Alexandra Medina (aka @chicagomunchies on Instagram), who loves dining at various restaurants in Chicago, shares her experience at Monteverde with us.
“I’ve always had a soft-spot for Italian food. Italian culture always has a strong emphasis on putting blood, sweat, and tears into their food for anyone to enjoy. And, really…who can deny some home-cooked, delicious plates of carbs? So naturally, when I heard that Sarah Grueneburg from Spiaggia was opening her own place in my favorite neighborhood, West Loop, with a emphasis on pastas…I had to check it out!
{Ambiance}
The space at Monteverde is wonderful. It really captures the perfect balance between traditional Italian and modern chic. The tables are sleek and the large mirrors incorporated, give off the effect that the space is larger than it is (which I love when people utilize their space)!
They also have a perfect mix of large and small tables, which sets a communal vibe, both great for intimate or big parties. Also mixed in are old-school Italian concepts including the hanging pasta from the bar, and large barrels (of what we only can hope is wine).
{Food}
Octopus Spiedini
A friend and I, started off with the Octopus Spiedini. This particular stuzzichini (which means “snacks” in Italian) came on two skewers. The octopus was combined with leeks, baby sweet potatoes, pimenton, and peperonata and slightly grilled to perfection. Now, I may be biased because I am an octopus lover, but this is definitely a dish that I think is well worth tasting!
Octopus Spiedini at Monteverde // Photo: @kristen_mendiola
Pasta Dishes
We obviously needed to try the pastas, so we chose one from the ‘Our Pasta’ and ‘Italy’s pasta’ sections. The first pasta dish was one of their rotating specials consisting of spaghetti with pork ragu in a red sauce, which was beautifully presented, but lacked in flavor. It’s a great pick if you want something simple but if you’re looking for more flavors…choose something else.
Spaghetti with Pork Ragu at Monteverde // Photo: @kristen_mendiola
The next pasta was my favorite of the night. It’s called the Cannelloni Saltimbocca and under the “Our Pasta” section. When the plate first came to the table, I was a little hesitant because it almost resembled a mini-bone marrow. However, the pasta (made with prosciutto, lamb, sage, balsamic, soffritto, and cauliflower), was so freaking good and had awesome flavors! I highly recommend it.
Cannelloni Saltimbocca at Monteverde // Photo: @kristen_mendiola
{Experience}
The greatest part about the experience at Monteverde (at least for us), was our waiter who really took the time to explain the dishes to us…not the “skim over the specials” type either. He thoroughly described the multiple dishes and helped us pick ones that would cater to our liking. He even pronounced each Italian dish authentically, which was a major plus!
Overall, I think that Monteverde has a lot of potential. Some of the dishes hit right on the money, while others needed a little work. The space is awesome and is great for large groups, girls night out, casual date night, or pre-gaming. I will definitely be back to try their other pasta dishes!”
FAB TIP: Gift Cards available for purchase here.
{Location}
Monteverde
West Loop || 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 888-3041
{Price Range}
$$ ($11-$35)
{Fab Ratings: 3.5 Fabs}
FAB TIP: Reservations available via OpenTable.
Thanks, Alexandra, for sharing your experience with us. Don’t forget to show her some love and follow her on Instagram. Check out her “Top 5 BYOB Spots in Chicago” here.
Have you been to Monteverde? If so, what did you think?
Live the Fab Food Life,
Soo
Note: This meal was not complimentary. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.
