Acanto

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Name Rooted in Place and History

The word acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus — the ornate, flowery leaf motif central to Roman architecture. Famed Chicago architect Louis Sullivan incorporated the Acanthus into the distinctive terracotta ornamentation on the facade of 18 South Michigan Avenue, the historically landmarked building Acanto now calls home. That connection between Italian craft and Chicago history isn't incidental; it runs through everything the restaurant does.

Positioned directly across from Millennium Park's Crown Fountains and a half-block north of the Art Institute of Chicago, Acanto sits squarely on what locals call the Cultural Mile. It draws pre-concert diners, museum visitors, and neighborhood regulars alike — all drawn by the promise of authentic, approachable Italian food in a room where conversation flows easily.

The Kitchen

Executive Chef Troy Jorge leads the culinary program, bringing experience from Michelin-starred kitchens to a menu that spans the full breadth of Italy — both North and South. Handmade pastas and stone oven pizzas anchor the offering, supported by seasonal specials that reflect what's best at any given moment. Executive Pastry Chef Kymberli DeLost-Cuschieri rounds out the experience with a dessert menu of contemporary takes on Italian classics alongside artisanal cheeses.

The kitchen's range extends to lunch, happy hour, and a dedicated vegan menu — making Acanto a genuinely versatile address rather than one reserved for special occasions alone.

The Wine Program

Wine is where Acanto has earned its most formal recognition. The list spans more than 700 bottles drawn from all 20 of Italy's wine-producing regions, balancing celebrated producers with emerging winemakers and rare vintages. Wine Spectator awarded the program its prestigious Best of Award of Excellence, and World of Fine Wine magazine has placed Acanto among only 300 restaurants worldwide to receive its three-star distinction.

Beverage Director Torrence O'Haire — a Certified Italian Wine Expert — oversees both the wine list and a libations menu of Italian classics: spritzes, negronis, craft cocktails, and spirits. O'Haire also leads Acanto's ongoing Italian wine class series, "Learn to Speak Italian (Wine)," a weekly Wednesday program that covers everything from blind tasting technique to regional deep-dives and natural wine debates. It's an unusual extension of a restaurant's hospitality — and a telling sign of how seriously the team takes the subject.

The Setting

The atmosphere is deliberately conversation-friendly — fine dining in its standards, but without the formality that discourages lingering. Whether the occasion is a quick lunch break, a post-theatre dinner, or a five-course regional wine dinner with the chef, the room accommodates it. Private dining and group events are available for larger gatherings, and the restaurant's central location on Michigan Avenue makes it a natural anchor for any day spent exploring the cultural heart of Chicago.