Caro Mio Italian Restaurant

You’ve never had lasagna like this! Sublime.

Quaint neighborhood spot serving delicious homestyle Italian. I had the lasagna, which was one of the best I've ever had!

I give 5 stars because I worked in the business for over 15 yrs and know how difficult it is to run a restaurant but at the same time it's very simple. Simple meaning doing the small things correct over and over again even when it's busy and there's pressure and especially when it's not so you don't become complacent. I had a chicken and ravioli dish that was wayyy too salty. Everything tastes fresh but way to salty chicken was juicy and cooked perfectly. It's very very important for any chef to put his ego aside and always know he's human and not perfect like all of us in this world. Always taste your food in a sanitary fashion and make sure it's not over seasoned before putting on the plate otherwise it's very very difficult to eat. I really hope the owner or manager can be on the expo and taste the food before it leaves the kitchen.

What an incredible dining experience! From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed like family. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, with a charming, intimate vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay a while.

Every dish was exceptional — rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and that unmistakable homemade Italian taste you can’t fake. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the sauces were deep and full-bodied, and the portions were generous. The service was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable, making the meal feel even more special.

If you’re craving authentic Italian comfort food with true neighborhood charm, this place is a must-visit. We left full, happy, and already planning our next visit.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lasagne Caro Mio

EXCELLENT AND TASTY FOOD!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place has the best homemade gnocchi that I've ever had in my life - with the added bonus of a friendly staff in a cozy dining room. Perfect date night spot!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Just delicious!! The staff are friendly and warm. The food is always spectacular. I love the gnocchi and the pollo alla cacciatora tasted like an italian grandma made it. Really recommend this place for BYOB in the neighborhood!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Fantastic food

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

A cute little traditional Italian restaurant in the heart of Lincoln Square. The burrata is SUBLIME, and the rest of the menu ain't half bad either. It's BYOB, so grab a bottle of wine, and come here ASAP. They've got a 2 for 1 special on Mondays and Tuesdays to celebrate 25 years of being in business, and if you can take advantage of that deal, please do so!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I ordered the chicken parm and was unimpressed- the chicken was a little chewy and hard to cut through, a bit salty. This is the second time I have been and while it’s not the worst, there are better options in the area. That being said, the portions were huge so worth the money for some perhaps?

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 4

If we lived in Chicago, we'd be here weekly. Delicious. Included vegetarian options.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Came here for my girlfriend‘s 40th birthday, and the service was amazing. They took really good care of us and made sure that everything was perfect. The food was delicious and tasted homemade. This is one of our favorite Italian spots in the neighborhood!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Love this place! The food is fabulous (lasagna was served piping hot with the sauce still bubbling), atmosphere cozy & the staff are wonderful.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lasagne Caro Mio, Fried Calamari, Fagioli Salad Special with Fresh Mozzarella at the End Calamari Fritti, Lobster Alfredo

This place holds a very special place in my heart. My family and I have been coming for at least 12 years. EXCELLENT food and service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

To the gracious team at Caro Mio,

Thank you for nourishing me not only with your delicious food but with something deeper. It was the kind of warmth that lingers in the soul long after the meal is done.

There was something about the evening. The care in every dish, the kindness of your staff, and the way the air seemed to carry both elegance and ease left me feeling restored, almost strengthened in a way I did not expect.

Moments after leaving, I found myself in an unexpected situation. A woman nearby had collapsed and appeared to be facing severe heatstroke. It was the kind of moment where time slows and instinct takes over.

Because of the peace and strength I had just received in your space, I was able to remain calm and centered. I helped cool her down, supported her until help arrived, and did my best to be present. Not just physically, but with heart.

It felt as though the spirit of Guanyin, the compassionate protector, moved through me. I was reminded that strength is not just about muscle but about mercy, clarity, and timing. Perhaps the divine expresses itself quietly sometimes, through a good meal, a quiet table, and the restoration of one soul who could then serve another.

Thank you, Caro Mio, for being a hidden sanctuary. I will remember your food, but even more, I will remember how you made me feel ready to help someone else. That is something truly rare.

With sincere gratitude,
Ryan

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5