The West Loop truly is the best loop when it comes to food. From casual restaurants to fine dining, it is a foodie paradise with endless options including burgers, sushi, pastas, BBQ, ramen, coffee shops and more. Formento’s, a classic Italian concept by John Ross and Phil Walters of B Hospitality (Bristol, Balena, Swift & Sons), opened earlier this year and has become one of my favorite spots in the West Loop.
Hubby and I had a friend in town last month, and they asked me to pick a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, fab food, and great drinks in the West Loop. Formento’s immediately came to mind. It is upscale dining but unpretentious, and the food never disappoints. I have never had a bad experience, which keeps me coming back for more.
{Ambiance}
Inspired by the old-time Italian-American eateries of the 1950’s, Formento’s combines the look of classic Italian dining with modern touches. The restaurant is spacious and boasts multiple dining rooms. The main dining area has a supper-club feel and is welcoming and warm. Although, the restaurant is vast, it has great character and delivers an intimate and cozy feel.
Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
The area near the kitchen is a little more private. It exudes charm with its burgandy leather banquettes, exposed brick, wall artwork, and industrial lights.
Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
FAB TIP: When the restaurant gets busy, the noise level can get loud so save the heart-to-heart convo for another time.
{Food}
Formento’s, named after Ross’ grandmother, serves food that is inspired by the classics but modernized versions created by Chef Tony Quartaro. The authentic Italian food is beautifully presented.
Nonna’s Relish Tray
The lightly salted and pickled veggies are a great start to your meal. The bite-sized portions included stuffed olives, stuffed radicchio, Rinforzo salad, beets with basil purée, pickled eggplant, and sweet potato cannoli. Each tiny bite was very tasty.
Relish it!
Nonna’s Relish Tray at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
Calamari Fritti
Typically, I am not a fan of fried calamari because it tends to be oily, greasy, and fried with a lot of batter but Formento’s version was light and crispy. The arrabbiata sauce on the side added a nice kick of spice.
Fry-YAY!
Calamari Fritti at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
Nonna’s Meatballs
One word…Baller. The meatballs are tender and full of flavor. The combination of the meat, the tasty marinara sauce, and the light dusting of parmesan cheese, delivers a simple and classic appetizer that is legitimately authentic Italian.
Balls to the walls
Nonna’s Meatballs at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
FAB TIP: You can get these meatballs in sandwich form at the sister restaurant, Nonna’s, next door.
Prosciutto & Burrata
Cheese and meat? Yes, please. The prosciutto and pickled mustard seeds salt and add flavor to the clean taste of the burrata. You bite into the crisp and slight sourness of the Klug Farm apples and finish with the crunch and hint of sweetness from the cumin candied walnuts – together, it’s a blend of light, fresh and wonderful flavors and textures.
Say, cheese!
Prosciutto & Burrata at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
Roasted Chicken Vesuvio
I rarely order chicken when I go to restaurants because we eat so much of it at home, but every time I go to Formento’s, someone at the table has to order the Roasted Chicken Vesuvio with smaltz potatoes, peas, and chicken jus. They serve half an Amish chicken from Miller’s Farm and cook the dark and white meat separately to ensure exceptional taste and texture. It is perfectly juicy and flavorful.
Winner, winner, chicken dinner!
Nick’s Linguine and Clams
Formento’s offers a variety of pasta dishes including classics like lasagna and fettucini alfredo. Although I gravitate towards meaty red sauces, I decided to try the linguine with clams. The dish was simple with littleneck clams, garlic, and chiles but the combination of the ingredients created complex flavors. The noodles were superbly cooked al dente.
The pastabilities are endless.
Nick’s Linguine & Clams at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
Formento’s Chocolate Cake
If you are a chocolate lover, you HAVE to order the chocolate cake! This decadent chocolate cake with layers of chocolate pudding and hazelnut praline is to die for. At least, you’ll die happy.
Death by chocolate
Chocolate Cake at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
Frozen Lemon Mousse
If you are looking for a lighter dessert option, I highly recommend the Frozen Lemon Mousse. The tanginess of the mousse is complemented well by the sweet seasonal berry compote and the rosemary crumble adds a delightful texture.
Frozen Lemon Mousse at Formento’s // Photo: @fabsoopark
FAB TIP: For all you winos, they offer an impressive wine list with over 500 selections. Ask for Leslie, she is extremely knowledgeable and will easily guide you through the list. Not only was her recommendation spot on for our meal, but her descriptions were amazing. Hubby was so impressed by her descriptions, he tweeted about it even though he’s not that into social media! Our friend mentioned it was one of the top three things he will remember from this dinner.
{Experience}
Chicago has a plethora of Italian restaurants in the city with excellent food, but what sets Formento’s apart is the impeccable service. It is top notch from the moment you walk into the door. Everyone makes you feel like you are part of the family. The servers are extremely knowledgeable about the menu and provide excellent recommendations. The wines are amazing. Needless to say, my glass was always full (of wine that is).
{Location}
Formento’s
West Loop || 925 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL || P: (312) 690-7295
{Price Range}
$$$ ($36-$65)
{Fab Ratings: 4.5 Fabs}
Where is your favorite Italian restaurant in the city? Please comment below.
Live the Fab Food Life,
Soo
Note: This meal was complimentary. However, the views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer.
