Stefani Restaurant Group, known for its authentic Italian cuisines and deep roots in Chicago hospitality, is opening its newest concept Stefani’s Bottega Italiana on January 30. Located at 6075 N. Milwaukee Avenue, the specialty quick-service Italian shop and pasta lab will feature authentic pasta dishes, Roman pizza, and Italian (schiacciata) sandwiches, as well as take-home items like fresh handmade and housemade pasta and specialty Italian-imported groceries.
Led by Michelin Star Executive Chef Vincenzo Vottero, who has recently made his venture to Chicago from Bologna, Italy to join Stefani Group as their Culinary Director, the bottega will feature his made-from-scratch specialties and seasonally-driven features. Alongside Stefani Group’s original pasta maker, who has been producing the restaurant group’s pasta since 1987, Vottero will bring some of the most authentic Bolognese dishes to the American stage. Stefani’s Bottega Italiana will combine Vottero’s traditional Italian pasta dishes with new-age Italian cooking with options to dine in and take home. The bottega’s pasta lab will also provide fresh pastas for all Stefani Group concepts across Chicagoland.
“Stefani’s Bottega Italiana lays the groundwork for the new age of what Stefani Group can offer and is our tribute to the local community by providing the freshest options straight from Italy,” stated Stefani Restaurant Group managing partner Anthony Stefani in a statement. “From the moment guests walk in, they will see a peek into our pasta lab with vintage Italian pasta machines and display counter which will showcase all the pizzas, pastas and sandwiches.”
Diners will discover a mix of rotating seasonal items, pastas of the day and Italian staples including Chef Vottero’s handmade tortellini. Guests will also be able to try dishes including Tortelloni di Ricotta, stuffed with ricotta, garlic, parmigiano reggiano, butter and sage; Lasagne Verdi Bolognese, seven layers of green spinach-infused lasagna noodles with a rich, meaty Bolognese ragu sauce, as well as authentic Roman style pizza and schiacciata sandwiches, both showcasing a crispy yet airy crust achieved through a 48-72 hour dough rising process. Italian wines and beers will also be offered to complement the Italian culinary experience.
“Stefani’s Bottega Italiana is not your traditional sandwich shop- we are providing the best possible quality, authentic offerings for guests to enjoy at home or on the spot,” added Stefani.
The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner service, Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with Friday and Saturday closing at 9 p.m. The bottega features traditional cozy, Italian interior elements with a modern twist.
