Mart Anthony's Italian Restaurant

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Old-School Chicago Italian, Rooted in Family

Martin Anthony Campo opened Mart Anthony's in 1981 on Randolph and Aberdeen — back when that stretch of Chicago was still considered skid row. It started as a gathering spot for friends: drinks, card games, sports bets, and simple sandwiches. Then Campo realized he was sitting on something far more valuable: a trove of Sicilian family recipes handed down from great-aunts who had emigrated from Sicily to America. Once those dishes hit the menu, everything changed.

The restaurant relocated in 2007 to its current address at 1200 W. Hubbard in River West, where it has stayed ever since. Today it is run by John Campo — Martin's son — alongside his own sons, making it a true third-generation operation. Some staff members have been part of the team for over 30 years.

Five Generations of Sicilian Recipes

The Italian cooking at Mart Anthony's is unapologetically traditional. Family recipes that span more than five generations anchor the menu: Braciole, Stuffed Artichoke, Pappardelle Bolognese, Baked Clams, and Tortellino Romano — a cheesy pasta in a light creamy red sauce with mushrooms and prosciutto. Portions are generous, the room is dim-lit and unhurried, and the atmosphere is exactly what Chicago's classic red-sauce Italian restaurants were always meant to feel like.

Desserts are made fresh in-house four times a week. The homemade tiramisu and cheesecake — served with triple-berry sauce and dark chocolate — are customer favorites worth saving room for.

A Wine List That Earns Its Recognition

The wine program goes well beyond what you might expect from a neighborhood corner spot. Mart Anthony's holds a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 2025, a reflection of a list built to complement classic Italian dishes while reaching further in depth and range. The restaurant also welcomes guests to bring their own bottles — no corkage fee — as long as it's something genuinely loved. On Wednesdays, there are regular featured events worth checking in for.

The Room and the Regulars

Press from The Infatuation, Thrillist, and Block Club Chicago has repeatedly singled out Mart Anthony's as one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago — not for reinvention, but for doing the real thing with consistency and warmth. Regulars ask for their usual table. The bar draws friends after work. First-timers are treated like they belong. Free valet is available, and the restaurant also offers catering and private event hosting for everything from baptisms to rehearsal dinners.