The food was good… it was the atmosphere I had a problem with. My fiancé and I felt like we couldn’t have a private conversation with 5+ waiters standing around the table. The chef kept coming out of the kitchen looking at the restaurant and didn’t see very polite to the staff, actually telling a host to go straighten chairs. After we each ordered a pasta dish the server asked what we wanted for our main course… uhhh that was our main course. The whole experience was very odd and we didn’t feel comfortable.
Steve W.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Fresno, CA
My wife and I came here based on a recommendation from a co-worker for Valentine’s Day. Forget the overall review. This is a class place. Service was over the top. Great recommendations. Wine paired with food very well. Cannot think of one mediocre thing. Risotto, perfect. I’m glad they discourage children, laptops and cellphones. I think we have enough distractions in life. Give me a respite. This was it. We had a great time and will be back for the tasting menu.
Carrie S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Los Gatos, CA
If you are looking for a place that reminds you of what you ate in Italy, this is the location for you. The restaurant is beautiful on the inside. Service is very attentive. We did have a little miss on our dessert orders, but it was fixed quickly. Fantastic menu and excellent pasta dishes. Being gluten intolerant, I found several options on the menu I could easily enjoy, including the grilled squid and the bass fillet. The bass was actually wonderful tasting, considering I grew up where the only fresh water fish you should eat, per Dad’s orders, was the walleye. Desserts were amazing. I suggest the canoli(based on recommendations from the table) and I loved the lemon sorbet.
Apoorv S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Chicago, IL
This is definitely a classy place that would make the ideal date night spot. We came here on new years eve, and we picked a relatively early time for dinner because we didn’t want to get crushed in a rush. Everybody was on point, from the lovely woman who took my date’s coat, to our server who was gracious and able to recommend great wines. The food was amazing, and I can definitely taste the quality and time that went into preparing it. I had the chicken pasta and I truly felt like I could taste all the flavors that were described in the menu. Lastly, the dessert was the Chef’s special of tiramisu and it was delectable. It’s definitely a pricy place but I could taste why.
Tad D.
Rating des Ortes: 2 Chicago, IL
I was all set to write a 4 – 5 star report here. Then the last five minute happened. We lingered a bit after dessert, ordering extra drinks. Upon ordering a second round of post-dessert drinks, the server conceded that he’d allow it only if we went to the bar. This is not unheard of, but there’s a right way and a wrong way to accomplish this. The right way is «I have this table reserved for X time, can I buy you a round in the bar?». The wrong way, the way it happened, is «I’ll serve you another round but you have to go to the bar», especially when there’s only one stool open. Tact is critical here. I don’t know what it is, but every time I attempt public-venue fine dinning here in Chicago that isn’t an established red meat joint, either the service or the clientele is sadly lacking. Whatever. I’m over it. If you want to try some food here, try the grouper or the squid appetizer.
Thor S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Georgetown, Seattle, WA
This restaurant’s food is simply awesome! The pasta is cooked perfectly every time we dine here. The chef goes out of his way to ensure your dinner is perfect. We travel all over he world, and this is the only Italian restaurant we come back to a city to visit. The service is also great. Ask for recommendations from your waiter and you will not be disappointed. The atmosphere is great and allows you to carry on a conversation.
Sheri M.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Pelago Ristorante is a small elegant Italian restaurant located on Delaware street on the bottom floor of a small boutique hotel in the city within a five minute walk off Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and Michigan Avenue. My husband and I have traveled extensively around the world and this is one of the best Italian restaurants we have experienced. We searched all the restaurant reviews and finally relied on the direction of the Four Seasons Concierge team. The atmosphere is modern, elegant and warm; the food is delicious and the wine list extensive. The staff are warm front the moment you enter the restaurant to the table service which is excellent. The chef(who we were fortunate to meet) is warm and personable and extremely talented. We had a bottle of Antonori Tuscan wine paired with several delicious items including; the homemade Garganelli with Hen Ragu, Fettuccini with Truffle, Veal Chop, Octopus and the Scarmoza salad. All of these entries were mouth watering delicious. The pasta was al dente with a perfect balance of ingredients and the Octopus and Veal were tender and would melt in your mouth. This is an outstanding restaurant and team.
Julia Z.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Chicago, IL
Not sure why all the bad reviews. I’ve dined there three times and never left unsatisfied! The food is fresh and original. Diverse enough menu to accomodate all your preferences. Pricy but without a doubt worth it.
Med Zone Pharmacy P.
Rating des Ortes: 1 NORTHRIDGE, CA
Walked out after waiting an hour with reservation. I see that everyone had a bad experience at least they ate there.
Mitra I.
Rating des Ortes: 1 Chicago, IL
Among all nice fancy restaurants downtown Chicago, this was the only one that cancelled my reservation because of my baby. I couldn’t believe it when they called me couple of hours prior our arrival. Such unprofessionalism for an upscale restaurant.
Elle x.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Phoenix, AZ
This place was the complete dining experience. The patio was open for a perfect night in the city. I was told before my visit that chef is pretty anti-technology at dinner so we all kept our phones on silent and only used them to refresh the meter and take pictures of the masterpieces of his food! Everything came out almost too beautiful to eat — almost!!! The cocktails were great, the wine list offered wines you wouldn’t get by the glass almost anywhere else — Barolo, Brunello, Pinot Nero — with many recommendations from the staff. Everyone was very attentive the entire meal to being sure our glasses were full and we were satisfied. Chef walks around when not cooking being sure everyone is happy with their meal(which everyone certainly was). Although the atmosphere was certainly great for a date night, my group of 3 friends really enjoyed having this high end experience. It was nice to have a city experience, with a patio, that was adult focused(I saw reviews complaining that no children are allowed, but this is not a family type of restaurant. Very quiet and intimate.) Do NOT skip dessert! The pastries and gelato knocked out socks off!
Jason S.
Rating des Ortes: 1 Miami, FL
Looks like a nice place but I wouldn’t know because the Chef refused to serve us because we wanted to use a laptop and do some work while at lunch. Flat out refused — no accommodation at all. Meanwhile there wasn’t a single table occupied inside — not one. On the way out the Chef commented to his wait staff«do your work in the office, not here.» No problem — we left. Here’s the kicker — on the way in the restaurant I literally pointed out a rat on the patio(where guests were eating). I showed the waiter who frantically tried to catch /shoo it away. Classic! So … Best of luck to you, Chef Douche … Ratatouille and you are meant to be!
Meg B.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Chicago, IL
Very nice, contemporary place. Good atmosphere and tasty food.(Coffee and dessert after your meal is a must). Michael was our waiter and he is just great. So professional and charming!
Paul S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Chicago, IL
PAYATTENTION! Some dumb asses gave this fantastic Classic Italian riviera dining Mecca a 1 star which brought their rating down. This is one of the most authentic, well served dining fantasies you can experience! The Chef frequently seen in the crowd getting handshakes. I had the rabbit. Incredible. The pasta sampler of homemade pasta and sauces made me wish I could lick the plate. The sorbet dessert trio so fresh and tangy my mouth waters even now. I’ve eaten in hundreds of Chicago dining establishments and this one ranks in the top three if not the TOP! Paul Savage MD
Anthony A.
Rating des Ortes: 1 Tarpon Springs, FL
Was looking to taking my wife and kids(15,13,11) to this place for a nice dinner since we’re staying at the hotel. Went in and they ask us the ages of our children? «We don’t allow children» are you kidding me? You made a mistake and don’t even realize it. You’re restaurant is not above anyone and by the looks of the ratings, you may want to rethink strategy.
Christine H.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Burlingame, CA
Wonderful place my meal was so yummy and it’s been a long time since I’ve had such good service. The bartender was my waiter and in addition to his excellent service his drinks were just as good. The Chef walks the floor making sure everyone is happy with the meal. All in all a wonderful experience. If you’re in Chicago eat here
Cat D.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Evanston, IL
My first impression of the restaurant when I stepped in was wow and then continued to silently sing Fancy by Iggy as I was walked to our table. «I’m so fancy, you already know…» Alright cut. Real talk now. The atmosphere was great and the service was excellent. Everything about the place screamed elegance and the service was extremely friendly and attentive. I know that some people don’t really like the fact that the servers hover, but I find that I really don’t mind all that much. It’s better than having an MIA server and having to wait forever for food. So onto the menu. I am a deal loving girl so of course my eyes immediately went to the course sets. Pelago offers a 2 course meal for $ 30 or a 3 course meal for $ 42, the only difference being that the 3 course meal includes a dessert. I always want to get dessert when I’m at a restaurant, but usually end up way too full after the entrée to even walk, so I opted for the 2 course option with my friend. Note however, that I visited Pelago for lunch so the dinner menu may not offer this deal. I ended up getting the [Warm Baby Spinach Salad with Prosciutto] and the [Roasted Sea Bream with White Wine, Tomatoes and Basil Sauce]. Though the salad was a little on the salty side towards the end, the sea bream was absolutely delicious. Both of these dishes were chef’s favorites but not the only ones, so I definitely look forward to returning and trying the other ones. I would definitely recommend this restaurant if you’re looking for a fancy treat-your-self place.
Tefo L.
Rating des Ortes: 5 México, D.F., México
Muy buena carta, servicio profesional, excelente relación precio/calidad, muy recomendable.
Katharine B.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Cary, NC
I had one of the best meals of my life at Pelago and everything from the service, ambience, food and wine were simply perfect. The restaurant is tucked away in the boutique hotel named Rafaello and it is a very romantic and cozy establishment. The staff is highly trained and on-point and immediate take your jacket and escort you to the table. There are even stools to set your purse so you don’t have to hang it on your chair. We had delicious Italian red wine and the selection of the wine list is very extensive. We all had the pasta special which was a perfectly al dente noodle with crab sauce and fresh herbs. The buffalo mozzarella appetizer was lightly toasted and served with fresh arugula. The entrée was Mediterranean fish served with sautéed vegetables and was outstanding. The servers and maître d were very professional and as we left, the chef was there to wish the diners a good night. I was there for a special occasion with family and it was truly one of the best and most memorable meals. Complimenti!
Dennis S.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Chicago, IL
Update of my four year old review — still fabulous. Great wine list, Great service. Excellent setting. Wonderful selection of fish, and they’re all fresh and tasty. Highly recommended as long as you’re willing to spend serious money for quality.
Chris G.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Chicago, IL
Roasted, crispy freshwater Bream skin and tender, flaky white meat drenched in a delicious and delicate basil sauce is today’s knight in shining armor… and back at the castle waiting to serve is a tasty sample of herb mash, greens and heirloom sweet yellow peppers. The only sadness the kingdom feels is that its only just discovered Pelago. Sometimes a classy, quiet posh lunch option is just what’s needed after dealing with all of the harsh BLAHBLAHBLAH and barking of city life. Sometimes it feels nice to sit quietly at a marble top bar, in plush high chairs and have people gently ask how may they make you happier with the gourmet goods they behold. Sometimes it’s great to drift off the well worn path of the usual and enjoy soft harp or similar in the background as you pick your high end poison. Sometimes it’s not easy to get this sort of 5-star treatment at these more affordable prices. Sometimes you just have to remember her words and then act, especially on this day that we lost Maya Angelou, «life loves the liver of it».