, I was expecting something very good considering US prices however creamy sauce was grainy and below average; same case with Pasta a la Vodka, additionally if you ask for extra chicken they put a white whashed chicken cooked apart that taste nothing... To close they served my wine in a plastic cup, really?
(2)
Robert D.

Made a reservation for 9 for Father's Day. We were accommodated very nicely. Staff and waiter were very friendly. Waiter had a great knowledge about the menu but the food was extremely bland. Even the leftovers I took to go were disappointing. I was not the only member of the party who was not happy. I wish I would have let them know then. This meal wasn't good enough for mans best friend!!
(1)
Amanda C.

I have heard great things about Rosebud over the past six years that I've lived in Chicago, but I have to say that my first experience was less than fabulous. Since we had the day off because of the cold, two of my friends and I decided to eat at Rosebud for lunch. They offered the restaurant week menu, but their options weren't that great of a deal so we all opted out of that menu. Because I couldn't quite find anything that stood out on their regular menu, I asked the waitress for a recommendation. All of the lunch menu chicken options were under $14 and the waitress watched me looking at that menu. She then suggests the special chicken dish of the day, which sounded okay so I went with it. I also ordered pasta fagioli soup, which arrived in a very different form that any other pasta fagioli soup I have ever had. It was so thick and full of beans that I thought it was more of a bean soup. It did not taste all that great so I barely ate half of it. When my meal arrived, the chicken looked like a chicken twinkie. Just the appearance of the dish was very unappetizing. I took a bite of the gnocchi that was around the chicken and the red sauce that was on the gnocchi had a very sharp and horrible taste to it. I ate one bite of the chicken and it had the taste of a frozen cordon blue that I could have bought for $1 at the grocery store. Now here is why I was very upset about the dish: we get the bill and I was charged $23.95 for the dish!!! My friend had a very good looking and twice the serving of chicken parmesan and hers was $13. The waitress also gave us attitude for wanting to split the check 3 ways and made a huff over the fact that she would have to void everything off to ring our checks individually. Perhaps that's something you ask in the beginning if your computer system is so outdated that you're unable to split a check 3 ways? I will not be returning to Rosebud ever again. There are way too many awesome Italian places in Chicago to give this place a second chance. Word to the wise: do not order any of their specials because they think it's okay to charge you double the lunch price of every other comparable dish.
(1)
Christy D.

This is the kind of Italian restaurant I wanted to find when I moved to Chicago- sucess!!! It had that dark romantic Italian feel to it- love it! I also loved everything I put into my mouth that night. I had the chopped salad which was so fresh and had such a great mix of vegetables. This made me feel better as I ate the cheesiest most delicious vodka sauce covered noodles afterwards. Generous portions so splitting is possible which I am a fan of. Very helpful waiter as well.
(4)
Ross W.

it's dark and has the ambiance of an old school Italian restaurant. Food is pretty good and in extremely generous portion. I ordered the Eggplant Salad, and to my utter belief, it was a ginormous pile, at least 9 pieces of good-sized eggplant parmesan stacked with tomato and mozzarella, topped with greens. Needless to say, I had much leftover. Same story with Hubby's Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich. The Spicy Calamari had a nice kick to it. Despite a full stomach, I welcomed the delicious Tiramisu which I couldn't finish.
(4)
Linda H.

It's been a while since I've been to Rosebud...what used to be my "go-to" place for Italian has been replaced by other favorites, but we decided to give them a visit on Sunday night. It was pretty slow, as the Bears were about to start playing, so I was thrilled that we were seated quickly (without reservations). I was looking forward to having a few beers and some great pasta after a long weekend of work...this being my "big night out". Waitress came by relatively quickly and offered olive oil for our bread and dispensed onto our plates. Since when can we not be trusted with our own personal oil dispenser on the table? Waitress was quite chatty (a bit too much)...and we ordered drinks. I *love* the square noodles, but also was eyeing the cavatelli arrabiata, and could not decide. When waitress returned with drinks I told her of my dilemma and she suggested the square noodles with arrabiata...now why didn't I think of that? Anyway, it was a brilliant suggestion and I could not wait to eat. In the meantime, I enjoyed my bread and rationed olive oil, while BF got a nice house salad. And we waited. My beer was long gone, and my olive oil was gone. I was hungry and wanted another beer. Waitress stood by another table and chatted, and chattted, and would run off without looking at our table for 10-15 minutes. Grrrr. It seriously was not even busy, but she spent WAY too much time chatting. Finally, I practically accosted her for another beer, and her reaction was kinda like "Well, why didn't you tell me you wanted another beer?", um, I would have if you had looked in our direction in the last 15 minutes! Ok, food arrives finally, delivered by another waitress. My pasta is NOT hot. Sigh. It was a huge portion, and toward the bottom of the bowl it was hot-ish, but most of it was pretty much room temp...SUCH a bummer. BF said his veal braciole was excellent (he doesn't give a rat's arse about his food being hot). My pasta was excellent, but I would have been over the moon about it had it been HOT. All I could think of is how good it will be leftover heated up to proper temp (which was definitely the case!). So, beer #2 is long gone now, and I'm done eating and ready to have my pasta wrapped, which bus dude efficiently does. Waitress comes by and offers dessert, and I tell her I would like to see dessert menu but really just want another beer for dessert. She drops off dessert menu, and never returns with beer....in the meantime chats with another table for 10-15 minutes. Finally, BF had to go up to her and just ask for the check 'cuz at this point we just wanted to go. The food is absolutely 5 stars! (when hot)....and perhaps this bad service experience was an anomaly, but it was bad enough to subtract 2 stars. I know I will be back to Rosebud, but I will be in no hurry.
(3)
Lara R.

What a quaint restaurant! Excellent meal of Italian wedding soup followed by one of the day's specials - a delicious homemade lobster ravioli with shrimp. Finished with a slice of carrot cake. Everything was so fresh and homey - and in portions too large to finish!
(4)
Michelle B.

We were extremely pleased with our dining experience! Be prepared for very generous portions and great service (it can be slow when they're really busy though). While the background noise was fairly loud, the amazing food made up for it. And the *original* Rosebud is a must-see nestled into a cute college town/city.
(5)
natalia k.

I had a horrible dinner here just last night. I had such high hopes for this restaurant, but I will never be going back! The customer service is what got me - our waitress was so rude! Well really, it started from the moment my friend and I walked it - the host was not welcoming and gave us a blank stare.. They gave us the smallest table even though there were plenty of open larger tables. Then when the waitress came, she treated my friend and I like we were a pair of idiots. Their pinot noir was below par. There martinis were way too strong. There food was nothing crazy. The only nice thing was the ambiance. THERE ARE OTHER REALLY NICE RESTAURANTS IN THE TAYLOR ST AREA THAT FANATASTIC! I got to these other ones all the time - the staff is very nice, the food is fantastic, and overall worth your money!
(2)
Sam M.

Went for dinner (a monday night) with two others. I had meat ravioli, one lady had the lasagna and the other some pasta seafood that the waiter recommended. Bread as an appetizer was hard/stale and unappetizing. Lady with salad and lasagna said her food was good. Mine tasted like regular stuff - average american italian. The seafood pasta was a massive portion and the seafood was pretty bad. The bill came and the waiter had failed to mention the seafood pasta was $43! (the average serving price was $16) Waiter was bad - messed up bill twice and was basically a jerk. Overall food was totally average to below average. If the place was about 40% cheaper I'd recommend it if you weren't a connoiseur(sp?). Again, this is based on only one visit.
(2)
Kim P.

Came here with my family on a recent trip to Chicago and was not disappointed. The atmosphere felt like I was in an episode of The Soprano's. Using recommendations from Yelp, I ordered the square noodles with vodka sauce. This dish did not disappoint. The noodles were absolutely delicious, perfectly complimented by the creaminess of the vodka sauce. Yum yum yum. The other dishes I sampled were great too - brick chicken, meatball (my other favorite) and veal marsala. The portions are huge - so definitely share, or take home leftovers!
(4)
Carolyn S.

This is my favorite Italian place in Chicago. Traditional ambiance, excellent service, delicious food and the most generous servings I've seen anywhere. The area of town it's in doesn't strike me as the safest. I'd forgo the urge for a late night stroll after dinner. Definitely consider splitting your portion with another member of your party.
(5)
Hugo V.

A Chicago Classic. I usually go before a Hawks or Bulls game. The Brick Chicken is amazing and all the portions are big enough to share. Not a place to go if you are counting the calories.
(5)
T T.

Good Italian food, great atmosphere, attentive service.
(4)
Jon W.

I love it. I have eaten there twice so far since I have moved here. Once outside and once inside, both were great for different reasons. Both times I went I had a salad and my friends had pasta. Both were great. I find it hard to find really good salads. I highly recommend the warm spinach salad with seared ahi or the Cesar salad with shrimp. The staff was very friendly and attentive both times. This place is a Chicago legend. I heard that Frank Sinatra used to have a reserved table here. (I went to the one next to the Peninsula Hotel.. not sure if this is that address or not) (I ate lunch both times so my price information is based on that.) (I ate here a third time, today. I had a different salad, the Cobb Salad that comes with shrimp. It was great too!
(5)
Christine L.

It's surprising I haven't yet morphed into a giant mozzarella ball with the amount of Italian I consume. Hubs and I made a visit to the original Rosebud recently and it was oh-so-yum-o. The restaurant atmosphere is dark and cozy and the food, oh, the food! We started with the house salads and I ordered the baked ziti (on special that night) and the hubs went traditional with spaghetti and meatballs. Both dishes were served piping hot, the sauce was amazing and the Italian sausage in my ziti was awesome. I even had enough left over after stuffing myself, to have dinner the next night. The service was seamless; our waiter was very friendly and attentive. A fantastic meal was had with the promise to return!
(5)
Joseph J.

There's a reason this restaurant has survived for decades - it's the best traditional Italian restaurant in the city. I first went there maybe 25 years ago when I was a kid and thought that spaghetti from a box with meat sauce from a jar was what Italian food is supposed to taste like. After that one meal I finally understood what real Italian food is all about. I've been to some of the "best" Italian restaurants in Chicago, but this is still my favorite.
(4)
Iona B.

The food (chicken Alfredo) was yummy, and I had enough left over to make a second meal. The service is prompt and the people were friendly.
(3)
Dan C.

Phenomenal!!! Had the mahi mahi special. It was fabulous! Nice ambiance. Had a romantic feel to it. Great date spot.
(5)
Doe L.

The food has always been mediocre to me but the thing that keeps me coming back for more.... the calamari! omg i love calamari. Rosebud has a very lightly breaded calamari that gives it just enough crunch. This is extremely important since too much breading makes me feel nauseous.. The pieces are large too so theres still a great squid taste. In my experience, theres usually more rings than tentacles (which would be appealing to some people i know who get grossed out easily.) I went to this location recently and saw on the menu "spicy calamari available by request". this peaked my curiousity and i am soooo glad it did. it wasn't spicy at all. (*EDIT: i went back and had it again and this time it was spicy but not as garlicky. still delicious!) but they were sitting in a thick oil/garlic sauce that gave it a completely different flavor. It still retains a little bit of crunch but not much. (especially the ones at the bottom). But it is WELL worth it. Rosebud has always been on the top of my list for calamari... but this "spicy" version may have been the best I ever had... (i love garlic with a passion btw) I'm drooling as i write this...
(4)
Julia T.

One of my favorite Italian places to go to get delicious calamari and pasta. My favorite dish here is the Fusilli Carbonara. So creamy and tasty! They give you a huge portion so I get to enjoy it the next day for lunch. The calamari is consistently cooked to perfection. It is a must! The service here is great and the servers are very attentive. Haven't had a bad experience here out of the many times we've been there.
(4)
Mr T.

Best Italian on taylor! Place has best food and best service! Been here 10 times and never had a bad time. If you don't come here you need to! Large portions so be prepared! They started it so don't be surprised and right about it when u go! 5 stars!!!!
(5)
Patricia J.

We are from California and as soon as we land we always always go straight to your restaurant!!! We love you and have lot's of memories dinning with friends and family...
(5)
Nick S.

Rosebud gives huge portions at a reasonable price. It's not gourmet Mediterranean by any means. They just add a ton of butter to everything. This restaurant has the gumba, old school charm that is irresistible. It's a good place to go with a group of friends. It's a Chicago favorite.
(4)
L. Joey M.

I love all the woodwork, and I like that the restaurant has a clear identity in its decor and menu offerings. We went on a Wednesday night. We had a reservation and were sat immediately. The service was fine, professional and not overly enthusiastic (fine in that the waiter brought our food and wine and dessert menu in a timely and pleasant fashion, but took about 25 minutes to bring the bill at the end of the meal). The food portions were huge, as is often described below, but the flavor and subtly lacking. We ordered the mussels in tomato broth and fried calamari to begin. I only had one mussel, which I found well steamed but the sauce was plain and not memorable. The sauce for the calamari was memorable, however, in that I took one bite, decided I hated it, took another bite to see if I had poked my fork in a badly stirred pocket, and tried it a third time to see if maybe I was confused the previous times. I wasn't. The horseradish did not meld with the tomato flavors and, more importantly, did not bring out the flavor of the calamari. The calamari were too chewy and the breading tasted like oil. A disappointing choice. My girlfriend ordered the brick chicken, which is a whole de-boned chicken served with crispy skin. I don't know how to describe it exactly, but the texture of the chicken was reminiscent of hot lunch chicken from grade school--something about it felt "cheap" or processed. The skin had a thick membrane on the bottom that I found disconcerting. I ordered the penne bolognese, which has meaty and satisfying in a big-bowl-of meat-and-pasta-is-comforting sort of way. The flavors did not seem...sophisticated, I guess. It was rich to be sure and I could feel the buttery goodness on my lips, but I was left wanting more.
(3)
Erin M.

I have yet to have a bad meal here. I always seem to get the same waiter who is amazing but can't remember his name. They have great lunch specials but my favorite thing on the menu is the grilled calamari. You have to ask for it spicy!!! OMGoodness......MMMMMmmm!!!!
(5)
Rhianna W.

Came here early on a Monday night. The restaurant wasn't busy. Our waiter showed up 15 minutes after we were seated, took our wine order and disappeared for another 20 minutes. I have food allergies and the waiter wasn't very helpful, but I walked him through it and thought we were ok. We waited an hour after we ordered without our food appearing, and with only one update from the waiter (but no apology), while everyone who had been seated after us received their food and was nearly finished eating. We ended up leaving without eating, nearly two hours after we were seated. We spoke to the manager, who didn't appear to care very much. I've eaten at other Rosebud locations and have had wonderful service. I will be frequenting those locations, but won't be coming back to this one.
(1)
Ahmad N.

place is tiny but the food is really good and our server made us feel like we were family.
(4)
Dan Z.

Wow. Found his place while staying near the medical center. Not too many options within walking distance and the reviews were great. They did not disappoint! Cozy atmosphere, comfortable. Sinatra playing softly in the background, friendly bartender Rachael greeted me immediately. When you walk in and smell the food, you're already expecting a good meal. Had pasta fagiole soup to start, glass of house chianti (very smooth for house brand). Soup was flavorful, pasta not over cooked, complex textures. Few bites of crunchy pancetta - Yes!! Then went with the veal special - Fred flintstone size veal chop, breaded and fried, then smothered in mozorella - served over linguine bolognese. I can eat quite a lot but knew I wouldn't be finishing this thing. Veal tender enough, cheese was amazing, but the bolognese - that's what earned them the additional star! So rich but not in a bad way. great comfort food taste and a Surprising complement having a meat sauce with veal, but it certainly worked. I overheard the owner saying they've had the same cook for 20 years. With skills like that, he should have job security! If you find yourself in this area, do not miss this place. Rachael was amazing, food and ambience was perfect - could have been right out of a Goodfellas scene. Well done !
(5)
Alicia M.

Best Lasagna ever...hands down, people!! This place is easy to get to (Pink line, Ashland bus), is on the cute main stretch of Taylor Street and is very romantic. I am a huge fan It's where my husband and I went on our very first date, and we just enjoyed dinner there last weekend with my family. I forgot how amazing the food is and how helpful the servers are. If you want that Little Italy "it" experience, try it! I don't think the pricing is over the top, either
(5)
Barbara O.

Ridiculous sized portions ruined my apetite. There were 3 of us who chose the ribeye special and we got 2lb prime rib on the bone which was so huge none of us ate even a third. We brought home what remained and couldn't bear to even look at it and eventually just ditched it. A gross waste of food. We won't be back.
(2)
Dotty C.

Taylor street is definitely where worlds collide and on this particular afternoon my husband, sister and I decided that we would treat ourselves to a decadent late lunch. We were distractedly amused to be among Blackhawk fans that began to drift in on this the 4th game of the playoffs. The area is also ground zero for the medical community which brought us into the mix. Our meals ranged from great ( my Eggplant Parm was awesome) to mediocre, (Shrimp stuffed Tilapia, my sister was disappointed with) and (Sea Bass, which husband did enjoy) but we were all bent on conviviality and left satiated. My reason for writing however; is motivated by what came afterward, I realized 45 minutes later (as I arrived at my doorstep) I did not have my purse (keys, I.D. etc.). Did I mention we were distracted and convivial? After an immediate "about face" I called the restaurant and asked if my bag was found, and where we had been seated. "Gina" answered saying "It was not at the station...she would look, and call me back". 20 minutes passed and yet another 20 minutes away. I called back and was informed by "Joe" that "he had a full restaurant, no one turned it in and he would not send anyone to look"...Flash forward.... I was told not to enter the dining room... I was allowed to point out the table where we had short time before seated and icily told to "stand where I would not be in the way" , he "Joe" would ask the guest. When he returned with what can only be described as an expression of contempt, he handed my bag off as if it was filled with radio active material. The food is fine but served without soul...I hope my leftovers tomorrow can remove the bad taste from this evening.
(3)
Chris D.

The food was fantastic. The waitress Rachel G however was the rudest person I have ever come in contact with. She went over the specials and there was a lot of them, and I was impressed that she remembered all that so I asked how she remembered all of it and she looked at me with a arrogant smirk and said "um I have 3 college degrees" almost like she was looking down on me. I myself have a master's but really didn't feel like it was relevant to throw it in anyone's face. Then she came back and asked if anyone wanted desert and when we were debating whether or not we wanted desert she said "since you guys don't know what's going on I will just go over what we have" now we were there with 12 people and spent over $300. We came to rosebud in Chicago because at 5:30 am tomorrow morning I am going to UI Hospital to donate a portion of my liver to a girl that happened to be at this dinner too. My family and her family were there to enjoy a nice meal and to have an arrogant waitress like that was unbelievable. She certainly deserves a reprimand of some type to show her that that behavior is unacceptable. I really like Rosebud but I will never return to the Taylor location if I'm to be treated like that
(1)
Zenia R.

comfort food goodness. generous portions and warm atmosphere, tri-taylor staple.
(4)
James F.

This is one of my favorite places in Chicago. The service is very attentive and the aim to please. The quality of the food is fantastic! The atmosphere is worth the trip in itself. It is classy and retro. It makes you feel comfortable and classy without being pretentious. I recommend it highly!
(5)
Pavnit K.

Rosebud?! Try more like dying rose. All i can say is that I was thoroughly disappointed about every aspect of this restaurant. My friend was visiting from NY and it happened so that Italian was his favorite cuisine. I thought hey, Chicago, Italian food?! How could you not?! I personally had never been to Little Italy, so I looked on Yelp and found Rosebud. The reviews seemed to pretty good so we decided to check it out. It was pleasantly busy for a Sunday so we figured that was a good sign. As soon as we were seated, the server brought over a bread basket, but no olive oil or butter. We tried flagging him down on a couple of occasions, but to no avail. Literally about 8 to 10 minutes went by when our actual server came by and realized we had no oil. As she went to get our oil and our drink order (consisting of 2 waters and a diet coke) we decided to check out the menu. It is pretty clear that this place caters to "regulars" or connoisseurs of Italian food because there was absolute no description of the dishes on the menu. It took her another 5 to 10 minutes before she finally returned with the oil and our drinks, but not the diet coke. When I asked for her the diet coke, she seemed slightly annoyed but went and got it. Note, in the mean time, she went ahead and took the order of the people behind us, but ignored our order. We had to flag her down just to order appetizer and our food. She was also not very enthusiastic over the 4 questions we had on the menu items. Normally, I am not one to comment on service, because everyone is entitled to a bad day, but this individual really upset me because it was very apparent that she was attentive and nice to all tables except ours and we were not even bothersome. So....the food.... bruschetta- lackluster at best. There was so much oil that the tomatoes were soggy and I am pretty sure my arteries were clogging as I was eating it. I ordered lasagna, my friend ordered chicken parmesan (and asked for the sauce to be spicy) and my fiance ordered their brick chicken. I am pretty sure they hijacked Sbarro's recipes because the sauce and meat in the lasagna tasted like they hijacked it from the mall. There was little to no flavor and it was pretty greasy. My friend's chicken parmesan was so undercooked that it took on a rubbery consistency. He barely took a bite and ended up leaving it. Plus, to top it off, they never gave him the sauce he asked for. My fiance's chicken was probably the best thing on the table and even that wasn't anything to die for. Towards the end of the meal, our waitress came by and asked if we were interested in dessert. We all said no, but she left a menu on our table and walked away. We were all kind of stunned. She probably took another 10 minutes to come back so that we could tell her we weren't interested in dessert. Sadly, it took us another 15 minutes or so to pay the bill due to the unattentive service. Despite all of that, we still gave a decent 18% tip and she didn't even have the decency to wish us a good night. Robert Irvine, if you reading this, the food and service need saving!
(1)
Laura V.

I haven't eaten at this Rosebud in quite awhile and I was surely missing out! I am a regular at Carmine's and Rosebud Steakhouse and I love both, but went to Rosebud on Taylor St with a big group. First of all, the food was divine. Every appetizer we had was delicious. Eggplant salad is the best appetizer I ever ate (and yes, I order it at all of their restaurants). Zuppa de pesce was my entree and it has huge and the best I have ever eaten. Lastly, our server Angela was amazing. She was kind, knew the menu and specials and was social and friendly. I will request her next time too.
(5)
Phil M.

I stopped into the Rosebud on a Saturday after doing some shopping. I was craving something from the Mediterranean and boy did I pick the right place! It was beautiful out, so I sat outside- very quaint and it had that European neighborhood feel. The waitress was very nice and very knowledgeable as well. She riddled off the specials for the day which consisted of about 20 items- no lie! I ordered 2 appetizers because I just wanted something light. Man, you should've seen what came to the table! One GIANT order of fried Calamari and a huge dish of Sausage and Peppers! These were just appetizers! I had two glasses of wine and two HUGE appetizers- plus a tip and it cost me around $40. This also includes fresh bread and olive oil that was brought to the table as I waited on my meal. The food was excellent as was the service and it made for the perfect spot to duck into for a quick Saturday afternoon meal. I'm a huge fan of the Rosebud now!
(5)
Angela S.

We visited last night for the first time, and it was enchanting! We made a reservation for 8 pm and arrived early. The bar was packed, and there was very little standing room, so we walked down the street and ha d an app at The Vintage. (By the way, that place deserves a 5star rating as well!) once seated, on time, our waiter greeted us with eagerness and an exciting list of specials that he delivered like he was on a stage. We hung in every word as he made everything sound amazing. Even the dishes we would have never ordered sounded tempting. We ended up getting the brick chicken (outstanding 3 lb. deboned chicken), chicken park with fettuccine Alfredo ( wow wow wow!!!! The richness of the Alfredo was mind blowing), and a sea bass special with spinach and tomato basil sauce, which I heard was better than The Iron Chef sea bass for less than half the price. Once we had nearly finished, the waiter pointed out the large painting over our table of old blue eyes. He let us know we were sitting at "Franks table", since he had eaten there more than 150 times. That sealed the deal- Our experience was top notch. Next trip to Chicago- we will be here, FIRST!
(5)
Maura C.

Fantastic! Went there on a date. I ordered the Chilean sea bass, which was on special. It was the best Chilean seabass I've ever had. My date had pasta- very good! Definitely will go back!
(5)
Pat O.

This place is classic Little Italy. That comes with a pricetag. Two entrees, one appetizer and two glasses of wine came to $120 without a tip. That said, the food was delicious, the decor is nice, and the wait staff are extremely helpful. We didn't come here looking for a bargain meal, so you shouldn't be either. If you like Italian and want a special night out, this is a good place. We found plenty of street parking, but our reservation was at 6, so it might get worse later on in the evening.
(4)
Candice G.

How are all Italians not 500 pounds? I don't know what's in Italian blood, but God must've blessed them with some kind of magic metabolism to be able to down all the butter, oil, cheese, carbs and more, and still be able to keep it tight at stallion status. After dining at the original Rosebud this afternoon, I left with the pain of a million stretch marks fighting over who got to claim the fleshy territory on my gut. Ugh. So pretty, I know. I guess that's what I get for trying to pretend like I could eat like Soprano. After what was probably 3 loaves of fresh baked bread, oil, pepper and Parmesan, a Napoleon eggplant salad that blew my mind (DO NOT pass this up), their ridiculously rich rigatoni ala vodka, a bite of the seafood fettucine dish (mind blowing) and a dessert that involved a bottom layer of spongy yellow cake, light and fluffy chocolate mouse, a fine layer of hardened chocolate on top, strawberry sauce, mint, and freshly whipped cream, I felt like I was ready to die a happy, fat death. And while the dishes at around $15-25 each didn't make this the most economical place to take a group of 11 for lunch, it was a GREAT meal, we had a private room upstairs all to our selves, the service was stellar with the most up-to-the-moment water refill-age I've ever experienced, the announcing and multiple repeating of the specials, and the detailed description of just about a third of the menu at each guests request, it was certainly justifiable for this special occasion. I would come back in a heartbeat with my faux Italian grandma and the intention of downing that Napolean eggplant salad faster than any hungry FOB-er in the history of Little Italy.
(4)
Olga R.

We went here on a tuesday late afternoon, no one else was in the restaurant, yet we had to wait 10 minutes for our server. Since we were very hungry, We ordered fish salad for appetizer and 2 soups right away. 20 minutes later he returned with our soups , one was minestrone and the other was pasta fagiole , they both tasted exactly the same., both were very salty and bland. After another 20 minutes, our fish salad arrived, it was just ok. By this time, another couple arrived. We thought if service is this bad with only one table, what happens when he has 2 tables to wait on. We had to wait another 20 minutes for him to take our order. Our pasta dishes were just ok, very very salty. I am sure that we would never return here.. This was our date night and left very disappointed. Very over priced. Our bill was 72.00 , no drinks, we only drank water. Where was management ? Host should be more involved with customers. Host never came over to our table.
(1)
Mike M.

I figured on a nice early Sunday afternoon I could spend some time getting a good meal, perfect day outdoors, & a good price. The problem was the latter. I felt for a couple of salads, $25 was going to be a fair price. Over $40 for two salads, & I was scratching my head. Service was excellent & food was good, but the pricing compared to similar restaurants was nothing to write about. It's a tourist attraction no doubt, but nothing more.
(2)
Nicole M.

Meeting an old friend for lunch it has become our thing to meet on Taylor St. Neither of us had been to Rosebud before and both had heard good things so why not. The hostess was amazingly friendly and was most of the wait staff. Our waitress left something to be desired but over all the service was good. The dining room is beyond dim..almost dark which really is fine with me. The lunch menu is simple all my Italian favorites after about 10 minutes of going back and forth I finally decided on the rigatoni with vodka creme sauce. For it being lunch time I was surprised at how long the wait was for pasta about 35 minutes and that was after waiting 20 minutes for the waitress to take our order. The pasta was so good! Portion size was good as well. I have about half left to have for lunch today. If you are in a hurry I recommend trying another place but if you have the time Rosebud is the place to go! I will be going back
(4)
Jennifer M.

The first time we came here was during the Taylor Street Festival last August and I really enjoyed it. The outdoor seating environment made this a pleasant dining experience. Our second and most recent time was on Father's Day of this year. It was too hot to even consider eating outside so we went in and found ourselves sitting in a dimly lit, traditional Italian decorated room. The menu has no description! The warm bread came without any offering of crushed black pepper. The portion of food was more for a family of four, an obese individual or someone who enjoys leftovers. With that said, the price for the Chicken Parmesean which sits on top of a pile of spaghetti was reasonable. I recommend this place for groups of people so you can share plates. I guess it's something I overlooked when we met up with friends last year. It's just too much for two people who want to eat different entrees.
(3)
Matt H.

Our favorite Italian place by a mile! Anytime we are even close to little Italy we gotta stop. Great sauce, great everything. Best pasta fagioli ever had
(5)
Patrick H.

A little pricey but the portions are MASSIVE. The food is delicious, the staff is competent (we asked to be re-seated inside to escape the bees and we were moved immediately), and the vibe is nice. "The lighting is too dim" isn't a valid complaint; it's a preference. If you don't like dark(ish) lighting, I'm sure you can find a brightly lit McDonald's that's more to your liking.
(5)
Toni B.

Food is very good. I would have given them a 4. Service however was not great. They were very nice but forgot two of the drinks and never brought the cheese we asked for.
(3)
Anna Marie S.

Skip the bread and save room for your entree because it will feed about 3 people! Huge delicious portions that will not disappoint. Bolognese is amazing as well as the Fish special! Calamari, shrimp, clams and mussels- so fresh and so good. Our waiter was great and super friendly making the experience even better.
(5)
Astrid P.

Great great place. The pasta was on its point "al dente" The seafood was amazing and The waitter great! Higly recommended!
(4)
Denise S.

I ate at Rosebud on Rush several years ago so I was excited to try the original. Oh, Rosebud, you did not disappoint! Did a little Yelping before we went so I could figure out what to eat. Love eggplant and the reviews on the Napoleon Eggplant Salad were spot on. Absolutely delicious. I knew the entree was going to be huge so I decided to save some room and I'm glad I did. We had a woooonderful server, Sarah M., who was ridiculously attentive without smothering. Sarah, patiently answered all our questions and made great suggestions. I wanted the pappardelle but not feeling the marinara. Sarah suggested it with vodka sauce and crumbled sausage. Manna from heaven! Hus had the special which was veal chop parm. Huge portion and he raved about it. Others had the manicotti and rigatoni. Loved how she did a subtle up-sell of a side of meatballs and sausage combo to one of my dinner companions. Well done Sarah! The only thing not to like about this meal was the fact I didn't have room to finish it all. Great food, service and ambience. A culinary trifecta.
(5)
Janet H.

This is a very nice Italian restaurant near the United Center, the Medical District and UIC. There are white table cloths, waiters in white jackets and seating in several different rooms. I dined here on my birthday and ate veal parmesan, which was absolutely delicious, and for Valentine's Day my date suggested I have something different, so I tried the lasagna. It was also delicious and so was my salad, my slice of cheesecake, and the glass of merlot I sipped very slowly. Therefore, I will have to confess that the food is good. So if you are looking for a place to have a nice intimate and romantic dinner, I suggest the Rosebud. They are not cheap; however, so bring a credit card and plenty of cash. Also, bring an appetite. Their portions are large.
(4)
Kristy F.

A bit pricey...but well worth it! I listened to fellow yelpers and ordered the Napoleon Eggplant Salad. I was not at all disappointed!! The lettuce, fried eggplant, chunks of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and dressing created an orgasm in my mouth. I was only able to finish half of the portion but I look forward to eating the rest of it tomorrow. I also tasted my friends pasta. He ordered the Rigatoni in Vodka...also very delicious. Could use some pieces of steak or some source of meat on the side, but overall delicious. I will for sure go back!
(5)
Russ T.

I used to live across the street from this place and me and my girlfriend would go here often. the staff are professional, friendly and attentive. We went here tonight for our anniversary and as usual everything was great! One complaint though...... The strip steak (I highly recommend italiano style!) that I would order most of the time had changed in price from just above $20 to $40!!!!!!! in under 2 years, the price of the SAME MEAL had doubled! I love this place, but I noticed a lot of the items on the menu have increased dramatically. I don't frequent there any more because i moved, but that was a considerable let down. If not for the price difference, i would definitely change my review to 5 stars.
(3)
Vanessa H.

Their Brick Chicken is phenomenal! It's lemony and garlicky and tender! Great restaurant for a couple or small groups.
(4)
Puleng L.

I'm not sure if the chef was having a bad day but the food was tasteless. I have only been here once so I may not be the best judge but I know for sure I'll not go back. The customer service is great though.
(3)
Diego A.

Nice place and high priced expectations...however I was not impressed with the lasagna plate...I'll have to try again sometime but with so many other options on Taylor it might be a while.
(3)
Helen H.

All four of us loved our food. We started out with stuffed mushrooms. Then on to the main course. My husband spent two years in Italy, and he raved about his! Two of us had specialties of the day: white fish stuffed with crabmeat, and Chilean sea bass. Delicious! The baked lasagna was a classic hit, too. Generous (huge) portions meant we took home at least half, for enjoying again the next day. We had to save room for desserts....creme brulee, chocolate mousse cake, and gelatos in pistachio, vanilla, and chocolate. Everything was tasty, and our waitress was attentive. All in all, this was a very pleasant evening out on Taylor Street.
(5)
Pete D.

I am a steak and burger guy, but the Linguine with mussels in white wine sauce is absolutely the best! The mussels were cooked to perfection in a rich, yet light white wine sauce and it just made my evening. I did make the mistake of ordering a side of escarole thinking it was escargot. A plate of sauteed veggies came to our table without snails I did the "huh" look. I took my wife there for Valentines day dinner for the past two years. I look forward to going there again!
(4)
Stephanie H.

This place is so beautifully decorated for Christmas and super cozy. I brought my boyfriend's parents here for a nice dinner out. We all loved it! Very authentic food and atmosphere. I kept it simple and had the lasagna and a house salad. Didn't even eat half of my lasagna because the portion sizes here are pretty big. Come here hungry! Also, the food is pretty pricey so if you're looking for a fancy night out and don't mind spending the money, then Rosebud is your place.
(5)
Chris L.

I always liked Rosebud, and its been a few years since I had been there. After recently making a visit here again, my only complaint is that now I remember the good food I was missing out on all these years by not going. It doesn't get any more classic Italian then Rosebud. We were seated right away (had a reservation) and the service was prompt. I used to always get the sausage and peppers as an appetizer, but this time we decided to switch it up and go with Fried Calamari. Some of the best calamari I've had in a long time, a huge portion too. I decided to order the cavatelli arrabbiata, and it was great.
(4)
Charles L.

To me...An admitted italian food snob (NY'er)...The Rosebud is the finest italian restaurant in the US.....Bar None
(5)
Bo K.

One of the worst dining experiences of my entire life. A group of 9 of us went for lunch. It took 20 minutes to get our drinks. It took so long the ice had melted into the iced tea so they tasted like water again. It took 26 minutes before our food order was taken. We never got any extra bread we had asked for multiple times. The food came out 50 minutes into our lunch. The service was so bad and slow. I complained to the manager who gave me this look like he didn't have time to listen to this. He said they were really busy during lunch and that's why the service was so slow. What a bunch of crap! They weren't busy at all. It took a while before he finally apologized and said he'll see what he could do. I went back to my table and asked for the checks. We waited another 12 minutes for the checks. Are these people for real? The waiter finally took our checks and while we waited to get them back, the manager comes out and says he's sorry but if we can WAIT, he has desert coming out for us. Is this a joke? You want us to wait even longer for the desert? We told him to cancel because we had been there for an hour and 45 minutes. Of course, we waited forever for our final bill to come back. We paid our FULL price bill and left, never to return. If you have 2 hours to grab lunch and receive ass awful service, this place is perfect. I heard from a friend, when a pick up order isn't picked up, Rosebud makes the hostess pay for half of it. Now I know this place sucks. Who is the jackass that came up with that policy? Whoever it was, needs to work as the host and we should all call in fake food orders. We need to bankrupt that clown within his own policies.
(1)
Michelle L.

This is a nice Italian restaurant that we visited upon a friends request. They have an extensive menu. I had the Fettuccine Alfredo and was not disappointed. Some items are a bit Spendy, but most items are very comparable to other Italian chains. ($14-18 for a pasta dish) The lighting is low and some of the elderly crowd were using their cellphones to light the menu, so If you have problems seeing in dim lighting I would suggest asking for a seat near the window or bringing a small light of some sort. The atmosphere nice. The staff are in jackets and ties but we didn't feel uncomfortable being in hoodies and jeans after a day of walking the city. This is definitely a place that would be appropriate in black tie attire as well. The location is great as it is right in the city- accessible via the CTA. We rode the Red Line up from Sheed Aquarium and then ended up walking all the way back to our vehicle at the Field Museum (it was a beautiful night).
(4)
Erin J.

MAKE A RESERVATION BEFORE YOU GO. This place gets PACKED! It's as if your going to an Italian family dinner with your... Italian friend. The Rosebud is great! The place is cozy with soft dim lighting and it's fabulously unique. The waiters and waitresses know their stuff! The menu doesn't give an explanation of each item therefore you will probably ask your server 100 questions. We did. Again, aur waitress was very informative and did not disappoint us. There were 6 of us and we all ordered something different. Fried calamari-- the thick ones, YES! Brick Chicken was so juicy, great flavor. Baked Manicotti was my absolute favorite! The sauce was O-M-G! I should have asked if I could buy just the sauce to take home. Valet parking is $10 (located NEXT door to the restaurant).
(4)
Barb R.

Dined here a month ago - girl foodie trip with a good friend. It's a cute place and very cozy. We were greeted by our waitress Angela and she was wonderful, SO helpful and patient. We ordered the jumbo shrimp appetizer that came with bread, butter sauce and garlic sauce. OMG...those shrimp were SUPER jumbo! After having the appetizer and seeing other people's food order...we knew we were in trouble cause the portions are HUGE here!!! So we decided to split an order of linguine carbonara (was supposed to be fusilli pasta but asked if we could do linguine instead). Pasta was done to perfection, the sauce was too rich but just nice and creamy. Needless to say both plates were empty. :) For dessert we had the creme brÃ»lÃ©e. Loved that it was vanilla bean. For sure come here when you have a BIG appetite!
(4)
Mike R.

Festa italiana 2014 enjoyed dining outside and the food was truly delicious. So that we would not have to carry leftovers we split the Rosebud salad was was truly more than enough for two people filled with chopped everything, heart of palm, cucumber, tomatoes, olives with a wonderful vinaigrette. For our entree we split Veal Bracciole which were two large portions of veal filled with a light creamy goat cheese covered in a tomato cream sauce with 'bishop's hat' pasta. Truly worth every penny.
(5)
Joshua R.

Love the ambience and the food is equally good. Though I was here for some to go I wish I could sit down for a proper meal. Its good to take out your date for a dinner... The staff are very polite and for the table quiet fast last time I was here...
(5)
Meghan H.

Oh man this place was quite delicious. I had insalata di pesce (squid, octopus, calamari, and shrimp tossed in olive oil and spices/herbs!) and it LITERALLY made my mouth-water. It was so fresh-tasting and flavorfully refreshing! I loved the fact that I could walk out of an Italian restaurant without feeling like I had eaten a whale (if ya know what I mean)--I wasn't super stuffed---just perfectly satiated. They served up a pretty decent variety of breads that came complimentary to each table...with olive oil = magnificent! Although...it was SUPER LOUD IN HERE---you literally had to yell to get the attention of the person sitting across from you... Despite the noise, I highly recommend this place.
(4)
P R.

I was so happy we went - this placed lived up to all expectations. Wow was it good - food and service. At italian places love to try simple spaghetti and meatballs - they knocked it out of the park. Veal Marsala was great - flavorful with the sauce just right. Desserts were great - big enough for two or more. To top it all off - the espresso was perfect. Service was great.
(5)
Jacqueline M.

Delicious, great service and ambiance. However, portions are HUGE so highly recommend doing a family-style type of ordering if you're in a party larger than 2... enough food to go around and all can try a bit of each. Had leftovers for several days.
(4)
A C.

Rosebud is a restaurant chain. Of all the Rosebuds (on Rush, Carmines, Taylor St.), I prefer the one on Taylor Street. Here's why: 1) It's less crowded at Taylor Street - you NEVER have to wait in line for a table or compete with tourists. 2) portion sizes are larger here at Taylor than at Rush and Carmine's 3) Service is faster, more efficient, and there are more choices at Taylor 4) Parking is cheaper (on street by meter). :)
(4)
Jon C.

What happened? The food was not so good this time around....Probably will have to try one of the smaller Rosebud's as this visit appeared to be incredibly busy for a Monday night.
(2)
Foster R.

The Rosebud is okay, but nothing to write home to momma about. They have great service the ambience is classy, but the food is mediocre. It's a very nice establishment, the place seem to be managed very well, but the food is not all that. It's really not a must for me to go back.
(2)
Aimee H.

The rigatoni alla vodka was amazing. I would recommend it!
(4)
Winston C.

When I walked in and saw the old school wood panelling I was excited, I had read the reviews by my fellow Yelpers and was looking forward to a good meal. The menu had a great selection of traditional Italian dishes with a few unique twist and I found the service to be excellent. The downside, and to be honest, it's a big one, was the sauce. It is your typical "mid-west-heartland-of-America-Italian" sauce; which taste like a combination of Campbell's condensed tomato soup and Hunts tomato paste with a pinch of oregano. VERY DISAPPOINTING.
(3)
Anne B.

This is a cozy neighborhood Italian restaurant. It was recommended by the conceirge at my hotel who said she took her family there when they came to visit, so I had a sense it would be wonderful. It has warm wood walls, candlelight and delicious food. Chicken Marsala is huge and delicious and comes wide a side of pasta. You also get a wonderful bread basket before dinner with a variety inside. Kevin is a great bartender and kept me company while I ate. Wonderful place and I will definitely return upon my next trip to the windy city.
(5)
Katherine M.

Some of the dishes are 5-star, some are not. They know what to do with an eggplant and rack of lamb, but some of the dishes of pasta are a bit expensive. The refiling of water is too often and can be a bit disruptive but the staff mean well. An old childhood favorite, and now affordable lunch specials which are well worth the money.
(4)
Andy M.

I had a pasta and my girlfriend got a white fish with stuffed lobster. The food was decent but for 60 dollars I felt like I should have enjoyed the meal a little more.
(3)
Brit T.

My boyfriend and I had a very delicious meal here. The food is 4 stars. The service is average, and the ambience is cozy. Not a bad choice, but I prefer some of the more authentic italian restaurants in Little Italy.
(4)
Erika T.

So, I'm a little partial to this place as it is where my honey took me on our first date. We sat outside on a warm fall evening, I had wine, he had beer, we both ordered the fettuccine alfredo. It's not the best pasta on Taylor street, but it was a great atmosphere and good service. I'm always a little sad to see the tables put away in the winter, as the sidewalk dining is really what made that first date perfect for me.
(3)
Shawn K.

The food was exceptional. I was very impressed.. The service on the otherhand was just standard. The waitress I found to be rude and did not listen very well wen we placed our order. She also came past the table every 10 minutes to ask us how we were doing. Very difficult to carry on a converstion.... Food was exceptional... Wait staff subpar...
(3)
Michael H.

The quintessential Italian restaurant in the city. The food is always good. The portions are huge and the value is great.
(4)
Steven M.

I made reservations for a Saturday afternoon not knowing that the street was closed for Italian fest. I got a parking spot right at the front gate. It wasn't the Luck of the Irish! Then they tried shaking me down for $8 bucks just for the privilage of walking to the restaurant. Right! My friend looked it up on his iphone and it said the fest was free. And it is illegal to charge for a street fest in Chicago. The donation is suggested! So we get thru the Wop fest and get to RB. We were seated immediately and the waiters were on top of us the whole night. We walked by the cookies on display and we both knew what we were going to have for dessert. I had a pomegrannate tea and they bring you the bottle. I thought that was a good idea. As I am a big drinker in the summer. I started with the baked clams. they are petite but very good. The warm bread was nice and crispy as well. But the second basket was dry, hard and cold? I ordered the baked lasagna. It was served at the table in it's baking dish and transferred to a plate with extra sauce poured on top. It had gobbs of meat and was piping hot. I also ordered the meatballs and sausage. (I did not know the lasagna was so large or came with all that meat.) The meatballs were great. Nice and spicy, soaked in the red sauce. The sausage was cold! It had a good taste to it, but it was cold. I did not send it back because I did not want them to reheat it. And by the time they made a fresh batch. I would have been done with my meal. That, and I didn't see our server until she brought us the bill? What is with these people deciding if I should have dessert or not. Is a Jenny Craig sponsor following me around thinking that I am someone else? The food was good though and I will be back.
(3)
andrew s.

There are several Rosebud establishments all around the city, but Little Italy Location seems to be the best. Maybe because its where it all started for Rosebud. I would say any of their pastas on the menu are excellent. I especially like the Rigatoni Alla Vodka and Cavatelli Al Forno. I dont go for steak and chops but for the pasta so no opinion on the grill. I would say to anyone looking for the best Italian in Chicago to The Rosebud on Taylor.
(4)
Dane K.

Their lunch menu is extremely well priced... many things on it were $8-9 for the entree, and the entrees were regular sizes, not small portions or anything. TRY the chicken vesuvio. If you're unaware of what this is, you should at least try it once. It's a Chicago specialty. As Chicago as the Italian beef. And theirs is quite fantastic... (Vesuvio more or less is a piece of chicken sauted in a white wine sauce then tossed over potato wedges and thrown in an oven to get the skin crisp, garnished with peas later).. I've ordered it elsewhere before and Rosebud's was probably one of the better ones I've had (though it was made with boneless chicken?). The white wine sauce on it was amazing though, I could eat that all day. My sister had some baked ziti that was quite delicious... Service was decently good when we were there. I've been to a few other places in Little Italy, and this to me was better than some of the other big name places...
(5)
Brooke I.

I'm from Chicago and The Rosebud is the best italian food ever! I live in Dallas now, but when I'm home, I make it a point to go there when I'm in town. The service is always amazing, and the food is just so authentically italian.
(5)
min. r.

Best Italian food I've had since moving here years ago. I can't believe that it took me so long to try it, but now I want to go back every single week. I don't see it as the fancy night out that others seem to, but it was wonderful Italian food at reasonable prices. We had a group of 8, and were seated upstairs at a large table. Our waiter was totally on the mark, and every thing that we ordered came out correct, hot, and delicious. I had a Caesar salad; which is always hit and miss, depending on the dressing. This one was light, flavorful, and perfect, and the eggplant parmesan; delicately sliced eggplant, fresh cheese, and a tomato sauce that was well spiced and not cloying or thick. Easily the best looking dish at the table, and people drooled. :) The BF had the linguini with white clam sauce; loaded with clams in their shells and out - again, just a wonderful tasting dish.Other dishes around the table were rigatoni with vodka sauce (yum!), cavetelli with vegetables, a veal dish, baked clams (too tiny - don't bother), and some giant meatballs. The dishes are all massive, and everyone had leftovers - I'm jacked to eat eggplant for lunch today, and am seriously contemplating going back tomorrow night.
(5)
lash girl B.

The hostess sucks she made me and my husband wait at the bar for over an hour for are table . They kept asking us if we wanted to eat at the bar .. Finally they had a table for us and it was right next to the bar. I was pissed we couldn't sit in the other dining area . They food was ok but nothing to write home about. We will never return .. The waiter was nice and did his job though .
(2)
Kayci P.

Rosebud is a staple on Taylor Street, but the tourists are the only reason it stays around. The food's not bad, the service is good, and they have an extensive wine list, but when it comes to pricing, I tend to feel gouged every time. There's just nothing that special about it. If it weren't for the location and historic flair, I doubt this place would survive.
(3)
Susie C.

So I read the reviews about this restaurant and decided to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday with a bunch of friends at Rosebud. I made reservations a week before the event, and when we arrived, we had to wait 40 minutes in order to be seated. They didn't have the tables ready for us, so what's the point of having a reservation if they are not ready? I guess it's difficult for a party of 16. The service was poor. My friend ordered a chopped salad and mentioned it without cheese since she was allergic. Well what do you know, she got a chopped salad with cheese. Then near the end of dinner, I told one of the waitress that I have a cake on hold and would like to take it out to eat. It was nice of them to cut the cake and serve each one of us and making sure everyone had a piece, but what's really shady was that they charged $2 per cutting of the cake WITHOUT telling us. We found this out when we got the bill. So I ended up paying $32 for the cake cutting service, and what's even dumb was that two of my friends already left early so it was really 14 people who actually had cake but was charged by the count of reservation (makes sense, but I am still angry that there was a charge of cutting the cake without our knowledge). After the bill was handed to me, we did not see any waitresses or waiters. Although that isn't a surprise since they put us on the second floor, and we only saw our waitress four times throughout the night (first time was to get our order, the second was when she brought the food to us, the third was to give us the cake, and the fourth was to give us the bill). When we needed refills or assistance, we just have to wait for one of those "more important" times. If you are looking for feeddbacks on food, it isn't bad. I liked my dish, but other places are better. One of my friends ordered a pork chop, and it was pretty dry. If you have a big party, I would suggest going elsewhere.
(2)
Vanessa H.

I stopped by Rosebud for a solo lunch. I was a bit intimidated at first because the lady in front of me had reservations. I thought it was going to be one of THOSE restaurants. Thankfully the hostess was amazingly sweet and the service was great. My waitress was patient enough to go through the menu with me and explain the dishes as I was a first time diner. I settled on their specialty squared noodles and switched the sauce to their meat sauce. It was very good. The meat sauce actually had chunks of meat and vegetables and was very filling. The plate was a bit pricey, $17 just for me, but I ended up boxing half of it for home. The noodles were a bit soggy in some areas, that might have been because they had to fold the noodles over. However, I would definitely try it again with a different type of pasta. Overall, it was a nice experience and the flavor of the sauce made up for it.
(4)
Melissa D.

I recently tried Rosebud again, and immediately felt a little guilty about my review. This time, the service was much better! I wish I could remember our waiter's name- he was very friendly with a good sense of humor! Still not the best Italian around, but I did like my meal and have no complaints!
(3)
Caz U.

Visiting little Italy on our trip to Chicago, my friend and I wanted authentic Italian where we could eat outside, enjoy the weather, and take in Chicago and The Rosebud allowed us to do all of that. Our first real meal of the day, we went into Rosebuds as soon as it had opened and the first clue it was authentic Italian food was the Italian couple seated at the bar speaking Italian. We asked for the sidewalk seating outside which was set up very cutely under string lights, trees, and umbrellas. They serve warm, loaf bread with a slice of butter. My friend ordered the cheese ravioli and I ordered something that they only make at The Rosebud which was an Eggpland Napolean salad. I was thinking "eh, just a salad" so I also ordered a side of potatoes. My friend raved about the sauce in her dish, claiming that she would eat it as a soup. I did not try her dish because I was too busy eating and relishing in my AMAZING, oh-so delicious salad. Potatoes were definitely not needed as the salad was pretty large. Fried eggplant stacked with fresh mozerella, tomatoes, basil, leafy greens and in a vinigarette sauce that was to-die-for! Don't think it's just another fancy caprese salad because it definitely is not! The eggplant was cooked perfectly and the cheese was so fresh and yummy. Because I did order them, I did try the potatoes which were a little bland and I left them alone after a bite so I can finish my salad because I would rather have spent my tastebuds (and money) on that. We also ordered the Chocolate mousse cake served with delicious ice cream. There are other Rosebuds around Chicago but if you want a nice, little setting that is away from the big city, check out Little Italy and the Rosebud there.
(5)
Danny M.

Oooh my god...this place is good. I took my girl for a romantic lunch here, we sat outdoors since it was nice that day. I ordererd the salmon cause I was on a diet, I know I know who orders sea food at a italian restaurant but hey it was the best salmon i ve had to date. My girlfriend order the lausana and they served her a huge slice, it was a monster. I tried that and it was delious.Only thing people might have a problem with is the price but came on this place has great food, it worth it...Over and out..
(5)
T M.

The service was great; the food was good and yes the portions were large. Good food and large portions and nice ambiance. I'm a fan and yes I would return.
(4)
Jerry G.

The Rosebud may be famous for it being the original location in the heart of Little Italy, but seems unable to set itself apart from other italian restaurants nowadays. I've been here twice and while their fried calamari, Rigatoni alla Vodka, Meatballs and Veal Parmesan tasted great, I would not say it was better than other italian franchises such as Maggiano's or Buca di Beppo. Considering that the price of the entrees in Rosebud seem to be a tad higher than those other italian franchises it would be hard for me to recommend anyone to go out of their way just to drive to the city and eat here. If you do live in the city there are far better italian options in Lincoln Square (such as Buona Terra) that you should eat at.
(3)
Sandra T.

the food is ok but, the staff really makes up for it. you can walk in there without a reservation and they won't look at you like you have lost your mind. very friendly atmosphere good wine list and a full bar. you can find parking on the street.
(4)
Jacob K.

There are many great Italian restaurants in Chicago but you can never go wrong with Rosebud. This place still has the feel of an old Italian restaurant with dark wood and traditional Italian cuisine. I even had the "mobster experience" once when I was there and decided to eavesdrop just a little on the neighboring table before asking them to lower their voices as they were very loud and obnoxious (a one time occurrence). Then I heard them talking about beating people down, extortion and it was time for us to change tables. Back to the food though. the seafood linguine with red sauce is one of my favorites as is the calamari, the lasagna and the garbage salad. If you want a real treat there is a bone in veal chop which is extraordinary and the house Chianti is wonderful as well. Don't leave without desert though. Get the triple Godiva chocolate cake. A word of caution though on a Friday or Saturday night you may have to wait over an hour even with reservations.
(4)
Janet E.

We had a group of 8 with reservations at noon on a holiday weekend and the weekend of graduations from UIC. Despite the craziness, we were seated prompted, attended to immediately, and our food came out at a reasonable time. The food was delicious. Great flavor. The complimentary bread came with olive oil and shredded Parmesan cheese (my favorite). YUMMIE. There is a lot of seating in this restaurant. However, I suggest getting seating upstairs if possible. When we ventured downstairs to use the restroom, the seating area was very stuffy and hot. Upstairs was definitely cooler and more comfortable. The place loses a star because I had found a small piece of paper in my dish (probably from the packaging of the prosciutto) and my friend had a small piece of plastic in her dish (probably from the packaging of the meat). Our dishes still tasted good though. At least it wasn't a piece of hair!!
(4)
Christine M.

It had been about two years since I had been here, and was really looking forward to the crusted shrimp scallops I had last time...quite possibly one of the most memorable dishes of my life. Was very saddened that it wasn't there anymore which lead to some disappointment. The service was sub-par...our waitress to interested in laying silverware (even though there were plenty of bussers and it wasn't packed) than taking out order. Water was hardly filled. I got the sea bass with grilled vegetables, and definitely can't complain on that. Everyone else's food looked pretty delicious as well and smelled fabulous. We started with the calamari and bruscetta, probably the best calamari I've had in a long time (except for this hole in the wall Greek place in the sticks) and as always plenty of hot bread to go around. Atmosphere was good, a little cramped, but that adds to the flair of this place. Lots of scratches on the walls that I don't remember from last time. Still, a staple in Chicago dining and a must visit for any tourist. Stay away from the one on Rush/Division...it doesn't beat the real Rosebud.
(4)
Jacob G.

The Rosebud is the best restaurant on Taylor Street and one of the best places to eat in Chicago. Their food is always great and the service is excellent. Since the portions are large, you'll never leave this place hungry.
(5)
Greg L.

What an amazing dinner we had this past Saturday. From the start, it was great and just kept getting better. The quality of the olive oil for dipping your bread, and the bread...it was great. We highly recommend the baked clams but beware that they are the small clams, and you want to get a dozen. They are terrific. We highly recommend the Veal Bracciola. It is a veal cutlet wrapped with seasonings and cheese and baked in a red sauce with incredible depth. Not to mention accompanied by really wonderful home made noodles. We also had the Veal Saltimbocca and it was very good, although had a stronger sage flavor than I have had elsewhere. Service was outstanding and all in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)
Wendy Y.

If you are not lucky enough to get Angela as your server, let me help guide you to happiness on a plate. I am gushing about~ The Tomato and Onion Salad. Add Blue cheese.. The Eggplant parm salad (not on the menu)- Layers of delicious fried eggplant between mounds of Arugula. Ask for it, they'll make it for you. The Brick Chicken- unbelievable! Square Noodles, substitute bolognese. These noodles are hand made and devine. This is the pasta dreams are made of. The tiramisu- usually not a fan- it won our whole table over. If you can't tell, I love this place. I think my Uncle and I almost cried during our meal, we were so happy... Great service, huge portions, reasonable prices, classic Chicago locale- How could you go wrong?
(5)
Ming C.

I ordered the ahi tuna rare, but still came done. I never buy so called secret family recipe or home style food. I like surprises. Overall this is a mediocre place with mediocre price and mediocre food. Nothing worth going back to.
(3)
Karen B.

This is one of my favorite restaurants ever. Two words: vodka sauce. I always order off-menu-the cavatelli with vodka sauce. Note that everything here is family style. Do not expect to order a salad and get anything that resembles an individual portion. Pasta portions are way too big. It's never a bad idea to share. The atmosphere is pretty cramped which is a down point. It isn't always easy to get a cab. I haven't been here since Chicago went smoke-free but I can't wait to do so. This was always a pretty smoky place and I'll be very, very glad to see that gone. I've been here with a pretty big group. I wouldn't recommend doing that. Service diminishes greatly with a group. Make a reservation if you plan on actually getting a table!
(4)
Angela Z.

This place got better again. It has been a while since eating here. Last time it was not so good. But this time it was delicious again. Angie
(4)
Daniel W.

Really good food. I try to get a Caesar Salad at most Italian restarants and this one ranks up there as one of the best of the city, cafe la cav, is another one. Oh and Wendys. Alright the last one was a joke. Well I got the chicken special and gnocchi.,, the sauces are always the best. to bad i didnt talk very much or say thank you to the person that paid the meal. my fault.
(4)
Jeanie P.

Very classic Italian food with no frills. Hearty big portions with a homey atmosphere. The eggplant salad was great with thinly sliced fried eggplant with layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and greens drizzled with a thick balsamic sauce. I had the rigatoni alla vodka with italian sausage, and it was tasty but not really anything memorable. Pasta was cooked well though- al dente. Chianti was not bad either. Overall it's an average place for just classic Italian food, but don't expect any creativity or imagination in the dishes here at all. I don't think that is their goal anyway. Too many other fun restaurants in the city to try to go back here again.
(3)
Tariq A.

We went to Rosebud's tonite for a change of pace. I ate there five or six years ago and at that time thought it was fairly decent. We had the tilapia and the Rigatoni Vodka. The tilapia was $20 and the pasta about $17 or $18 dollars. The dishes were both terribly average, actually the fish was pretty bad. We will not be back. I think for the price they are charging you are better off going to some other restaurant. The waitstaff were nice. I am pretty annoyed at myself as I usually stick to Topo Gigio or Carmines on rush for Italian. My advice, regardless of their prices ,the food at Rosebud's on Taylor is really not that great. There are so many better places to eat Italian food in Chicago. T
(2)
Karen T.

Can you believe that I've lived here for 6 years and still never been to a Rosebud? Well, I finally made it to this location for a work lunch. It's apparently the original and the walls reflect the various accolades they've received over the years - from Zagat to Time Out Chicago. As for their menu, most of us shied away from the pasta dishes, which might have been a mistake. I had their fish salad, which is really all calamari, octopus, shrimp, etc swimming in a pool of EVOO and garlic. It was good, but I'd recommend splitting it with at least 2 other people as an appetizer. All of the people who had the salmon salad complained about the saltiness of their fish. Then again, they're doctors so they might have a phobia of excess salt. Rosebud's desserts are undeniably decadent. A chocolate mousse cake and tiramisu were enough to share between a table of 6, and delicious at that. You may have loosen your belt a little or pop some Tums / Pepto after a meal here, but it is absolutely worth it.
(3)
Gita B.

Mediocre food with pretty steep prices. Did not care for their baked clams.
(3)
Andre E.

An employee of mine went to a Restaurant called Grill 23 in Boston this past week and it got me to thinking about this establishment when I was living in Chicago. The restaurant in Boston sells a Brick Chicken for about 25 bucks but it wasn't enough to feed 2 people.....however the Brick chicken sold at Rosebud is more than enough for 2 people. The ambience is great....parking can be difficult but worth it. Service is great....and besides the chicken which I highly recommend the other food is great as well. However be advised both establishments are very pricey so don't just bring your appetite bring some serious money....and remember to Eat, Drink, and be Merry my Friends!!!!
(4)
Jennifer A.

We had family visiting from Savannah, GA, where they claim you cannot find good Italian food, so we decided to take them to Rosebud so they could get their Italian fix. Having never been there despite living in Chicago for 5 years, I was hoping this place would meet their expectations. We were seated promptly in the main dining room, which was jam-packed with tables but yet not too loud. Our server was very enthusiastic and attentive. The bread was served warm and was delicious. Definitely a good start. We ordered baked clams and a tomato and onion salad to start. That was more than enough for our table of 4 - huge portions! The clams were fabulous, and as a lover of tomato & basil, the salad was fantastic. Very fresh, great flavors. For entrees, we had the veal saltimbocca, square noodles with vodka sauce and sausage, and two plates of the cavatelli arrabiata. The veal and the square noodles were AMAZING. Absolutely delicious. The verdict was split on the arrabiata. I had it and enjoyed it, but it was much spicier than I had anticipated. My dad also had the arrabiata and had a little trouble with the spice. With that said, the cavatelli was fresh and delicious - it just was a bit overshadowed by the spiciness of the marinara. So... consider yourself warned - the arrabiata will make you sweat. We also ordered a side of meatballs and sausage with our entrees, and the meatballs were unbelievable. So, so good. I could have just eaten those and been thrilled with my Rosebud experience! My husband and I split the tiramisu for dessert. I thought it was amazing, but my husband thought it lacked a bit of the liqueur flavor he normally loves in a tiramisu. Overall, we had a great experience at Rosebud.
(4)
Amanda Z.

Lovely atmosphere, large portions of lovingly-cooked pasta, and friendly service are really the highlights of a dinner out at the Rosebud. Two months of minimal carbs (wedding gowns are TIGHT) and months of pinching pennies meant that my young man and I were itching to get out of the house and eat some serious carbs. It's allowed once in awhile, right? Since aforementioned young man had scored a gift card to Rosebud, we figured this would be a perfect excuse to treat ourselves to a nice little date night. We started with the chopped salad...a wise choice. Really, this would be enough starter salad for four people, but for starving not-quite-newlyweds, it was perfect because it meant leftovers. My date enjoyed a veal dish (with a side of patsta) whereas I went all in wiht the cavatelli arrabiatta. Our server warned me, "It's spicy." I told him, "Oh honey, so am I, bring it on!" It was a little spicy, but more that zestiness demanded in an arrabiata. I loved it. And the cavatelli was cooked marvelously and the perfect match for the spicy sauce. Yay for us, we took home plenty of leftovers. Crusty bread was provided for sopping up bits of leftover sauce (olive oil is available, just ask)...and a bottle of red rounded out dinner. I'm not one to turn down tirimisu, so we finished out evening with a plate full of that. Of course I'd say this would be the perfect amount for a four-some just looking to have a few bites of something sweet. We couldn't finish ours (as much as we tried). Service was lovely (props to the bartender for the lovely wine recommendation) ad the food was delicous and plentiful. I'd definitely return when I choose to break my carb-fast again.
(4)
Julie O.

Pretty building, nice stained glass but I have had much better service and food on Taylor Street. I walked out with the distinct feeling that the Rosebud was despertately trying to control costs. We had bread on the table to start but no oil or butter, for quite some time. OK, maybe they do not want to keep whole bottles of oil on the table, but how about a smaller decanter or don't put the bread out until you can pour the oil? Entrees were okay. Not great, but acceptable. I think I expected something better, Rosebud has a good reputation. Service was not on. We had to ask for everything, inlcuding drink refills. We waited about forever to get our check at the end of the night. Too many other restaurants on Taylor Street working harder for my business to go back anytime soon.
(2)
Mike J.

:-) This place always reminds me of the mafia movies! Really nice and cozy, amazing food and generous portions, and very welcoming and charismatic waiters. This may not be the case for everyone, but I've been very lucky so far. Went there to celebrate my birthday and wanted to try some of their staples, but the waiter convinced me to try their steak, which, according to the him, was like aromatherapy but with meat. :-) That sounded very intriguing, so I decided to give it a try, and that turned out to be the best steak I've had in my life. the wine recommendation also turned out to be very good. One word of wisdom - take it easy on the bread and butter. We didn't, so when we saw our portions, we knew we'd need boxes. The steak does not deserve that.
(5)
Ale O.

Love this place! Great food, great service! Had my wedding reception here and the food was delicious!
(5)
Claudia D.

We live 2 blocks from the Rosebud. We prefer to go for a late lunch. The portions are huge. You really do not need to order an appetizer or salad. The bread with the delicious olive oil and a good cocktail are plenty prior to the entree. Entrees are sided with pasta with homemade marinara sauce which is a bit tart-exactly the way I like it. I love the Veal Piccata. I rarely order dessert here. My husband enjoys the eggplant here. The wines are a bit pricy and the service can be iffy, but all in all this is a good value for your money.
(4)
Steph V.

We didn't have plans to eat here for lunch but since Rosebud has such a great rep, we had to try it. Service was an A Food was an A Bathroom was an A A's across the board! Take a bow, Rosebud. Although the meal was ghastly expensive, I luckily did not pay the bill and was able to sit and enjoy my lunch. My salmon salad was super delicious and the bottled iced tea was a nice touch. BUT, hold the phone and listen to this: TRY THE ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP. I REPEAT, TRY THE ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP!!! I'm a clam (no pun intended) chowder girl, but seriously their soup has converted my opinion to all soups. If this were my last meal on earth, I would request the Italian wedding soup. Gratzi!
(4)
Brian T.

I thought this was a Citizen Kane-themed restaurant. Imagine the egg on my face when I realized it was a Goodfellas-themed restaurant...but seriously folks. I had the Salmon Vesuvio. Disclaimer: I'm a sucker for anything with the word "vesuvio" in it. The sauce could've been a little more substantial but it wasn't overly-oily. I'd probably order it again if I ever returned. My only real qualm is that the ambiance was lacking. I found street parking easily (everything around here is metered or valet...Thanks, Daley!) but entering the place through the dimly-lit, completely empty bar seemed uninviting. On a busy Friday night, it probably wouldn't be weird grabbing a drink while waiting for your table. However, on a weekday before the dinner rush, I thought we entered the wrong place. The best Yelp description I can muster: Dive-y atmosphere with classy prices and decent food.
(3)
Chris Y.

As someone who grew up on Olive Garden and the Macaroni Grill, this place was like a swift slap in the face. The best italian food I have ever had. Walking by it you would never know what amazing works of culinary art walk out of that kitchen. Has become a place near and dear to my heart as any big even I have with my special someone is celebrated in the dimly lit dinning room of this masterpiece. As you walk in make sure to look for the little table at the back of the bar that always seems to be full with "the dons", as my family now calls them, as they talk with an old world tongue about things one can only imagine. As you turn the corner you will notice the freshly backed cookies inter a glass cover just begging you to grab them as a pre-meal snack. Don't. This is the original and well worth the wait. If you want real Italian skip the bread sticks and salad and go for the Rosebud.
(5)
Sean C.

Our kids loved the spaghetti, make sure to order the meatballs(they are huge). My wife and I enjoyed our meals, service was good as well.
(5)
Joseph F.

I was a bit hesitant as I detest chain restaurants. But I'm making a rare exception in this case. The only reason I did not give this place 5 stars is because of a rather foul odor that greets you as you walk in the front. It smells like old tropical fish tanks were stored there. Get the febreeze out people. In any event, the martinis were wonderful. Mine was so smooth it was almost like drinking water. The bread was fresh and crusty, just like good Italian bread is supposed to be. I ordered the chicken marsala. I know that's not very creative, but I normally can tell a lot about the skills of the chef with this very simple dish. My meal was delcious. The chicken was perfectly cooked and seasoned with no strange parts hanging off the meat. I didn't bloat like a balloon the next morning because of overuse of salt and the portion size was just right for one person. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised and would definitely go back.
(4)
Martin C.

Came into the restaurant with high expectations. Overall, I was disappointed in the food. The atmosphere and service were wonderful. Atmosphere and service: 5 stars. We had reservations and when we came in were instantly seated. Our waitresses was pleasant and attentive. The bus boys were courteous and never left our waters empty. Food: 2 stars What we ordered: Fried Calamari- chewy and not well seasoned. This is one of my favorite appetizers and it was a huge disappointment. Two specials of the day including: lobster ravioli- decent but overpriced $32 for raviolis?? All the pastas on the menu are $17-$25 but then specials are more?? I felt tricked. Whitefish stuffed with crab- decent, but definately not a wow factor. If you are looking for great food on Taylor this is not the place. I would recommend RoSals.
(3)
Jessica Y.

I love Italian food and have added Rosebud to my list of great Italian restaurants in Chicago! WARNING: Portions are big!! Similar to Maggiano's, so you can definitely order one dish to share! Having been to this location twice, I can say the service is mediocre. I had a good experience the first time, but was kept waiting multiple times my last trip and had to flag down another waiter in order to be served! However, I love the food and while I am a lover of fried calamari as an appetizer, I would highly recommend the stuffed mushrooms! Spiced with fragrant herbs, they're soft, tender and tasty! But moving onto the main course, you really can't go wrong! The Rigatoni alla Vodka is one of my favorites, but Chicken Marsala is also a great option, albeit a bit salty. I've always been too stuffed for dessert, but I can safely say Rosebud is a great place for a fun dinner with friends, birthday or date! The ambience is great and it's dimly lit inside. The area isn't too busy, so come summer, go sit outside!
(4)
Joel B.

What you'd expect. Not bad, just not mind-blowingly awesome. The portions at the classic Italian-American establishment are predictably enourmous. The menu is expansive, and the execution is above-average. There are better Italian restaurants, but this place pretty much has their nice dialed: big family parties that want massive plates of pasta.
(3)
Craig A.

Fresh seafood and wonderful pasta. High energy environment with the only downside being that we felt rushed. When order would suggest sharing each course. Servings are Chicago size, enough for three. Will return!!!
(4)
Fabian B.

This is not an Italian - this is an AMERICAN Italian. So expect americanized Italian food. Loads of sauce, loads of cheese on top etc. (If you want Italian go to Follia) Its ok for an american italian, the pasta is actually not too bad. Service ok, too, wine selection decent. Good for larger groups, too, there s enough space upstairs. Value for money - well, a pasta dish for $16 ? A bit over the top , then again the portions are americanized, too, so more on the large side.
(3)
Angie C.

The Rosebud jumpstarted our experience by telling us we might have to wait 30 minutes (totally reasonable for a Saturday night), then calling us 3 minutes later because one of their reservations cancelled... Brownie points! No hungry hippos like to wait. The location by the university is much larger than it appears upon entry because there's an upstairs with quite a bit of seating. The lighting and decor make for a very nice atmosphere, and we enjoyed the humorous Rosebud ads framed on the wall next to our table. Now for the food... Yum... If you like artichoke (I love it), don't miss the stuffed artichoke for your appetizer! Just when you think it's gone, it's not - it keeps going. And when the artichoke is gone, there's plenty of sauce left to dip the house bread in. Bring on the garlic breath! Rosebud's Caesar and vinaigrette dressings were also tasty-tasty if you do salad between your appetizer and entree. Now for the entrees, they're h-uge! One of my coworkers managed to eat, no, CONQUER the whole brick chicken, but I only made a dent in my flat noodles. It was a dent I enjoyed, though, and I wished I wasn't flying out the next day because I had a feeling the leftovers would've been equally enjoyable... We went to RB for a work dinner while in town for a dental convention, but I tell you this place would be a great date if you're in the mood for some love and Italian food!
(4)
Moistnchewie L.

Came here on two separate occasions while I was in Chicago for business. I'd have to say that overall, the food and service is good. I loved the calamari and caesar salad.
(4)
Brad S.

Wow is the best way to describe the food, service and overall experience of eating here. The extraordinary food is only matched by the generous portion size. On a date get a salad and an main and even then you will have leftovers.
(5)
Diana S.

This was the first eat-in experience I had in Chicago. I went to The Rosebud for lunch and ordered the baked manicotti. It was quite fantastic! The service was a tiny bit slow, but the food more than made up for it! I definitely intend on going again and again.
(4)
Mimi M.

Over priced but the food was good! If you are looking for an intimate night out in a romantic atmosphere where good Italian food is served then Rosebud is a nice place to visit.
(3)
Erica A.

Sweetest place plus wonderful food! To start off, the olive oil is glorious...so much flavor, I felt like I was back in Europe. I had the meat ravioli with meat sauce (sauce suggested by the waitress) and it was sooooo good. We also had the fish special of the day - cod on spinach in a butter sauce. It was also very delicious, but also pricey. Serving sizes are big, but not too overwelming...enough to take a little home for a small meal later. We sat outdoors which was very cute and romantic with lots of flowers. Our waitress was very sweet and helpful. I will have to say that I am not a huge fan of the indoor decor - wood paneled walls. It is pretty dark, they could use a refresh in there. Probably not the quickest service, so go there and enjoy your time and food because that is what eating out is all about!
(4)
Christy Q.

I am embarassed and ashamed to admit this but I have Silician blood running through my veins and I was born and raised here in Chicago and yet I've never before been to Taylor St or to Rosebud. Shun me, go ahead, I deserve it.... *pout* Last night however, everything changed. You see, a few weeks back my friend and I were at St Mary's of the Angels Oktoberfest and they were selling gift certs for various places. Rosebud had a deal- for $25 you get a $50 meal, so my friend Stacey and I took advantage. Last night was the big dinner. We decided to share 2 pastas and each had an inexpensive glass of wine. Let me start with Taylor St itself- its so CUTE! I can't wait to come back and walk down the street some and check it out. Adorable street! The restaurant is old Chicago style. Dark wood paneling (reminiscant of the Berghoff but not quite as nice as Berghoff's) and even the patrons are a bit older or more established. The waitress we had was just great- I wish I could remember her name but she was fab! She was fun and so knowledgable- and also a great salesperson! I saw a dish at the next table over that looked delish. Our waitress told me it's the popardelle noodles (square noodles) with tomato basil sauce- but that she always recommends people order it with vodka sauce and spicy sausage. I took her advice and man it was divine- really fantastic. The noodles were really unique to me. Long fat square noodles. And their vodka sauce is the best I've had yet. So good it melts in your mouth. Then add the spicy sausage- oh man. I am already thinking of going back for more. I ate my leftovers for BREAKFAST this morning it was so good! My friend got the linguine with shrimp and broccoli in garlic olive oil sauce. (we did share each entree). Hers was just fantastic- really hit the spot. They were really different so we got 2 totally unique flavors. If I had to pick one that was better than the other I just couldn't do it. I loved them both. The ONLY negative is that it is pricey. For 2 pasta dishes and 2 glasses of wine our bill was $61 which is a tad high for my taste. Would I return? ABSOLUTELY Would I recommmend it to a friend? ABSOLUTELY Was the service top notch? ABSOLUTELY
(5)
Steve M.

Finally decided to use a gift certificate from last year. We sat outside since the weather was perfect. We started out with the spicy calamari which was plentiful and good but the sauce stayed at the bottom like a soup and turned all the calamari breading soft and soggy. For a main course I had the veal Marsala which was very good. The wife had fussili carbonara which was also good. The wine selection is abundant. The service was good and parking on the street wasn't too bad. The only thing that was bad was the house-made limoncello which I would skip. Also the chocolate gelato tasted like a frosty so that could be good or bad depending on how you feel about frostys.
(3)
B L.

This is a very special restaurant not unlike Morton's where you walk in and waitstaff treat you like you're a celebrity. I could get used to that! :) What can I recommend? I truly loved the veal. I also love love LOVE the stuffed mushrooms. Stay for dessert and get the spumoni ice cream! It comes out and it's huge! When I went here during my pregnancy my eyes almost popped out of my head...but I still managed to eat the whole thing.
(5)
Q Y.

My favorite one is eggplant salad. One salad and one main dish is good enough for a couple. And there is always endless Italian bread. You will never leave Rosebud hungry.
(4)
Pat G.

I read some of the reviews after I went to dine at The Rosebud. BIG MISTAKE. I would have not tried it. Most are right service was awesome from a polite staff. The food was not to par or maybe from reading the reviews not consistent. The prices are not what I would pay for from a three star Restuarant. Filet of steak with Marsala? Veal Saltimbocca with red sauce and veal pounded wafer thin so when you bite into it you feel like your having a piece of pizza? Stuffed artichoke was very good otherwise I would have totally went away bummed. Oh the espresso was from plastic cups like your home brew machines. 1700 miles to get here for a visit and I will never believe this was considered Chicago's Little Italy. Never again...
(3)
Leon H.

The food is GREAT, The Staff are Pro's . . . Better then the one on Rush Street, might be the staff or the location, but this place is a winner ! ! !
(5)
Jay W.

Food was great as always, but reservation process was a mess. Ended up waiting 40 min because we didn't want a table by the crowded bar.
(3)
Khiem T.

They should have had a sign that read 'We don't serve Asians.' At least that the way I felt the host treated us, as compared to the non-Asian patrons. Terrible. I won't recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)
Alex P.

Took my boyfriend here for his birthday, late near closing. It was very quiet, dim, romantic. I would say this is my favorite place in Little Italy, hands down, and I've eaten at every place on Taylor St. The prices are pretty much the same as all of the other Italian joints around town. Next to Greek food, Italian food is my favorite cuisine, and I've never had better red sauce, lasagna, or veal in my life. I can't remember which veal I had--it was slightly fried with a light wine sauce and a lot of lemon--and it just melted in my mouth. Sometimes you get veal and its a bit chewy. This veal was buttery and superb. The lasagna my boyfriend had was phenomenal, and it was a huge, hearty portion. If you want to spend the evening on Taylor Street and simply cannot decide which place to get dinner at, hands down I would suggest Rosebud over all the rest.
(5)
Vivian Y.

I love that even though it was my first time in here, it felt like my very own family joint. The service was so friendly and helpful and the food is pretty good. I was absolutely thrilled with the mussels in the tomato sauce. I should have asked for a spoon so slurp up the sauce. Everything about it was perfect and so American Italian - heavy on the thick sauce and tasty. The rest of the food though, was just ok. I ordered the breaded veal but this time, it was super salty. James ordered the lamb and it was very good. So, big extra star for the amazing mussels but otherwise, it's fair to say it is only 3 stars.....
(4)
Noel J.

Just blew into the city for a couple days. Chicago has to be one of the coolest places ever.After hitting the streets for a few hours we needed to eat. We spotted the brightly lit sign and decided to give it a try. Walking in you could see the pictures of all the famous fuckers that had eaten there before. I started off with a dirty,Grey goose, martini. They got it right. I wasn't starving so I split a plate of the spicy shrimp linguine. I think the lord was the chef that night because it was amazing. I also tried some of my father in laws Clam and pasta plate witch was just as amazing. Next time I'm in town, I am for sure coming back. Buca De Bepo, your days are numbered.
(4)
It had been about two years since I had been here, and was really looking forward to the crusted shrimp scallops I had last timequite possibly one of the most memorable dishes of my life. Was very saddened that it wasn't there anymore which lead to some disappointment. The service was sub-parour waitress to interested in laying silverware (even though there were plenty of bussers and it wasn't packed) than taking out order. Water was hardly filled. I got the sea bass with grilled vegetables, and definitely can't complain on that. Everyone else's food looked pretty delicious as well and smelled fabulous. We started with the calamari and bruscetta, probably the best calamari I've had in a long time (except for this hole in the wall Greek place in the sticks) and as always plenty of hot bread to go around. Atmosphere was good, a little cramped, but that adds to the flair of this place. Lots of scratches on the walls that I don't remember from last time. Still, a staple in Chicago dining and a must visit for any tourist. Stay away from the one on Rush/Divisionit doesn't beat the real Rosebud.
(4)
Kier R.

Rosebud really is the kinda place that makes me want to give up the sunny California life for the dreary Midwest. I haven't been here in years but it was exactly as I remember. The atmosphere is totally old school Italian, dark and close and awesome. The food seriously, is amazing. First, screw the carb free diet and feast on the bread that taste like someones grandma just took it out of the oven. The wine selection is immense. I had the best eggplant parm in my life, or at least since the last time I ate here. The service is great, they anticipate your every need. And yeah, don't even think about leaving without having dessert. I had the chocolate mousse cake and my friend had the carrot cake. Capital DEELISH.
(5)
J C.

have been before and really enjoyed the pork chop. last time i visited showed up early before reservation and they hooked us up early but they sat us in a very strange table where one person was stuck behind a wall and it really killed the atmosphere . we ended up having a bottle of wine an an appetizer. grilled calomari which was grilled to perfection and served with peppers. delicious but due to the table we bowed out after appetizers. finished our dinner at another restaurant and had a great night.
(3)
Bill M.

Had dinner at the bar, as is our custom. Good position for people-watching and attentive service from hard-working bartenders. A number of Yelpers have correctly described The Rosebud as having large portions. Not unlike Maggiano's in that respect. Does big necessarily mean good? I'm saying no. I ordered the mussels appetizer and there were a ton of them, nearly enough for a meal by itself. However, a number of them weren't scrubbed properly. There were more beards than you'd find in a roomful of Amish farmers. The meatballs were softball-sized and decent. My wife--a vegetarian--found an excellent option on the menu with a huge bowl of flat noodles with an excellent red sauce. There was enough there to feed a small village. A couple of other things you should know about The Rosebud: drinks are really expensive--$10 for a gin and tonic. Also a rip-off: the valet parking at $10. This is not the Loop; it's Taylor Street, where parking is usually available, but on a Saturday night, not that easy.
(2)
Patrick M.

I grew up with an italian mother and grandmother, both of which have spent the majority of their life in the kitchen. I feel like I've had a lot of italian food in my life and Rosebud on Taylor St. is as good as it gets. The restaurant is very well run and the service is incredible. I don't know about the other locations, I've heard they don't measure up. But the Taylor St. restaurant is definitely worth going to.
(5)
Esperanza E.

We had reservations and they seated us promptly! We had the bruschetta and the calamari and shrimp appetizer. They were both excellent. I had the NY strip steak vesuvio style and it was delicious! I would definitely go back!
(4)
Jolie R.

Ah, the Rosebud....a veritable feast for the senses.... Went there on a Saturday nite with reservations for 7:00.... We were right on time, but had to wait about 15 minutes before we were seated. Meanhwile....a whole slew of people showed up at the door and pushed and pulled until they could get to the head of the line to tell the hostess/host they were there and early for their reservation by 1/2 hour. What a mob scene! And what's it with elderly people who are so anxious to get a table they'd crawl over you to sit down??? Anyway, we were finally seated, perused the menu and decided on the Ceasar Salad for my hubby and the house salad for moi. I liked the Ceasar better, but the house salad was also very good. For entrees, we both had a taste for the linguini with white clam sauce. Clams were everywhere! Pasta was cooked al dente and the flavor was savory - neither one of us complained... For dessert, I ordered my fave - Tiramasu - HUGE piece I wanted to dive right into. I ended up taking most of it home and ate it the next nite for dessert. Hubby got the chocolate mousse cake - and ate it all, so I'm guessing the look of yumminess on his face says he really liked it. Prices were about right. Wine was great and reasonable. We're going again. I'm taking away one star because of the lack of elbow room at the hostess station - the bar was packed and there was nowhere to stand as we waited and were jostled by all the eager patrons.
(4)
Anonymous R.

This place serves what I assume to be authentic Italian food. First of all, I/we were introduced to a really good and reasonably-priced cabernet sauvignon (The Cab) by the bartender ($38/bottle). It was a recommendation for a "very dry wine." Alcohol content was 14.5%. When you first taste the wine, make sure you let it sit (tres smooth). I've only had to send one bottle of wine back at a pizzeria in NYC. But even the waiter agreed that it was amiss. The bartender was good about letting you sample wines, and he washed and dried glasses each time we sampled. The food was pretty extraordinary, and the plates were heaping. You can probably eat 2 meals per 1 entree. This restaurant is in the "Little Italy" of Chicago. Ambiance is perfect for a business meeting or romantic tryst. They were playing Frank Sinatra (radio station?), so yeah, it was that kind of Italian place. I tried the Italian Wedding soup. I think Sarah (our server) mentioned that it had veal sausage. It was really good, but some of the pastas were clumped, which made me question if it was entirely fresh. However, it was definitely homemade, and anyone that loves soup knows that the longer soup sits after its creation, the more flavorful. So I give that soup a 8.5+ (I give room for the best soup, which I haven't found). The closest delicious soup I've ever tried was from Dean & Deluca (which had tarragon and potatoes/perfectly filling for vegetarians). I also tried the seafood salad. It was good, but too much for one person. Make sure you share it with others. I sampled the veal special from one of my friends. It was really good. The tomato sauce was excellent (consistency and taste). I also tried the chicken Vesuvius, which was topped with peas (also excellent). If this restaurant existed in NYC, the meal would equate to double the price we paid. You, Chicagoans are lucky!
(5)
Laura H.

Went here for Vday once and fell in love with Italian food. I had lobster ravioli and lots of well made dirty martinis! Very authentic and old world Italian spot, highly recommend.
(4)
O O.

This is a nice place, nothing too special about it in my opinion. I went here on a lunch date and it was nice, but very busy and not really cozy. The service was good, the food was good. We got the calamari and while it was good, it wasn't my favorite (my date begged to differ). I personally like Mia Francesca's better. I got some weird grilled vegetables salad that was surprisingly really good and really filling. It was lunch after all and I had just had fried calamari so I wasn't about to go for some really rich pasta dish. I would be curious to see if the ambiance changes much during dinner. If I went back here, I would probably do lunch again (it just doesn't seem *special enough* for dinner). The location is good if you want to do shopping after...which is what I did.
(4)
Candice C.

My first visit to Rosebud was suggested by our hotel manager before I ever moved to this beautiful city. She wisely mentioned we try the Taylor St. location, and I've been in love with the joint ever since. I order a vegetarian version of the Fusilli Carbonara (peas and mushrooms in rich parmesan cream sauce) and they serve enough for four meals. We also requested Gnocchi, which isn't on the menu, and they brought it right out with our choice of sauces. Rosebud serves so much frigging food there's always a ton to take home with you. My family, while visiting from North Carolina, will order it, eat it, freeze it and fly it home. Gross. Rosebud's website now declares that the Taylor St. location is now delivering their delicious food. Score!
(5)
Chelsea L.

Best Italian food in Chicago, hands down. Family style, huge portions, excellent service and food. I've been there many times and I absolutely love this place!!!
(5)
Mary Lee G.

Tonight my roommate and I decided to have an adventure in Little Italy. Several unfortunate experiences at the downtown Naperville Rosebud has made me never want to eat here, however due to long waits at other places (Friday night and spontaneity don't exactly go hand in hand) and two empty bar stools here this is where we ended up. Luckily we were pleasantly surprised as the original location was way, way, way better than the Naperville one. We were starving and got the calamari to start. It certainly wasn't the most amazing calamari I've ever had and the cocktail sauce could use some work but it was a huge portion---big enough for 4-5 people to split easily. I had the house Chianti which was really good and only $7/glass. My roommate had the special appetizer of the day as her entree. It was peppers stuffed with sausage in an incredible garlic sauce, well actually the whole dish was incredible! If it's ever on the special menu when you go I couldn't recommend anything more. The bartender suggested I get the cavatelli and I decided to listen to her since she has been working there 22 years. The pasta was homemade and fresh and the sauce was not too heavy and had tons of basil, which is a guarantee I will love it. I'm excited for my leftovers. It was a great evening. Good wine, good old school Chicago Italian, funny bar customers talking about the Barry Manilow concert, and dining room patrons who all look and act like my dad:)
(4)
Alec J.

When ever i come down for vacation i love to go here good service very nice place and good food if you like Italian food this is a good place
(4)
Kristine C.

My friends and I went to dinner here last night and the food was excellent. But thats where it ends. :( Our waiter was horrible! He was rude to say the least. At first we thought it was because they were busy but then we watched him and his service for every other table was great. He never checked on us, didn't ask us if we wanted anything to drink, and then brought us the bill. After he brought the bill we asked him if we would order dessert and he rudely asked "what do you want?" Well since the desserts are not on the menu we asked "what do you have?" He listed of maybe 4 things and we selected from those. But I also heard him list off the desserts to the other table and they had a greater selection then we did... maybe we're not special. We didn't want to tip him because of his attitude but the buss boy and everyone else that helped us were great so we still tipped him well. But he didn't deserve it at all. I definitely wont make it a point to go back.
(2)
Michael C.

I had lunch at the Rosebud in Little Italy on a Sunday just after noon. The restaurant had just a few guests at that time. Overall, it was worth the trip for the food. The positives...i ordered penne bolognese and asked them to prepare it alforno. It was delicious. The bolognese sauce was hearty with excellent flavor; the pasta was cooked perfectly. I also ordered a house salad, which was comprised of a mixture of lettuces, delicious olives, plum tomatoes, pepperoncini pepper. But it was the house dressing that was the highlight of the salad. The olive oil was amazing with just the right amount of vinegar and salt. A great complement to my pasta. My water glass was never less than half full, very attentive wait staff. My server could not have been nicer and was genuinely interested in making my experience at the Rosebud a positive one. The negatives...I was a solo diner and was given a table in the back room. I was behind a wall and unable to enjoy a view of the street or any daylight. While my water glass was always refilled, I was not offered additional bread nor did I receive any butter, as another diner received at a nearby table. My pasta entree came before I was half finished with my salad. I asked my server for some fresh basil to put on my pasta (which I would expect to be standard practice at an Italian restaurant, especially in the middle of summer), and had to wait several minutes for it to arrive. The server apologized for forgetting; I appreciated her honesty. The kitchen sent out a small bowl of whole basil leaves, which caused me to have to do some julienne slicing at my table. Not a very impressive reflection on the chefs. I also would have expected an offer of freshly grated cheese, rather than the container of pre-grated cheese that was already on my table. Final thoughts...In spite of the negatives, I am glad I had lunch at the Rosebud and would recommend it to others. The food was delicious. I hope someone from the restaurant will take notice of my comments, which are offered constructively and sincerely. It's the attention to detail that separates the very good restaurants from the truly great restaurants.
(3)
Kevin T.

For anyone who enjoys Italian cuisine, Rosebud is a must-visit. I am pretty sure that every dish on their menu tastes heavenly. Some of my friends and I stopped by this delightful eatery for my birthday dinner. We sat out in the patio on a very lovely Monday night and absorbed the South Loop ambience that included light conversation from nearby tables and occassional courtesy visits from our personable server. They were pretty generous with their bread. It was served oven-warm and wrapped in a thick napkin to help keep the sliced loaf warm for a good amount of time. We indulged in the crispy potatoes (baby whole potatoes (boiled and then deep-fried(?) resulting in a very crispy skin) for starters, and although pricy (5 bux for 4 small potatoes), was deifinitely a tasty intro for what was to come. The XXL entrees that followed included the Brick Chicken, which was a well-seasoned (but not overly-seasoned), boneless whole chicken with a variety of spices, herbs and peppers served with pasta that had a tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzerella cheese laid into the mix. Our second entree were these extra-large meatballs soaked in a tasty tomato sauce. It definitely added additional protein to our meal, which was great because we were truly carnivorous. Our dessert experience was twofold. First was the tiramisu that included a lit candle as it was carefully placed onto the table. The initial bite was perfect, but about 3 bites later, the sweetness almost became over-bearing. I appreciated the candle though.... t'was a nice gesture. The second half of dessert was a delectable gelato. We soooo wanted to finish it, but had more than our fill from the entrees. I would like to add that I await the day that they would invent the unmeltable, indestructible gelato. =) thanks mary j & D for the smart pick!!
(5)
Cj L.

Food was great, little pricey but worth it!!! Try the seabass !!!
(4)
Kristi D.

I've been going to Rosebud for many many years and I love their food. The day after Christmas wasn't overly busy and we didn't have a hard time getting a table. I ordered the same thing I always get, fried calamari as an appetizer and chicken parm as an entree. Delicious! The portion sizes here are huge, I have enough left over for at least 2 more meals. I tried some of the other dishes, the pasta carbonera was good, the whitefish was very good. Even the complimentary bread served is great. The service was a little disorganized but not so bad that it annoyed me. And they lost my Open Table reservation, not a big deal since it wasn't busy.
(5)
Brad H.

Great food, awesome service and atmosphere. Very classy decor and atmosphere. Make sure you have reservations, the place gets crazy busy. They are very accommodating of seating requests as well. The servers are some of the most knowledgeable I've ever seen, and really make you feel like you are being taken care of. Will accommodate any type of order, even if its off the menu. Recommend the Filet Portabella. A bit loud, but that's to be expected when there are so many people in the place.
(5)
Erin M.

My husband and I went to The Rosebud last night and it was great! Everything came out hot and fresh and the service was excellent! Our waiter was "Tony" and he was wonderful. Our water (yes, we drink a lot of water) was never low and the bread and olive oil was brought quickly to our table after we were seated. We started with the mussels in white sauce (garlic, white wine, I believe) and they were nice and juicy. Cooked to perfection! I also like that they brought us small forks to eat them with - we have not always gotten this at other restaurants when ordering mussels. Our server was also patient as he did not act annoyed when we had difficulty deciding what to order (we had been to The Rosebud once before and wanted to try different entrees). I ordered the Rigatoni alla Vodka and my husband ordered the Cavatelli alla Rosebud. We liked both entrees! The Cavatelli alla Rosebud was especially good because the mushrooms, green beans, and roasted peppers gave it an extra texture (and we love mushrooms) and the sauce was very light yet flavorful. The Rigatoni alla Vodka was also good. The sauce sort of reminded me of Mac n Cheese grown-up style, minus any stringiness that you get with mozzarella. As pointed out in other reviews, the portion sizes are enormous! We ended up spliting both entrees and went home with three lunches worth of leftovers!! We saved room for dessert though, as we heard it was good here. I ordered the spumoni (spelling?) and my husband ordered the chocolate cake. Both were also huge! We split the spumoni and took almost all the chocolate cake home for leftovers :) The spumoni was especially good because it had more flavors than I recall having at other restaurants. I believe the flavors were: pineapple (?), strawberry and/or raspberry, pistachio, and chocolate. The only negative to going here is that it is sometimes difficult to catch a taxi, although we won't let this keep us from going again! Also good about this place is that you can either dress up or go a little casual and you probably won't be out of place either way. Just probably not jeans.
(4)
Paul And Kelsie A.

Absolutely recommend this place! You'll never be satisfied with less than authentic Italian food again. Trust their House Specialty recommendations! The Square Noodles were simple yet the taste was so complex with spices! Delicious! Service was great and our server was very helpful. Not a cheap meal but not too high and worth every penny! Area is a little creepy at night but other than that, totally satisfied!
(5)
Norman R.

Great dining experience. Our server John was fantastic. We had the white fish stuffed with crab, and the arrabbiata. For dessert the mousse cake and scoop of gelato. Great Saturday date night.
(5)
Giulia G.

It has been a wonderful Saturday dinner,my fish soup was as good as home made and the leftover were enough for a second dinner,even more flavorfull the day after,so fresh! I am glad I went and I will go again.
(5)
Jackie B.

I love Rosebud. If you have guests in from out of town - this is the place to take them. I'm never disappointed with the quality of the food. The calamari appetizer is great - a favorite of my family. Pretty much every pasta/meat dish I've tried is great. Of note - I went once with a group of 3. Our waiter read us the specials (did not give us a menu with prices) and 2 of us ordered off of it - both entrees were over $40 and HUGE portions. I'm not a big girl - I obviously couldn't have finished it (hell, a family of 4 probably couldn't have finished it). That annoyed me, but it is 1- my fault for ordering off the specials menu w/o seeing the price and 2- the waiter's fault for not letting us know PORTION sizes. Otherwise, all awesome experiences here, will definitely be going back!
(4)
Mindy S.

WATCH YOUR CREDIT CARDS HERE! We used to come to Rosebud for a weekly nice meal out.....meaning we've been there dozens of times. After one Friday meal, my husband's checking account was empty by the next day. The bank called us, said they tracked it back to Rosebud and that this particular location was ALREADY ON WATCH. We called the manager to let them know about the situation....apparently they're in on it because all we got was a "f*** you very much!".... Haven't been back since, a very nice "f*** you very much" to you Rosebud!
(1)
grant s.

I have been to this locaion maybe 5 times before I chose to write this review. We were on a business dinner with some folks from out of town, and I was disappointed with this place as I know Chicago has better tasting food than it was this past Friday night.I know this place is an institution in Little Italy, but the veal special I had this past Friday night was OK at best. I would have been more upset if I had had to pay for it myself. The portion was plentiful. The appetizers were good. We had stuffed mushrooms, calamari fried, and grilled-both good. The eggplant salad appetizer was real good. Service was real good. Bread very good as well as the olive oil they served it with. There was just "something missing" to make this any more than 3 stars concidering the price.
(3)
Kate S.

I like this place a lot. The food is always very fresh tasting and flavorful. I should note that I do not eat meat so this review doesn't reflect any of the filets, veal, etc. Anyway, I think the best thing on the menu is the eggplant stack salad. It's huge so it's a great appetizer if your group wants to share something. The pasta dishes are great. The pasta always tastes fresh and the sauces are well seasoned. As several other people have noted, the portions are huge. The drawbacks? Service is on the slow side unless this place is empty (I've been 5 or 6 times in last year). Drinks are pricey and the drink menu doesn't always seem accurate (I've asked for specific brands off the menu and then the waiter comes back to tell me they don't have). We'll continue to go back for the good food. However, on a street like Taylor, you can find a lot of Italian options so be sure to try them all.
(3)
Barri S.

The best place for Italian. Huge portions, the sauce is amazing and lots of cheese! My parents are from the east coast and The Rosebud takes them back to their childhood. It really doesn't get any better than this! The atmosphere is reminiscent of the rat-pack and the food is just delicious.
(5)
Christine E.

Love love love! My family and I came to Chicago early this month for a short vacation and decided to give this place a try. WONDERFUL host, staff, and our waitress was extremely attentive, knowledgable about the menu, and enthusiastic. Great personality and very engaging as well. Dim lighting, so it had a pretty sophisticated and romantic feel to it, but without making a family like ours feel like we were out of place there. I had the halibut special that evening, which was served with sauteed spinach and tomatoes topped with an amazing lemon butter sauce and roasted almonds. Food was exceptional. My dad gave his compliments and made sure to let the owner know we would be back the next time we were in Chicago.
(5)
Jelena L.

You won't see me doing too many reviews that aren't recent, but I had to share my love for Rosebud. This is where my husband proposed to me in 2007 since, in his words, it's the only place that compares to his mother's Italian cooking. It wasn't just the magic of the moment or the accordion player her hired to play a few Sinatra tunes that makes me nostalgic for Rosebud -- everything from the paintings on the wall to the small, yet friendly bar that adorns the entrance helps define Chicago's Little Italy. I've been to Rosebud a handful of times, and the food has always been delicious and very authentic. The caprese salad with small peppers and the Nutella cake are to die for (although I think they stopped making the Nutella cake recently). My husband is a big fan of the daily specials, so he never gets the same thing. During our last visit, he enjoyed prosciutto, basil and cheese stuffed chicken. Looking forward to dining at Rosebud in May to celebrate our first wedding anniversary!
(5)
Julie A.

I always feel like a little kid when I go here - the dark atmosphere, everything is wood, the old school windows, oh, and I always order spaghetti and meatballs. This is good Italian fair, nothing that is going to blow your mind, but the pasta and vodka sauce is delicious, as are the square noodles and the ravioli. The meatballs are fantastic, and are the size of a baseball, if not larger. The service was great, too - we sat even before our reservation time.
(4)
Doug H.

Went to Rosebud with 3 others and had an evening filled with good times and laughter. And oh yeah - great food. The chicken Parmesan was enormous, tender and juicy. I can't stand when it's dried out, and this certainly wasn't, and I loved it. The service was good and they took good care of us. The pricing was more than reasonable for what we received. Highly recommend. Just know there are several locations around Chicago, so be sure to meet your friends at the right location. We had a little mixup, but it all worked out.
(4)
Claire Y.

The food (classic Italian fare) was great, but frankly I've had better Italian food. Service? Friendly and attentive. Ambiance? Just OK for me. Reserved and neat. It's a bit too dark in the dining room for my taste. I do like the sidewalk outdoor seating on a mild, sunny day. It's a solid Italian spot on Taylor (alongside Francesca's, Tuscany, Rosals, etc). But I must say Francesca's still rules in my book.
(4)
Kay M.

In short... Excellent service and Excellent Food!!! I was around Michigan Ave. looking for a particular restaurant, which happened to be closed and I ended up here. I sat at a nice corner table outside. My waiter was fantastic, as well as the support staff. I ordered the Chicken Marsala. AMAZING! It was two nice sized chicken breasts with a generous pile of perfectly cooked beautiful mushrooms in a marsala sauce that was like eating candy. It came with a generous side of perfectly cooked and perfectly sauced pasta. While I waited for my food the waiter brought warm rustic bread and parmesan and olive oil. I also ordered a wonderful Godiva chocolate torte, and my waiter perfectly packed it for me to take back to my hotel.
(5)
Judie S.

Square noodles. That's all you need to know.
(5)
Courtney M.

yum yum yum yummy!!! I love everything about this place... the meatball salad is amazing (not much food, but sooooo good) The spicy calamari is reeeeeeeally good too I have no complaints about this place...
(5)
J B.

Fabulous from start to finish. Ask for the home made square noodles with sausage & vodka sauce.
(5)
Audra K.

Personally, I don't understand paying more than $8 for a plate of pasta. Even if it is alla vodka. Rigatoni + California Sangiovese + Tiramisu + tip = $39.95 Service was slow. Luckily I didn't mind because I wasn't in a rush. Stick with California wines here. Better price for the quality, as tempting as it is to get an Italian wine. Remember, you are not in Italy! Cute decor in December. Nice wreaths with lights. Cozy. Many large families sitting together gave it a homey atmosphere. I enjoyed that.
(2)
Chelsie L.

Went here for appetizers and I have to give a big thumbs up on their food, we tried the spicy calamari, antipasto plate, stuffed mushrooms and bruschetta, everything was delicious. I have never had calamari prepared that way before and I highly recommend it, probably the best I've ever had. I really enjoyed the ambiance in this restaurant as well, dark wood with white and red accents, it's classy and charming. I'd definitely recommend this restaurant for a date night or if you like tasty, Italian food.
(4)
Evan V.

Situated on Taylor in little Italy, this place serves up the best Italian food I have ever experienced. Staff was very attentive and knowledgeable of the menu variations. Can't wait to go back the next time I'm in the city.
(5)
Pham D.

Bad service, but decent food. First off, we were on time for our reservations, but they didn't seat us for 45 minutes. Bad service didn't end there. Once seated, we waited forever until our server came. Then he proceeded to bring out the wrong drinks. Thankfully, we didn't have to wait too long for our appetizers and entrees. There was nothing special about the pasta nor the sauce.
(3)
Mia E.

We came across this restaurant when we were on vacation last year. Our original destination was a pizza place across the street but we didn't want to wait an 1 1/2 hrs for pizza. So, we decided to give Rosebud's a try. This place was packed but we were lucky to be seated right away. I decided on the Penne Bolognese. It is the best bolognese I have ever had.! Chunks of beef and veal in the sauce. Everything was just amazing! On the day we were leaving, we decided to go back to Rosebud's. I got the same thing but my aunt's order was a bit screwed up. The order wasn't put in so I got my food while my aunt just had to wait for her's. The waiter was extremely apologetic. No worries. Well, my aunt didn't want her dish to be spicy and it turned out to be SPICY. So, we had to say something. The waiter did add "no spicy" to the order but the kitchen messed up. So, the manager came out to apologize also. He took her entree off our bill and gave us free dessert and coffee. All the while, I still enjoyed my bolognese. And I still have not been able to find a bolognese that even compares!
(5)
Joe R.

The spicy calamari app was a great twist on an old favorite. Just don't mistake the hot pepper for a cherry tomato. The ricotta cheesecake is a must try!
(4)
lisa b.

perfect for a nice, relaxing, gluttonous meal! the vodka sauce is delectable! i could almost drink it. fantastic pasta and a big ol' glass of wine or two...walk out feeling like a food-coma-induced million bucks.
(5)
Kathleen C.

Went here for the BF's parents birthday dinner. I loved the setting. It was nice to walk into a friendly looking bar. And then we walked into a fantastic and pretty comfortable dining room. We had a big round table for 6 pretty skinny people and there was a lot of room which was so nice and hard to come by these days. Server was fantastic. Although the food was just ok, I don't think anyone thought their food was fantastic. It was big portions and no one finished their food (although that could be b/c no one thought it was to die for). I would probably go back for some drinks and appetizers instead of the full meal here. Or maybe check out the other Alex Dana restaurants in the city.
(3)
Brandon B.

Been here a couple times now, and I forgot how cheap it was with such good service. Kind of like getting a fancy Italian meal for half the price! Lunchtime was pretty quiet on a Thursday except for some chubby couple necking in front of us. Lot of food!
(5)
Ang R.

There's nothing fancy or new about the food at Rosebud. It's just simple, good Italian food. I have a very hard time NOT ordering the Rigatoni ala Vodka, which is to die for. Usually, I get a small salad or the Panzanella too, and I'm happier than a clam. But the Chicken Vesuvio is also ridiculously good--probably some of the best Vesuvio you'll get in a restaurant in Chicago. As for the different locations, I've been to three, and I think Rush might be better. But this is THE Rosebud, and you can't go wrong with the atmosphere.
(5)
Kristen S.

Very classic food, ambiance, and service. Overall, quite excellent. I took my husband here for his birthday dinner and we both enjoyed The Rosebud. The one drawback was the very loud and obnoxious table of guests next to us. I suppose that The Rosebud is used to such patrons, so I don't recommend this place if you are looking for a quiet, romantic Italian dinner. My husband had the fettuccine alfredo with chicken and I had the traditional homemade pasta squares. Both were extremely large portion sizes, like super super super sized, so most of the past was taken home and eatent he next day. The pasta is delicious and you can definitely tell it is homemade and very rich. For appetizers, we ordered the bruschetta and the caprese salad. These were the highlights of the meal. The tomatoes and roasted red peppers were so fresh and flavorful. My husband and I almost felt we did not want our main courses after such amazing appetizers. If you go here, you must at least get the bruschetta. We love this dish, and The Rosebud had the best we have every tasted. We did not get dessert, but we will be back again and will definitely try the tiramisu!
(4)
Alessandro G.

"Fake" italian has a special place in my heart. Being italian you would think I should be disgusted by dishes like chicken-parmesan, fettucini Alfredo and all the other flagships of "American-Italian" cuisine. Instead I love them. That's why I wanted to try Rosebud fot a while. Me and my girlfriend finally had the chance to eat here two days ago. We both ordered pasta: Rigatoni in Vodka sauce and cavatelli Rosebud. I never had vodka sauce before and I loved it. :D The cavatelli instead were much lighter, wonderfully smoky and tossed with a ton of veggies. The atmosphere... think for a second about "Lady and the Tramp", add some more stereotypes and you'll have a good idea of what eating at Rosebud feels like. The owner was hanging out with his buddies few table away from ours and it just seemed to be in the Godfather. Highlight of the dinner, chocolate covered cannoli! Yum! Rosebud is the perfect summary of the stereotypical american-italian dining experience, but playing with stereotypes is fun every once in a while. Oh yeah, ... and delicious!
(4)
Joe N.

I'm a pretty big fan of the rosbud. This has been a traditional "first date" spot for me since high school. This is a great place for a date. The food is great, the staff is friendly, and the inside has a very romantic feel. If you want to impress a girl, this would be a good place. I always get the Chicken Parm; I think this is the best place I've ever been to for this. I've tried some other dishes too and they are really good. In the warm months there is outdoor seating which is also quite nice because taylor street has a nice atmosphere, especially at night. But they don't want you smoking outside and bitch about it if you do- you can anyways but they get all mad. Still a good place though. Parking can be hard but you'll find it, don't fall for their valet scheme.
(4)
George L.

Shocking, another Italian restaurant, but Rosebud is one of the Chicago classics. I prefer the Taylor St. location, must be a traditionalist. Their fresh made pasta is outstanding & the meatballs are like an Italian Grandma would make. Its a little dark inside but that is a small issue for for an overall great dining experience.
(4)
Jeanne N.

This truly was "As Good As it Gets!" My husband and I are restaurateurs and it is hard to please both of us. We waited, we had to dine late... but who cares when the food and service are impeccable!? I could only explain it by stating that this is the food that the angels serve you in heaven! My husband had the chicken marsala and asked for garlic to be added. The server explained that the sauce is a sweet sauce however he passed my husband's request along to the chef. The marsala not only came to him with garlic added... but whole cloves of "roasted" garlic! As busy as it was, they still took the time to cater to a specific request! I tried the lobster ravioli special with slices of tender asparagus and a roasted red pepper sauce... just magic... rich, creamy, with the taste of "freshly made from scratch" in every bite! The very next night we decided to try their sister restaurant... Rosebud on Rush.... I will put a separate review on that particular restaurant's yelp review area as well! ROSEBUD was suggested to us by a server at a steakhouse we were patronizing... and when I asked where she goes for authentic Italian she didn't even hesitate "Rosebuds!"... she was correct!
(5)
Erin C.

I needed to find a place in the University Village area for lunch on a Sunday. After scouring Yelp reviews and hours of operation, The Rosebud found its way to the top of my list. And I was not disappointed. Dark, old-school Italian restaurants are my favorites (I always wished my dad had been in the mafia). We were seated next to an autographed photo from The Godfather. It took us awhile to order, only because everything on the menu looked delicious. I ended up with the Rigatoni alla Vodka (the last time I had it was in NY's Little Italy). SO GOOD. I was full but wanted to keep eating because it was so good. Everyone at my table felt the same way (doggy bags are a must since the portions are gigantic). And I didn't hear a complaint from anyone. Would definitely come back here for some good ol' Italian dining.
(5)
Flower T.

Rosebud's is a great chain restaurant in chicago reminds me of Buca Di Beppo. My 2nd visit to chicago I lunched at Rosebud's it was conveniently located just a few blocks from my hotel. It has become one of my must go to spots when I'm in Chicago. They have a few locations but i will only go to the Taylor St. location. Why? The Fagioli soup. Best damn fagioli I have ever had!!! Not all the Rosebuds locations offer the fagioli, that is why I go to the Taylor St. location. They also have a delicious roasted artichoke with olive oil & parmesan. You must try their homemade square noodles & Chicken Vesuvio a few of their specialties. For dessert the Spumoni is a must!! I have always had great service at rosebuds and have frequented at least 5 times in the 2 times I've been to Chicago recently. I wish i could remember the name of the server I had she was very sweet & accommodating recommending a great fruity white wine Brassfield "Serenity" I highly recommend Rosebuds for a great lunch or nice dinner, easy on the wallet and cute spot ; )
(4)
Krys J.

Honestly, what's not to love? I have been coming here for years with both family and friends, for special occasions or simply a great meal. There are always regulars scattered about, large parties and intimate tables of two so no matter who your company is for the evening you will never feel anything but comfortable and welcome. The bartenders start your night out w/nice stiff martinis while you wait for your table and your server will gladly keep your wineglass full through the night. All of the service from the staff is stellar. I am pretty sure that by now each item on the menu has been enjoyed by someone in my party and there have never been complaints. Of course, the items that tend to frequent my table are the sausage & peppers, any one of their homemade pasta dishes (of course my favorite Cavatelli al Forno) & their fabulous tiramisu is a must to conclude any meal here.
(5)
Katrina H.

The food is Decent.. I've had better but I do enjoy eating at the place during nice spring and summer days ... I do however think that they are a bit overpriced. for an appetizer, a bottle of wine and 2 Entres our bill tipped over $130... both times that I've been there. It was OK it wasn't like WOW ... i need to be WOW'D for $130 for lunch and or dinner at a place like this ...
(3)
Santiago A.

This place is great. Definitely satisfies my fix for very good Italian food everytime I go there. The portions are huge, so make sure to go there ready to eat. If you're there on a date and will do more talking than eating, then sharing a pasta dish will certainly be enough for both. I would actually say that the portions actually caused me not to give this place that last star. You might be thinking, "whoa, it's not their fault you stuffed yourself like a kid recently escaped from fat camp. You can't penalizes them for that!" ... and yet, here we are.
(4)
Alina S.

Definitely one of the best, most authentic, most flavorful and good-portioned Italian restaurants I've been to in awhile. Great ambiance with dim lighting and friendly service...but let's get to the food. You can smell the garlic even as you're still walking towards the restaurant. Good sign. Bread was incredibly fresh, warm, crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. I had the risotto-stuffed pasta shells with green beans, mushrooms and roasted red pepper - VERY flavorful, garlicy without scaring off too many vampires, and not overly salty. My mom had the beef pot roast on large pasta tubes with red sauce (one of their specials), and that was definitely my favorite dish of all. Dad had the Rigatoni ala Vodka with shrimp, and the sauce was amazing. My husband had the 20 oz pork chops and they were really thick and well-grilled. My sister had the thin-pounded veal and it was also amazing. Sister's b/f had the baked ziti, also very happy with his dish. So...you get the point - all the food seems to be REALLY good here, HUGE portions for reasonable prices given the quality and quantity. Expect to pay $18-$28 a dish, depending on what you order.
(5)
Dustin W.

The Rosebud is yet another reasonable Italian restaurant in Little Italy, with quality homestyle Italian fare, it has its perks, but its not the best on the block (see Da Vanti, Tuscany, Francescas all better). So why go back? Well there are a few reasons I think Rosebud is worthwhile at times. First, the weekday lunch specials are great, averaging just under 7 bucks for a satisfying meal. Second, and most importantly, they do the outside dining very well. When my family comes to town, they always want to eat outside at Rosebud for some reason. So of course we go most times. I have had several good meals. A few classic Italian items i liked include Chicken Vesuvio, Veal Piccata, Cavatelli alla Rosebud, and spaghetti with meat balls. Again, they are standard classic executed at a slightly above par, yet consistent manner. Rosebud is a good place to take a group or have a work lunch outside. Havent eaten their for awhile, but Im sure I will be back sometime again.
(3)
Chanita S.

I love rosebud. I used to live in Litte Italy when I still was a UIC student, and I'd always find an excuse to go there. When I graduated, I had my graduation lunch there with my family. We all loved it. Service has always been decent--not fast but not slow. But I guess that's the beauty of Italian restaurants because you can choose to fill yourself up on bread. I know this sounds like such a cliche dish that you'd normally say, "who orders that at an Italian place", but I really do love their Fetticini Alfredo Pasta. I've had the carbonara before and my mom had the mussels. Those were yummy as well. This used to be my favorite Italian place until I discovered La Scarola. However, it's still pretty high up there. I recommend it.
(4)
Nick C.

Classic Italian, Vintage Chicago.... a must try for any Chicagoland native.
(4)
Johnny T.

With the high number of reviews for this place, I try to type up a somewhat different sounding review. This place kind of has a tourist vibe so I wouldn't go here if you seek a comfortable/quiet vibe. (go to Rosal's for that) There wasn't much room in our seating area & the fried calamari had very little flavor (despite having a great breadcrumb texture) & for that, I must deduct a star. I'd recommend the linguine w/ clams ( approx 10 clams) or the gnocchi. (excellent flavorful mozzarella that's melted on top) The pasta from both dishes didn't seemed fresh but, tasted satisfactory. Service was above average.
(4)
Ellen M.

4 stars for the food and service, 1 more for being able to eat @ Frank's booth :)
(5)
Jan Michael K.

Ok, I think it's silly to order Fettuccine Alfredo at a restaurant. It's an idiot proof dish to make at home if you're absolutely fiending for it. But my friend said I would HAVE to try it, so I did. And boy, did it it deliver. Creamiest and freshest Alfredo I have ever tasted. The grilled jumbo shrimp I ordered with it were juicy and well marinated. Did I mention the outdoor seating under the trees under balmy Chicago weather? It was excellent.
(5)
Fred P.

I went to Rosebud for the last time, last summer. I have been trying to get over the utter disappointment to craft a fair and reasonable review. Once, a heralded Italian classic, literally for the ages...no one who I knew placed any Italian restaurant, in Chicago, higher on their list. I ate there regularly. I took out-of-town guests there. The last two times that I ate their food (mostly because my wife knows the GM) I noticed that something was missing. Maybe, Rosebud's better days were behind it or it was just ordinary from the start and I enjoyed the neighborhood and the atmosphere more than the food. Last summer, we sat on the patio for a Sunday afternoon dinner. First, the service was very slow, especially considering that the restaurant wasn't and usually isn't busy on Sunday at 2-3pm. The server didn't bring the drinks, at all. I ordered the eight finger cavatelli (baked). I have enjoyed that dish at Rosebud many, many times over the years. That day, however, I asked if they could make it with an Arrabiata sauce: something a little spicier. The dish arrived at the table and I immediately noticed that there was far too much "green" in the plate...maybe an overabundance of basil? Nope...they probably didn't have Arrabiata or someone who could make it, because there were large chunks of jalapeno in the sauce...the "green." The inexperienced server should have just said, "No arrabiata," instead of having the kitchen attempt this brutal miscue. I thought about sending it back, but 1) I was really hungry, 2) the server was really inept, and 3) our friend, the GM, doesn't work on Sunday. I ate the pasta and navigated the jalapenos and melted cheese. It was like eating a cavatelli / burrito suiza plate. Jalapenos in an Arrabiata sauce, at Rosebud! SACRILEGE!!! I love seeing the 4 and 5 star reviews for this place. That's why I feel really good about spending my cash elsewhere...they'll never miss my cover.
(1)
Jay C.

It was the 1st month anniversary of my then girlfriend and I, and I of course wanted to do something special out of the ordinary of most undergrad couples. I wanted to take her to a place with some history and a pedigree for excellent culinary prowess. Unfortunately two things made it an uphill battle for making this particular evening especially amazing in the eyes of the fairer sex. A) she had the flu and the packed crowded house & noisy atmosphere did not contribute to the ideal romantic setting. B) she wasn't the biggest fan of Italian food (which I found out after the $245 bill)... Fortunately for me we're no longer together and I can freely enjoy some of Chicago's finest Italian cuisines and hob nob with some of the local legends of Taylor street. The food is just ridiculous with portions that should really be sent to feed entire West African Refugee camps in one foul swoop. I'm a big fan of their spinach gnocchi and cappellini insalata (vegetarian friendly and a good alternative for those who are trying to keep their cholesterol down). The meal can be heavy for some because of the authentic ingredients they use, but if you want to treat yourself to some of the best cooking in Chicagoland Rosebud is the place to be.
(5)
George U.

I came here with my ex girlfriend. Waited forever for a table even though I had reservations. I had a feeling it was because i was young at the time. People were being seated before us. I was pretty embarassed. This wasn't my favorite restaurant because of that and the food was mediocre.
(2)
Kristina F.

It's not my mom's italian cooking but it's good, and certainly great compared to other italian places I've tried in Chicago. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed and the wait staff is nice and helpful. They serve tasty bread and olive oil at the beginning of the meal and though I've never been wowed by what I've had there, it's been consistently good.
(4)
Tiffany L.

Rosebud almost has that Frank Sinatra feel, if you happen to be on a date. however, the feeling abruptly ends when your reservations are waited half an hour, there was only awkward standing room to wait, you eat off of paper, kind of like kindergarten, the waitress we had should have quit waitressing in her prime, but decided that 20 more years of it, would be fun, and much like monopoly about 2 hours in, she's done with it. But where do you go when it's all you know? FOOD was AWESOMETOWN. I didn't try the bruschetta, but from the sound of it, neither should you. I had a caesar salad, decorated with anchovies, which was a nice touch. Eggplant parmasean was good, hard to go wrong there. If it weren't for my wonderful company i'd probably have been more perturbed about the service. All in all, worth going to sometime, maybe dinner for grandma? nothing to dress up for, really, but a pretty cute place.
(3)
Andrew K.

Again a basic Italian restaurant...served my purpose of entertaining a large group of out of towners, but you can get a better bang for your buck at other places. I'm not trying to hate, the food, service and atmosphere was good, just not anything special enough for me to return.
(3)
Rob L.

I am between a 3.5 and a 4 on this place. I've been here several times, usually with one of my sisters and her boyfriend. I'll meet them here for dinner on a Friday night. They love this place, I like this place. The service is usually good to pretty good. The food is pretty typical Italian American fare and is good. I haven't come here expecting anything new or groundbreaking, but usually it is pretty solid. Any mistakes they fix fairly quickly with an apology, such as when my sister's boyfriend had a rather lukewarm soup, quickly brought him a hot bowl. Staff is always friendly. Again a solid place, but nothing amazing.
(3)
Gina G.

When your ready for the old world dining experience, a Chicago classic, Rosebud is a sure thing. Stick to the old Italian-American traditional favorite chicken Chicken Vesuvio. A half-chicken (on the bone), browned with tons of garlic, olive oil, white wine, and oregano. The whole dish is then finished in the oven and served with potato wedges and some green peas. Authentic, reasonable Italian food with a great wine selection. The atmosphere is warm and friendly. I find the restaurant quite romantic-but there are also a lot of families that dine there. Expect a delightful experience and a doggy bag. :-)
(4)
Brad F.

This is one of my favorite italian joints in all of chicago. The staff is awesome. Every single meal is always soooooo good. I always get the veal parm and the calamari. I always get the pasta fagioli. This is a great place for a date or even for a whole group. I recommend their cannolis that are all freshly made at the restaurant
(5)
Louis C.

A solid Italian eatery on wonderful Taylor Street. The pastas are consistently good. My fave is the papardelle (square pasta) that arrives in a rich tomato sauce...the pasta is buttery and perfect. Like many of the other entrees, you receive a much more than ample serving and will have plenty to bring home so it may be a good idea to share. You also should try the grilled calamari for an appetizer...good quality and prepared wonderfully. Also try the manicotti, baked ziti with italian sausage and canelloni. The service is generally good. Avoid the italian wedding soup as it is disappointingly watery and bereft of taste. Ordering ice tea is a hassle as they don't brew it and instead give you a large, unwieldy bottle to manage on your table. The bread is very good here.
(3)
C W.

Square noodles with vodka sauce.
(4)
Adam H.

There is a framed 2005 article from the Chicago Tribune in the restaurant I work at that states the best five burgers in Chicago. Rosebud's held the top spot on the list and that honor is what encouraged me to try this place. Sadly, the Chicago Tribune lies. I was very dissapointed in my burger. The burger is a good portion of meat but when it comes out cooked well when I ordered medium and when there is no sauce whatsoever and only a little container of ketchup on the side to help things out, I was overwhelmed by the dry burger. Add the fact that the toppings are all on the side, forcing me to take the time to make my own sandwich, that my server was very attentive to other tables besides mine so getting more ketchup was a chore, and my pretzel bun, though tasty, was too thin to try to hold everything together, I was kind of annoyed about the whole event. Their stuffed mushroom appetizer was good and their Godiva chocolate mousse cake was delicious, but my burger was something I wish I didn't order. Correct. I could have said something about the sandwich but I was on a lunch date and didn't want to be "that guy" in front of my girl and actually if I was eating the best of anything, I really shouldn't have to reorder it. It's the best. It was not. Cute place, nice decor, nice employees though they tend to ignore you, and decent food if it's not their burger. I'm going to start taking advice from more recent newspaper articles.
(2)
Lisa D.

This was my first visit to Rosebud and maybe my last. There was nothing terrible about it (other than the lack of parking, but that was to be expected), but there was no "wow" factor, either. I went on a Thursday night with two girlfriends and we were seated right away. However, the service did seem kinda slow, which could be because the place was very busy. It was also extremely noisy--it is hard to hear your companions in there! I had the fettuccine alfredo, which I believe is hard to mess up, and it came out pretty average--but at a lukewarm temperature and a smallish portion size. I wouldn't say this place is "bad" by any means, but it's not amazing, either. Overall I would say that Rosebud is just average, and if you are looking for mind-blowing Italian food or a memorable dining experience, this isn't the place.
(3)
Amanda T.

I would've given more stars, because the food is GREAT, but this place obviously needs a hardcore lesson in hospitality and good service. A group of us came after a graduation ceremony at UIC which is nearby, and it also happened to be Mother's Day, so they were busy. I understand that. BUT after the waiter took our order for appetizers, it took an hour for us to get it. And he still didn't take our order for the entrees. A freakin hour! Someone needs to give the staff an etiquette overhaul. So as for the Rosebud on Taylor St, no thanks. I'll stick to the Naperville location.
(2)
steve w.

Excellent food and service but still felt too commercial. You can't go wrong with the spaghetti and meatballs to fill your tummy though it's impossible to finish off the Lasagne in one sitting.
(4)
Serena S.

I was disappointed by this place. The Bruscetta looked delicious and artful but then when I took a bite it was rock hard. yuck. My chocolate martini was ok but kinda strong. After the nasty Ap I didn't want to order any more. On my next trip to the Chi I won't be dining here.
(2)
R M.

About a million times better than any of their other locationsy. And the food's pretty decent, though a bit expensive. Nice, low lighting. Shady Italian guys talking business at the back table. Overall I think it's a pretty nice restaurant, but expect a 3-digit bill if you're out on a date.
(4)
Joe S.

Try to get the cozy table in the front window to the right of where you walk in. Great food and waitstaff.
(4)
Kerry M.

I really tried to like this place but could not. Our mussels were quite fishy - not just one or two, the entire bowl. Pasta was mediocre and the service was fair. I wont go into to details since a 5 star review deserves and will get more of my typing time. I have had so much better for so much less $$. I really think that the real reason people praise this establishment is because of its Chicago history and nothing more.
(2)
Kristin A.

Good food and great atmosphere. We were happy with the service as well. Great location as well!
(4)
Rachel A.

good but....i mean don't get me wrong....if you are say shopping on michigan avenue or better yet oak street this is a good place to lunch in any season but the summer is best, sit outside....i used to go here a lot for lunch meeting presentations when i worked at saks and it was good for that.....and i know the owners...nice family...but honestly, it's a little touristy and not the best italian food around....we're talking chicago for goodness sake...
(3)
Mark P.

Can't believe that this is supposedly one of the best that Taylor St has to offer.
(2)
Sherry S.

It's tough being Italian and going to Italian restaurants. After all, there's a million ways to make Eggplant Parmesan, and no one does it like Uncle Rocky. So when I took my visiting aunt and uncle here, we were pleasantly surprised. My uncle (not Uncle Rocky) had the Veal Bracciola, which came with three kinds of Cavatelli (plain, tomato and spinach). I'm going to guess it was great because he a) didn't say much and b) didn't offer a bite to anyone. I had the Chicken Milanese, which was out of this world. They serve two huge chicken breasts (one would have been fine) with an arugula, red onion and tomato salad. The chicken is perfectly breaded with parmesan cheese (which I cannot for the life of me pull off at home!). The dish is a perfect combination of flavors and can qualify as "light" among a menu of heavy/filling choices. My fiance had the Shells with Shrimp & Broccoli (but he switched for linguine) and loved it. My aunt had the Eggplant Parmesan, which they pound flat and layer so it's not as mushy as some versions. I'd never heard of anyone pounding their eggplant before, but it works. Uncle Rocky would have liked it. My aunt and I both had sides of rigatoni that we're perfectly cooked - not too soft, not too al dente. So, from an Italian's standpoint, it was pretty good - so much so we'll be back to try other things on the menu.
(4)
Martin H.

A nice Italian restaurant in the heart of Little Italy. Doesn't look like much from the outside but is very large on the inside. Good food, great service and a bit pricey. Nothing too amazing, just good.
(4)
Steven K.

Great home-style Italian food! This is a good place to go for the old school Taylor street restaurant style. The food is amazing and tastes like Granny used to make. I recommend the eggplant salad as an appetizer. The prices were pretty reasonable as long as you don't order drinks (but I assume this is pretty rare, a cocktail was looking pretty good to go with the cookies we had for desert)!
(5)
Rhoda G.

My cousin and I came here for our carb loading before the marathon. When he called for reservations, the only opening that they had was at 9:30 pm. But I was able to find a 8 pm opening through OpenTable. We found parking easily across the street from the restaurant and came about 30 minutes ahead of reservation, but they seated us 15 minutes later. For appetizers, we shared the bruschetta, which was toasted crostini with tomatoes, olive oil, basil, and fontinella cheese. This is some of the best bruschetta I ever had. The tomatoes were piled high and every bite was delicious. Then I ordered Papardelle Noodles, which was homemade square noodles in tomato basil sauce and my cousin got the Spaghetti with Meatballs. I loved my choice. The tomato sauce was really really good and the noodles were perfectly cooked. My cousin loved the marinara sauce. He did give me a meatball, so I can have some protein with my meal. Despite how full I was, I wanted to get dessert. Our waiter listed more than 6 from the top of my head, but the only two that caught my attention was the cannoli and the tiramisu. I settled on the cannoli because the tiramisu was a little too much for me to eat by myself. That cannoli was so good especially the filling and it was the perfect size. If I had any more, you had to roll me out of the restaurant. The service was great here and of course, the food was excellent. Great Italian food!
(4)
Shradha A.

This happens to be the 4th Rosebud I've been to (after Carmine's, Dearborn and State/Rush) And this one is THE BEST!!! We sat outside and it was a beautiful day! I had their homemade square pasta and brought back home enough to make 2 more meals out of it! And apparently that's their "lunch" portion and dinner's larger!! I also tried the Minestrone soup and it was MMMMM so good!!! All in all, a great great lunch!!!
(5)
Stephen H.

I felt like Capone's gang was going to come in like an episode of the Godfather and start firing at my table as I mouthed- down huge portions of spaghetti. Huge portions of everyhting Chicago style. Delicious and definitely not cheap, but worth it.
(4)
Bryan M.

Excellent Italian food in the city with great atmosphere and service
(4)
Michael B.

I was a bit concerned about meeting for dinner at this restaurant with a gluten allergy, but the waiter and chef were very accommodating. They had gluten-free pasta available! Along with that they provided a few different options on how it could be prepared. I selected marinara with Italian sausage (which the waiter confirmed was safe). I was interested in the minestrone soup but was warned against it due to the presence of flour. However, they made me a fresh bowl of escarole soup which was totally awesome! I also had a small house salad which of course was fine, but the dressing was a specially made house vinaigrette with Italian spices. Add some pepper and parmesan cheese and overall my dinner was excellent. I followed up with dessert of lemon, mango and raspberry sorbet (also gluten-free). Service was spot-on and as I already mentioned, the waiter was very helpful and speedy, considering it was a busy Saturday night. I gave this 3 dollar signs because that was the average of everyone in our party. Although, you could easily get by on 2 dollar signs :) I've always liked the Rosebud Restaurants and this one is no exception. Definitely recommend.
(4)
Colleen O.

When i went here, the place was packed. As i gazed around the room, it was an eclectic bunch of people. Tourists, families, dates, older children rounded out the bunch. I was sat promptly. Their twist on the calamari app. was dynamite. I ordered a clam dish. As I always do when I order out. It was good. It has been awhile since I had eaten there and i have a warm memory of the evening. But nothing stands out in my mind as the best food I've ever eaten. Its good. But i wouldn't expect anything less from a place in little Italy. I'm sure I'll eat here again sometime in my food life. But with all of the fantastic restaurants in Chicago, why settle for second best? There is a cute little park right near rosebud with Joe DiMaggio statue in it. It was a nice end to a summer date at rosebud
(3)
Diana P.

My husband and I usually make a point of eating here while in Chicago. The old Italian ambiance is great but we were disappointed with the overall experience. We can get better Italian in Dallas. That's just wrong!
(2)
Harry M.

Oh yes. If you are near Taylor Street, you need to eat here. The food is extraordinary. Went it comes to Italian food, I rate it by how their chicken marsala is prepared. The chicken is thick and moist. The mushrooms are freshly sliced. The sauce, oh the sauce, is tasty. You almost want more some you could dip their bread into it. The service is terrific. Attentive but not hovering. If you need anything, they are available. They are eager to correct anything you find amiss. These are the factors that have my wife and I returning every time we are in the area.
(5)
Betty H.

Food: 5 seafood pasta was huge enough to feed 4 people, fried calamari was delicious Service: 5 Cleanliness:4 Ambience: 3 too cramped and dark
(5)
Fanny V.

Thank you!! Walked in today on Friday around 5:30 PM and had asked for a table for 6. I really appreciated the two managers on duty and hostess for being able to squeeze us in last minute on a busy weekend night without a reservation. We had had a long day at the hospital, exhausted and starving we decided to finally jump out of highway traffic to grab some food. Our server was Amanda B. and she as well as the bus staff were attentive and kind. Perfect timing on food, it was delicious as always! My family doesn't get to dine out too often so thank you for making it great!
(5)
Andy M.

Nice spot on Taylor street! Love this place huge portions of food!! My dinner is always my lunch the next day!
(4)
David S.

Hmmm.....it's a nice cool evening out and I wanted something healthy but good. Head over to Rosebud on Taylor and sit outside. It's summer out and I like to eat lighter so the dinner menu is out. BUT the apps are in. For the same prices (ok a little higher but not too much higher than you can pay for a burger and fries somewhere else) I had the grilled calamari, baked clams and stuffed shrooms. The shrooms had a reduction sauce that was really creamy and garlicy while the calamari was olive oil and lemon fresh - there were even little baby pulpo grilled to char crisp. All were priced under $11 and were really fresh and especially tasty. For those interested I didn't eat all that food but split it with a friend. The apps and a couple of Pieroni's and I was immobile. OH, almost forgot to mention the warm Italian bread and Greek EVO w parm cheese.....burp.
(5)
Jay I.

Even if my initial review was 3.5, after trying numerous times during my days in Chicago, I should give this place 4 stars. I really got to love their food over time, and did a lot of take outs at least once every 1-2 months. Our favorite is spicy calamari. other pastas and meat entreÃ© are pretty good too. and as I said before, keep that in mind that the portion is enormous. If you buy an entree especially if you have small stomach basically you are buying it for 2 meals.
(4)
Linda E.

What a charming, authentic Italian restaurante! We walked in without a reservation and were warmly greeted and welcomed. Enza was our waitress who balanced friendliness and professionalism perfectly! We enjoyed their stuffed whole artichoke and pasta with Arrabiata sauce and Italian sausage... Nice wine selection, Italian bread served with flavorful olive oil. Rosebud's full house is testament to their success......Bravo!
(4)
Bianca F.

We came here for lunch and had a nice time. We were looking for outdoor seating and this place had a nice patio and family style appetizers that we could share. It had everything we wanted. My friends drank the bloody Mary's and I had some white wine. We started with the salad, which was followed by the calamari, ravioli, sausage and peppers and shrimp. Needless to say we were stuffed and had tons of leftovers! We will be back for sure. Our waiter was attentive and we easily found parking. Plus the yelp reviews were good!
(4)
Kelly B.

First time here! Gabriel was our outstanding waiter and the food is amazing! The portions are out of this world. We had stuffed mushrooms to die for! The Caesar salad is enough for 4 and I got the 8 finger dish added chicken. OMG! If you love spicy, this is the dish for you! Enjoy and ask for Gabriel!
(5)
Megan B.

Awesome experience! Amazing food! Excellent service! Owner greets you as you walk in and checks up on tables. Celebrities from the 1970's come here, from frank Sinatra to al Capone! It's a must eat! You're all missing out!
(5)
Katie G.

My boyfriend and I were looking for an Italian place for lunch and stumbled on this place in little Italy. I'm not a huge fan of Italian because it's carbs carbs and more carbs, but this place is worth all the calories. Started with the bruschetta, it was delicious and the tomatoes were so fresh. For entrees we had the spaghetti and meatballs and penne with bolognaise and a side of mixed vegetables. Both entrees were delicious, but the side of mixed vegetables were amazing with roasted garlic, it was worth the $9 dollars. I will definitely be coming back here, this cute place is very inviting with friendly management and overall a comforting place to enjoy a delicious meal. Prices are a little high, but the quality of food is well worth it and the portions are huge so you will definitely have left overs. Enjoy!
(5)
Christina B.

We visited Little Italy during our trip to Chicago, looking for some delicious and authentic Italian food. We already had some deep dish pizza from Giordano's, but we were looking for someplace to escape from the hustle and bustle. We were recommended to visit Rosebud, and we were satisfied, but definitely not blown away. Our waiter John was kind and cared for our needs, but I felt the food was overpriced for the serving. A few measly pieces of shrimp scampi for ~$10? I mean they had olive oil on the tables for dipping bread but in all I didn't get that rustic, flavorful Italian experience during my time here.
(4)
Wes N.

Quite a treat. We had eaten at Moto the day before and yearned for some traditional Italian. The Trump Hotel recommended Rosebud. Took a while to find it but once in, we had fantastic service and some serious,y impressive marinara sauce. Eggplant appetizer was very good. Chicken parmigiana was huge and shareable and delicious. Great experience.
(5)
Mark C.

Great Italian. Worth the trip. Ciopinno and Zitti were wonderful. My wife and I came for our anniversary. We had to take the metro here from downtown but it was worthwhile! Definitely visit.
(5)
Pranitha P.

One of the best Italian restaurants I've been to in Chicago! I am such a fan of Italian food just because of the vast amount of vegetarian options...so many yummy carbs. I came here with a friend early Sunday evening and we were seated immediately. I think it is wise to make reservations because the restaurant filled up as soon as we were seated. We were served bread and water as soon as we were seated and the waitress was very kind and attentive throughout the meal. I ordered the eggplant parmigiana and it was so wonderful! Not to mention the portions were enormous..I took more than half home. It was one of the best I've had, with four layers of eggplant topped with a generous layer of cheese. It even came with a side of pasta so I was stuffed by the end of the meal. My friend ordered the spaghetti bolognese, caesar salad, and a glass of wine and enjoyed her entire meal. There was a little too much meat for her taste in her spaghetti but she still thought it was delicious. Also, when salad came out, it was the wrong order but they kindly exchanged it out. I would definitely come here again, delicious Italian food and good service. The atmosphere is fun and it's right in the heart of downtown, close to magnificent mile.
(4)
Andrea A.

Had the chicken Parmesan which is my fav and it was great. The waitstaff were very nice. Will visit again pronto.
(5)
Nataysha D.

What a great place in the little Italy neighborhood in Chicago. The food was amazing! i had the Vodka Pasta with added chicken and it was amazing!! The wine list is great and I had a great glass of chianti that was divine. Service was great with authentic Italian employees who were so nice! When I get to Chicago again I will be eating here again.
(4)
Ang T.

Great service amazing food drinks were always filled and staff very attentive. The only thing I wasn't thrilled with was the dessert. It was good but not amazing like the rest of the meal
(5)
Frank F.

Great place to come with friends, the people are friendly and the food is good. Had the filet Marsala with crispy potatoes they are the best. The calamari with the spicy sauce and the Italian sausage was excellent. Desert, we you need to order the chocolate chip cheese cake, just do it, can't go wrong!! It's Valentine's Day today, in my opinion the worst day for a restaurant, they did a great job!!
(4)
Marshneil D.

Loved the seafood combo and the quality of food is really good. I liked their pasta and meat entrees. Highly recommended
(5)
Julie W.

This classic Italian restaurant does not disappoint. The service is top notch and the food is thoughtful and perfectly prepared. My only regret is not asking for the price of the special I ordered (they ought to have told us upfront) and it turned out to be about $20 more than I would have chosen to pay and above the range of most other dishes. But oh, well! The lovely fish was absolutely delicious.
(4)
Patrick H.

This is by far my favorite Italian restaurant ever!!! Even though I had a reservation I've had to wait a couple of times, which I'm really good with because I know what's to come always blows my mind. The great thing about this place is even though I am not Italian, I feel like I am at my Italian Grandma's house sitting down for the meal of my life. The lighting is low. So, could be romantic if you can either cancel out each others garlic breath or you don't mind the smell. My staple used to be Chicken Vesuvio, they have a claim in that says they invented it, although so do a couple of other places. But, it's so good... ask for just Chicken Breast if you're like me and think the bones make for a lot more work. Now though, I love the Brick Chicken... It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. They make the chicken with a brick on top of it so it's flat... and has some great crispiness to it. I'm not a drinker but they have a great selection of wines and drinks. Go here, now if you are like me and LOVE Italian food!
(5)
Sean P.

Decent service. Decent food. Altogether, just decent. Fettuccine Alfredo was good but no Fettucine Alfredo should be $30. Altogether, two plates, no drinks, no appetizers came out to $60 for two people... Probably wouldn't come back. Treat yourself to the other restaurants in the area. Also the quality in their burgers have gone down during the years.
(3)
Mike J.

What a delightful experience dining at the Rosebud with my daughter Friday afternoon, the 22nd of August. We were seated in the first 2 top just behind the hostess stand on the sidewalk right away on a beautiful evening. The weather was perfect, having never eaten here I had no expectations. We were given a basket of warm bread, wrapped in a nice white cloth napkin. Awesome. A nice bottle of light Olive Oil, some Parmesan cheese was placed on the table. Delightful. Our waiter introduced himself and explained the 3 specials. We ordered the bruschetta appetizer ($9). They send out 4 portions of crostini piled high with fresh tomato concasse, blended with olive oil and fresh basil, lightly salted. Lovely. My daughter loved the sound of and usually orders the pasta tutto mare and did just that. ($42) I ordered the salmon vesuvio ($28). Claire's portion of pasta was best described as colossal!! (see pics). Huge portions of a wide array of seafood covered the mega bowl. Somewhere beneath lies an enormous portion of linguine in a spicy tomato sauce. Not too spicy she declares. She enjoyed and took 3/4 of it back to her dorm. My salmon was excellent, a nicely grilled 10 oz. portion served atop this wonderful cream sauce, perhaps a lemon buerre blanc, not sure but very good and fresh peas covered the fish. A perfectly cooked whole potato cut into quarters accompanied the dish. I'm a big guy and finished everything, but could only eat half of the potato, probably because we are so much bread beforehand. The service was great, out drinks were kept full, plates cleared promptly, first Stella poured for me by our waiter, the manager came outside to check out us. Overall great experience. No room for dessert. Left happy and very full. Little did I know we had just eaten at what many consider the best Italian restaurant in Chicago.
(4)
Erin B.

Incredibly good food, friendly service.. Just be warned that the potions are huge! I was craving risotto and didn't see any on the menu but the chef accommodated with something that was just a mermaid short of the ocean's entire bounty. Very good but it could have fed a table of at least 8-10. If you read this in the next 5 minutes, please join us!
(5)
Gracie B.

We went here today after my husband's graduation. The ambience was old school Hollywood glamour. The wait staff were personable, well informed, and made you feel at home. The FOOD was AMAZING--fresh, flavorful, and incredibly large portions. The Creme BrÃ»lÃ©e was truly an experience of eating a piece of heaven on earth. I highly recommend the Rosebud on Taylor for it's ambience, great staff, and great food!!
(5)
Bryn L.

Huge portions, fast service and delicious house wine. Only complaint was that the tables were a little too close together so we felt like we were having to talk over the louder man next to us. Can't complain too much though as we got in a reservation on a Saturday night within 30 minutes. Food was great and will definitely be going back to try the spicy calamari everyone is raving about!
(4)
Natalie V.

My family and I came here to eat during the Taylor Street Festa Italiana. I love eating at Rosebud to begin with, so to experience al fresco dining during the fest was beyond amazing! We split our dishes as usual because we like to try different things. We did not want to leave. Two of our friends wound up coming to meet us last minute and were accommodated with no problem. The GM Louis Folinazzo was of course seeing if we were taken care of like he always does. What a great choice in making him GM! He's fantastic! He brought us out 3 desserts even though we were stuffed from the delicious meal but it was well worth it. Loved trying them. Thanks Rosebud & Louis Folinazzo! We will be back again!
(5)
Dimple M.

Great place to take work colleagues or celebrate a special occasion.
(5)
Delightful D.

I been here a few times for lunch and each time is a success. The feel of the restaurant is old school typical italian spot nothing special but food is solid. I couldnt say its the best but its always good. Get there before three to get the lunch prices. I love their chicken parmesan, and ravioli with vodka sauce.
(4)
jaime g.

Amazing flavor in every dish. Huge portions and great service. A must. -brick chicken is the best chicken I've ever had touch my lips. - rib eye was perfectly cooked and seasoned. - simple pasta side with red sauce was to die for.
(5)
Erin M.

Rosebud is amazing! Some of the best Italian food we have ever had! It's an old school restaurant that has obviously been around for forever. We ordered the veal parm chop, a side of meatballs and the arribiata. Everything was incredible, they tailored the meal to my dietary restrictions and were happy to do so. Service was great, we will be back!
(5)
Mai S.

Excellent fresh Italian pasta! Amazing mariana sauce...GREAT FOOD! I have been to this location maybe 4 times - great dishes every time! I am a fan of Centro's and Rosebud's Prime as well -part of the Rosebud's chain. The location on Taylor street is a little dark -- otherwise excellent dining!
(4)
Nicolas D.

Bravo! Best classical italian in Chicago. Meatballs are a must, they're HUGE. Spaghetti, Raviolis, Hot bread, Oil, Salad - it's all fresh & delicious. Fine dining experience and atmosphere. Everything is presented luxuriously.
(5)
Kate S.

Delicious food and a fabulous traditional Italian restaurant that accommodates my fiancÃ©s huge family without batting an eye (we're talking party of 19). We discovered them while staying in the Medical District when we made our annual pilgrimage to Chicago for Lollapalooza. House wine is delicious, and the brick chicken on the bone is awesome, too. They used to be family style, but they offer individual plates now. Reasonable prices for a good Italian meal and huge portions. And I'm from Jersey so we know good Italian! Oh and my fiancÃ© proposed here so it will always have a special place in my heart They even gave us a champagne toast and dessert on the house because of the engagement.
(5)
Tuan D.

I have just ate here tonight, my first time ever at rosebud. My girlfriend and I along with a good friend, we decided to have some Italian. What better than Rosebud! famous for Italian in Chicago. First off it's a Tuesday night so it is not busy, They sat us RIGHT by the bathroom entrance. We felt discriminated against being younger and little more casual than dressy, so they pushed it in the back(our thoughts). staring at the bathroom the whole time i had already lost my appetite. Our orders were the spicy calamari which was pretty good, especially the little spicy round peppers. I had the veal Milanese which was absolutely terrible i had only couple of bites, it was tasteless aside from fried breading taste. The salad that came along with it was decent only because it was a fresh greens. My girlfriend chicken dish with mushroom sauce was good rustic mushroom flavor. My friend had chicken Parmesan, The chicken was so thin he refereed it as a lean cuisine meal! All in all the place i believe it's a little over hyped, or maybe because i had really good Italian and this didn't live up to the standards especially a view of the bathroom and the price to stare at that bathroom...great birthday meal. Very ironic fact was that everyone i saw coming out of the bathroom had just "satisfied" their needs and i was the one the LEAST to satisfied. They did take off my veal off the check but i was left starving driving home. The server lady was very nice and checked up on us often i just said everything was fine not to be rude but the only reason they found out about my dis satisfaction was because i did not want my food to go and the plate was pretty much full. Left $25 tip for $75 dollar check.
(1)
andy w.

Had very nice dinner with my cousin. Great service. Very good bar selection. Classic chicago steakhouse. They accommodated our special requests as well. Recommended.
(4)
Fernando B.

The first thing that caught my attention was the atmosphere. Everything was beautiful, dim, and quiet.. Well, until we had a group sit behind us, but they weren't a bother. I felt totally underdressed, by the way. I didn't know what I was putting myself into because my girlfriend and I were feeling spontaneous. The food was delicious! I don't know what it was called, but it was goood. We did have an appetizer beforehand, the bruschetta. I didn't expect the appetizer to be much, but when it arrived it popped and looked pretty fancy. I did forget to mention that while being "spontaneous" we didn't know the average price for each plate; not very cheap, so we shared a plate. Forgive us. I loved the waiter. He was informative and polite. He looked clean and straight. Too fancy! I'm totally coming back dressed better than casual and ready for the prices.
(5)
Jen G.

Brought our family to the Rosebud on the recommendation by a friend. It was amazing! We ordered the Caesar salad and there was enough to share for the four of us. There's no kids menu, but not really necessary as the portions are huge! I had the house specialty of Paparedelle with Marinara, my husband had the rigatoni alla vodka with a side of jalapeÃ±o potatoes. The food was outstanding, ambiance of restaurant was great, and the service/staff was phenomenal- Amanda was our server and she was so nice and helpful! A must eat at place!
(5)
C N.

Good food! Big plates! packaging (if ordering for pick up) is great! I love the place, a little pricey, but good food!
(4)
Karen O.

I am rating this place two stars because I was not satisfied with the taste of the food. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't up to my expectations. I went there about two weeks ago and it was on a Friday. My interest to go to Rosebud was serious! Every time I would pass through Taylor street it would be crowded, so I figured this place would be exceptional. I ordered Chicken Parmesan. I was in the mood for something simple and so I thought that what I ordered would be extra delicious since it's a simple dish. The portion of the food was a very generous amount. I have no complains. My main disappointment was the fact that the sauce was simply not as saucy, and it was a little on the bland side. How could Chicken Parmesan go wrong? Overpriced as well. Out all things on the menu why would something this simple not be delicious in an authentic Italian restaurant? It's very weird to say that the sauce wasn't saucy enough because the chicken had a good amount of sauce in it but it wasn't thick and rich in texture and flavor. I don't see myself coming to this place again. Cheesecake Factory over this any time.
(2)
Faye B.

Came here to carbo load with my husband. No frills Italian with a pretty standard menu. Our waiter was nice and friendly. The serving size for the entree was pretty large and I ended up with leftovers. We did get prime seating since a spot opened up by the window right in front and because it was so dimly lit it was a little romantic.
(3)
Ann H.

We had a wonderfully delicious dinner at Rosebud. Everyone was attentive and welcoming. Our waiter Patrick was very knowledgeable about the menu. They also had the most delicious appletinis!!
(4)
Oscar G.

Food was OK.... wait, so why the negative review? Our server Angela tried to pull a fast one. The final total was $87.00 and with a $50.00 gift card it should have been adjusted to $37.00, no? She walks away and quietly comes back with $87.00 on the bill. Gift card missing... So I go back and bring this up to the entire wait staff standing by the front. The manager takes care of it and Angela comes back to the table and says " I'm glad you caught that... YOU are fine!". No apology etc.... and made us feel like we were the ones that screwed up. And then she quickly walks away. There are times when honest mistakes happen but the whole thing was clearly not from her body language and just overall rude attitude.
(1)
Al M.

Mussels in white wine sauce were phenomenal as was the fried calamari. The lobster ravioli was very good as was the service. One of our favorites in the city.
(5)
Jennifer Q.

It's taken me THIS long to go to Rosebud, but finally did with coworkers last Friday. It was the first nice day in Chicago and we came for lunch and sat on the patio. It was really nice. I had the classic spaghetti and meatballs and it was really, really good. The bread on the table, the service...it was all really good. Everyone in my party was happy with what they ordered. I ordered a tiramisu to go and then devoured it a few short hours later. I will be back!
(4)
Harlow M.

The service was excellent, the food was very traditional Italian, the presentation was simple, and the portions are large. We shared a chop salad and Zuppa de pesh and had some to take home as well. If your looking for a fancy presentation with an apple cut up to look like a flower, or blank white plates with splashes of color i.e. scraps of food this is NOT that palace. Our servers name was Patrick I will be sure to ask for him the next time I go there. Overall an excellent experience!
(5)
Dan F.

Excellent. The food was very, very good. I only wish that I was in town for another day so I could go back!
(5)
Ginelle S.

I went here last weekend for an impromptu date night and was so happy we ended up here. From start to finish, from the hostess to the busboys, everyone was incredibly friendly. The decor is old school Italian - heavy colors, cozy seating, life-size Frank Sinatra portrait on the wall. And the food was delicious! We got the steak w portabellos, shrimp fettuccini, the grilled octopus for an appetizer, and the tiramisu and house-made limoncello to finish it off. It was all amazing - but the steak was incredible! Will definitely be going back the next time I'm in the mood for great service and hearty Italian fare.
(4)
Ana C.

Little Italy is really little here in Chicago. But had to see for ourselves. We decided to try it after reading reviews here on Yelp! Got in on a Sat night after a quick 15 mins wait. The food server was attentive though busy. The menu varied and has something for everyone. We tried pasta and it was quite good. The Sangria was also yummy. I'm sure there are other more authentic Italian restaurants in Chicago. There's not much to see in Little Italy, Also known as University Village. But if you're in the area it's a good option. Metered Street parking.
(4)
Peri R.

We did not know the area at all and just happen to stumble upon the place. The menu looked great so we stopped. The inside dining was lovely and quaint. We sat outside and it was just as pleasant on their patio. Absolutely top notch service from our waiter. He was phenomenal. The food is homemade and fresh and everything was delicious! They customized our order for us and we couldn't have enjoyed the visit more. Best italian food I have had in the US!
(5)
GabyandRoofy M.

I was really disappointed with my experience. The food was okay but not worth the price. This is a place where people go just because its fancy and because it has name recognition. It is not a place with great food. The decor was nice though.
(2)
Joanna T.

I come here quite a bit, both work lunches and friendly dinners. The service and food is always stellar, and everyone here is always welcoming and you feel like family! Summertime has great outdoor seating, and in the winter it's decorated like a Christmas wonderland. Makes for a festive atmosphere. Make a trip down to Taylor, you won't be disappointed! Friendly and warm atmosphere for lunch, dinner, or just a drink! And they do great food, pasta, salads, steak or fish. My absolute fave is the chicken Vesuvio, no one does it better.
(4)
Phyllis B.

This is hands down the best Italian food I've ever eaten. Everything was extremely fresh and delicious. The restaurant has a marvelous atmosphere like something out of 1930s Chicago. The extraordinary service truly made us feel special. Pricey, but worth every cent. A very special restaurant that deserves its reputation as an iconic Chicago restaurant!
(5)
Cee A.

Can't go wrong and The Rosebud! Everything is classic, quality ingredients and perfectly cooked. My spaghetti and meatballs was absolutely perfect and completely satisfying when you want the comfort of authentic Italian. Lobster ravioli and pasta carbonara were our other dishes at the table and everything including the wine, was just right. Service is thorough , informed and pleasant. The Rosebud is still around for a reason... excellent food!
(5)
Linh L.

For the most part I enjoyed my dining experience here. I'm glad it was nice outside because I hate super dim dining rooms (even though it's common). When we ordered our wine, the waiter walked away to get the bottle, but he turned around in 15 seconds and says, "Wait! you're all 21 right?" That was the only way he validated our age! My friends and I wanted to wait until the bottle was gone so we could say, "We lied. We're 19." He was a nice and mediocre server though. At our table, we ordered a bottle of pinot grigio, Parmesan veal, manicotti, linguine with clams, and my white fish stuffed with crab meat. The wine was good, but the other dishes that my fellow diners ordered was just ok. My white fish stuffed with crab meat dish... it light, fresh, and expensive. Market price was $36, but I didn't regret it. I felt satisfied without feeling like I'm about to explode. Everything with tax (not tip) was $155.
(4)
Brad S.

The food is just below my expectations. The service was poor, but it was late at night. Over all an average experience.
(3)
Stephen S.

The portions here are enormous so consider sharing when ordering. I'm told this was the original Chicago location and when you walk in and see the pictures on the wall, it's easy to soak in the nostalgia. The calamari as app and the ziti were executed perfectly!
(4)
Lindsay D.

My fiancÃ© and I ate at ROSEBUD on Taylor last night (Thursday) and it was absolutely delicious as always. I had the Zuppa Di Mare (SP?) it was on special....the portion was gigantic and looked as through I didn't make a dent in my plate, yet I left there very full. My fiancÃ© had their Veal Chop, which was also on special. He loved every bite of it. The service was impeccable as always. Our waiter was funny and extremely knowledgable of all their menu items as well as their beers. We live nearby and of course we will be back!!
(5)
Martin P.

I like most everything this Italian restaurant has to offer: valet service, old school Italian atmosphere, large portions, professional service, and generally a flavorful meal. On our last visit we began our first course with an eggplant salad with and an order of sausage and peppers. Both dishes were flavorful, prepared well, and presented wonderfully. Our entrees included angel hair pasta with marinara sauce and the filet marsala. The pasta dish was not as flavorful as I had hoped. The Filet was far from the best cut of meat I have tasted. I was expecting far superior quality. We ended the evening with coffee, cannoli, and creme brulee. This last course was excellent! I love dining here, and have done so many times, and will continue to do so. It is generally a great dining experience. Unfortunately, this time, the entrees were just a bit off the mark. You know, I will return again, hopefully, with an improved dining experience and review.
(3)
Eunice V.

Great food.
(4)
Barb R.

Dined here a month ago - girl foodie trip with a good friend. It's a cute place and very cozy. We were greeted by our waitress Angela and she was wonderful, SO helpful and patient. We ordered the jumbo shrimp appetizer that came with bread, butter sauce and garlic sauce. OMG...those shrimp were SUPER jumbo! After having the appetizer and seeing other people's food order...we knew we were in trouble cause the portions are HUGE here!!! So we decided to split an order of linguine carbonara (was supposed to be fusilli pasta but asked if we could do linguine instead). Pasta was done to perfection, the sauce was too rich but just nice and creamy. Needless to say both plates were empty. :) For dessert we had the creme brÃ»lÃ©e. Loved that it was vanilla bean. For sure come here when you have a BIG appetite!
(4)
Mike R.

Festa italiana 2014 enjoyed dining outside and the food was truly delicious. So that we would not have to carry leftovers we split the Rosebud salad was was truly more than enough for two people filled with chopped everything, heart of palm, cucumber, tomatoes, olives with a wonderful vinaigrette. For our entree we split Veal Bracciole which were two large portions of veal filled with a light creamy goat cheese covered in a tomato cream sauce with 'bishop's hat' pasta. Truly worth every penny.
(5)
Joshua R.

Love the ambience and the food is equally good. Though I was here for some to go I wish I could sit down for a proper meal. Its good to take out your date for a dinner... The staff are very polite and for the table quiet fast last time I was here...
(5)
Meghan H.

Oh man this place was quite delicious. I had insalata di pesce (squid, octopus, calamari, and shrimp tossed in olive oil and spices/herbs!) and it LITERALLY made my mouth-water. It was so fresh-tasting and flavorfully refreshing! I loved the fact that I could walk out of an Italian restaurant without feeling like I had eaten a whale (if ya know what I mean)--I wasn't super stuffed---just perfectly satiated. They served up a pretty decent variety of breads that came complimentary to each table...with olive oil = magnificent! Although...it was SUPER LOUD IN HERE---you literally had to yell to get the attention of the person sitting across from you... Despite the noise, I highly recommend this place.
(4)
P R.

I was so happy we went - this placed lived up to all expectations. Wow was it good - food and service. At italian places love to try simple spaghetti and meatballs - they knocked it out of the park. Veal Marsala was great - flavorful with the sauce just right. Desserts were great - big enough for two or more. To top it all off - the espresso was perfect. Service was great.
(5)
Jacqueline M.

Delicious, great service and ambiance. However, portions are HUGE so highly recommend doing a family-style type of ordering if you're in a party larger than 2... enough food to go around and all can try a bit of each. Had leftovers for several days.
(4)
A C.

Rosebud is a restaurant chain. Of all the Rosebuds (on Rush, Carmines, Taylor St.), I prefer the one on Taylor Street. Here's why: 1) It's less crowded at Taylor Street - you NEVER have to wait in line for a table or compete with tourists. 2) portion sizes are larger here at Taylor than at Rush and Carmine's 3) Service is faster, more efficient, and there are more choices at Taylor 4) Parking is cheaper (on street by meter). :)
(4)
Allison J.

Decent Italian food but not impressed altogether for the price. I've been twice and haven't enjoyed it as much as other Italian restaurants in Little Italy.
(3)
Allie P.

Can you believe this was my first time at this Chicago icon? And what a time it was! Fantastic in every way. We sat next to the most hilarious people. The waitress was awesome and the food.... Lobster ravioli. That's all I have to say.
(4)
Francisco M.

Over priced for mediocre food! The portions are generous but that doesn't really matter when the food is bland. First time going there with high expectations, but I was badly disappointed. The chicken and the pasta had no taste what so ever and was very watered down. Won't be going back that's for sure.
(1)
Ckardee A.

Great service and good food kinda expensive but a great place we enjoyed our romantic dinner
(4)
Adam B.

Killer Italian food. Huge portions - too big for lunch. Nearly had me in a food coma! The staff is friendly and attentive. The vibe is old school mob Chicago. Feels a bit touristy, but plenty of locals were having lunch and the food more than makes up for it. Will definitely visit again.
(5)
Bryan B.

If you're looking for a great pre-game meal before the Hawks, Bulls, Sox or Bears game, you cannot miss with Rosebud. They get you in and out like pros. And you'll be close enough to the sports venue to have a short pat-dinner commute. Careful: Portion sizes are crazy big, so if you don't want to carry leftovers, order appropriately.
(4)
J L.

Great customer service, delicious house salad, flavorful linguine with clams in white sauce. Food service was fast! Definitely recommend this place.
(5)
Harold B.

Great, hearty portions! Drink selection was thorough, as well. Hate their valet set-up, however!!!
(4)
Sarah C.

Meh. It was just alright. I was here for a reservation for a large group that was booked well in advance and everything that was wrong would have been better if they provided us with a second waitress for such a large group. Drinks didn't get refilled, some drinks were forgotten, we had to ask for butter for the bread and it came a half hour later. Some food was lukewarm and the wait time was long but I assumed that was because of dish variety. Maybe these things are super picky but when you pay for the prices you do at rosebud... You'd think the experience would be worth it. Overall it was just okay. I assume it would be a better experience for a small table and not a big group??
(3)
Mad I.

Okay, weirdest host/manager ever. He kept asking us if we wanted a bigger table.... it was just us two girls, pretty average in stature, my g/f is actually super petite. "um, no thank you sir, this 2 top is fine for the two of us" "are you sure?" "Yuuup" "Are you sure?" "YES!" Awkward, lol Onto the food: Ordered the special, lobster ravioli, comparing it to Francescas and Sapori Trattoria. It was kinda tasty but too salty and the asparagus was not needed all throughout. Pricetag for that $31 EKK, more than the other two places an not nearly as tasty as ST, but better than Fran, although that place was pretty bad.... Interesting ambiance, old Italian mobster like ;)
(3)
Dan Z.

Wow. Found his place while staying near the medical center. Not too many options within walking distance and the reviews were great. They did not disappoint! Cozy atmosphere, comfortable. Sinatra playing softly in the background, friendly bartender Rachael greeted me immediately. When you walk in and smell the food, you're already expecting a good meal. Had pasta fagiole soup to start, glass of house chianti (very smooth for house brand). Soup was flavorful, pasta not over cooked, complex textures. Few bites of crunchy pancetta - Yes!! Then went with the veal special - Fred flintstone size veal chop, breaded and fried, then smothered in mozorella - served over linguine bolognese. I can eat quite a lot but knew I wouldn't be finishing this thing. Veal tender enough, cheese was amazing, but the bolognese - that's what earned them the additional star! So rich but not in a bad way. great comfort food taste and a Surprising complement having a meat sauce with veal, but it certainly worked. I overheard the owner saying they've had the same cook for 20 years. With skills like that, he should have job security! If you find yourself in this area, do not miss this place. Rachael was amazing, food and ambience was perfect - could have been right out of a Goodfellas scene. Well done !
(5)
Dotty C.

Taylor street is definitely where worlds collide and on this particular afternoon my husband, sister and I decided that we would treat ourselves to a decadent late lunch. We were distractedly amused to be among Blackhawk fans that began to drift in on this the 4th game of the playoffs. The area is also ground zero for the medical community which brought us into the mix. Our meals ranged from great ( my Eggplant Parm was awesome) to mediocre, (Shrimp stuffed Tilapia, my sister was disappointed with) and (Sea Bass, which husband did enjoy) but we were all bent on conviviality and left satiated. My reason for writing however; is motivated by what came afterward, I realized 45 minutes later (as I arrived at my doorstep) I did not have my purse (keys, I.D. etc.). Did I mention we were distracted and convivial? After an immediate "about face" I called the restaurant and asked if my bag was found, and where we had been seated. "Gina" answered saying "It was not at the station...she would look, and call me back". 20 minutes passed and yet another 20 minutes away. I called back and was informed by "Joe" that "he had a full restaurant, no one turned it in and he would not send anyone to look"...Flash forward.... I was told not to enter the dining room... I was allowed to point out the table where we had short time before seated and icily told to "stand where I would not be in the way" , he "Joe" would ask the guest. When he returned with what can only be described as an expression of contempt, he handed my bag off as if it was filled with radio active material. The food is fine but served without soul...I hope my leftovers tomorrow can remove the bad taste from this evening.
(3)
Chris D.

The food was fantastic. The waitress Rachel G however was the rudest person I have ever come in contact with. She went over the specials and there was a lot of them, and I was impressed that she remembered all that so I asked how she remembered all of it and she looked at me with a arrogant smirk and said "um I have 3 college degrees" almost like she was looking down on me. I myself have a master's but really didn't feel like it was relevant to throw it in anyone's face. Then she came back and asked if anyone wanted desert and when we were debating whether or not we wanted desert she said "since you guys don't know what's going on I will just go over what we have" now we were there with 12 people and spent over $300. We came to rosebud in Chicago because at 5:30 am tomorrow morning I am going to UI Hospital to donate a portion of my liver to a girl that happened to be at this dinner too. My family and her family were there to enjoy a nice meal and to have an arrogant waitress like that was unbelievable. She certainly deserves a reprimand of some type to show her that that behavior is unacceptable. I really like Rosebud but I will never return to the Taylor location if I'm to be treated like that
(1)
Zenia R.

comfort food goodness. generous portions and warm atmosphere, tri-taylor staple.
(4)
James F.

This is one of my favorite places in Chicago. The service is very attentive and the aim to please. The quality of the food is fantastic! The atmosphere is worth the trip in itself. It is classy and retro. It makes you feel comfortable and classy without being pretentious. I recommend it highly!
(5)
Pavnit K.

Rosebud?! Try more like dying rose. All i can say is that I was thoroughly disappointed about every aspect of this restaurant. My friend was visiting from NY and it happened so that Italian was his favorite cuisine. I thought hey, Chicago, Italian food?! How could you not?! I personally had never been to Little Italy, so I looked on Yelp and found Rosebud. The reviews seemed to pretty good so we decided to check it out. It was pleasantly busy for a Sunday so we figured that was a good sign. As soon as we were seated, the server brought over a bread basket, but no olive oil or butter. We tried flagging him down on a couple of occasions, but to no avail. Literally about 8 to 10 minutes went by when our actual server came by and realized we had no oil. As she went to get our oil and our drink order (consisting of 2 waters and a diet coke) we decided to check out the menu. It is pretty clear that this place caters to "regulars" or connoisseurs of Italian food because there was absolute no description of the dishes on the menu. It took her another 5 to 10 minutes before she finally returned with the oil and our drinks, but not the diet coke. When I asked for her the diet coke, she seemed slightly annoyed but went and got it. Note, in the mean time, she went ahead and took the order of the people behind us, but ignored our order. We had to flag her down just to order appetizer and our food. She was also not very enthusiastic over the 4 questions we had on the menu items. Normally, I am not one to comment on service, because everyone is entitled to a bad day, but this individual really upset me because it was very apparent that she was attentive and nice to all tables except ours and we were not even bothersome. So....the food.... bruschetta- lackluster at best. There was so much oil that the tomatoes were soggy and I am pretty sure my arteries were clogging as I was eating it. I ordered lasagna, my friend ordered chicken parmesan (and asked for the sauce to be spicy) and my fiance ordered their brick chicken. I am pretty sure they hijacked Sbarro's recipes because the sauce and meat in the lasagna tasted like they hijacked it from the mall. There was little to no flavor and it was pretty greasy. My friend's chicken parmesan was so undercooked that it took on a rubbery consistency. He barely took a bite and ended up leaving it. Plus, to top it off, they never gave him the sauce he asked for. My fiance's chicken was probably the best thing on the table and even that wasn't anything to die for. Towards the end of the meal, our waitress came by and asked if we were interested in dessert. We all said no, but she left a menu on our table and walked away. We were all kind of stunned. She probably took another 10 minutes to come back so that we could tell her we weren't interested in dessert. Sadly, it took us another 15 minutes or so to pay the bill due to the unattentive service. Despite all of that, we still gave a decent 18% tip and she didn't even have the decency to wish us a good night. Robert Irvine, if you reading this, the food and service need saving!
(1)
Laura V.

I haven't eaten at this Rosebud in quite awhile and I was surely missing out! I am a regular at Carmine's and Rosebud Steakhouse and I love both, but went to Rosebud on Taylor St with a big group. First of all, the food was divine. Every appetizer we had was delicious. Eggplant salad is the best appetizer I ever ate (and yes, I order it at all of their restaurants). Zuppa de pesce was my entree and it has huge and the best I have ever eaten. Lastly, our server Angela was amazing. She was kind, knew the menu and specials and was social and friendly. I will request her next time too.
(5)
Phil M.

I stopped into the Rosebud on a Saturday after doing some shopping. I was craving something from the Mediterranean and boy did I pick the right place! It was beautiful out, so I sat outside- very quaint and it had that European neighborhood feel. The waitress was very nice and very knowledgeable as well. She riddled off the specials for the day which consisted of about 20 items- no lie! I ordered 2 appetizers because I just wanted something light. Man, you should've seen what came to the table! One GIANT order of fried Calamari and a huge dish of Sausage and Peppers! These were just appetizers! I had two glasses of wine and two HUGE appetizers- plus a tip and it cost me around $40. This also includes fresh bread and olive oil that was brought to the table as I waited on my meal. The food was excellent as was the service and it made for the perfect spot to duck into for a quick Saturday afternoon meal. I'm a huge fan of the Rosebud now!
(5)
Angela S.

We visited last night for the first time, and it was enchanting! We made a reservation for 8 pm and arrived early. The bar was packed, and there was very little standing room, so we walked down the street and ha d an app at The Vintage. (By the way, that place deserves a 5star rating as well!) once seated, on time, our waiter greeted us with eagerness and an exciting list of specials that he delivered like he was on a stage. We hung in every word as he made everything sound amazing. Even the dishes we would have never ordered sounded tempting. We ended up getting the brick chicken (outstanding 3 lb. deboned chicken), chicken park with fettuccine Alfredo ( wow wow wow!!!! The richness of the Alfredo was mind blowing), and a sea bass special with spinach and tomato basil sauce, which I heard was better than The Iron Chef sea bass for less than half the price. Once we had nearly finished, the waiter pointed out the large painting over our table of old blue eyes. He let us know we were sitting at "Franks table", since he had eaten there more than 150 times. That sealed the deal- Our experience was top notch. Next trip to Chicago- we will be here, FIRST!
(5)
Maura C.

Fantastic! Went there on a date. I ordered the Chilean sea bass, which was on special. It was the best Chilean seabass I've ever had. My date had pasta- very good! Definitely will go back!
(5)
Pat O.

This place is classic Little Italy. That comes with a pricetag. Two entrees, one appetizer and two glasses of wine came to $120 without a tip. That said, the food was delicious, the decor is nice, and the wait staff are extremely helpful. We didn't come here looking for a bargain meal, so you shouldn't be either. If you like Italian and want a special night out, this is a good place. We found plenty of street parking, but our reservation was at 6, so it might get worse later on in the evening.
(4)
Candice G.

How are all Italians not 500 pounds? I don't know what's in Italian blood, but God must've blessed them with some kind of magic metabolism to be able to down all the butter, oil, cheese, carbs and more, and still be able to keep it tight at stallion status. After dining at the original Rosebud this afternoon, I left with the pain of a million stretch marks fighting over who got to claim the fleshy territory on my gut. Ugh. So pretty, I know. I guess that's what I get for trying to pretend like I could eat like Soprano. After what was probably 3 loaves of fresh baked bread, oil, pepper and Parmesan, a Napoleon eggplant salad that blew my mind (DO NOT pass this up), their ridiculously rich rigatoni ala vodka, a bite of the seafood fettucine dish (mind blowing) and a dessert that involved a bottom layer of spongy yellow cake, light and fluffy chocolate mouse, a fine layer of hardened chocolate on top, strawberry sauce, mint, and freshly whipped cream, I felt like I was ready to die a happy, fat death. And while the dishes at around $15-25 each didn't make this the most economical place to take a group of 11 for lunch, it was a GREAT meal, we had a private room upstairs all to our selves, the service was stellar with the most up-to-the-moment water refill-age I've ever experienced, the announcing and multiple repeating of the specials, and the detailed description of just about a third of the menu at each guests request, it was certainly justifiable for this special occasion. I would come back in a heartbeat with my faux Italian grandma and the intention of downing that Napolean eggplant salad faster than any hungry FOB-er in the history of Little Italy.
(4)
Olga R.

We went here on a tuesday late afternoon, no one else was in the restaurant, yet we had to wait 10 minutes for our server. Since we were very hungry, We ordered fish salad for appetizer and 2 soups right away. 20 minutes later he returned with our soups , one was minestrone and the other was pasta fagiole , they both tasted exactly the same., both were very salty and bland. After another 20 minutes, our fish salad arrived, it was just ok. By this time, another couple arrived. We thought if service is this bad with only one table, what happens when he has 2 tables to wait on. We had to wait another 20 minutes for him to take our order. Our pasta dishes were just ok, very very salty. I am sure that we would never return here.. This was our date night and left very disappointed. Very over priced. Our bill was 72.00 , no drinks, we only drank water. Where was management ? Host should be more involved with customers. Host never came over to our table.
(1)
Mike M.

I figured on a nice early Sunday afternoon I could spend some time getting a good meal, perfect day outdoors, & a good price. The problem was the latter. I felt for a couple of salads, $25 was going to be a fair price. Over $40 for two salads, & I was scratching my head. Service was excellent & food was good, but the pricing compared to similar restaurants was nothing to write about. It's a tourist attraction no doubt, but nothing more.
(2)
Nicole M.

Meeting an old friend for lunch it has become our thing to meet on Taylor St. Neither of us had been to Rosebud before and both had heard good things so why not. The hostess was amazingly friendly and was most of the wait staff. Our waitress left something to be desired but over all the service was good. The dining room is beyond dim..almost dark which really is fine with me. The lunch menu is simple all my Italian favorites after about 10 minutes of going back and forth I finally decided on the rigatoni with vodka creme sauce. For it being lunch time I was surprised at how long the wait was for pasta about 35 minutes and that was after waiting 20 minutes for the waitress to take our order. The pasta was so good! Portion size was good as well. I have about half left to have for lunch today. If you are in a hurry I recommend trying another place but if you have the time Rosebud is the place to go! I will be going back
(4)
Jennifer M.

The first time we came here was during the Taylor Street Festival last August and I really enjoyed it. The outdoor seating environment made this a pleasant dining experience. Our second and most recent time was on Father's Day of this year. It was too hot to even consider eating outside so we went in and found ourselves sitting in a dimly lit, traditional Italian decorated room. The menu has no description! The warm bread came without any offering of crushed black pepper. The portion of food was more for a family of four, an obese individual or someone who enjoys leftovers. With that said, the price for the Chicken Parmesean which sits on top of a pile of spaghetti was reasonable. I recommend this place for groups of people so you can share plates. I guess it's something I overlooked when we met up with friends last year. It's just too much for two people who want to eat different entrees.
(3)
Matt H.

Our favorite Italian place by a mile! Anytime we are even close to little Italy we gotta stop. Great sauce, great everything. Best pasta fagioli ever had
(5)
Patrick H.

A little pricey but the portions are MASSIVE. The food is delicious, the staff is competent (we asked to be re-seated inside to escape the bees and we were moved immediately), and the vibe is nice. "The lighting is too dim" isn't a valid complaint; it's a preference. If you don't like dark(ish) lighting, I'm sure you can find a brightly lit McDonald's that's more to your liking.
(5)
Toni B.

Food is very good. I would have given them a 4. Service however was not great. They were very nice but forgot two of the drinks and never brought the cheese we asked for.
(3)
Anna Marie S.

Skip the bread and save room for your entree because it will feed about 3 people! Huge delicious portions that will not disappoint. Bolognese is amazing as well as the Fish special! Calamari, shrimp, clams and mussels- so fresh and so good. Our waiter was great and super friendly making the experience even better.
(5)
Astrid P.

Great great place. The pasta was on its point "al dente" The seafood was amazing and The waitter great! Higly recommended!
(4)
Denise S.

I ate at Rosebud on Rush several years ago so I was excited to try the original. Oh, Rosebud, you did not disappoint! Did a little Yelping before we went so I could figure out what to eat. Love eggplant and the reviews on the Napoleon Eggplant Salad were spot on. Absolutely delicious. I knew the entree was going to be huge so I decided to save some room and I'm glad I did. We had a woooonderful server, Sarah M., who was ridiculously attentive without smothering. Sarah, patiently answered all our questions and made great suggestions. I wanted the pappardelle but not feeling the marinara. Sarah suggested it with vodka sauce and crumbled sausage. Manna from heaven! Hus had the special which was veal chop parm. Huge portion and he raved about it. Others had the manicotti and rigatoni. Loved how she did a subtle up-sell of a side of meatballs and sausage combo to one of my dinner companions. Well done Sarah! The only thing not to like about this meal was the fact I didn't have room to finish it all. Great food, service and ambience. A culinary trifecta.
(5)
Janet H.

This is a very nice Italian restaurant near the United Center, the Medical District and UIC. There are white table cloths, waiters in white jackets and seating in several different rooms. I dined here on my birthday and ate veal parmesan, which was absolutely delicious, and for Valentine's Day my date suggested I have something different, so I tried the lasagna. It was also delicious and so was my salad, my slice of cheesecake, and the glass of merlot I sipped very slowly. Therefore, I will have to confess that the food is good. So if you are looking for a place to have a nice intimate and romantic dinner, I suggest the Rosebud. They are not cheap; however, so bring a credit card and plenty of cash. Also, bring an appetite. Their portions are large.
(4)
Kristy F.

A bit pricey...but well worth it! I listened to fellow yelpers and ordered the Napoleon Eggplant Salad. I was not at all disappointed!! The lettuce, fried eggplant, chunks of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and dressing created an orgasm in my mouth. I was only able to finish half of the portion but I look forward to eating the rest of it tomorrow. I also tasted my friends pasta. He ordered the Rigatoni in Vodka...also very delicious. Could use some pieces of steak or some source of meat on the side, but overall delicious. I will for sure go back!
(5)
Russ T.

I used to live across the street from this place and me and my girlfriend would go here often. the staff are professional, friendly and attentive. We went here tonight for our anniversary and as usual everything was great! One complaint though...... The strip steak (I highly recommend italiano style!) that I would order most of the time had changed in price from just above $20 to $40!!!!!!! in under 2 years, the price of the SAME MEAL had doubled! I love this place, but I noticed a lot of the items on the menu have increased dramatically. I don't frequent there any more because i moved, but that was a considerable let down. If not for the price difference, i would definitely change my review to 5 stars.
(3)
Vanessa H.

Their Brick Chicken is phenomenal! It's lemony and garlicky and tender! Great restaurant for a couple or small groups.
(4)
Alicia M.

Best Lasagna ever...hands down, people!! This place is easy to get to (Pink line, Ashland bus), is on the cute main stretch of Taylor Street and is very romantic. I am a huge fan It's where my husband and I went on our very first date, and we just enjoyed dinner there last weekend with my family. I forgot how amazing the food is and how helpful the servers are. If you want that Little Italy "it" experience, try it! I don't think the pricing is over the top, either
(5)
Barbara O.

Ridiculous sized portions ruined my apetite. There were 3 of us who chose the ribeye special and we got 2lb prime rib on the bone which was so huge none of us ate even a third. We brought home what remained and couldn't bear to even look at it and eventually just ditched it. A gross waste of food. We won't be back.
(2)
Puleng L.

I'm not sure if the chef was having a bad day but the food was tasteless. I have only been here once so I may not be the best judge but I know for sure I'll not go back. The customer service is great though.
(3)
Diego A.

Nice place and high priced expectations...however I was not impressed with the lasagna plate...I'll have to try again sometime but with so many other options on Taylor it might be a while.
(3)
Helen H.

All four of us loved our food. We started out with stuffed mushrooms. Then on to the main course. My husband spent two years in Italy, and he raved about his! Two of us had specialties of the day: white fish stuffed with crabmeat, and Chilean sea bass. Delicious! The baked lasagna was a classic hit, too. Generous (huge) portions meant we took home at least half, for enjoying again the next day. We had to save room for desserts....creme brulee, chocolate mousse cake, and gelatos in pistachio, vanilla, and chocolate. Everything was tasty, and our waitress was attentive. All in all, this was a very pleasant evening out on Taylor Street.
(5)
Pete D.

I am a steak and burger guy, but the Linguine with mussels in white wine sauce is absolutely the best! The mussels were cooked to perfection in a rich, yet light white wine sauce and it just made my evening. I did make the mistake of ordering a side of escarole thinking it was escargot. A plate of sauteed veggies came to our table without snails I did the "huh" look. I took my wife there for Valentines day dinner for the past two years. I look forward to going there again!
(4)
Stephanie H.

This place is so beautifully decorated for Christmas and super cozy. I brought my boyfriend's parents here for a nice dinner out. We all loved it! Very authentic food and atmosphere. I kept it simple and had the lasagna and a house salad. Didn't even eat half of my lasagna because the portion sizes here are pretty big. Come here hungry! Also, the food is pretty pricey so if you're looking for a fancy night out and don't mind spending the money, then Rosebud is your place.
(5)
Bo K.

One of the worst dining experiences of my entire life. A group of 9 of us went for lunch. It took 20 minutes to get our drinks. It took so long the ice had melted into the iced tea so they tasted like water again. It took 26 minutes before our food order was taken. We never got any extra bread we had asked for multiple times. The food came out 50 minutes into our lunch. The service was so bad and slow. I complained to the manager who gave me this look like he didn't have time to listen to this. He said they were really busy during lunch and that's why the service was so slow. What a bunch of crap! They weren't busy at all. It took a while before he finally apologized and said he'll see what he could do. I went back to my table and asked for the checks. We waited another 12 minutes for the checks. Are these people for real? The waiter finally took our checks and while we waited to get them back, the manager comes out and says he's sorry but if we can WAIT, he has desert coming out for us. Is this a joke? You want us to wait even longer for the desert? We told him to cancel because we had been there for an hour and 45 minutes. Of course, we waited forever for our final bill to come back. We paid our FULL price bill and left, never to return. If you have 2 hours to grab lunch and receive ass awful service, this place is perfect. I heard from a friend, when a pick up order isn't picked up, Rosebud makes the hostess pay for half of it. Now I know this place sucks. Who is the jackass that came up with that policy? Whoever it was, needs to work as the host and we should all call in fake food orders. We need to bankrupt that clown within his own policies.
(1)
Michelle L.

This is a nice Italian restaurant that we visited upon a friends request. They have an extensive menu. I had the Fettuccine Alfredo and was not disappointed. Some items are a bit Spendy, but most items are very comparable to other Italian chains. ($14-18 for a pasta dish) The lighting is low and some of the elderly crowd were using their cellphones to light the menu, so If you have problems seeing in dim lighting I would suggest asking for a seat near the window or bringing a small light of some sort. The atmosphere nice. The staff are in jackets and ties but we didn't feel uncomfortable being in hoodies and jeans after a day of walking the city. This is definitely a place that would be appropriate in black tie attire as well. The location is great as it is right in the city- accessible via the CTA. We rode the Red Line up from Sheed Aquarium and then ended up walking all the way back to our vehicle at the Field Museum (it was a beautiful night).
(4)
Erin J.

MAKE A RESERVATION BEFORE YOU GO. This place gets PACKED! It's as if your going to an Italian family dinner with your... Italian friend. The Rosebud is great! The place is cozy with soft dim lighting and it's fabulously unique. The waiters and waitresses know their stuff! The menu doesn't give an explanation of each item therefore you will probably ask your server 100 questions. We did. Again, aur waitress was very informative and did not disappoint us. There were 6 of us and we all ordered something different. Fried calamari-- the thick ones, YES! Brick Chicken was so juicy, great flavor. Baked Manicotti was my absolute favorite! The sauce was O-M-G! I should have asked if I could buy just the sauce to take home. Valet parking is $10 (located NEXT door to the restaurant).
(4)
Saba B.

Rosebud, even though a local mini-chain, is more than worthy of five stars from this stingy Elite. Cavatelli arabiata is the best I've had, a gleaming rock star of authentic Italian cuisine with perfectly spicy, not too garlic-rich red chile tomato sauce. The portions at RB are beyond heaping, and easily make two meals. The spicy calamari blew us away with flavor, lightly breaded in an aromatic white wine/garlic sauce with large, succulent pepper chunks. Mama's meatball salad arrived with four fist-sized, parmesan-crusted, dense meatballs that were juicy and tender. The extensive wine list paired gorgeously, and the service was beyond exemplary. Ambience: inside, slick polished wood floors, muted lighting, waiters in black and white whispering in Italian. I can't imagine a more intimate, romantic room in Little Italy. We were surrounded by what I imagined to be capos and mols, stylish and gregarious and talking expansively with their hands. Rosebud SHOULD be a chain, just as you'd want an Italian mother to hand down her recipes. For upscale Italian on Taylor Street, Rosebud is home base.
(5)
Bobby F.

6 guests, had a reservation. My wife and I arrived first, a little early and our table was ready and we were offered our seats immediately. The hostesses were extremely polite and happy and very well organized. Our server went over the specials and sold them perfectly. I am pretty sure our entire table got one of the specials for our main entree. The food was great, the wine selection was nice. The portions were a bit large but for the price that was ok. I would not recommend visiting Rosebud without an appetite. You will be fed. We had a great dinner and will definitely go back soon. I don't know what each item cost but our bill was about $290 total for 6 people before tip. Not bad for the amount of food and wine we had.
(5)
Katherine M.

Some of the dishes are 5-star, some are not. They know what to do with an eggplant and rack of lamb, but some of the dishes of pasta are a bit expensive. The refiling of water is too often and can be a bit disruptive but the staff mean well. An old childhood favorite, and now affordable lunch specials which are well worth the money.
(4)
Andy M.

I had a pasta and my girlfriend got a white fish with stuffed lobster. The food was decent but for 60 dollars I felt like I should have enjoyed the meal a little more.
(3)
Brit T.

My boyfriend and I had a very delicious meal here. The food is 4 stars. The service is average, and the ambience is cozy. Not a bad choice, but I prefer some of the more authentic italian restaurants in Little Italy.
(4)
Erika T.

So, I'm a little partial to this place as it is where my honey took me on our first date. We sat outside on a warm fall evening, I had wine, he had beer, we both ordered the fettuccine alfredo. It's not the best pasta on Taylor street, but it was a great atmosphere and good service. I'm always a little sad to see the tables put away in the winter, as the sidewalk dining is really what made that first date perfect for me.
(3)
Shawn K.

The food was exceptional. I was very impressed.. The service on the otherhand was just standard. The waitress I found to be rude and did not listen very well wen we placed our order. She also came past the table every 10 minutes to ask us how we were doing. Very difficult to carry on a converstion.... Food was exceptional... Wait staff subpar...
(3)
Michael H.

The quintessential Italian restaurant in the city. The food is always good. The portions are huge and the value is great.
(4)
Steven M.

I made reservations for a Saturday afternoon not knowing that the street was closed for Italian fest. I got a parking spot right at the front gate. It wasn't the Luck of the Irish! Then they tried shaking me down for $8 bucks just for the privilage of walking to the restaurant. Right! My friend looked it up on his iphone and it said the fest was free. And it is illegal to charge for a street fest in Chicago. The donation is suggested! So we get thru the Wop fest and get to RB. We were seated immediately and the waiters were on top of us the whole night. We walked by the cookies on display and we both knew what we were going to have for dessert. I had a pomegrannate tea and they bring you the bottle. I thought that was a good idea. As I am a big drinker in the summer. I started with the baked clams. they are petite but very good. The warm bread was nice and crispy as well. But the second basket was dry, hard and cold? I ordered the baked lasagna. It was served at the table in it's baking dish and transferred to a plate with extra sauce poured on top. It had gobbs of meat and was piping hot. I also ordered the meatballs and sausage. (I did not know the lasagna was so large or came with all that meat.) The meatballs were great. Nice and spicy, soaked in the red sauce. The sausage was cold! It had a good taste to it, but it was cold. I did not send it back because I did not want them to reheat it. And by the time they made a fresh batch. I would have been done with my meal. That, and I didn't see our server until she brought us the bill? What is with these people deciding if I should have dessert or not. Is a Jenny Craig sponsor following me around thinking that I am someone else? The food was good though and I will be back.
(3)
Dane K.

Their lunch menu is extremely well priced... many things on it were $8-9 for the entree, and the entrees were regular sizes, not small portions or anything. TRY the chicken vesuvio. If you're unaware of what this is, you should at least try it once. It's a Chicago specialty. As Chicago as the Italian beef. And theirs is quite fantastic... (Vesuvio more or less is a piece of chicken sauted in a white wine sauce then tossed over potato wedges and thrown in an oven to get the skin crisp, garnished with peas later).. I've ordered it elsewhere before and Rosebud's was probably one of the better ones I've had (though it was made with boneless chicken?). The white wine sauce on it was amazing though, I could eat that all day. My sister had some baked ziti that was quite delicious... Service was decently good when we were there. I've been to a few other places in Little Italy, and this to me was better than some of the other big name places...
(5)
Brooke I.

I'm from Chicago and The Rosebud is the best italian food ever! I live in Dallas now, but when I'm home, I make it a point to go there when I'm in town. The service is always amazing, and the food is just so authentically italian.
(5)
min. r.

Best Italian food I've had since moving here years ago. I can't believe that it took me so long to try it, but now I want to go back every single week. I don't see it as the fancy night out that others seem to, but it was wonderful Italian food at reasonable prices. We had a group of 8, and were seated upstairs at a large table. Our waiter was totally on the mark, and every thing that we ordered came out correct, hot, and delicious. I had a Caesar salad; which is always hit and miss, depending on the dressing. This one was light, flavorful, and perfect, and the eggplant parmesan; delicately sliced eggplant, fresh cheese, and a tomato sauce that was well spiced and not cloying or thick. Easily the best looking dish at the table, and people drooled. :) The BF had the linguini with white clam sauce; loaded with clams in their shells and out - again, just a wonderful tasting dish.Other dishes around the table were rigatoni with vodka sauce (yum!), cavetelli with vegetables, a veal dish, baked clams (too tiny - don't bother), and some giant meatballs. The dishes are all massive, and everyone had leftovers - I'm jacked to eat eggplant for lunch today, and am seriously contemplating going back tomorrow night.
(5)
andrew s.

There are several Rosebud establishments all around the city, but Little Italy Location seems to be the best. Maybe because its where it all started for Rosebud. I would say any of their pastas on the menu are excellent. I especially like the Rigatoni Alla Vodka and Cavatelli Al Forno. I dont go for steak and chops but for the pasta so no opinion on the grill. I would say to anyone looking for the best Italian in Chicago to The Rosebud on Taylor.
(4)
Susie C.

So I read the reviews about this restaurant and decided to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday with a bunch of friends at Rosebud. I made reservations a week before the event, and when we arrived, we had to wait 40 minutes in order to be seated. They didn't have the tables ready for us, so what's the point of having a reservation if they are not ready? I guess it's difficult for a party of 16. The service was poor. My friend ordered a chopped salad and mentioned it without cheese since she was allergic. Well what do you know, she got a chopped salad with cheese. Then near the end of dinner, I told one of the waitress that I have a cake on hold and would like to take it out to eat. It was nice of them to cut the cake and serve each one of us and making sure everyone had a piece, but what's really shady was that they charged $2 per cutting of the cake WITHOUT telling us. We found this out when we got the bill. So I ended up paying $32 for the cake cutting service, and what's even dumb was that two of my friends already left early so it was really 14 people who actually had cake but was charged by the count of reservation (makes sense, but I am still angry that there was a charge of cutting the cake without our knowledge). After the bill was handed to me, we did not see any waitresses or waiters. Although that isn't a surprise since they put us on the second floor, and we only saw our waitress four times throughout the night (first time was to get our order, the second was when she brought the food to us, the third was to give us the cake, and the fourth was to give us the bill). When we needed refills or assistance, we just have to wait for one of those "more important" times. If you are looking for feeddbacks on food, it isn't bad. I liked my dish, but other places are better. One of my friends ordered a pork chop, and it was pretty dry. If you have a big party, I would suggest going elsewhere.
(2)
Vanessa H.

I stopped by Rosebud for a solo lunch. I was a bit intimidated at first because the lady in front of me had reservations. I thought it was going to be one of THOSE restaurants. Thankfully the hostess was amazingly sweet and the service was great. My waitress was patient enough to go through the menu with me and explain the dishes as I was a first time diner. I settled on their specialty squared noodles and switched the sauce to their meat sauce. It was very good. The meat sauce actually had chunks of meat and vegetables and was very filling. The plate was a bit pricey, $17 just for me, but I ended up boxing half of it for home. The noodles were a bit soggy in some areas, that might have been because they had to fold the noodles over. However, I would definitely try it again with a different type of pasta. Overall, it was a nice experience and the flavor of the sauce made up for it.
(4)
Melissa D.

I recently tried Rosebud again, and immediately felt a little guilty about my review. This time, the service was much better! I wish I could remember our waiter's name- he was very friendly with a good sense of humor! Still not the best Italian around, but I did like my meal and have no complaints!
(3)
Caz U.

Visiting little Italy on our trip to Chicago, my friend and I wanted authentic Italian where we could eat outside, enjoy the weather, and take in Chicago and The Rosebud allowed us to do all of that. Our first real meal of the day, we went into Rosebuds as soon as it had opened and the first clue it was authentic Italian food was the Italian couple seated at the bar speaking Italian. We asked for the sidewalk seating outside which was set up very cutely under string lights, trees, and umbrellas. They serve warm, loaf bread with a slice of butter. My friend ordered the cheese ravioli and I ordered something that they only make at The Rosebud which was an Eggpland Napolean salad. I was thinking "eh, just a salad" so I also ordered a side of potatoes. My friend raved about the sauce in her dish, claiming that she would eat it as a soup. I did not try her dish because I was too busy eating and relishing in my AMAZING, oh-so delicious salad. Potatoes were definitely not needed as the salad was pretty large. Fried eggplant stacked with fresh mozerella, tomatoes, basil, leafy greens and in a vinigarette sauce that was to-die-for! Don't think it's just another fancy caprese salad because it definitely is not! The eggplant was cooked perfectly and the cheese was so fresh and yummy. Because I did order them, I did try the potatoes which were a little bland and I left them alone after a bite so I can finish my salad because I would rather have spent my tastebuds (and money) on that. We also ordered the Chocolate mousse cake served with delicious ice cream. There are other Rosebuds around Chicago but if you want a nice, little setting that is away from the big city, check out Little Italy and the Rosebud there.
(5)
Danny M.

Oooh my god...this place is good. I took my girl for a romantic lunch here, we sat outdoors since it was nice that day. I ordererd the salmon cause I was on a diet, I know I know who orders sea food at a italian restaurant but hey it was the best salmon i ve had to date. My girlfriend order the lausana and they served her a huge slice, it was a monster. I tried that and it was delious.Only thing people might have a problem with is the price but came on this place has great food, it worth it...Over and out..
(5)
T M.

The service was great; the food was good and yes the portions were large. Good food and large portions and nice ambiance. I'm a fan and yes I would return.
(4)
Jerry G.

The Rosebud may be famous for it being the original location in the heart of Little Italy, but seems unable to set itself apart from other italian restaurants nowadays. I've been here twice and while their fried calamari, Rigatoni alla Vodka, Meatballs and Veal Parmesan tasted great, I would not say it was better than other italian franchises such as Maggiano's or Buca di Beppo. Considering that the price of the entrees in Rosebud seem to be a tad higher than those other italian franchises it would be hard for me to recommend anyone to go out of their way just to drive to the city and eat here. If you do live in the city there are far better italian options in Lincoln Square (such as Buona Terra) that you should eat at.
(3)
Sandra T.

the food is ok but, the staff really makes up for it. you can walk in there without a reservation and they won't look at you like you have lost your mind. very friendly atmosphere good wine list and a full bar. you can find parking on the street.
(4)
Jacob K.

There are many great Italian restaurants in Chicago but you can never go wrong with Rosebud. This place still has the feel of an old Italian restaurant with dark wood and traditional Italian cuisine. I even had the "mobster experience" once when I was there and decided to eavesdrop just a little on the neighboring table before asking them to lower their voices as they were very loud and obnoxious (a one time occurrence). Then I heard them talking about beating people down, extortion and it was time for us to change tables. Back to the food though. the seafood linguine with red sauce is one of my favorites as is the calamari, the lasagna and the garbage salad. If you want a real treat there is a bone in veal chop which is extraordinary and the house Chianti is wonderful as well. Don't leave without desert though. Get the triple Godiva chocolate cake. A word of caution though on a Friday or Saturday night you may have to wait over an hour even with reservations.
(4)
Janet E.

We had a group of 8 with reservations at noon on a holiday weekend and the weekend of graduations from UIC. Despite the craziness, we were seated prompted, attended to immediately, and our food came out at a reasonable time. The food was delicious. Great flavor. The complimentary bread came with olive oil and shredded Parmesan cheese (my favorite). YUMMIE. There is a lot of seating in this restaurant. However, I suggest getting seating upstairs if possible. When we ventured downstairs to use the restroom, the seating area was very stuffy and hot. Upstairs was definitely cooler and more comfortable. The place loses a star because I had found a small piece of paper in my dish (probably from the packaging of the prosciutto) and my friend had a small piece of plastic in her dish (probably from the packaging of the meat). Our dishes still tasted good though. At least it wasn't a piece of hair!!
(4)
Christine M.

It had been about two years since I had been here, and was really looking forward to the crusted shrimp scallops I had last time...quite possibly one of the most memorable dishes of my life. Was very saddened that it wasn't there anymore which lead to some disappointment. The service was sub-par...our waitress to interested in laying silverware (even though there were plenty of bussers and it wasn't packed) than taking out order. Water was hardly filled. I got the sea bass with grilled vegetables, and definitely can't complain on that. Everyone else's food looked pretty delicious as well and smelled fabulous. We started with the calamari and bruscetta, probably the best calamari I've had in a long time (except for this hole in the wall Greek place in the sticks) and as always plenty of hot bread to go around. Atmosphere was good, a little cramped, but that adds to the flair of this place. Lots of scratches on the walls that I don't remember from last time. Still, a staple in Chicago dining and a must visit for any tourist. Stay away from the one on Rush/Division...it doesn't beat the real Rosebud.
(4)
Jacob G.

The Rosebud is the best restaurant on Taylor Street and one of the best places to eat in Chicago. Their food is always great and the service is excellent. Since the portions are large, you'll never leave this place hungry.
(5)
Greg L.

What an amazing dinner we had this past Saturday. From the start, it was great and just kept getting better. The quality of the olive oil for dipping your bread, and the bread...it was great. We highly recommend the baked clams but beware that they are the small clams, and you want to get a dozen. They are terrific. We highly recommend the Veal Bracciola. It is a veal cutlet wrapped with seasonings and cheese and baked in a red sauce with incredible depth. Not to mention accompanied by really wonderful home made noodles. We also had the Veal Saltimbocca and it was very good, although had a stronger sage flavor than I have had elsewhere. Service was outstanding and all in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)
Wendy Y.

If you are not lucky enough to get Angela as your server, let me help guide you to happiness on a plate. I am gushing about~ The Tomato and Onion Salad. Add Blue cheese.. The Eggplant parm salad (not on the menu)- Layers of delicious fried eggplant between mounds of Arugula. Ask for it, they'll make it for you. The Brick Chicken- unbelievable! Square Noodles, substitute bolognese. These noodles are hand made and devine. This is the pasta dreams are made of. The tiramisu- usually not a fan- it won our whole table over. If you can't tell, I love this place. I think my Uncle and I almost cried during our meal, we were so happy... Great service, huge portions, reasonable prices, classic Chicago locale- How could you go wrong?
(5)
Ming C.

I ordered the ahi tuna rare, but still came done. I never buy so called secret family recipe or home style food. I like surprises. Overall this is a mediocre place with mediocre price and mediocre food. Nothing worth going back to.
(3)
Karen B.

This is one of my favorite restaurants ever. Two words: vodka sauce. I always order off-menu-the cavatelli with vodka sauce. Note that everything here is family style. Do not expect to order a salad and get anything that resembles an individual portion. Pasta portions are way too big. It's never a bad idea to share. The atmosphere is pretty cramped which is a down point. It isn't always easy to get a cab. I haven't been here since Chicago went smoke-free but I can't wait to do so. This was always a pretty smoky place and I'll be very, very glad to see that gone. I've been here with a pretty big group. I wouldn't recommend doing that. Service diminishes greatly with a group. Make a reservation if you plan on actually getting a table!
(4)
Angela Z.

This place got better again. It has been a while since eating here. Last time it was not so good. But this time it was delicious again. Angie
(4)
Julia T.

One of my favorite Italian places to go to get delicious calamari and pasta. My favorite dish here is the Fusilli Carbonara. So creamy and tasty! They give you a huge portion so I get to enjoy it the next day for lunch. The calamari is consistently cooked to perfection. It is a must! The service here is great and the servers are very attentive. Haven't had a bad experience here out of the many times we've been there.
(4)
Don M.

Went here late Saturday afternoon and had no problem getting seated. As you walk in the deserts are on display and I really wanted the lemon cookies. Service was right on from getting water and bread to ordering a drink. We ordered the baked clams and they were small but good. Then I chose the veal marsala, what a plate full 3 pieces of veal and a can of mushrooms dumped on top. Wow this was good. I also tried the meatballs and I did not need them but just as good as they claim. When we finished the waitress came by and asked if we wanted coffee, we turned that down, but my mouth was watering for the lemon cookie. Waitress returns drops the bill and says thank you. Shit, did not even ask about desert. I know I said I'm full but I had room for cookies. I will go back and hopefully no I will get my cookies. Overall good service except desert part and good food.
(4)
Mary C.

Always a great time & meal , it's my BF & mines favorite date place
(4)
Kean M.

Any place where you 'share' chicken vesuvio for dinner cannot by any standards be called haute cuisine... Large portions, typical US Italian (i.e NOT Italian!) bad sauces, items cut into 1' cubes, no finesse. Too expensive and wow why popular there are so many better places to go.
(1)
Noel J.

Just blew into the city for a couple days. Chicago has to be one of the coolest places ever.After hitting the streets for a few hours we needed to eat. We spotted the brightly lit sign and decided to give it a try. Walking in you could see the pictures of all the famous fuckers that had eaten there before. I started off with a dirty,Grey goose, martini. They got it right. I wasn't starving so I split a plate of the spicy shrimp linguine. I think the lord was the chef that night because it was amazing. I also tried some of my father in laws Clam and pasta plate witch was just as amazing. Next time I'm in town, I am for sure coming back. Buca De Bepo, your days are numbered.
(4)
It had been about two years since I had been here, and was really looking forward to the crusted shrimp scallops I had last timequite possibly one of the most memorable dishes of my life. Was very saddened that it wasn't there anymore which lead to some disappointment. The service was sub-parour waitress to interested in laying silverware (even though there were plenty of bussers and it wasn't packed) than taking out order. Water was hardly filled. I got the sea bass with grilled vegetables, and definitely can't complain on that. Everyone else's food looked pretty delicious as well and smelled fabulous. We started with the calamari and bruscetta, probably the best calamari I've had in a long time (except for this hole in the wall Greek place in the sticks) and as always plenty of hot bread to go around. Atmosphere was good, a little cramped, but that adds to the flair of this place. Lots of scratches on the walls that I don't remember from last time. Still, a staple in Chicago dining and a must visit for any tourist. Stay away from the one on Rush/Divisionit doesn't beat the real Rosebud.
(4)
Kier R.

Rosebud really is the kinda place that makes me want to give up the sunny California life for the dreary Midwest. I haven't been here in years but it was exactly as I remember. The atmosphere is totally old school Italian, dark and close and awesome. The food seriously, is amazing. First, screw the carb free diet and feast on the bread that taste like someones grandma just took it out of the oven. The wine selection is immense. I had the best eggplant parm in my life, or at least since the last time I ate here. The service is great, they anticipate your every need. And yeah, don't even think about leaving without having dessert. I had the chocolate mousse cake and my friend had the carrot cake. Capital DEELISH.
(5)
J C.

have been before and really enjoyed the pork chop. last time i visited showed up early before reservation and they hooked us up early but they sat us in a very strange table where one person was stuck behind a wall and it really killed the atmosphere . we ended up having a bottle of wine an an appetizer. grilled calomari which was grilled to perfection and served with peppers. delicious but due to the table we bowed out after appetizers. finished our dinner at another restaurant and had a great night.
(3)
Joseph J.

There's a reason this restaurant has survived for decades - it's the best traditional Italian restaurant in the city. I first went there maybe 25 years ago when I was a kid and thought that spaghetti from a box with meat sauce from a jar was what Italian food is supposed to taste like. After that one meal I finally understood what real Italian food is all about. I've been to some of the "best" Italian restaurants in Chicago, but this is still my favorite.
(4)
Iona B.

The food (chicken Alfredo) was yummy, and I had enough left over to make a second meal. The service is prompt and the people were friendly.
(3)
Dan C.

Phenomenal!!! Had the mahi mahi special. It was fabulous! Nice ambiance. Had a romantic feel to it. Great date spot.
(5)
Doe L.

The food has always been mediocre to me but the thing that keeps me coming back for more.... the calamari! omg i love calamari. Rosebud has a very lightly breaded calamari that gives it just enough crunch. This is extremely important since too much breading makes me feel nauseous.. The pieces are large too so theres still a great squid taste. In my experience, theres usually more rings than tentacles (which would be appealing to some people i know who get grossed out easily.) I went to this location recently and saw on the menu "spicy calamari available by request". this peaked my curiousity and i am soooo glad it did. it wasn't spicy at all. (*EDIT: i went back and had it again and this time it was spicy but not as garlicky. still delicious!) but they were sitting in a thick oil/garlic sauce that gave it a completely different flavor. It still retains a little bit of crunch but not much. (especially the ones at the bottom). But it is WELL worth it. Rosebud has always been on the top of my list for calamari... but this "spicy" version may have been the best I ever had... (i love garlic with a passion btw) I'm drooling as i write this...
(4)
Mr T.

Best Italian on taylor! Place has best food and best service! Been here 10 times and never had a bad time. If you don't come here you need to! Large portions so be prepared! They started it so don't be surprised and right about it when u go! 5 stars!!!!
(5)
Patricia J.

We are from California and as soon as we land we always always go straight to your restaurant!!! We love you and have lot's of memories dinning with friends and family...
(5)
Nick S.

Rosebud gives huge portions at a reasonable price. It's not gourmet Mediterranean by any means. They just add a ton of butter to everything. This restaurant has the gumba, old school charm that is irresistible. It's a good place to go with a group of friends. It's a Chicago favorite.
(4)
L. Joey M.

I love all the woodwork, and I like that the restaurant has a clear identity in its decor and menu offerings. We went on a Wednesday night. We had a reservation and were sat immediately. The service was fine, professional and not overly enthusiastic (fine in that the waiter brought our food and wine and dessert menu in a timely and pleasant fashion, but took about 25 minutes to bring the bill at the end of the meal). The food portions were huge, as is often described below, but the flavor and subtly lacking. We ordered the mussels in tomato broth and fried calamari to begin. I only had one mussel, which I found well steamed but the sauce was plain and not memorable. The sauce for the calamari was memorable, however, in that I took one bite, decided I hated it, took another bite to see if I had poked my fork in a badly stirred pocket, and tried it a third time to see if maybe I was confused the previous times. I wasn't. The horseradish did not meld with the tomato flavors and, more importantly, did not bring out the flavor of the calamari. The calamari were too chewy and the breading tasted like oil. A disappointing choice. My girlfriend ordered the brick chicken, which is a whole de-boned chicken served with crispy skin. I don't know how to describe it exactly, but the texture of the chicken was reminiscent of hot lunch chicken from grade school--something about it felt "cheap" or processed. The skin had a thick membrane on the bottom that I found disconcerting. I ordered the penne bolognese, which has meaty and satisfying in a big-bowl-of meat-and-pasta-is-comforting sort of way. The flavors did not seem...sophisticated, I guess. It was rich to be sure and I could feel the buttery goodness on my lips, but I was left wanting more.
(3)
Erin M.

I have yet to have a bad meal here. I always seem to get the same waiter who is amazing but can't remember his name. They have great lunch specials but my favorite thing on the menu is the grilled calamari. You have to ask for it spicy!!! OMGoodness......MMMMMmmm!!!!
(5)
Bill M.

Had dinner at the bar, as is our custom. Good position for people-watching and attentive service from hard-working bartenders. A number of Yelpers have correctly described The Rosebud as having large portions. Not unlike Maggiano's in that respect. Does big necessarily mean good? I'm saying no. I ordered the mussels appetizer and there were a ton of them, nearly enough for a meal by itself. However, a number of them weren't scrubbed properly. There were more beards than you'd find in a roomful of Amish farmers. The meatballs were softball-sized and decent. My wife--a vegetarian--found an excellent option on the menu with a huge bowl of flat noodles with an excellent red sauce. There was enough there to feed a small village. A couple of other things you should know about The Rosebud: drinks are really expensive--$10 for a gin and tonic. Also a rip-off: the valet parking at $10. This is not the Loop; it's Taylor Street, where parking is usually available, but on a Saturday night, not that easy.
(2)
Jolie R.

Ah, the Rosebud....a veritable feast for the senses.... Went there on a Saturday nite with reservations for 7:00.... We were right on time, but had to wait about 15 minutes before we were seated. Meanhwile....a whole slew of people showed up at the door and pushed and pulled until they could get to the head of the line to tell the hostess/host they were there and early for their reservation by 1/2 hour. What a mob scene! And what's it with elderly people who are so anxious to get a table they'd crawl over you to sit down??? Anyway, we were finally seated, perused the menu and decided on the Ceasar Salad for my hubby and the house salad for moi. I liked the Ceasar better, but the house salad was also very good. For entrees, we both had a taste for the linguini with white clam sauce. Clams were everywhere! Pasta was cooked al dente and the flavor was savory - neither one of us complained... For dessert, I ordered my fave - Tiramasu - HUGE piece I wanted to dive right into. I ended up taking most of it home and ate it the next nite for dessert. Hubby got the chocolate mousse cake - and ate it all, so I'm guessing the look of yumminess on his face says he really liked it. Prices were about right. Wine was great and reasonable. We're going again. I'm taking away one star because of the lack of elbow room at the hostess station - the bar was packed and there was nowhere to stand as we waited and were jostled by all the eager patrons.
(4)
Brad H.

Great food, awesome service and atmosphere. Very classy decor and atmosphere. Make sure you have reservations, the place gets crazy busy. They are very accommodating of seating requests as well. The servers are some of the most knowledgeable I've ever seen, and really make you feel like you are being taken care of. Will accommodate any type of order, even if its off the menu. Recommend the Filet Portabella. A bit loud, but that's to be expected when there are so many people in the place.
(5)
Pham D.

Bad service, but decent food. First off, we were on time for our reservations, but they didn't seat us for 45 minutes. Bad service didn't end there. Once seated, we waited forever until our server came. Then he proceeded to bring out the wrong drinks. Thankfully, we didn't have to wait too long for our appetizers and entrees. There was nothing special about the pasta nor the sauce.
(3)
Anonymous R.

This place serves what I assume to be authentic Italian food. First of all, I/we were introduced to a really good and reasonably-priced cabernet sauvignon (The Cab) by the bartender ($38/bottle). It was a recommendation for a "very dry wine." Alcohol content was 14.5%. When you first taste the wine, make sure you let it sit (tres smooth). I've only had to send one bottle of wine back at a pizzeria in NYC. But even the waiter agreed that it was amiss. The bartender was good about letting you sample wines, and he washed and dried glasses each time we sampled. The food was pretty extraordinary, and the plates were heaping. You can probably eat 2 meals per 1 entree. This restaurant is in the "Little Italy" of Chicago. Ambiance is perfect for a business meeting or romantic tryst. They were playing Frank Sinatra (radio station?), so yeah, it was that kind of Italian place. I tried the Italian Wedding soup. I think Sarah (our server) mentioned that it had veal sausage. It was really good, but some of the pastas were clumped, which made me question if it was entirely fresh. However, it was definitely homemade, and anyone that loves soup knows that the longer soup sits after its creation, the more flavorful. So I give that soup a 8.5+ (I give room for the best soup, which I haven't found). The closest delicious soup I've ever tried was from Dean & Deluca (which had tarragon and potatoes/perfectly filling for vegetarians). I also tried the seafood salad. It was good, but too much for one person. Make sure you share it with others. I sampled the veal special from one of my friends. It was really good. The tomato sauce was excellent (consistency and taste). I also tried the chicken Vesuvius, which was topped with peas (also excellent). If this restaurant existed in NYC, the meal would equate to double the price we paid. You, Chicagoans are lucky!
(5)
Laura H.

Went here for Vday once and fell in love with Italian food. I had lobster ravioli and lots of well made dirty martinis! Very authentic and old world Italian spot, highly recommend.
(4)
Daniel W.

Really good food. I try to get a Caesar Salad at most Italian restarants and this one ranks up there as one of the best of the city, cafe la cav, is another one. Oh and Wendys. Alright the last one was a joke. Well I got the chicken special and gnocchi.,, the sauces are always the best. to bad i didnt talk very much or say thank you to the person that paid the meal. my fault.
(4)
O O.

This is a nice place, nothing too special about it in my opinion. I went here on a lunch date and it was nice, but very busy and not really cozy. The service was good, the food was good. We got the calamari and while it was good, it wasn't my favorite (my date begged to differ). I personally like Mia Francesca's better. I got some weird grilled vegetables salad that was surprisingly really good and really filling. It was lunch after all and I had just had fried calamari so I wasn't about to go for some really rich pasta dish. I would be curious to see if the ambiance changes much during dinner. If I went back here, I would probably do lunch again (it just doesn't seem *special enough* for dinner). The location is good if you want to do shopping after...which is what I did.
(4)
Candice C.

My first visit to Rosebud was suggested by our hotel manager before I ever moved to this beautiful city. She wisely mentioned we try the Taylor St. location, and I've been in love with the joint ever since. I order a vegetarian version of the Fusilli Carbonara (peas and mushrooms in rich parmesan cream sauce) and they serve enough for four meals. We also requested Gnocchi, which isn't on the menu, and they brought it right out with our choice of sauces. Rosebud serves so much frigging food there's always a ton to take home with you. My family, while visiting from North Carolina, will order it, eat it, freeze it and fly it home. Gross. Rosebud's website now declares that the Taylor St. location is now delivering their delicious food. Score!
(5)
Chelsea L.

Best Italian food in Chicago, hands down. Family style, huge portions, excellent service and food. I've been there many times and I absolutely love this place!!!
(5)
Mary Lee G.

Tonight my roommate and I decided to have an adventure in Little Italy. Several unfortunate experiences at the downtown Naperville Rosebud has made me never want to eat here, however due to long waits at other places (Friday night and spontaneity don't exactly go hand in hand) and two empty bar stools here this is where we ended up. Luckily we were pleasantly surprised as the original location was way, way, way better than the Naperville one. We were starving and got the calamari to start. It certainly wasn't the most amazing calamari I've ever had and the cocktail sauce could use some work but it was a huge portion---big enough for 4-5 people to split easily. I had the house Chianti which was really good and only $7/glass. My roommate had the special appetizer of the day as her entree. It was peppers stuffed with sausage in an incredible garlic sauce, well actually the whole dish was incredible! If it's ever on the special menu when you go I couldn't recommend anything more. The bartender suggested I get the cavatelli and I decided to listen to her since she has been working there 22 years. The pasta was homemade and fresh and the sauce was not too heavy and had tons of basil, which is a guarantee I will love it. I'm excited for my leftovers. It was a great evening. Good wine, good old school Chicago Italian, funny bar customers talking about the Barry Manilow concert, and dining room patrons who all look and act like my dad:)
(4)
Alec J.

When ever i come down for vacation i love to go here good service very nice place and good food if you like Italian food this is a good place
(4)
Patrick M.

I grew up with an italian mother and grandmother, both of which have spent the majority of their life in the kitchen. I feel like I've had a lot of italian food in my life and Rosebud on Taylor St. is as good as it gets. The restaurant is very well run and the service is incredible. I don't know about the other locations, I've heard they don't measure up. But the Taylor St. restaurant is definitely worth going to.
(5)
Esperanza E.

We had reservations and they seated us promptly! We had the bruschetta and the calamari and shrimp appetizer. They were both excellent. I had the NY strip steak vesuvio style and it was delicious! I would definitely go back!
(4)
Kristine C.

My friends and I went to dinner here last night and the food was excellent. But thats where it ends. :( Our waiter was horrible! He was rude to say the least. At first we thought it was because they were busy but then we watched him and his service for every other table was great. He never checked on us, didn't ask us if we wanted anything to drink, and then brought us the bill. After he brought the bill we asked him if we would order dessert and he rudely asked "what do you want?" Well since the desserts are not on the menu we asked "what do you have?" He listed of maybe 4 things and we selected from those. But I also heard him list off the desserts to the other table and they had a greater selection then we did... maybe we're not special. We didn't want to tip him because of his attitude but the buss boy and everyone else that helped us were great so we still tipped him well. But he didn't deserve it at all. I definitely wont make it a point to go back.
(2)
Michael C.

I had lunch at the Rosebud in Little Italy on a Sunday just after noon. The restaurant had just a few guests at that time. Overall, it was worth the trip for the food. The positives...i ordered penne bolognese and asked them to prepare it alforno. It was delicious. The bolognese sauce was hearty with excellent flavor; the pasta was cooked perfectly. I also ordered a house salad, which was comprised of a mixture of lettuces, delicious olives, plum tomatoes, pepperoncini pepper. But it was the house dressing that was the highlight of the salad. The olive oil was amazing with just the right amount of vinegar and salt. A great complement to my pasta. My water glass was never less than half full, very attentive wait staff. My server could not have been nicer and was genuinely interested in making my experience at the Rosebud a positive one. The negatives...I was a solo diner and was given a table in the back room. I was behind a wall and unable to enjoy a view of the street or any daylight. While my water glass was always refilled, I was not offered additional bread nor did I receive any butter, as another diner received at a nearby table. My pasta entree came before I was half finished with my salad. I asked my server for some fresh basil to put on my pasta (which I would expect to be standard practice at an Italian restaurant, especially in the middle of summer), and had to wait several minutes for it to arrive. The server apologized for forgetting; I appreciated her honesty. The kitchen sent out a small bowl of whole basil leaves, which caused me to have to do some julienne slicing at my table. Not a very impressive reflection on the chefs. I also would have expected an offer of freshly grated cheese, rather than the container of pre-grated cheese that was already on my table. Final thoughts...In spite of the negatives, I am glad I had lunch at the Rosebud and would recommend it to others. The food was delicious. I hope someone from the restaurant will take notice of my comments, which are offered constructively and sincerely. It's the attention to detail that separates the very good restaurants from the truly great restaurants.
(3)
Kevin T.

For anyone who enjoys Italian cuisine, Rosebud is a must-visit. I am pretty sure that every dish on their menu tastes heavenly. Some of my friends and I stopped by this delightful eatery for my birthday dinner. We sat out in the patio on a very lovely Monday night and absorbed the South Loop ambience that included light conversation from nearby tables and occassional courtesy visits from our personable server. They were pretty generous with their bread. It was served oven-warm and wrapped in a thick napkin to help keep the sliced loaf warm for a good amount of time. We indulged in the crispy potatoes (baby whole potatoes (boiled and then deep-fried(?) resulting in a very crispy skin) for starters, and although pricy (5 bux for 4 small potatoes), was deifinitely a tasty intro for what was to come. The XXL entrees that followed included the Brick Chicken, which was a well-seasoned (but not overly-seasoned), boneless whole chicken with a variety of spices, herbs and peppers served with pasta that had a tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzerella cheese laid into the mix. Our second entree were these extra-large meatballs soaked in a tasty tomato sauce. It definitely added additional protein to our meal, which was great because we were truly carnivorous. Our dessert experience was twofold. First was the tiramisu that included a lit candle as it was carefully placed onto the table. The initial bite was perfect, but about 3 bites later, the sweetness almost became over-bearing. I appreciated the candle though.... t'was a nice gesture. The second half of dessert was a delectable gelato. We soooo wanted to finish it, but had more than our fill from the entrees. I would like to add that I await the day that they would invent the unmeltable, indestructible gelato. =) thanks mary j & D for the smart pick!!
(5)
Cj L.

Food was great, little pricey but worth it!!! Try the seabass !!!
(4)
Kristi D.

I've been going to Rosebud for many many years and I love their food. The day after Christmas wasn't overly busy and we didn't have a hard time getting a table. I ordered the same thing I always get, fried calamari as an appetizer and chicken parm as an entree. Delicious! The portion sizes here are huge, I have enough left over for at least 2 more meals. I tried some of the other dishes, the pasta carbonera was good, the whitefish was very good. Even the complimentary bread served is great. The service was a little disorganized but not so bad that it annoyed me. And they lost my Open Table reservation, not a big deal since it wasn't busy.
(5)
Ang R.

There's nothing fancy or new about the food at Rosebud. It's just simple, good Italian food. I have a very hard time NOT ordering the Rigatoni ala Vodka, which is to die for. Usually, I get a small salad or the Panzanella too, and I'm happier than a clam. But the Chicken Vesuvio is also ridiculously good--probably some of the best Vesuvio you'll get in a restaurant in Chicago. As for the different locations, I've been to three, and I think Rush might be better. But this is THE Rosebud, and you can't go wrong with the atmosphere.
(5)
Mia E.

We came across this restaurant when we were on vacation last year. Our original destination was a pizza place across the street but we didn't want to wait an 1 1/2 hrs for pizza. So, we decided to give Rosebud's a try. This place was packed but we were lucky to be seated right away. I decided on the Penne Bolognese. It is the best bolognese I have ever had.! Chunks of beef and veal in the sauce. Everything was just amazing! On the day we were leaving, we decided to go back to Rosebud's. I got the same thing but my aunt's order was a bit screwed up. The order wasn't put in so I got my food while my aunt just had to wait for her's. The waiter was extremely apologetic. No worries. Well, my aunt didn't want her dish to be spicy and it turned out to be SPICY. So, we had to say something. The waiter did add "no spicy" to the order but the kitchen messed up. So, the manager came out to apologize also. He took her entree off our bill and gave us free dessert and coffee. All the while, I still enjoyed my bolognese. And I still have not been able to find a bolognese that even compares!
(5)
Joe R.

The spicy calamari app was a great twist on an old favorite. Just don't mistake the hot pepper for a cherry tomato. The ricotta cheesecake is a must try!
(4)
lisa b.

perfect for a nice, relaxing, gluttonous meal! the vodka sauce is delectable! i could almost drink it. fantastic pasta and a big ol' glass of wine or two...walk out feeling like a food-coma-induced million bucks.
(5)
Kathleen C.

Went here for the BF's parents birthday dinner. I loved the setting. It was nice to walk into a friendly looking bar. And then we walked into a fantastic and pretty comfortable dining room. We had a big round table for 6 pretty skinny people and there was a lot of room which was so nice and hard to come by these days. Server was fantastic. Although the food was just ok, I don't think anyone thought their food was fantastic. It was big portions and no one finished their food (although that could be b/c no one thought it was to die for). I would probably go back for some drinks and appetizers instead of the full meal here. Or maybe check out the other Alex Dana restaurants in the city.
(3)
Brandon B.

Been here a couple times now, and I forgot how cheap it was with such good service. Kind of like getting a fancy Italian meal for half the price! Lunchtime was pretty quiet on a Thursday except for some chubby couple necking in front of us. Lot of food!
(5)
lash girl B.

The hostess sucks she made me and my husband wait at the bar for over an hour for are table . They kept asking us if we wanted to eat at the bar .. Finally they had a table for us and it was right next to the bar. I was pissed we couldn't sit in the other dining area . They food was ok but nothing to write home about. We will never return .. The waiter was nice and did his job though .
(2)
Kayci P.

Rosebud is a staple on Taylor Street, but the tourists are the only reason it stays around. The food's not bad, the service is good, and they have an extensive wine list, but when it comes to pricing, I tend to feel gouged every time. There's just nothing that special about it. If it weren't for the location and historic flair, I doubt this place would survive.
(3)
Kristen S.

Very classic food, ambiance, and service. Overall, quite excellent. I took my husband here for his birthday dinner and we both enjoyed The Rosebud. The one drawback was the very loud and obnoxious table of guests next to us. I suppose that The Rosebud is used to such patrons, so I don't recommend this place if you are looking for a quiet, romantic Italian dinner. My husband had the fettuccine alfredo with chicken and I had the traditional homemade pasta squares. Both were extremely large portion sizes, like super super super sized, so most of the past was taken home and eatent he next day. The pasta is delicious and you can definitely tell it is homemade and very rich. For appetizers, we ordered the bruschetta and the caprese salad. These were the highlights of the meal. The tomatoes and roasted red peppers were so fresh and flavorful. My husband and I almost felt we did not want our main courses after such amazing appetizers. If you go here, you must at least get the bruschetta. We love this dish, and The Rosebud had the best we have every tasted. We did not get dessert, but we will be back again and will definitely try the tiramisu!
(4)
Alessandro G.

"Fake" italian has a special place in my heart. Being italian you would think I should be disgusted by dishes like chicken-parmesan, fettucini Alfredo and all the other flagships of "American-Italian" cuisine. Instead I love them. That's why I wanted to try Rosebud fot a while. Me and my girlfriend finally had the chance to eat here two days ago. We both ordered pasta: Rigatoni in Vodka sauce and cavatelli Rosebud. I never had vodka sauce before and I loved it. :D The cavatelli instead were much lighter, wonderfully smoky and tossed with a ton of veggies. The atmosphere... think for a second about "Lady and the Tramp", add some more stereotypes and you'll have a good idea of what eating at Rosebud feels like. The owner was hanging out with his buddies few table away from ours and it just seemed to be in the Godfather. Highlight of the dinner, chocolate covered cannoli! Yum! Rosebud is the perfect summary of the stereotypical american-italian dining experience, but playing with stereotypes is fun every once in a while. Oh yeah, ... and delicious!
(4)
Joe N.

I'm a pretty big fan of the rosbud. This has been a traditional "first date" spot for me since high school. This is a great place for a date. The food is great, the staff is friendly, and the inside has a very romantic feel. If you want to impress a girl, this would be a good place. I always get the Chicken Parm; I think this is the best place I've ever been to for this. I've tried some other dishes too and they are really good. In the warm months there is outdoor seating which is also quite nice because taylor street has a nice atmosphere, especially at night. But they don't want you smoking outside and bitch about it if you do- you can anyways but they get all mad. Still a good place though. Parking can be hard but you'll find it, don't fall for their valet scheme.
(4)
George L.

Shocking, another Italian restaurant, but Rosebud is one of the Chicago classics. I prefer the Taylor St. location, must be a traditionalist. Their fresh made pasta is outstanding & the meatballs are like an Italian Grandma would make. Its a little dark inside but that is a small issue for for an overall great dining experience.
(4)
Jeanne N.

This truly was "As Good As it Gets!" My husband and I are restaurateurs and it is hard to please both of us. We waited, we had to dine late... but who cares when the food and service are impeccable!? I could only explain it by stating that this is the food that the angels serve you in heaven! My husband had the chicken marsala and asked for garlic to be added. The server explained that the sauce is a sweet sauce however he passed my husband's request along to the chef. The marsala not only came to him with garlic added... but whole cloves of "roasted" garlic! As busy as it was, they still took the time to cater to a specific request! I tried the lobster ravioli special with slices of tender asparagus and a roasted red pepper sauce... just magic... rich, creamy, with the taste of "freshly made from scratch" in every bite! The very next night we decided to try their sister restaurant... Rosebud on Rush.... I will put a separate review on that particular restaurant's yelp review area as well! ROSEBUD was suggested to us by a server at a steakhouse we were patronizing... and when I asked where she goes for authentic Italian she didn't even hesitate "Rosebuds!"... she was correct!
(5)
Erin C.

I needed to find a place in the University Village area for lunch on a Sunday. After scouring Yelp reviews and hours of operation, The Rosebud found its way to the top of my list. And I was not disappointed. Dark, old-school Italian restaurants are my favorites (I always wished my dad had been in the mafia). We were seated next to an autographed photo from The Godfather. It took us awhile to order, only because everything on the menu looked delicious. I ended up with the Rigatoni alla Vodka (the last time I had it was in NY's Little Italy). SO GOOD. I was full but wanted to keep eating because it was so good. Everyone at my table felt the same way (doggy bags are a must since the portions are gigantic). And I didn't hear a complaint from anyone. Would definitely come back here for some good ol' Italian dining.
(5)
Flower T.

Rosebud's is a great chain restaurant in chicago reminds me of Buca Di Beppo. My 2nd visit to chicago I lunched at Rosebud's it was conveniently located just a few blocks from my hotel. It has become one of my must go to spots when I'm in Chicago. They have a few locations but i will only go to the Taylor St. location. Why? The Fagioli soup. Best damn fagioli I have ever had!!! Not all the Rosebuds locations offer the fagioli, that is why I go to the Taylor St. location. They also have a delicious roasted artichoke with olive oil & parmesan. You must try their homemade square noodles & Chicken Vesuvio a few of their specialties. For dessert the Spumoni is a must!! I have always had great service at rosebuds and have frequented at least 5 times in the 2 times I've been to Chicago recently. I wish i could remember the name of the server I had she was very sweet & accommodating recommending a great fruity white wine Brassfield "Serenity" I highly recommend Rosebuds for a great lunch or nice dinner, easy on the wallet and cute spot ; )
(4)
Krys J.

Honestly, what's not to love? I have been coming here for years with both family and friends, for special occasions or simply a great meal. There are always regulars scattered about, large parties and intimate tables of two so no matter who your company is for the evening you will never feel anything but comfortable and welcome. The bartenders start your night out w/nice stiff martinis while you wait for your table and your server will gladly keep your wineglass full through the night. All of the service from the staff is stellar. I am pretty sure that by now each item on the menu has been enjoyed by someone in my party and there have never been complaints. Of course, the items that tend to frequent my table are the sausage & peppers, any one of their homemade pasta dishes (of course my favorite Cavatelli al Forno) & their fabulous tiramisu is a must to conclude any meal here.
(5)
Katrina H.

The food is Decent.. I've had better but I do enjoy eating at the place during nice spring and summer days ... I do however think that they are a bit overpriced. for an appetizer, a bottle of wine and 2 Entres our bill tipped over $130... both times that I've been there. It was OK it wasn't like WOW ... i need to be WOW'D for $130 for lunch and or dinner at a place like this ...
(3)
Santiago A.

This place is great. Definitely satisfies my fix for very good Italian food everytime I go there. The portions are huge, so make sure to go there ready to eat. If you're there on a date and will do more talking than eating, then sharing a pasta dish will certainly be enough for both. I would actually say that the portions actually caused me not to give this place that last star. You might be thinking, "whoa, it's not their fault you stuffed yourself like a kid recently escaped from fat camp. You can't penalizes them for that!" ... and yet, here we are.
(4)
Alina S.

Definitely one of the best, most authentic, most flavorful and good-portioned Italian restaurants I've been to in awhile. Great ambiance with dim lighting and friendly service...but let's get to the food. You can smell the garlic even as you're still walking towards the restaurant. Good sign. Bread was incredibly fresh, warm, crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. I had the risotto-stuffed pasta shells with green beans, mushrooms and roasted red pepper - VERY flavorful, garlicy without scaring off too many vampires, and not overly salty. My mom had the beef pot roast on large pasta tubes with red sauce (one of their specials), and that was definitely my favorite dish of all. Dad had the Rigatoni ala Vodka with shrimp, and the sauce was amazing. My husband had the 20 oz pork chops and they were really thick and well-grilled. My sister had the thin-pounded veal and it was also amazing. Sister's b/f had the baked ziti, also very happy with his dish. So...you get the point - all the food seems to be REALLY good here, HUGE portions for reasonable prices given the quality and quantity. Expect to pay $18-$28 a dish, depending on what you order.
(5)
Dustin W.

The Rosebud is yet another reasonable Italian restaurant in Little Italy, with quality homestyle Italian fare, it has its perks, but its not the best on the block (see Da Vanti, Tuscany, Francescas all better). So why go back? Well there are a few reasons I think Rosebud is worthwhile at times. First, the weekday lunch specials are great, averaging just under 7 bucks for a satisfying meal. Second, and most importantly, they do the outside dining very well. When my family comes to town, they always want to eat outside at Rosebud for some reason. So of course we go most times. I have had several good meals. A few classic Italian items i liked include Chicken Vesuvio, Veal Piccata, Cavatelli alla Rosebud, and spaghetti with meat balls. Again, they are standard classic executed at a slightly above par, yet consistent manner. Rosebud is a good place to take a group or have a work lunch outside. Havent eaten their for awhile, but Im sure I will be back sometime again.
(3)
Chanita S.

I love rosebud. I used to live in Litte Italy when I still was a UIC student, and I'd always find an excuse to go there. When I graduated, I had my graduation lunch there with my family. We all loved it. Service has always been decent--not fast but not slow. But I guess that's the beauty of Italian restaurants because you can choose to fill yourself up on bread. I know this sounds like such a cliche dish that you'd normally say, "who orders that at an Italian place", but I really do love their Fetticini Alfredo Pasta. I've had the carbonara before and my mom had the mussels. Those were yummy as well. This used to be my favorite Italian place until I discovered La Scarola. However, it's still pretty high up there. I recommend it.
(4)
Nick C.

Classic Italian, Vintage Chicago.... a must try for any Chicagoland native.
(4)
Johnny T.

With the high number of reviews for this place, I try to type up a somewhat different sounding review. This place kind of has a tourist vibe so I wouldn't go here if you seek a comfortable/quiet vibe. (go to Rosal's for that) There wasn't much room in our seating area & the fried calamari had very little flavor (despite having a great breadcrumb texture) & for that, I must deduct a star. I'd recommend the linguine w/ clams ( approx 10 clams) or the gnocchi. (excellent flavorful mozzarella that's melted on top) The pasta from both dishes didn't seemed fresh but, tasted satisfactory. Service was above average.
(4)
Ellen M.

4 stars for the food and service, 1 more for being able to eat @ Frank's booth :)
(5)
Jan Michael K.

Ok, I think it's silly to order Fettuccine Alfredo at a restaurant. It's an idiot proof dish to make at home if you're absolutely fiending for it. But my friend said I would HAVE to try it, so I did. And boy, did it it deliver. Creamiest and freshest Alfredo I have ever tasted. The grilled jumbo shrimp I ordered with it were juicy and well marinated. Did I mention the outdoor seating under the trees under balmy Chicago weather? It was excellent.
(5)
Fred P.

I went to Rosebud for the last time, last summer. I have been trying to get over the utter disappointment to craft a fair and reasonable review. Once, a heralded Italian classic, literally for the ages...no one who I knew placed any Italian restaurant, in Chicago, higher on their list. I ate there regularly. I took out-of-town guests there. The last two times that I ate their food (mostly because my wife knows the GM) I noticed that something was missing. Maybe, Rosebud's better days were behind it or it was just ordinary from the start and I enjoyed the neighborhood and the atmosphere more than the food. Last summer, we sat on the patio for a Sunday afternoon dinner. First, the service was very slow, especially considering that the restaurant wasn't and usually isn't busy on Sunday at 2-3pm. The server didn't bring the drinks, at all. I ordered the eight finger cavatelli (baked). I have enjoyed that dish at Rosebud many, many times over the years. That day, however, I asked if they could make it with an Arrabiata sauce: something a little spicier. The dish arrived at the table and I immediately noticed that there was far too much "green" in the plate...maybe an overabundance of basil? Nope...they probably didn't have Arrabiata or someone who could make it, because there were large chunks of jalapeno in the sauce...the "green." The inexperienced server should have just said, "No arrabiata," instead of having the kitchen attempt this brutal miscue. I thought about sending it back, but 1) I was really hungry, 2) the server was really inept, and 3) our friend, the GM, doesn't work on Sunday. I ate the pasta and navigated the jalapenos and melted cheese. It was like eating a cavatelli / burrito suiza plate. Jalapenos in an Arrabiata sauce, at Rosebud! SACRILEGE!!! I love seeing the 4 and 5 star reviews for this place. That's why I feel really good about spending my cash elsewhere...they'll never miss my cover.
(1)
Jay C.

It was the 1st month anniversary of my then girlfriend and I, and I of course wanted to do something special out of the ordinary of most undergrad couples. I wanted to take her to a place with some history and a pedigree for excellent culinary prowess. Unfortunately two things made it an uphill battle for making this particular evening especially amazing in the eyes of the fairer sex. A) she had the flu and the packed crowded house & noisy atmosphere did not contribute to the ideal romantic setting. B) she wasn't the biggest fan of Italian food (which I found out after the $245 bill)... Fortunately for me we're no longer together and I can freely enjoy some of Chicago's finest Italian cuisines and hob nob with some of the local legends of Taylor street. The food is just ridiculous with portions that should really be sent to feed entire West African Refugee camps in one foul swoop. I'm a big fan of their spinach gnocchi and cappellini insalata (vegetarian friendly and a good alternative for those who are trying to keep their cholesterol down). The meal can be heavy for some because of the authentic ingredients they use, but if you want to treat yourself to some of the best cooking in Chicagoland Rosebud is the place to be.
(5)
George U.

I came here with my ex girlfriend. Waited forever for a table even though I had reservations. I had a feeling it was because i was young at the time. People were being seated before us. I was pretty embarassed. This wasn't my favorite restaurant because of that and the food was mediocre.
(2)
Kristina F.

It's not my mom's italian cooking but it's good, and certainly great compared to other italian places I've tried in Chicago. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed and the wait staff is nice and helpful. They serve tasty bread and olive oil at the beginning of the meal and though I've never been wowed by what I've had there, it's been consistently good.
(4)
Tiffany L.

Rosebud almost has that Frank Sinatra feel, if you happen to be on a date. however, the feeling abruptly ends when your reservations are waited half an hour, there was only awkward standing room to wait, you eat off of paper, kind of like kindergarten, the waitress we had should have quit waitressing in her prime, but decided that 20 more years of it, would be fun, and much like monopoly about 2 hours in, she's done with it. But where do you go when it's all you know? FOOD was AWESOMETOWN. I didn't try the bruschetta, but from the sound of it, neither should you. I had a caesar salad, decorated with anchovies, which was a nice touch. Eggplant parmasean was good, hard to go wrong there. If it weren't for my wonderful company i'd probably have been more perturbed about the service. All in all, worth going to sometime, maybe dinner for grandma? nothing to dress up for, really, but a pretty cute place.
(3)
Andrew K.

Again a basic Italian restaurant...served my purpose of entertaining a large group of out of towners, but you can get a better bang for your buck at other places. I'm not trying to hate, the food, service and atmosphere was good, just not anything special enough for me to return.
(3)
Rob L.

I am between a 3.5 and a 4 on this place. I've been here several times, usually with one of my sisters and her boyfriend. I'll meet them here for dinner on a Friday night. They love this place, I like this place. The service is usually good to pretty good. The food is pretty typical Italian American fare and is good. I haven't come here expecting anything new or groundbreaking, but usually it is pretty solid. Any mistakes they fix fairly quickly with an apology, such as when my sister's boyfriend had a rather lukewarm soup, quickly brought him a hot bowl. Staff is always friendly. Again a solid place, but nothing amazing.
(3)
Gina G.

When your ready for the old world dining experience, a Chicago classic, Rosebud is a sure thing. Stick to the old Italian-American traditional favorite chicken Chicken Vesuvio. A half-chicken (on the bone), browned with tons of garlic, olive oil, white wine, and oregano. The whole dish is then finished in the oven and served with potato wedges and some green peas. Authentic, reasonable Italian food with a great wine selection. The atmosphere is warm and friendly. I find the restaurant quite romantic-but there are also a lot of families that dine there. Expect a delightful experience and a doggy bag. :-)
(4)
Brad F.

This is one of my favorite italian joints in all of chicago. The staff is awesome. Every single meal is always soooooo good. I always get the veal parm and the calamari. I always get the pasta fagioli. This is a great place for a date or even for a whole group. I recommend their cannolis that are all freshly made at the restaurant
(5)
Louis C.

A solid Italian eatery on wonderful Taylor Street. The pastas are consistently good. My fave is the papardelle (square pasta) that arrives in a rich tomato sauce...the pasta is buttery and perfect. Like many of the other entrees, you receive a much more than ample serving and will have plenty to bring home so it may be a good idea to share. You also should try the grilled calamari for an appetizer...good quality and prepared wonderfully. Also try the manicotti, baked ziti with italian sausage and canelloni. The service is generally good. Avoid the italian wedding soup as it is disappointingly watery and bereft of taste. Ordering ice tea is a hassle as they don't brew it and instead give you a large, unwieldy bottle to manage on your table. The bread is very good here.
(3)
C W.

Square noodles with vodka sauce.
(4)
Adam H.

There is a framed 2005 article from the Chicago Tribune in the restaurant I work at that states the best five burgers in Chicago. Rosebud's held the top spot on the list and that honor is what encouraged me to try this place. Sadly, the Chicago Tribune lies. I was very dissapointed in my burger. The burger is a good portion of meat but when it comes out cooked well when I ordered medium and when there is no sauce whatsoever and only a little container of ketchup on the side to help things out, I was overwhelmed by the dry burger. Add the fact that the toppings are all on the side, forcing me to take the time to make my own sandwich, that my server was very attentive to other tables besides mine so getting more ketchup was a chore, and my pretzel bun, though tasty, was too thin to try to hold everything together, I was kind of annoyed about the whole event. Their stuffed mushroom appetizer was good and their Godiva chocolate mousse cake was delicious, but my burger was something I wish I didn't order. Correct. I could have said something about the sandwich but I was on a lunch date and didn't want to be "that guy" in front of my girl and actually if I was eating the best of anything, I really shouldn't have to reorder it. It's the best. It was not. Cute place, nice decor, nice employees though they tend to ignore you, and decent food if it's not their burger. I'm going to start taking advice from more recent newspaper articles.
(2)
Lisa D.

This was my first visit to Rosebud and maybe my last. There was nothing terrible about it (other than the lack of parking, but that was to be expected), but there was no "wow" factor, either. I went on a Thursday night with two girlfriends and we were seated right away. However, the service did seem kinda slow, which could be because the place was very busy. It was also extremely noisy--it is hard to hear your companions in there! I had the fettuccine alfredo, which I believe is hard to mess up, and it came out pretty average--but at a lukewarm temperature and a smallish portion size. I wouldn't say this place is "bad" by any means, but it's not amazing, either. Overall I would say that Rosebud is just average, and if you are looking for mind-blowing Italian food or a memorable dining experience, this isn't the place.
(3)
Amanda T.

I would've given more stars, because the food is GREAT, but this place obviously needs a hardcore lesson in hospitality and good service. A group of us came after a graduation ceremony at UIC which is nearby, and it also happened to be Mother's Day, so they were busy. I understand that. BUT after the waiter took our order for appetizers, it took an hour for us to get it. And he still didn't take our order for the entrees. A freakin hour! Someone needs to give the staff an etiquette overhaul. So as for the Rosebud on Taylor St, no thanks. I'll stick to the Naperville location.
(2)
steve w.

Excellent food and service but still felt too commercial. You can't go wrong with the spaghetti and meatballs to fill your tummy though it's impossible to finish off the Lasagne in one sitting.
(4)
Serena S.

I was disappointed by this place. The Bruscetta looked delicious and artful but then when I took a bite it was rock hard. yuck. My chocolate martini was ok but kinda strong. After the nasty Ap I didn't want to order any more. On my next trip to the Chi I won't be dining here.
(2)
R M.

About a million times better than any of their other locationsy. And the food's pretty decent, though a bit expensive. Nice, low lighting. Shady Italian guys talking business at the back table. Overall I think it's a pretty nice restaurant, but expect a 3-digit bill if you're out on a date.
(4)
Joe S.

Try to get the cozy table in the front window to the right of where you walk in. Great food and waitstaff.
(4)
Kerry M.

I really tried to like this place but could not. Our mussels were quite fishy - not just one or two, the entire bowl. Pasta was mediocre and the service was fair. I wont go into to details since a 5 star review deserves and will get more of my typing time. I have had so much better for so much less $$. I really think that the real reason people praise this establishment is because of its Chicago history and nothing more.
(2)
Sherry S.

It's tough being Italian and going to Italian restaurants. After all, there's a million ways to make Eggplant Parmesan, and no one does it like Uncle Rocky. So when I took my visiting aunt and uncle here, we were pleasantly surprised. My uncle (not Uncle Rocky) had the Veal Bracciola, which came with three kinds of Cavatelli (plain, tomato and spinach). I'm going to guess it was great because he a) didn't say much and b) didn't offer a bite to anyone. I had the Chicken Milanese, which was out of this world. They serve two huge chicken breasts (one would have been fine) with an arugula, red onion and tomato salad. The chicken is perfectly breaded with parmesan cheese (which I cannot for the life of me pull off at home!). The dish is a perfect combination of flavors and can qualify as "light" among a menu of heavy/filling choices. My fiance had the Shells with Shrimp & Broccoli (but he switched for linguine) and loved it. My aunt had the Eggplant Parmesan, which they pound flat and layer so it's not as mushy as some versions. I'd never heard of anyone pounding their eggplant before, but it works. Uncle Rocky would have liked it. My aunt and I both had sides of rigatoni that we're perfectly cooked - not too soft, not too al dente. So, from an Italian's standpoint, it was pretty good - so much so we'll be back to try other things on the menu.
(4)
Eric F.

As a regular at Rosebud, I can say after 50 plus times of dining that it offers consistent and high quality Italian fare. There house salad at $3.99 iis a deal considering it is made with romaine lettuce and has a large number of tomatoes. Among my favorites, I have tried almost everything on the menu, is the veal marsala, the chicken vesuvio, and the linguini with clams. Overall, I highly recommend the Rosebud for anyone desiring classical Italian fare.
(4)
Ann Y.

If you like gnochi this is the place for you. It seems to take up about half of the menu. The food is alright. I have had better in the city- especially in little Italy. The service last time was just bad. I ordered spinach and was charged almost $10 and the portion was small. When I said something to the waiter his response was "you are in the big city now". I eat in the city all the time- I live in the city and honestly this was overpriced, not to mention it was not on the menu. Anyhow, this place is overrated in my opinion.
(2)
Kris A.

This is one my favorite Italian restaurants in the City. I took my family here recently, and everyone loved it. The Taylor Street location is my favorite. We didn't have reservations but were quickly seated.
(4)
Eric J.

The five stars is for a truly wonderful group outing. A great Italian restaurant, was Frank Sinatra's choice whenever he frequented chicago. Great little intimate dining experience for a couple but much better when dining with a large group. I have been here 4 times with a large group, and as long as reservations are made a few days in advance, they will set you up with a private room with your own waiting staff and soft italian dining music in the background. I'm telling you, round up all of your friends and go here you will not regret it. Last time I was there, the total bill was around $500 for 11 people. This included at least 4 bottles of wine, appetizers, meals, and gratuity. very reasonable. Afterward head to Bevi Amo for a night cap.
(5)
A K.

we went there as part of the free restaurant week lunch, even though we ended up not ordering from the special menu. so the food is deeelicious, we stared out with the spicy calamari and maybe the price seems high on the menu for an appetizer, but the size is really large for an appetizer either, so it's definitely fair. the square noodles in vodka sauce was amazing, we also had tilapia in vesuvio sauce and it's so moist and tender, and last we have Baked Ziti Genovese...which is also amazing, the portions are very large so you can share, and since we didn't know that ahead of time ...we didn't get to finish our entrees because we were really stuffed by the appetizer and bread =)
(5)
Andy B.

Wow was really impressed with Rosebud, very nice atmosphere and great service. My wife had the square noodles which were delicious and quite a big portion. I had pork chops calabrese, which were honestly the best chops I've ever had. We finished off a wonderful dinner with a canolli which was great. Prices were very reasonable considering the portions and quality of food.
(5)
Albert C.

I have fond memories of special occasion dinners at Rosebud during college and med school. I have to say I prefer the Taylor street location (the original) over the other branches, particularly the downtown Naperville one. Excellent food - favorites include the sausage and peppers, calamari, eggplant parmesan and the pasta in general (I haven't had a bad experience with the fettucine alfredo yet). By no means cheap, but it's worth it for special occasions and the atmosphere inside the restaurant is classy and intimate.
(4)
Bill C.

I had not been at the original Rosebud for many years and was looking forward to re- experiencing my memories of good meals there. Myself and my fiancÃ©e were very disappointed and both agreed they must be skating on their reputation. The evening started out well with the very attentive service, but rapidly went downhill from there. The Pinot Grigio glass we started with was terrible and the more expensive replacement I had later was only marginally better. Even though we ordered our food 10 minutes after the couple next to us - it arrived 20 minutes after their entrees (this was 15 minutes after our server said "it was just being plated"). My fiancÃ©e's Tilapia was very boring, had a bone in her first bite, and was covered with clearly frozen peas. My linguini with clams was just ok - but again mostly uninspired. Both of us have had much better Italian meals in Lincoln Square and even in the suburbs. Hard to believe such boring food was made from the birthplace - Taylor Street - of the best Italian food in Chicago. We would not recommend Rosebud to anyone.
(2)
A C.

Definitely a fan of this restaurant. They have a couple other locations around Chicago but I favor this one the most! It is a more pleasurable setting, quite, with great service. The food is fantastic and the prices are fair.
(4)
carmen b.

Hello again, FOOD SNOB here. This past summer I was able to make it to Rosebud. It was 5PM, and the weather was perfect to sit at an outside table. Having dinner outdoors not only reminds me of my childhood but about days I spent in Italy around the family table. And of course those outdoor cafes along the Bay of Naples. After having grilled calimari at Bellagios in Homewood a couple years earlier, I never thought I would eat it again. Of course Bellagios is another rip off franchise. I thought I would give it a try. It was a special that day. Linguini with grilled calamari in a light olive oil and balsamic vinigar sauce. It was actually an appetizer that I had for my entree. I had forgoten how good calimari could be. It was grilled to perfection that it melted in the mouth. Calimari is like shrimp, cook it to long and it is tuff. It was also very flavorful. This Chef knew what he was doing. My wife had the canoloni. Two large pasta shells stuffed with meat, which I thought for sure she would not finish. But she did. Thats because it was not rich and spicy. It was flavorful. A good cook does not need to enrich the flavor of food with a lot of rich ingredients and spices. My compliments.
(5)
James G.

Great appetizers and seafood pasta. Staff was very friendly and helpful.
(4)
Hope Z.

What Changed? My fiance and I went here for a belated valentines dinner. We have lived in the area for 2 years, and tried all the delectable choices on Taylor Street many times. Prior to moving here, we have dined there several times prior to United Center events, or for an extra special dinner with friends. Its been about a year since we last visited, and the visit was nothing but disappointing. We started our meal with sausage and peppers, and they seemed to taste odd. We still ate happily, but both questioned is something was "off." My eggplant Parmesan was nothing but disappointing. The eggplant was tough, and bitter tasting, and left an awful aftertaste. My Fiance enjoyed his 8 finger cavatelli, but our overall meal was disappointing. you can find much better, more consistent choices on Taylor, or University village for that matter. I am sad that an old favorite will have to go on standby.
(2)
Jackie S.

Went here last Saturday afternoon with my comadre and my 5 year old daughter and had a great time. The inside of the place has a nic dark, intimate decor to it which i found inviting. I was a little worried that this would not be a good pick for my 5 year daughter but she did well. They do not have a kids menu so you either need to share your meal or order them a complete meal. The waitress said that they would be willing to do a side order of pasta for her but of course she wanted the ravioli. Our waitress was very attentive and did a great job. The food was excellent!!! I had the veal, my friend ordered the tuna and my daughter had cheese raviloi! My veal was the best I ever had! My friend who isnt a fan of veal even loved it. My daughters meal was great and she nearly finished the entire thing! We sat around after our meal and just talked and Im glad to say we were not rushed out of there! The only thing about this place is that it is a tad bit expensive and that while I would love to come back very often...I see this as a once a year type meal. Other than that everything here is great !
(4)
Mateo S.

No matter where you hail from, you've been to this restaurant in some guise or another... your Grandparent's 50th anniversary dinner, cousin's Bat Mitzah, your own graduation party, first date, or a post-funeral spread for a distant family friend. It reeks of all the years of special occasions and special occasion perfumes. You know it well: spit polished brass, low lighting, beveled glass, dark wood... the kind of place that feels a little naked in the wake of the smoking ban. You can almost remember the woolly scratch of your boyhood sailor suit. It (the atmosphere, not the woolly scratch of your boyhood sailor suit) compels you to order a Manhattan (they make them PERFECTLY here, not too sweet) or a Gibson and be a gangster or his moll. Red sauce is king, maybe Emperor, and portions ensure you'll have lunch taken care off for the next couple days. Service is old fashioned, friendly, unobtrusive and garrulously accented. More than once I found myself wondering where the checkered tablecloths were (the linens were white). Classic Chicago.
(4)
mariah t.

I love the chopped salad and the chicken vesuvio are the best. You should check out the italian cookies for dessert. They are wonderful. The service is always great!
(5)
Tiff B.

I went to The Rosebud with my family to celebrate my Dad's birthday. Decided to give it a try since none of us have ever dined there and it's supposed to be a legendary spot for Italian in Chicago. Our reservations were for early evening, so the service was very good as we were one of a few parties in the restaurant at the time. The whole staff there was very friendly and accomodating and wished my dad a happy birthday. We started the meal with the stuffed artichoke appetizer. Which was delicious and definately a good choice. I ordered the meat lasagne. Not an adventurous dish, but it's what I was in the mood for. The portions were HUGE. I ate about 1/4 of it and was stuffed. I had enough leftover for about three meals. It was good, but not the best lasagne I've ever had. Very solid though. I will say, that for the price-you get massive portions and great service. It's also easy to luck up on a parking spot on the street and therefore not have to spend money on valet.
(4)
Bernard M.

The original is not always the best, but in this case it is. The Rosebud is a classic Chicago Italian restaurant that you should go at least once... maybe 5 times :)
(4)
Maxxy C.

This is one of my all time favorite restaurants. I usually recommend Rosebud for work related dinners. I have never been disappointed. Servings are ample and very delicious! They have the best calamari ever! You got to get the calamari! This is one of the best Italian cuisines in Chicago!!
(5)
Kari S.

Delicious Italian no matter what you order. The service is very attentive and the atmosphere is just what you would expect of any Rosebud or Carmine's location. Its got that old world Italian feel. Who knew there was a little Italy in Chicago?! Not five stars because it isn't my favorite Italian spot.
(4)
L. R.

Coming from an Italian family, I was excited to try Rosebud because everyone says it's the Chicago standard of Italian food. I go to the Italian store down the street to get my olive oil so we combined the visit to eat here. I liked it a lot but I didn't love it. My husband loved it though. He had an appetizer of mussels and wine which he said was delicious. I ordered the standard lasagna with marinara. It was very good, the sauce is a little sweet for me. It was massive! I barely ate 1/3 of it. So, they have very generous portions (of course, it's Italian). I loved the bruschetta. Bruschetta is hard because it's dipped in olive oil and broiled. It needs to be hard enough and hot enough to melt the garlic over it. This is real Italian. I liked the atmosphere as well. It's a very nice place.
(4)
Nannette P.

It is what it is. There is history to the place itself and it does remind you of old Chicago. Dark wood inside the place, lots of little nooks and turns, dark candle it and barely lit restaurant. It's a unique place, but with standardized Italian food. We ordered the baked clam appetizer, 6 in all. It was nothing great or extraordinary, and certainly too little to share. They are clams after all. We shared a chicken vesuvio for dinner. Again, I partly blame myself for ordering something so basic. Everything else though seemed loaded with butter sauce or cheese upon cheese upon cheese. The vesuvio itself was okay. Again, nothing that knocks my socks off of something I've never had anywhere else before. We got the coconut cake to share for dessert, which was certainly the highlight of dinner (minus me choking on my chicken and potatoes dish halfway through the meal for trying to multitask and eat fast because I was starving). It was a huge piece of white fluffy cake with white icing (like a whipped cream icing) and coconut. It was light and fluffy and very good. The service was good ands he had a little sass to her, which I like and can appreciate, especially when you get a table of women who are taking forever and a day to order off the menu because they are catching up on twenty thousand different topics all at once. We tipped her extra for our indecisiveness. It's cozy, but nothing food wise that will blow me out of the water. It's a great place to bring a group of people, or some out of towners to give them that old school Chicago Italian restaurant feel.
(3)
Erin B.

Yum Yum Yum! Do I really need to say any more than that!? This restaurant is really delightful! I love coming here as everything I've ever eaten (from the fillet mignon to pasta) here is always tasty, and the portions are gianormous! The staff is super friendly, and the atmosphere is superb. Even if you come here to sip on a glass of red wine, you'll have a great time!
(5)
Nick B.

This place is everything you would want out of an Italian restaurant. Big servings, great food and friendly service. I would personally recommend the eggplant parmigiana or anything with their vodka sauce but honestly you cant go wrong here so just close you eyes and point at the menu and order what ever your finger lands on.
(5)
Patrick F.

This is absolutely one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. The atmosphere is nice, but unpretentious. It seems like it probably hasn't changed in the last 30 or 40 years (in a good way). The food is absolutely delicious. I can recommend the baked ziti without hesitation - totally out of this world!
(5)
Lisa D.

Having eaten at Rosebud prime (a pleasant experience) was shocked at the horrible service at this spot (maybe the Prime folks get that downtown working folks won't tolerate horrible service, unlike customers who frequent their little Italy location). The service stinks in this place. I went on Saturday night for dinner with a friend. True, being Saturday, and we did not have reservations, we expected a wait (we were told by the overly perky hostess that it would be 20 to 25 minutes). After an hour and 10 minutes (yes, she lied) waiting at the bar (note: we were never asked once by the bartender if we needed a refill) we were finally seated. We sat there for 10 minutes before a waitress came to take our drink order (she was nice but distracted). Another 15 minutes before she took our order. When our food arrived, it was tasty or luke warm. Eventually (I think our waitress sensed by my friend's sour mood that she would NOT be getting a good tip based on the lousy service) our service improved a wee bit towards the end of the meal. There's more, but won't go into it. In conclusion, for the money, I'd try another Italian spot. You'll probably get better service.
(2)
Amanda A.

My fiance and I went here with my mom and dad and some friends before they went to a concert at the United Center. I've been to Rosebud on Rush and the one in Highland Park before and so I knew what to expect. This is the original supposedly and it definitely had that flair of a classic restaurant that has fed politicians and mobsters as well as locals for years. The menu was larger than I remembered and was appreciative to our waitress for walking us through all the options including her own creative mix-and-match suggestions. So many things sounded delicious and so I had her bring me whatever was her favorite of the moment - I was not disappointed. Sausage filled sacotinis in a vodka cream sauce with a jalepeno kick - yum. I think this was the first italian restaurant where my fiance asked for something spicy and it actually was. If you want a little taste of Old Chicago in Little Italy - this should be a must stop.
(4)
Glen C.

Okay, so I went here on a continuation of a first date (see my Beviamo review). Things were going well so we decided to get dinner. It was very late on a Sunday night and some of the other restaurants in the area were already closed, so we decided on Rosebud. I personally thought Rosebud wouldn't be a cool enough place to make an impression, but since it was open, we stuck to it. It ended up being perfect. We were seated in a section with only one other party; we might as well have been the only two in the entire restaurant. It was quiet enough that you could actually feel the history inside and just enjoy the food and each other's company. Our waitress gave us excellent service. She was very nice--which is all I ever ask for. Every time she came to the table, she greeted us with a truly warm smile even though I'm sure we were her only obstacle to closing and heading home after a busy night. The food itself was good. I had the linguine w/ white clam sauce. The portion was huge-e-moungous! Although it was very good, I always find it hard to rate standard Italian fare like that as excellent--I mean, because it's ALWAYS good, it hard to find one of those standard dishes that sets itself apart. Finally, the tiramisu--awesome! While I did have an excellent first date here, unless it's another quiet Sunday night when everything else is closed, I think I'd rather return with friends and family where we can laugh, be loud, and stuff our faces.
(4)
Kristin A.

Good food and great atmosphere. We were happy with the service as well. Great location as well!
(4)
Rachel A.

good but....i mean don't get me wrong....if you are say shopping on michigan avenue or better yet oak street this is a good place to lunch in any season but the summer is best, sit outside....i used to go here a lot for lunch meeting presentations when i worked at saks and it was good for that.....and i know the owners...nice family...but honestly, it's a little touristy and not the best italian food around....we're talking chicago for goodness sake...
(3)
Mark P.

Can't believe that this is supposedly one of the best that Taylor St has to offer.
(2)
Samantha G.

Dear rosebuds, Thank you for your existence. And your amazing lamb chops. And chicken parmigiana. And the biggest pork hops I've ever seen in my entire life, which happened to be the best leftovers I've had for breakfast. I'm glad I got the ones without the spicy sauce (make sure you get it in the side instead!). Very pricy, but totally worth splurging once in a whole ;)
(4)
Linda R.

Perfect and delicious tonight! Service was impeccable - attentive but not pressing. We had a party of 4 and all 4 dinners were wonderful and interesting and served hot and delicious. The calamari and shrimp appetizer was a real treat. I haven't been for awhile, but it is definitely on my favorites list.
(5)
Jenny Z.

After just moving from Chicago to Wisconsin, we went to Rosebud looking for a Chicago Italian meal....and this place delivered. Good service, great beer/wine, large and delicious portions...all while sitting on Taylor St and listening to the Blackhawks getting closer to a win! I highly recommend the Salmon Vesuvio...it was a hefty portion but good quality. The only downer was the coconut cake...it was light and airy but with a processed Little Debbie taste....it wasn't even close to homemade. Rosebud, you can do better!! Overall, I really enjoyed myself on a beautiful Chicago evening.
(4)
Kenneth P.

Amazing! My mother in law is a big Rosebud fan (when she visits, she eats there nearly every day), but we usually go to the one on Rush St. This Rosebud was an entirely different experience. Huge portions, great ambiance, less crowded than the city and overall a great experience.
(5)
Michael D.

Rosebud is one of my favorites. I have been there numerous times and every reservation exceeded expectations. Rosebud is the premier place for authentic Italian food. The service is quick, the staff are always knowledgeable and the price is reasonable for the about of food your getting. The setting is very comfortable in the lightly lit dining area accompanied by the sweet sounds of Sinatra. Rosebud is elite in my opinion. I recommend the Rigatoni with Vodka sauce as an entree and the Sausage & Peppers as an appetizer. You will not be disappointed. I can't wait to get back to Rosebud!
(5)
Joelle S.

What a wonderful evening we spent at The Rosebud Restaurant on Taylor Street in Chicago!! We were immediately seated at "Sinatra's" table, it is in a non-traffic part of the restaurant. Our waiter was at our table without hesitation and offered us the specials for the evening and asked for our drink order. We asked for wine suggestions and he was very willing and able to help us with that! We started off with the Napolean Eggplant Salad, a Rosebud exclusive. Piled high: vine ripe tomatoes, arugala, fresh mozzerella, thinly sliced eggplant (battered and fried golden brown), drizzled with oil and balsamic vinegar. You do NOT have to be a fan of eggplant to fall in love with this salad! It was spectacular! Next we had the Zuppa di Mare, Pappardelle Noodles in a tomato basil sauce (Rosebud house specialty), Pork Chops Cacciatore, and Brick Chicken (another Rosebud specialty of the house). We were not disappointed by any of our choices! The Zuppa di Mare was a very generous portion of linguini smothered with the clams, mussels, & octopus. Wonderful! Pappardelle Noodles, large square noodles, prepared in a tomato basil sauce were cooked perfectly. Pork Chops were large portions with potatoes, mushrooms, onions and peppers were broiled then sauted in tomato sauce. yum! Brick Chicken was a WHOLE CHICKEN! with potatoes and rapini. We brought most of the chicken home, but enjoyed a little of it at the restaurant. We were full!! Two bottles of wine later, full from the wonderful meal, we all went home happy and satisfied! We will be back!
(4)
Jtnme T.

Ordered food for my husband and I today for dinner. Appetizers, spicy calamari was so soggy, but good spicy flavor. Stuffed mushrooms were tough. The stuffing was very salty. Wasn't worth my time or money. Spaghetti was so, so, but the bread was amazing.
(3)
Bob S.

very good. I love going to Rosebud when in Chicago.
(4)
Chris E.

Made my reservations thru Yelp for the first time. Worked flawlessly. Ate here during the Ryder Cup with three of my golf buddies in late September 2012. A buddy from Greensboro, NC said we had to try this place. Food was very good. I had the Linguine with Mussels and my buddies all had the Lasagna. Don't forget a side of Mama's meatballs and sausages. Can't wait till my next trip to Chicago. Veal Saltimbocca is my next dish to try.
(4)
Andrea M.

My husband & I came here for our anniversary dinner this past weekend and we were very impressed. We have a 6 o'clock reservation but were running late due to traffic. I called and advised them that we'd be a few minutes late - we showed up at 6:15 and were seated right away, at a window seat. The setting is very nice & intimate. Our waiter came to the table right away to get our drink orders. He was one of the best waiters we have ever seen. He knew/described all the night's specials and answered any questions we had. I started w/ the minestrone soup and it was so good. For the main course, my husband ordered the chicken parm and I ordered the linguine w/ mussels. Food came out rather quickly and wow was it good! They gave him 2 HUGE chicken breasts, lightly breaded just like he likes. My linguine and mussels were also scrumcious! I liked how they didn't overdo it with the linguine to replace the mussels. I had a ton of mussels on my plate and the amount of linguine w/ them was just perfect. We will definitely go back here and recommend it to friends/family.
(5)
Chris L.

I always liked Rosebud, and its been a few years since I had been there. After recently making a visit here again, my only complaint is that now I remember the good food I was missing out on all these years by not going. It doesn't get any more classic Italian then Rosebud. We were seated right away (had a reservation) and the service was prompt. I used to always get the sausage and peppers as an appetizer, but this time we decided to switch it up and go with Fried Calamari. Some of the best calamari I've had in a long time, a huge portion too. I decided to order the cavatelli arrabbiata, and it was great.
(4)
Charles L.

To me...An admitted italian food snob (NY'er)...The Rosebud is the finest italian restaurant in the US.....Bar None
(5)
Jonny P.

Full disclosure. We came here hungover... around 3 PM so obviously there was no line. It was a strugglefest. We liked it because it was dark... and we were hungover. But you really can't see much in the restaurant. IT'S DARK. LOCATION Semi-convenient... if you live near Taylor and Ashland. There are tons of restaurants all around... check it out. AMBIENCE dark. very dark. everyone has an accent. Can't see hands....... food... okay, that's an exaggeration but you get our point. FOOD Spicy Calamari: huge chunks of onions and peppers that weren't cooked through all the way... calamari was really soggy.. the breading was delicious but really needs to be revamped somehow. Carbonara: HUGE PORTIONS. peas.... typical, americanized... We're still looking for a GOOD, ITALIAN, EGG YOLK CARBONARA. leave us a comment if you know what we're looking for. yeah.... Baked Ziti Genovese: cheesy. so so cheesy. Diet cokes come in glass bottles. pretty cool... but no refills..... uhhhhhhhhh. Bread is good... especially when you're hungover.
(3)
Beth A.

the only thing i didnt like about this location was that in order to be seated u have to finagle ur way past the bar...not a seemingly easy task its loud its crowded and the food is worth every delicious penny my salad was a bit soggy but definitely still edible...the tiramisu is probably the best deal in town...the serving is HUGE & we were allowed to take our sweet time hangin out/chattin and sippin our coffee they also valet for $8
(4)
michael c.

Worst Italian food ever. This was our fourth and. Last try to the rosebud restaurants. Horrific spaghetti doused with a sauce that tasted like it was straight out of a can. The eggplant appetizer was also raw and ineatable. The bogolnese was very watery, served with parpadelle that was stuck together like glue. The minestrone soup was like flavored water with undercooked vegetables in it. And lastly, but by no means least, their best of the worst, calamari doused in a spicy "sauce" also disgusting and ineatable. A huge disappointment. MVC
(1)
Danny L.

This is hands down the best Italian I've ever had. I had the veal and the meatballs. So good.
(5)
Danielle V.

This place has amazing Italian food, and the portions are huge. Great prices too!
(4)
Pete B.

more like a 3.5 The restaurant was cosy (and very christmasy), and the service was great. The food, while relatively good, didn't blow me away. I got the garlic chicken (#2 on the list of chicken entrees), and we agreed that it's the best out of the 4 dishes we got. Unfortunately, being best of the 4 dishes we got still doesn't make it amazing. It was good, but nothing special. Would I come here again? doubtful. There has to be better restaurants in Little Italy.
(4)
Pamela K.

High on the list of Taylor Street eats. Yes, it's on the more formal side - think dark woods, fancy dining area, and pricier menu, but the food is more typical Italian. Even the candy bowl they have at the bar. hehe. Not Americanized. I take that from my italiano friend who says so :). Rosebud has their own "rosebud" (tomato-based) spicier sauce which I think most are a fan of. The pappardelle that one friend had and the sea bass and side of sauteed rapini my other friend had made my palatte sing. The heaping seafood special full of mussels, clams, fish, and calamari served with linguini tossed in the Rosebud marinara sauce was really to die for. It's several days worth of seafood and pasta! The pasta overall is mmm al dente. Yum. The chopped salad we shared is a nice departure from the typical. Wow. Yum. Could have just had a big bowl of this too. And well, maybe the grilled calamari. OMG, no skimping there and super flavorful. Great selection of delish wine. If you don't venture to Taylor Street often, you can try the Rush street or the other locations. The Rush one has a popular outdoor patio. Either way, try this sooner rather than later. You'll know what I mean. Metered parking and gets crowded so make reservations and plan ahead if you decide to come during the weekend or non-grandpa time.
(4)
Ed R.

Delicious food, great service. If seated outside, do not sit near the street storm drain. Unpleasant odor throughout the meal.
(4)
Chris S.

Food: Average at best; a notch below Olive Garden. Mussels were average, bruschetta was a bit wet, antipasto platter was swimming in oil. Service: Eh. Okay. Price: Obnoxiously high. $68 for three apps and two drinks? Are you nuts? If the food was actually *good* I'd have no problem with it. Don't bother unless this is the only place you can get a reservation.
(2)
Robert D.

Made a reservation for 9 for Father's Day. We were accommodated very nicely. Staff and waiter were very friendly. Waiter had a great knowledge about the menu but the food was extremely bland. Even the leftovers I took to go were disappointing. I was not the only member of the party who was not happy. I wish I would have let them know then. This meal wasn't good enough for mans best friend!!
(1)
Carol K.

Hands down, Rosebud is one of my favorites along Taylor Street. It's not fancy (anything but) but the food is always delicious, the servers friendly and I like that the "regulars" sit at the bar and talk to you. This is the original Rosebud restaurant. Located in what used to be the old Italian men's Supper club, this restaurant opened in 1977, and due to it's success, other outposts have opened since, but this remains my favorite. On a recent visit- we came on a slow Wednesday night. My friend had never been to Taylor Street before and was amazed at the choices before us. "How do you know where to go?" asked he. "Trust me", said I. "You'll be up to your eyeballs in Mama's meatballs soon enough". We were seated and rather than explore the entire menu- I took the lead and ordered some of my favorites. Caprese Salad, Antipasto plate and a lovely Chianti to start. For our entrees we split Mama's meatballs and a side of spaghetti along with the NY strip Vesuvio. The look on my friend's face said it all. He was in Rosebud bliss. And now for the "piece de resistance". We were on the quest for the perfect cannoli and I had promised that if there was a perfect one- we were going to find it on Taylor Street. We waited. And then the moment happened. The cannoli was placed down before us. Centered on a small plate, with that sweet ricotta spilling out of the end, pistachio nuts sprinkled about and a dollop of whipped cream, it was beauty on a plate. But would it satisfy this cannoli connoisseur? As I watched the smile come over my friend's face with just the merest fork full, I knew we had found a winner. Baked in Rosebud's own bakery, this cannoli is the winner on Taylor Street. Our evening of Italian indulgence done, we left Rosebud and headed home. But not without "visions of cannolis, dancing in our heads".
(4)
Mel M.

OMG! My hubby and I went for Valentines dinner last Feb. The brick chicken is the best. Flavorful and juicey! My husband and I shared the stuffed mushrooms- The sauce was divine! We enjoyed some wine and great service. On the down side, they crammed more tables in the place just for valentines day so our table was right up next to someone else's, thereby stealing our/their privacy and it was way too dark in there. The quality of the food made up for the bad things, though.
(4)
B L.

This is a very special restaurant not unlike Morton's where you walk in and waitstaff treat you like you're a celebrity. I could get used to that! :) What can I recommend? I truly loved the veal. I also love love LOVE the stuffed mushrooms. Stay for dessert and get the spumoni ice cream! It comes out and it's huge! When I went here during my pregnancy my eyes almost popped out of my head...but I still managed to eat the whole thing.
(5)
Q Y.

My favorite one is eggplant salad. One salad and one main dish is good enough for a couple. And there is always endless Italian bread. You will never leave Rosebud hungry.
(4)
Brandy W.

Well, our experience started off on a very bad foot. At one point of our 47 minute wait (after our reservation time), I considered finding another restaurant down the street. I was told to go to Rosebud and having only had one other (great) Rosebud experience in Naperville, this was our first downtown. We chose Taylor because we thought it would be great to eat at the first of the chain. I called one month in advance for a table. I made the reservation for 3. Then... two days before we were set to have dinner there, my husband called to increase our reservation by 2. Now, our party went from 3 to 5. In the restaurant business, this means a considerably fewer amount of options because standard tables accommodate up to 4. Given this change, I would have expected that if they had a large amount of parties in the 5-6 range, that they would mention this on the phone when we called to change the reservation. At that point, it would have been our fault. But... they acted as though it were no big deal and the accommodation would be fine. We arrived at 7:30 for our 8:00 reservation. We had drinks in the bar. Then we proceeded to wait until 8:47 when FINALLY they had a table available for us. They could've pushed together two tables. But they didn't. We had to wait until a table was up, though our reservation was 47 minutes prior. We were apologized to by the manager and given the "Frank Sinatra" table. He kept mentioning this as if it were a good thing and it was a nice table after all. We were also treated to two free appetizers for our table. Tony was our server and he was awesome. Our food was great and the recommendations were also wonderful. The bread was tasty and everyone enjoyed what they ordered... except... why must the entrees be enough for two people to share? Holy cow! When you order a pork chop, you get two... chicken parmesan, you get two full chicken breasts.... I guess it's better than not enough food, right? We left with plenty of food for a full meal the next evening. Except... 3 of the 5 were headed out of town (visitors) by plane the next day. Lots of wasted food-- but not the fault of the restaurant. For 5 people with a bottle of wine, entrees for all, one salad starter, 2 free appetizers (because of our wait time)... we spent $145 before tip. It was a nice dinner, though I'd never ever take 5 people to Rosebud again. I would only take 4 people or try another location. I will not be going back to the Rosebud on Taylor.
(3)
Natalie P.

You're kidding me right, fellow Yelpers? 4 stars? What have you guys been smoking? My boyfriend and I are visiting Chicago and, after quickly checking out the reviews on yelp, went to the Rosebud tonight as we're staying nearby. I was told by our driver that the portions are "large" - the understatement of the year. The portions are gargantuan, and unfortunately, the concept "quality over quantity" doesn't apply at this restaurant. When we first sat down, I should have known things were not going to be up to my standard when a metal bowl of cheap parmesan cheese was place on our table. Uh oh. To start, we shared the Caprese Salad, which was pretty standard. Although, I don't know what type of "traditional" Italian restaurant would bastardize Caprese with olives and roasted red peppers! The mozz was decent, but I would have rather them left off the "extras" and instead opted for Buffala Mozz and a little more balsamic reduction. For dinner, I ordered the fresh papardelle pasta with an alfredo sauce, mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli. When it came out, it nearly choked on my wine! It was seriously large enough to feed a small village. Before even taking a bite, I was nervous because portions *this* large are never good...and this time was no exception. The "alfredo" sauce was basically heated cream with the smallest hint of flavor. There wasn't even the slightest hint of nutmeg. The papardelle itself was perfectly cooked, but the rest of the dish did nothing to compliment the restaurant's 'original' creation. In hopes of salvaging some sort of goodness, I asked the server if they had any fresh parmesan - pecorino, reggiano, anything! - but he said no. NO FRESH PARM AT AN ITALIAN RESTAURANT? Oh god. My boyfriend had the Brick Chicken, which he said was good. He said he'd give it about a 7/10. It looked really tender although, being a vegetarian, I can't comment on the actual flavors. It did, however, come with one of my all-time favorite sides - broccoloni! Which he said was "yum!" We ordered dessert - opted for the carrot cake. Of course, it was also a huge portion, though not as gargantuan as the others. It was pretty decent, definitely the best part of my meal (but that's not saying much). It was really missing the sweet tang of the cream cheese frosting. I'm not sure if they call their frosting cream cheese - but I am a baker and I couldn't taste the slightest hint of it. So, that was a bummer for me. The service was OK. Our sever and busboy were friendly and the busboy really prompt, but I had to ask him to bring our server the check after waiting for 10 minutes. While the server was nice, he was often absent. I would have probably given the restaurant 3 stars if it weren't for the bill. I was already grumpy about my mediocre meal, but I got downright choked when I saw that my $18 on-the-menu pasta was now $28 because quote "the mushrooms and other stuff are extra." Sigh. I could have gone to a significantly pricier restaurant, had a killer meal, and been totally satisfied for $28. Our nearly $100 check was ridiculous for the quality of the meal and service. I have *zero* problem paying for great food, but when the food is blah and I could have bought a new pair of jeans instead, I'm not happy. Being that we are staying in a hotel, our insane amount of leftovers were taken by our driver to be delivered to a homeless fellow he knows. So, at least someone appreciated the meal! Overall, I'm pretty damn crushed that this is the experience I'm taking away from Chicago's Little Italy. Maybe I'm a food snob (ok, not maybe), and maybe I'm spoiled by Miami's insanely awesome selection of Italian restaurants (not maybe), and maybe my own Italian cooking is head-and-shoulders above the average Italian restaurant (definitely not maybe) but seriously. In no way, shape, or form is this restaurant worth 4 stars. And it's certainly nothing to write home about - unless you're a grump, like me!
(2)
Leonardo B.

$20 for an Alfredo Pasta, I was expecting something very good considering US prices however creamy sauce was grainy and below average; same case with Pasta a la Vodka, additionally if you ask for extra chicken they put a white whashed chicken cooked apart that taste nothing... To close they served my wine in a plastic cup, really?
(2)
Anne S.

This place is fine, but a little more expensive than I like ok places to be. I had the penne bolganese. It was big, and it was alright. But it was nothing special. I could have made a version I liked better at home for 1/4 of the price. It was nice to sit outside and enjoy the meal. I like dining outside, especially when I can have a drink!
(3)
Amanda C.

I have heard great things about Rosebud over the past six years that I've lived in Chicago, but I have to say that my first experience was less than fabulous. Since we had the day off because of the cold, two of my friends and I decided to eat at Rosebud for lunch. They offered the restaurant week menu, but their options weren't that great of a deal so we all opted out of that menu. Because I couldn't quite find anything that stood out on their regular menu, I asked the waitress for a recommendation. All of the lunch menu chicken options were under $14 and the waitress watched me looking at that menu. She then suggests the special chicken dish of the day, which sounded okay so I went with it. I also ordered pasta fagioli soup, which arrived in a very different form that any other pasta fagioli soup I have ever had. It was so thick and full of beans that I thought it was more of a bean soup. It did not taste all that great so I barely ate half of it. When my meal arrived, the chicken looked like a chicken twinkie. Just the appearance of the dish was very unappetizing. I took a bite of the gnocchi that was around the chicken and the red sauce that was on the gnocchi had a very sharp and horrible taste to it. I ate one bite of the chicken and it had the taste of a frozen cordon blue that I could have bought for $1 at the grocery store. Now here is why I was very upset about the dish: we get the bill and I was charged $23.95 for the dish!!! My friend had a very good looking and twice the serving of chicken parmesan and hers was $13. The waitress also gave us attitude for wanting to split the check 3 ways and made a huff over the fact that she would have to void everything off to ring our checks individually. Perhaps that's something you ask in the beginning if your computer system is so outdated that you're unable to split a check 3 ways? I will not be returning to Rosebud ever again. There are way too many awesome Italian places in Chicago to give this place a second chance. Word to the wise: do not order any of their specials because they think it's okay to charge you double the lunch price of every other comparable dish.
(1)
Christy D.

This is the kind of Italian restaurant I wanted to find when I moved to Chicago- sucess!!! It had that dark romantic Italian feel to it- love it! I also loved everything I put into my mouth that night. I had the chopped salad which was so fresh and had such a great mix of vegetables. This made me feel better as I ate the cheesiest most delicious vodka sauce covered noodles afterwards. Generous portions so splitting is possible which I am a fan of. Very helpful waiter as well.
(4)
Ross W.

it's dark and has the ambiance of an old school Italian restaurant. Food is pretty good and in extremely generous portion. I ordered the Eggplant Salad, and to my utter belief, it was a ginormous pile, at least 9 pieces of good-sized eggplant parmesan stacked with tomato and mozzarella, topped with greens. Needless to say, I had much leftover. Same story with Hubby's Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich. The Spicy Calamari had a nice kick to it. Despite a full stomach, I welcomed the delicious Tiramisu which I couldn't finish.
(4)
Linda H.

It's been a while since I've been to Rosebud...what used to be my "go-to" place for Italian has been replaced by other favorites, but we decided to give them a visit on Sunday night. It was pretty slow, as the Bears were about to start playing, so I was thrilled that we were seated quickly (without reservations). I was looking forward to having a few beers and some great pasta after a long weekend of work...this being my "big night out". Waitress came by relatively quickly and offered olive oil for our bread and dispensed onto our plates. Since when can we not be trusted with our own personal oil dispenser on the table? Waitress was quite chatty (a bit too much)...and we ordered drinks. I *love* the square noodles, but also was eyeing the cavatelli arrabiata, and could not decide. When waitress returned with drinks I told her of my dilemma and she suggested the square noodles with arrabiata...now why didn't I think of that? Anyway, it was a brilliant suggestion and I could not wait to eat. In the meantime, I enjoyed my bread and rationed olive oil, while BF got a nice house salad. And we waited. My beer was long gone, and my olive oil was gone. I was hungry and wanted another beer. Waitress stood by another table and chatted, and chattted, and would run off without looking at our table for 10-15 minutes. Grrrr. It seriously was not even busy, but she spent WAY too much time chatting. Finally, I practically accosted her for another beer, and her reaction was kinda like "Well, why didn't you tell me you wanted another beer?", um, I would have if you had looked in our direction in the last 15 minutes! Ok, food arrives finally, delivered by another waitress. My pasta is NOT hot. Sigh. It was a huge portion, and toward the bottom of the bowl it was hot-ish, but most of it was pretty much room temp...SUCH a bummer. BF said his veal braciole was excellent (he doesn't give a rat's arse about his food being hot). My pasta was excellent, but I would have been over the moon about it had it been HOT. All I could think of is how good it will be leftover heated up to proper temp (which was definitely the case!). So, beer #2 is long gone now, and I'm done eating and ready to have my pasta wrapped, which bus dude efficiently does. Waitress comes by and offers dessert, and I tell her I would like to see dessert menu but really just want another beer for dessert. She drops off dessert menu, and never returns with beer....in the meantime chats with another table for 10-15 minutes. Finally, BF had to go up to her and just ask for the check 'cuz at this point we just wanted to go. The food is absolutely 5 stars! (when hot)....and perhaps this bad service experience was an anomaly, but it was bad enough to subtract 2 stars. I know I will be back to Rosebud, but I will be in no hurry.
(3)
Lara R.

What a quaint restaurant! Excellent meal of Italian wedding soup followed by one of the day's specials - a delicious homemade lobster ravioli with shrimp. Finished with a slice of carrot cake. Everything was so fresh and homey - and in portions too large to finish!
(4)
Michelle B.

We were extremely pleased with our dining experience! Be prepared for very generous portions and great service (it can be slow when they're really busy though). While the background noise was fairly loud, the amazing food made up for it. And the *original* Rosebud is a must-see nestled into a cute college town/city.
(5)
Crissy W.

the rosebud was quite the trek from my hotel near the magnificent mile, but i made it work since i wanted to explore several different neighborhoods and on my way back from the rosebud, i would pass through greektown. i was dining alone and thought it was considerate of the waiter to seat me in the back. i took advantage of not having to impress anyone and ordered the pollo vesuvio, which is cooked in garlic and white wine sauce. it was very delicious and a nice change from the more common italian dishes that are on every italian menu. the pollo vesuvio can easily feed 2 people since it's half a chicken. too bad i couldn't take it home since i had a little journey ahead of me! the service was also very polite and attentive. i would come back with a small group if i'm in the area again.
(3)
Rachel W.

I cater this place on a regular basis, so can't speak to the interior, but the food is yummy, and an awesome catering option. Mama's meatballs rock...they're huge and covered in homemade marinara Penne bolognese always goes over well, as does the cavatelli arribiatta. We always get Caesar salad & bread w/olive oil. I'm a huge fan of this place, it's reasonable, and the crew is always thrilled when it's on the list.
(4)
Kristen K.

Rosebud was always my "go to" place on Taylor Street - this past week took my friend who never has been on Taylor Street and kept gushing about Rosebud - I think I talked too much???? Sat outside, very nice waiter and no issues there but the menu seemed very unimpressive as for choices. Next the portions were big but the pasta seemed a little hard and not cooked through. Lastly, I would compare the food to a step above Olive Garden as for flavor, taste etc - nothing really impressed or stood out for me, companion who never there before agreed, just an average Italian place. Rosebud disappointed on the quality of food, everything else is still good.
(2)
Jeanie P.

Very classic Italian food with no frills. Hearty big portions with a homey atmosphere. The eggplant salad was great with thinly sliced fried eggplant with layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and greens drizzled with a thick balsamic sauce. I had the rigatoni alla vodka with italian sausage, and it was tasty but not really anything memorable. Pasta was cooked well though- al dente. Chianti was not bad either. Overall it's an average place for just classic Italian food, but don't expect any creativity or imagination in the dishes here at all. I don't think that is their goal anyway. Too many other fun restaurants in the city to try to go back here again.
(3)
Tariq A.

We went to Rosebud's tonite for a change of pace. I ate there five or six years ago and at that time thought it was fairly decent. We had the tilapia and the Rigatoni Vodka. The tilapia was $20 and the pasta about $17 or $18 dollars. The dishes were both terribly average, actually the fish was pretty bad. We will not be back. I think for the price they are charging you are better off going to some other restaurant. The waitstaff were nice. I am pretty annoyed at myself as I usually stick to Topo Gigio or Carmines on rush for Italian. My advice, regardless of their prices ,the food at Rosebud's on Taylor is really not that great. There are so many better places to eat Italian food in Chicago. T
(2)
Karen T.

Can you believe that I've lived here for 6 years and still never been to a Rosebud? Well, I finally made it to this location for a work lunch. It's apparently the original and the walls reflect the various accolades they've received over the years - from Zagat to Time Out Chicago. As for their menu, most of us shied away from the pasta dishes, which might have been a mistake. I had their fish salad, which is really all calamari, octopus, shrimp, etc swimming in a pool of EVOO and garlic. It was good, but I'd recommend splitting it with at least 2 other people as an appetizer. All of the people who had the salmon salad complained about the saltiness of their fish. Then again, they're doctors so they might have a phobia of excess salt. Rosebud's desserts are undeniably decadent. A chocolate mousse cake and tiramisu were enough to share between a table of 6, and delicious at that. You may have loosen your belt a little or pop some Tums / Pepto after a meal here, but it is absolutely worth it.
(3)
Gita B.

Mediocre food with pretty steep prices. Did not care for their baked clams.
(3)
Jennifer A.

We had family visiting from Savannah, GA, where they claim you cannot find good Italian food, so we decided to take them to Rosebud so they could get their Italian fix. Having never been there despite living in Chicago for 5 years, I was hoping this place would meet their expectations. We were seated promptly in the main dining room, which was jam-packed with tables but yet not too loud. Our server was very enthusiastic and attentive. The bread was served warm and was delicious. Definitely a good start. We ordered baked clams and a tomato and onion salad to start. That was more than enough for our table of 4 - huge portions! The clams were fabulous, and as a lover of tomato & basil, the salad was fantastic. Very fresh, great flavors. For entrees, we had the veal saltimbocca, square noodles with vodka sauce and sausage, and two plates of the cavatelli arrabiata. The veal and the square noodles were AMAZING. Absolutely delicious. The verdict was split on the arrabiata. I had it and enjoyed it, but it was much spicier than I had anticipated. My dad also had the arrabiata and had a little trouble with the spice. With that said, the cavatelli was fresh and delicious - it just was a bit overshadowed by the spiciness of the marinara. So... consider yourself warned - the arrabiata will make you sweat. We also ordered a side of meatballs and sausage with our entrees, and the meatballs were unbelievable. So, so good. I could have just eaten those and been thrilled with my Rosebud experience! My husband and I split the tiramisu for dessert. I thought it was amazing, but my husband thought it lacked a bit of the liqueur flavor he normally loves in a tiramisu. Overall, we had a great experience at Rosebud.
(4)
Claudia D.

We live 2 blocks from the Rosebud. We prefer to go for a late lunch. The portions are huge. You really do not need to order an appetizer or salad. The bread with the delicious olive oil and a good cocktail are plenty prior to the entree. Entrees are sided with pasta with homemade marinara sauce which is a bit tart-exactly the way I like it. I love the Veal Piccata. I rarely order dessert here. My husband enjoys the eggplant here. The wines are a bit pricy and the service can be iffy, but all in all this is a good value for your money.
(4)
Amanda Z.

Lovely atmosphere, large portions of lovingly-cooked pasta, and friendly service are really the highlights of a dinner out at the Rosebud. Two months of minimal carbs (wedding gowns are TIGHT) and months of pinching pennies meant that my young man and I were itching to get out of the house and eat some serious carbs. It's allowed once in awhile, right? Since aforementioned young man had scored a gift card to Rosebud, we figured this would be a perfect excuse to treat ourselves to a nice little date night. We started with the chopped salad...a wise choice. Really, this would be enough starter salad for four people, but for starving not-quite-newlyweds, it was perfect because it meant leftovers. My date enjoyed a veal dish (with a side of patsta) whereas I went all in wiht the cavatelli arrabiatta. Our server warned me, "It's spicy." I told him, "Oh honey, so am I, bring it on!" It was a little spicy, but more that zestiness demanded in an arrabiata. I loved it. And the cavatelli was cooked marvelously and the perfect match for the spicy sauce. Yay for us, we took home plenty of leftovers. Crusty bread was provided for sopping up bits of leftover sauce (olive oil is available, just ask)...and a bottle of red rounded out dinner. I'm not one to turn down tirimisu, so we finished out evening with a plate full of that. Of course I'd say this would be the perfect amount for a four-some just looking to have a few bites of something sweet. We couldn't finish ours (as much as we tried). Service was lovely (props to the bartender for the lovely wine recommendation) ad the food was delicous and plentiful. I'd definitely return when I choose to break my carb-fast again.
(4)
Julie O.

Pretty building, nice stained glass but I have had much better service and food on Taylor Street. I walked out with the distinct feeling that the Rosebud was despertately trying to control costs. We had bread on the table to start but no oil or butter, for quite some time. OK, maybe they do not want to keep whole bottles of oil on the table, but how about a smaller decanter or don't put the bread out until you can pour the oil? Entrees were okay. Not great, but acceptable. I think I expected something better, Rosebud has a good reputation. Service was not on. We had to ask for everything, inlcuding drink refills. We waited about forever to get our check at the end of the night. Too many other restaurants on Taylor Street working harder for my business to go back anytime soon.
(2)
Mike J.

:-) This place always reminds me of the mafia movies! Really nice and cozy, amazing food and generous portions, and very welcoming and charismatic waiters. This may not be the case for everyone, but I've been very lucky so far. Went there to celebrate my birthday and wanted to try some of their staples, but the waiter convinced me to try their steak, which, according to the him, was like aromatherapy but with meat. :-) That sounded very intriguing, so I decided to give it a try, and that turned out to be the best steak I've had in my life. the wine recommendation also turned out to be very good. One word of wisdom - take it easy on the bread and butter. We didn't, so when we saw our portions, we knew we'd need boxes. The steak does not deserve that.
(5)
Ale O.

Love this place! Great food, great service! Had my wedding reception here and the food was delicious!
(5)
Steph V.

We didn't have plans to eat here for lunch but since Rosebud has such a great rep, we had to try it. Service was an A Food was an A Bathroom was an A A's across the board! Take a bow, Rosebud. Although the meal was ghastly expensive, I luckily did not pay the bill and was able to sit and enjoy my lunch. My salmon salad was super delicious and the bottled iced tea was a nice touch. BUT, hold the phone and listen to this: TRY THE ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP. I REPEAT, TRY THE ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP!!! I'm a clam (no pun intended) chowder girl, but seriously their soup has converted my opinion to all soups. If this were my last meal on earth, I would request the Italian wedding soup. Gratzi!
(4)
Brian T.

I thought this was a Citizen Kane-themed restaurant. Imagine the egg on my face when I realized it was a Goodfellas-themed restaurant...but seriously folks. I had the Salmon Vesuvio. Disclaimer: I'm a sucker for anything with the word "vesuvio" in it. The sauce could've been a little more substantial but it wasn't overly-oily. I'd probably order it again if I ever returned. My only real qualm is that the ambiance was lacking. I found street parking easily (everything around here is metered or valet...Thanks, Daley!) but entering the place through the dimly-lit, completely empty bar seemed uninviting. On a busy Friday night, it probably wouldn't be weird grabbing a drink while waiting for your table. However, on a weekday before the dinner rush, I thought we entered the wrong place. The best Yelp description I can muster: Dive-y atmosphere with classy prices and decent food.
(3)
Chris Y.

As someone who grew up on Olive Garden and the Macaroni Grill, this place was like a swift slap in the face. The best italian food I have ever had. Walking by it you would never know what amazing works of culinary art walk out of that kitchen. Has become a place near and dear to my heart as any big even I have with my special someone is celebrated in the dimly lit dinning room of this masterpiece. As you walk in make sure to look for the little table at the back of the bar that always seems to be full with "the dons", as my family now calls them, as they talk with an old world tongue about things one can only imagine. As you turn the corner you will notice the freshly backed cookies inter a glass cover just begging you to grab them as a pre-meal snack. Don't. This is the original and well worth the wait. If you want real Italian skip the bread sticks and salad and go for the Rosebud.
(5)
Sean C.

Our kids loved the spaghetti, make sure to order the meatballs(they are huge). My wife and I enjoyed our meals, service was good as well.
(5)
Steve M.

Finally decided to use a gift certificate from last year. We sat outside since the weather was perfect. We started out with the spicy calamari which was plentiful and good but the sauce stayed at the bottom like a soup and turned all the calamari breading soft and soggy. For a main course I had the veal Marsala which was very good. The wife had fussili carbonara which was also good. The wine selection is abundant. The service was good and parking on the street wasn't too bad. The only thing that was bad was the house-made limoncello which I would skip. Also the chocolate gelato tasted like a frosty so that could be good or bad depending on how you feel about frostys.
(3)
Joseph F.

I was a bit hesitant as I detest chain restaurants. But I'm making a rare exception in this case. The only reason I did not give this place 5 stars is because of a rather foul odor that greets you as you walk in the front. It smells like old tropical fish tanks were stored there. Get the febreeze out people. In any event, the martinis were wonderful. Mine was so smooth it was almost like drinking water. The bread was fresh and crusty, just like good Italian bread is supposed to be. I ordered the chicken marsala. I know that's not very creative, but I normally can tell a lot about the skills of the chef with this very simple dish. My meal was delcious. The chicken was perfectly cooked and seasoned with no strange parts hanging off the meat. I didn't bloat like a balloon the next morning because of overuse of salt and the portion size was just right for one person. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised and would definitely go back.
(4)
Craig A.

Fresh seafood and wonderful pasta. High energy environment with the only downside being that we felt rushed. When order would suggest sharing each course. Servings are Chicago size, enough for three. Will return!!!
(4)
Christy Q.

I am embarassed and ashamed to admit this but I have Silician blood running through my veins and I was born and raised here in Chicago and yet I've never before been to Taylor St or to Rosebud. Shun me, go ahead, I deserve it.... *pout* Last night however, everything changed. You see, a few weeks back my friend and I were at St Mary's of the Angels Oktoberfest and they were selling gift certs for various places. Rosebud had a deal- for $25 you get a $50 meal, so my friend Stacey and I took advantage. Last night was the big dinner. We decided to share 2 pastas and each had an inexpensive glass of wine. Let me start with Taylor St itself- its so CUTE! I can't wait to come back and walk down the street some and check it out. Adorable street! The restaurant is old Chicago style. Dark wood paneling (reminiscant of the Berghoff but not quite as nice as Berghoff's) and even the patrons are a bit older or more established. The waitress we had was just great- I wish I could remember her name but she was fab! She was fun and so knowledgable- and also a great salesperson! I saw a dish at the next table over that looked delish. Our waitress told me it's the popardelle noodles (square noodles) with tomato basil sauce- but that she always recommends people order it with vodka sauce and spicy sausage. I took her advice and man it was divine- really fantastic. The noodles were really unique to me. Long fat square noodles. And their vodka sauce is the best I've had yet. So good it melts in your mouth. Then add the spicy sausage- oh man. I am already thinking of going back for more. I ate my leftovers for BREAKFAST this morning it was so good! My friend got the linguine with shrimp and broccoli in garlic olive oil sauce. (we did share each entree). Hers was just fantastic- really hit the spot. They were really different so we got 2 totally unique flavors. If I had to pick one that was better than the other I just couldn't do it. I loved them both. The ONLY negative is that it is pricey. For 2 pasta dishes and 2 glasses of wine our bill was $61 which is a tad high for my taste. Would I return? ABSOLUTELY Would I recommmend it to a friend? ABSOLUTELY Was the service top notch? ABSOLUTELY
(5)
Pat G.

I read some of the reviews after I went to dine at The Rosebud. BIG MISTAKE. I would have not tried it. Most are right service was awesome from a polite staff. The food was not to par or maybe from reading the reviews not consistent. The prices are not what I would pay for from a three star Restuarant. Filet of steak with Marsala? Veal Saltimbocca with red sauce and veal pounded wafer thin so when you bite into it you feel like your having a piece of pizza? Stuffed artichoke was very good otherwise I would have totally went away bummed. Oh the espresso was from plastic cups like your home brew machines. 1700 miles to get here for a visit and I will never believe this was considered Chicago's Little Italy. Never again...
(3)
Leon H.

The food is GREAT, The Staff are Pro's . . . Better then the one on Rush Street, might be the staff or the location, but this place is a winner ! ! !
(5)
Jay W.

Food was great as always, but reservation process was a mess. Ended up waiting 40 min because we didn't want a table by the crowded bar.
(3)
Khiem T.

They should have had a sign that read 'We don't serve Asians.' At least that the way I felt the host treated us, as compared to the non-Asian patrons. Terrible. I won't recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(1)
Alex P.

Took my boyfriend here for his birthday, late near closing. It was very quiet, dim, romantic. I would say this is my favorite place in Little Italy, hands down, and I've eaten at every place on Taylor St. The prices are pretty much the same as all of the other Italian joints around town. Next to Greek food, Italian food is my favorite cuisine, and I've never had better red sauce, lasagna, or veal in my life. I can't remember which veal I had--it was slightly fried with a light wine sauce and a lot of lemon--and it just melted in my mouth. Sometimes you get veal and its a bit chewy. This veal was buttery and superb. The lasagna my boyfriend had was phenomenal, and it was a huge, hearty portion. If you want to spend the evening on Taylor Street and simply cannot decide which place to get dinner at, hands down I would suggest Rosebud over all the rest.
(5)
Claire Y.

The food (classic Italian fare) was great, but frankly I've had better Italian food. Service? Friendly and attentive. Ambiance? Just OK for me. Reserved and neat. It's a bit too dark in the dining room for my taste. I do like the sidewalk outdoor seating on a mild, sunny day. It's a solid Italian spot on Taylor (alongside Francesca's, Tuscany, Rosals, etc). But I must say Francesca's still rules in my book.
(4)
Martin H.

A nice Italian restaurant in the heart of Little Italy. Doesn't look like much from the outside but is very large on the inside. Good food, great service and a bit pricey. Nothing too amazing, just good.
(4)
Erin M.

My husband and I went to The Rosebud last night and it was great! Everything came out hot and fresh and the service was excellent! Our waiter was "Tony" and he was wonderful. Our water (yes, we drink a lot of water) was never low and the bread and olive oil was brought quickly to our table after we were seated. We started with the mussels in white sauce (garlic, white wine, I believe) and they were nice and juicy. Cooked to perfection! I also like that they brought us small forks to eat them with - we have not always gotten this at other restaurants when ordering mussels. Our server was also patient as he did not act annoyed when we had difficulty deciding what to order (we had been to The Rosebud once before and wanted to try different entrees). I ordered the Rigatoni alla Vodka and my husband ordered the Cavatelli alla Rosebud. We liked both entrees! The Cavatelli alla Rosebud was especially good because the mushrooms, green beans, and roasted peppers gave it an extra texture (and we love mushrooms) and the sauce was very light yet flavorful. The Rigatoni alla Vodka was also good. The sauce sort of reminded me of Mac n Cheese grown-up style, minus any stringiness that you get with mozzarella. As pointed out in other reviews, the portion sizes are enormous! We ended up spliting both entrees and went home with three lunches worth of leftovers!! We saved room for dessert though, as we heard it was good here. I ordered the spumoni (spelling?) and my husband ordered the chocolate cake. Both were also huge! We split the spumoni and took almost all the chocolate cake home for leftovers :) The spumoni was especially good because it had more flavors than I recall having at other restaurants. I believe the flavors were: pineapple (?), strawberry and/or raspberry, pistachio, and chocolate. The only negative to going here is that it is sometimes difficult to catch a taxi, although we won't let this keep us from going again! Also good about this place is that you can either dress up or go a little casual and you probably won't be out of place either way. Just probably not jeans.
(4)
Paul And Kelsie A.

Absolutely recommend this place! You'll never be satisfied with less than authentic Italian food again. Trust their House Specialty recommendations! The Square Noodles were simple yet the taste was so complex with spices! Delicious! Service was great and our server was very helpful. Not a cheap meal but not too high and worth every penny! Area is a little creepy at night but other than that, totally satisfied!
(5)
Norman R.

Great dining experience. Our server John was fantastic. We had the white fish stuffed with crab, and the arrabbiata. For dessert the mousse cake and scoop of gelato. Great Saturday date night.
(5)
Giulia G.

It has been a wonderful Saturday dinner,my fish soup was as good as home made and the leftover were enough for a second dinner,even more flavorfull the day after,so fresh! I am glad I went and I will go again.
(5)
Jackie B.

I love Rosebud. If you have guests in from out of town - this is the place to take them. I'm never disappointed with the quality of the food. The calamari appetizer is great - a favorite of my family. Pretty much every pasta/meat dish I've tried is great. Of note - I went once with a group of 3. Our waiter read us the specials (did not give us a menu with prices) and 2 of us ordered off of it - both entrees were over $40 and HUGE portions. I'm not a big girl - I obviously couldn't have finished it (hell, a family of 4 probably couldn't have finished it). That annoyed me, but it is 1- my fault for ordering off the specials menu w/o seeing the price and 2- the waiter's fault for not letting us know PORTION sizes. Otherwise, all awesome experiences here, will definitely be going back!
(4)
Mindy S.

WATCH YOUR CREDIT CARDS HERE! We used to come to Rosebud for a weekly nice meal out.....meaning we've been there dozens of times. After one Friday meal, my husband's checking account was empty by the next day. The bank called us, said they tracked it back to Rosebud and that this particular location was ALREADY ON WATCH. We called the manager to let them know about the situation....apparently they're in on it because all we got was a "f*** you very much!".... Haven't been back since, a very nice "f*** you very much" to you Rosebud!
(1)
grant s.

I have been to this locaion maybe 5 times before I chose to write this review. We were on a business dinner with some folks from out of town, and I was disappointed with this place as I know Chicago has better tasting food than it was this past Friday night.I know this place is an institution in Little Italy, but the veal special I had this past Friday night was OK at best. I would have been more upset if I had had to pay for it myself. The portion was plentiful. The appetizers were good. We had stuffed mushrooms, calamari fried, and grilled-both good. The eggplant salad appetizer was real good. Service was real good. Bread very good as well as the olive oil they served it with. There was just "something missing" to make this any more than 3 stars concidering the price.
(3)
Kate S.

I like this place a lot. The food is always very fresh tasting and flavorful. I should note that I do not eat meat so this review doesn't reflect any of the filets, veal, etc. Anyway, I think the best thing on the menu is the eggplant stack salad. It's huge so it's a great appetizer if your group wants to share something. The pasta dishes are great. The pasta always tastes fresh and the sauces are well seasoned. As several other people have noted, the portions are huge. The drawbacks? Service is on the slow side unless this place is empty (I've been 5 or 6 times in last year). Drinks are pricey and the drink menu doesn't always seem accurate (I've asked for specific brands off the menu and then the waiter comes back to tell me they don't have). We'll continue to go back for the good food. However, on a street like Taylor, you can find a lot of Italian options so be sure to try them all.
(3)
Barri S.

The best place for Italian. Huge portions, the sauce is amazing and lots of cheese! My parents are from the east coast and The Rosebud takes them back to their childhood. It really doesn't get any better than this! The atmosphere is reminiscent of the rat-pack and the food is just delicious.
(5)
Christine E.

Love love love! My family and I came to Chicago early this month for a short vacation and decided to give this place a try. WONDERFUL host, staff, and our waitress was extremely attentive, knowledgable about the menu, and enthusiastic. Great personality and very engaging as well. Dim lighting, so it had a pretty sophisticated and romantic feel to it, but without making a family like ours feel like we were out of place there. I had the halibut special that evening, which was served with sauteed spinach and tomatoes topped with an amazing lemon butter sauce and roasted almonds. Food was exceptional. My dad gave his compliments and made sure to let the owner know we would be back the next time we were in Chicago.
(5)
Jelena L.

You won't see me doing too many reviews that aren't recent, but I had to share my love for Rosebud. This is where my husband proposed to me in 2007 since, in his words, it's the only place that compares to his mother's Italian cooking. It wasn't just the magic of the moment or the accordion player her hired to play a few Sinatra tunes that makes me nostalgic for Rosebud -- everything from the paintings on the wall to the small, yet friendly bar that adorns the entrance helps define Chicago's Little Italy. I've been to Rosebud a handful of times, and the food has always been delicious and very authentic. The caprese salad with small peppers and the Nutella cake are to die for (although I think they stopped making the Nutella cake recently). My husband is a big fan of the daily specials, so he never gets the same thing. During our last visit, he enjoyed prosciutto, basil and cheese stuffed chicken. Looking forward to dining at Rosebud in May to celebrate our first wedding anniversary!
(5)
Julie A.

I always feel like a little kid when I go here - the dark atmosphere, everything is wood, the old school windows, oh, and I always order spaghetti and meatballs. This is good Italian fair, nothing that is going to blow your mind, but the pasta and vodka sauce is delicious, as are the square noodles and the ravioli. The meatballs are fantastic, and are the size of a baseball, if not larger. The service was great, too - we sat even before our reservation time.
(4)
Doug H.

Went to Rosebud with 3 others and had an evening filled with good times and laughter. And oh yeah - great food. The chicken Parmesan was enormous, tender and juicy. I can't stand when it's dried out, and this certainly wasn't, and I loved it. The service was good and they took good care of us. The pricing was more than reasonable for what we received. Highly recommend. Just know there are several locations around Chicago, so be sure to meet your friends at the right location. We had a little mixup, but it all worked out.
(4)
Fabian B.

This is not an Italian - this is an AMERICAN Italian. So expect americanized Italian food. Loads of sauce, loads of cheese on top etc. (If you want Italian go to Follia) Its ok for an american italian, the pasta is actually not too bad. Service ok, too, wine selection decent. Good for larger groups, too, there s enough space upstairs. Value for money - well, a pasta dish for $16 ? A bit over the top , then again the portions are americanized, too, so more on the large side.
(3)
Kay M.

In short... Excellent service and Excellent Food!!! I was around Michigan Ave. looking for a particular restaurant, which happened to be closed and I ended up here. I sat at a nice corner table outside. My waiter was fantastic, as well as the support staff. I ordered the Chicken Marsala. AMAZING! It was two nice sized chicken breasts with a generous pile of perfectly cooked beautiful mushrooms in a marsala sauce that was like eating candy. It came with a generous side of perfectly cooked and perfectly sauced pasta. While I waited for my food the waiter brought warm rustic bread and parmesan and olive oil. I also ordered a wonderful Godiva chocolate torte, and my waiter perfectly packed it for me to take back to my hotel.
(5)
Judie S.

Square noodles. That's all you need to know.
(5)
Courtney M.

yum yum yum yummy!!! I love everything about this place... the meatball salad is amazing (not much food, but sooooo good) The spicy calamari is reeeeeeeally good too I have no complaints about this place...
(5)
J B.

Fabulous from start to finish. Ask for the home made square noodles with sausage & vodka sauce.
(5)
Audra K.

Personally, I don't understand paying more than $8 for a plate of pasta. Even if it is alla vodka. Rigatoni + California Sangiovese + Tiramisu + tip = $39.95 Service was slow. Luckily I didn't mind because I wasn't in a rush. Stick with California wines here. Better price for the quality, as tempting as it is to get an Italian wine. Remember, you are not in Italy! Cute decor in December. Nice wreaths with lights. Cozy. Many large families sitting together gave it a homey atmosphere. I enjoyed that.
(2)
Chelsie L.

Went here for appetizers and I have to give a big thumbs up on their food, we tried the spicy calamari, antipasto plate, stuffed mushrooms and bruschetta, everything was delicious. I have never had calamari prepared that way before and I highly recommend it, probably the best I've ever had. I really enjoyed the ambiance in this restaurant as well, dark wood with white and red accents, it's classy and charming. I'd definitely recommend this restaurant for a date night or if you like tasty, Italian food.
(4)
Evan V.

Situated on Taylor in little Italy, this place serves up the best Italian food I have ever experienced. Staff was very attentive and knowledgeable of the menu variations. Can't wait to go back the next time I'm in the city.
(5)
Steven K.

Great home-style Italian food! This is a good place to go for the old school Taylor street restaurant style. The food is amazing and tastes like Granny used to make. I recommend the eggplant salad as an appetizer. The prices were pretty reasonable as long as you don't order drinks (but I assume this is pretty rare, a cocktail was looking pretty good to go with the cookies we had for desert)!
(5)
Rhoda G.

My cousin and I came here for our carb loading before the marathon. When he called for reservations, the only opening that they had was at 9:30 pm. But I was able to find a 8 pm opening through OpenTable. We found parking easily across the street from the restaurant and came about 30 minutes ahead of reservation, but they seated us 15 minutes later. For appetizers, we shared the bruschetta, which was toasted crostini with tomatoes, olive oil, basil, and fontinella cheese. This is some of the best bruschetta I ever had. The tomatoes were piled high and every bite was delicious. Then I ordered Papardelle Noodles, which was homemade square noodles in tomato basil sauce and my cousin got the Spaghetti with Meatballs. I loved my choice. The tomato sauce was really really good and the noodles were perfectly cooked. My cousin loved the marinara sauce. He did give me a meatball, so I can have some protein with my meal. Despite how full I was, I wanted to get dessert. Our waiter listed more than 6 from the top of my head, but the only two that caught my attention was the cannoli and the tiramisu. I settled on the cannoli because the tiramisu was a little too much for me to eat by myself. That cannoli was so good especially the filling and it was the perfect size. If I had any more, you had to roll me out of the restaurant. The service was great here and of course, the food was excellent. Great Italian food!
(4)
Shradha A.

This happens to be the 4th Rosebud I've been to (after Carmine's, Dearborn and State/Rush) And this one is THE BEST!!! We sat outside and it was a beautiful day! I had their homemade square pasta and brought back home enough to make 2 more meals out of it! And apparently that's their "lunch" portion and dinner's larger!! I also tried the Minestrone soup and it was MMMMM so good!!! All in all, a great great lunch!!!
(5)
Stephen H.

I felt like Capone's gang was going to come in like an episode of the Godfather and start firing at my table as I mouthed- down huge portions of spaghetti. Huge portions of everyhting Chicago style. Delicious and definitely not cheap, but worth it.
(4)
Bryan M.

Excellent Italian food in the city with great atmosphere and service
(4)
Michael B.

I was a bit concerned about meeting for dinner at this restaurant with a gluten allergy, but the waiter and chef were very accommodating. They had gluten-free pasta available! Along with that they provided a few different options on how it could be prepared. I selected marinara with Italian sausage (which the waiter confirmed was safe). I was interested in the minestrone soup but was warned against it due to the presence of flour. However, they made me a fresh bowl of escarole soup which was totally awesome! I also had a small house salad which of course was fine, but the dressing was a specially made house vinaigrette with Italian spices. Add some pepper and parmesan cheese and overall my dinner was excellent. I followed up with dessert of lemon, mango and raspberry sorbet (also gluten-free). Service was spot-on and as I already mentioned, the waiter was very helpful and speedy, considering it was a busy Saturday night. I gave this 3 dollar signs because that was the average of everyone in our party. Although, you could easily get by on 2 dollar signs :) I've always liked the Rosebud Restaurants and this one is no exception. Definitely recommend.
(4)
Vivian Y.

I love that even though it was my first time in here, it felt like my very own family joint. The service was so friendly and helpful and the food is pretty good. I was absolutely thrilled with the mussels in the tomato sauce. I should have asked for a spoon so slurp up the sauce. Everything about it was perfect and so American Italian - heavy on the thick sauce and tasty. The rest of the food though, was just ok. I ordered the breaded veal but this time, it was super salty. James ordered the lamb and it was very good. So, big extra star for the amazing mussels but otherwise, it's fair to say it is only 3 stars.....
(4)
Colleen O.

When i went here, the place was packed. As i gazed around the room, it was an eclectic bunch of people. Tourists, families, dates, older children rounded out the bunch. I was sat promptly. Their twist on the calamari app. was dynamite. I ordered a clam dish. As I always do when I order out. It was good. It has been awhile since I had eaten there and i have a warm memory of the evening. But nothing stands out in my mind as the best food I've ever eaten. Its good. But i wouldn't expect anything less from a place in little Italy. I'm sure I'll eat here again sometime in my food life. But with all of the fantastic restaurants in Chicago, why settle for second best? There is a cute little park right near rosebud with Joe DiMaggio statue in it. It was a nice end to a summer date at rosebud
(3)
Diana P.

My husband and I usually make a point of eating here while in Chicago. The old Italian ambiance is great but we were disappointed with the overall experience. We can get better Italian in Dallas. That's just wrong!
(2)
natalia k.

I had a horrible dinner here just last night. I had such high hopes for this restaurant, but I will never be going back! The customer service is what got me - our waitress was so rude! Well really, it started from the moment my friend and I walked it - the host was not welcoming and gave us a blank stare.. They gave us the smallest table even though there were plenty of open larger tables. Then when the waitress came, she treated my friend and I like we were a pair of idiots. Their pinot noir was below par. There martinis were way too strong. There food was nothing crazy. The only nice thing was the ambiance. THERE ARE OTHER REALLY NICE RESTAURANTS IN THE TAYLOR ST AREA THAT FANATASTIC! I got to these other ones all the time - the staff is very nice, the food is fantastic, and overall worth your money!
(2)
Sam M.

Went for dinner (a monday night) with two others. I had meat ravioli, one lady had the lasagna and the other some pasta seafood that the waiter recommended. Bread as an appetizer was hard/stale and unappetizing. Lady with salad and lasagna said her food was good. Mine tasted like regular stuff - average american italian. The seafood pasta was a massive portion and the seafood was pretty bad. The bill came and the waiter had failed to mention the seafood pasta was $43! (the average serving price was $16) Waiter was bad - messed up bill twice and was basically a jerk. Overall food was totally average to below average. If the place was about 40% cheaper I'd recommend it if you weren't a connoiseur(sp?). Again, this is based on only one visit.
(2)
Kim P.

Came here with my family on a recent trip to Chicago and was not disappointed. The atmosphere felt like I was in an episode of The Soprano's. Using recommendations from Yelp, I ordered the square noodles with vodka sauce. This dish did not disappoint. The noodles were absolutely delicious, perfectly complimented by the creaminess of the vodka sauce. Yum yum yum. The other dishes I sampled were great too - brick chicken, meatball (my other favorite) and veal marsala. The portions are huge - so definitely share, or take home leftovers!
(4)
Carolyn S.

This is my favorite Italian place in Chicago. Traditional ambiance, excellent service, delicious food and the most generous servings I've seen anywhere. The area of town it's in doesn't strike me as the safest. I'd forgo the urge for a late night stroll after dinner. Definitely consider splitting your portion with another member of your party.
(5)
Hugo V.

A Chicago Classic. I usually go before a Hawks or Bulls game. The Brick Chicken is amazing and all the portions are big enough to share. Not a place to go if you are counting the calories.
(5)
T T.

Good Italian food, great atmosphere, attentive service.
(4)
Jon W.

I love it. I have eaten there twice so far since I have moved here. Once outside and once inside, both were great for different reasons. Both times I went I had a salad and my friends had pasta. Both were great. I find it hard to find really good salads. I highly recommend the warm spinach salad with seared ahi or the Cesar salad with shrimp. The staff was very friendly and attentive both times. This place is a Chicago legend. I heard that Frank Sinatra used to have a reserved table here. (I went to the one next to the Peninsula Hotel.. not sure if this is that address or not) (I ate lunch both times so my price information is based on that.) (I ate here a third time, today. I had a different salad, the Cobb Salad that comes with shrimp. It was great too!
(5)
Christine L.

It's surprising I haven't yet morphed into a giant mozzarella ball with the amount of Italian I consume. Hubs and I made a visit to the original Rosebud recently and it was oh-so-yum-o. The restaurant atmosphere is dark and cozy and the food, oh, the food! We started with the house salads and I ordered the baked ziti (on special that night) and the hubs went traditional with spaghetti and meatballs. Both dishes were served piping hot, the sauce was amazing and the Italian sausage in my ziti was awesome. I even had enough left over after stuffing myself, to have dinner the next night. The service was seamless; our waiter was very friendly and attentive. A fantastic meal was had with the promise to return!
(5)
Martin C.

Came into the restaurant with high expectations. Overall, I was disappointed in the food. The atmosphere and service were wonderful. Atmosphere and service: 5 stars. We had reservations and when we came in were instantly seated. Our waitresses was pleasant and attentive. The bus boys were courteous and never left our waters empty. Food: 2 stars What we ordered: Fried Calamari- chewy and not well seasoned. This is one of my favorite appetizers and it was a huge disappointment. Two specials of the day including: lobster ravioli- decent but overpriced $32 for raviolis?? All the pastas on the menu are $17-$25 but then specials are more?? I felt tricked. Whitefish stuffed with crab- decent, but definately not a wow factor. If you are looking for great food on Taylor this is not the place. I would recommend RoSals.
(3)
Jessica Y.

I love Italian food and have added Rosebud to my list of great Italian restaurants in Chicago! WARNING: Portions are big!! Similar to Maggiano's, so you can definitely order one dish to share! Having been to this location twice, I can say the service is mediocre. I had a good experience the first time, but was kept waiting multiple times my last trip and had to flag down another waiter in order to be served! However, I love the food and while I am a lover of fried calamari as an appetizer, I would highly recommend the stuffed mushrooms! Spiced with fragrant herbs, they're soft, tender and tasty! But moving onto the main course, you really can't go wrong! The Rigatoni alla Vodka is one of my favorites, but Chicken Marsala is also a great option, albeit a bit salty. I've always been too stuffed for dessert, but I can safely say Rosebud is a great place for a fun dinner with friends, birthday or date! The ambience is great and it's dimly lit inside. The area isn't too busy, so come summer, go sit outside!
(4)
Joel B.

What you'd expect. Not bad, just not mind-blowingly awesome. The portions at the classic Italian-American establishment are predictably enourmous. The menu is expansive, and the execution is above-average. There are better Italian restaurants, but this place pretty much has their nice dialed: big family parties that want massive plates of pasta.
(3)
Andre E.

An employee of mine went to a Restaurant called Grill 23 in Boston this past week and it got me to thinking about this establishment when I was living in Chicago. The restaurant in Boston sells a Brick Chicken for about 25 bucks but it wasn't enough to feed 2 people.....however the Brick chicken sold at Rosebud is more than enough for 2 people. The ambience is great....parking can be difficult but worth it. Service is great....and besides the chicken which I highly recommend the other food is great as well. However be advised both establishments are very pricey so don't just bring your appetite bring some serious money....and remember to Eat, Drink, and be Merry my Friends!!!!
(4)
Angie C.

The Rosebud jumpstarted our experience by telling us we might have to wait 30 minutes (totally reasonable for a Saturday night), then calling us 3 minutes later because one of their reservations cancelled... Brownie points! No hungry hippos like to wait. The location by the university is much larger than it appears upon entry because there's an upstairs with quite a bit of seating. The lighting and decor make for a very nice atmosphere, and we enjoyed the humorous Rosebud ads framed on the wall next to our table. Now for the food... Yum... If you like artichoke (I love it), don't miss the stuffed artichoke for your appetizer! Just when you think it's gone, it's not - it keeps going. And when the artichoke is gone, there's plenty of sauce left to dip the house bread in. Bring on the garlic breath! Rosebud's Caesar and vinaigrette dressings were also tasty-tasty if you do salad between your appetizer and entree. Now for the entrees, they're h-uge! One of my coworkers managed to eat, no, CONQUER the whole brick chicken, but I only made a dent in my flat noodles. It was a dent I enjoyed, though, and I wished I wasn't flying out the next day because I had a feeling the leftovers would've been equally enjoyable... We went to RB for a work dinner while in town for a dental convention, but I tell you this place would be a great date if you're in the mood for some love and Italian food!
(4)
Moistnchewie L.

Came here on two separate occasions while I was in Chicago for business. I'd have to say that overall, the food and service is good. I loved the calamari and caesar salad.
(4)
Brad S.

Wow is the best way to describe the food, service and overall experience of eating here. The extraordinary food is only matched by the generous portion size. On a date get a salad and an main and even then you will have leftovers.
(5)
Diana S.

This was the first eat-in experience I had in Chicago. I went to The Rosebud for lunch and ordered the baked manicotti. It was quite fantastic! The service was a tiny bit slow, but the food more than made up for it! I definitely intend on going again and again.
(4)
Mimi M.

Over priced but the food was good! If you are looking for an intimate night out in a romantic atmosphere where good Italian food is served then Rosebud is a nice place to visit.
(3)
Erica A.

Sweetest place plus wonderful food! To start off, the olive oil is glorious...so much flavor, I felt like I was back in Europe. I had the meat ravioli with meat sauce (sauce suggested by the waitress) and it was sooooo good. We also had the fish special of the day - cod on spinach in a butter sauce. It was also very delicious, but also pricey. Serving sizes are big, but not too overwelming...enough to take a little home for a small meal later. We sat outdoors which was very cute and romantic with lots of flowers. Our waitress was very sweet and helpful. I will have to say that I am not a huge fan of the indoor decor - wood paneled walls. It is pretty dark, they could use a refresh in there. Probably not the quickest service, so go there and enjoy your time and food because that is what eating out is all about!
(4)
Rhianna W.

Came here early on a Monday night. The restaurant wasn't busy. Our waiter showed up 15 minutes after we were seated, took our wine order and disappeared for another 20 minutes. I have food allergies and the waiter wasn't very helpful, but I walked him through it and thought we were ok. We waited an hour after we ordered without our food appearing, and with only one update from the waiter (but no apology), while everyone who had been seated after us received their food and was nearly finished eating. We ended up leaving without eating, nearly two hours after we were seated. We spoke to the manager, who didn't appear to care very much. I've eaten at other Rosebud locations and have had wonderful service. I will be frequenting those locations, but won't be coming back to this one.
(1)
Ahmad N.

place is tiny but the food is really good and our server made us feel like we were family.
(4)
Jon C.

What happened? The food was not so good this time around....Probably will have to try one of the smaller Rosebud's as this visit appeared to be incredibly busy for a Monday night.
(2)
Foster R.

The Rosebud is okay, but nothing to write home to momma about. They have great service the ambience is classy, but the food is mediocre. It's a very nice establishment, the place seem to be managed very well, but the food is not all that. It's really not a must for me to go back.
(2)
Aimee H.

The rigatoni alla vodka was amazing. I would recommend it!
(4)
Winston C.

When I walked in and saw the old school wood panelling I was excited, I had read the reviews by my fellow Yelpers and was looking forward to a good meal. The menu had a great selection of traditional Italian dishes with a few unique twist and I found the service to be excellent. The downside, and to be honest, it's a big one, was the sauce. It is your typical "mid-west-heartland-of-America-Italian" sauce; which taste like a combination of Campbell's condensed tomato soup and Hunts tomato paste with a pinch of oregano. VERY DISAPPOINTING.
(3)
Anne B.

This is a cozy neighborhood Italian restaurant. It was recommended by the conceirge at my hotel who said she took her family there when they came to visit, so I had a sense it would be wonderful. It has warm wood walls, candlelight and delicious food. Chicken Marsala is huge and delicious and comes wide a side of pasta. You also get a wonderful bread basket before dinner with a variety inside. Kevin is a great bartender and kept me company while I ate. Wonderful place and I will definitely return upon my next trip to the windy city.
(5)

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Address : 1500 W Taylor St
Chicago, IL, 60607
Phone (312) 942-1117
Website https://www.rosebudrestaurants.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 10

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Valet, Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Romantic
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : 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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The Rosebud

1500 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60607

The Rosebud Menu

Appetizers

Salads

Steaks Chops & Seafood

Pasta

Veal

Chicken

Sides

Healthy Meal suggestions for The Rosebud

Appetizers

Salads

Steaks Chops & Seafood

Pasta

Veal

Chicken

Sides

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