Vivo - Chicago, IL

When it comes to true Italian cuisine, few restaurants rival this rustic, yet stylish, veteran. Vivo opened its doors almost two decades ago, triggering a culinary landslide in the Randolph Street market district, the impact of which is still being felt today.

The room is absolutely amazing with stacks of wine bottles making an elegant twist to the exposed brick walls and rustic wood floors. Exposed beams, soft lighting, and whimsical floral arrangements take the edge off the enormous amount of business diners that frequent Vivo.

Vivo is the number one place to take that someone special. The tables along the wall of wine are sought after, but it would be a tragedy to Vivo if we did not mention the table in the converted elevator shaft. The spot where Michael Jordan, Oprah, and practically everyone that makes a reservation wants to sit, is perched above the rest of the dining room with its own private velvet curtains.