A Little Italy Update: Three Aces

Considering that Little Italy is limited to 12 square blocks, I’ve been to and loved just about every restaurant in Little Italy ten time over or more. I am always excited to find out that a new place opened up… even when it doesn’t sound very Italian.

Just down the street from two of the great traditions in Little Italy, Mario’s Lemonade Stand (1068 West Taylor) and Conte Di Savoia (at 1438 West Taylor, which opened the same year I was born), I would definitely make Little Italy a stop on your itinerary if you plan to come to into the city of Chicago any time soon.

With the arrival of Davanti Enoteca (one of my very favorites), Little Italy has seen some great new restaurants and a whole lot more foot traffic. The day that I was there it was packed.

At 1321 West Taylor Street, Three Aces is not your typical neighborhood Italian joint and is a great addition to the neighborhood. It bills itself as the Italian countryside meets the American Farmhouse in Keith Richard’s basement bar. A pretty accurate self-description.

I was impressed with both the service and the food with things on the menu such as Ricotta gnocchi with duck confit, swiss chard, pecorino and English peas and a Poached duck egg with prosciutto and fontina fonduta.

I heard so much talk about the burger it was my duty to order it. I am getting pretty good at these excuses.

It was a bona fide burger and the ultimate secret ingredient…the bacon jam. Happy to report that the recipe I posted recently for Bacon Jam was just as good. I also loved the pretzel bun – even though I have never been a fan - which was great for soaking up all the juices.

I sat out on the newly opened patio and would defiantly make this a summer hang out for a late afternoon brew. They have some great beers on the menu – I had Krankshaft from Metropolitan Brewing in Chicago - along with a Bruschetta of the day and on this particular day it was peach.

Little Italy is a short walk from the train station downtown Chicago and your 25 minute route will take you through Greektown so you can get two cultural infusions in one short trek.

Bon Appetit!