This Italian-themed date begins in Renaissance Florence and ends in Chicago’s Little Italy.
Earn your cultural stripes at the Art Institute by viewing “The Medici, Michelangelo and the Art of Late Renaissance Florence,” a massive exhibit displaying 200 works of art borrowed from the world-famous Medici family collection. Including pieces by Michelangelo, this exhibit is a rare cultural treat that should be taken in slowly and savored.
OK, it’s not as romantic as a gondola, but the Blue Line (Racine stop) will drop you close to RoSal’s, a family-style restaurant in Little Italy that serves traditional Italian fare with old-world hospitality. The gigantic portions of everything from mushroom ravioli to shrimp and artichokes are affordable and sized for sharing. 1154 W. Taylor St. 312-243-2357.
If dinner goes well, check out Beviamo Wine Bar, a sumptuous, velvet-draped nook with 40 wines by the glass and flights starting at $9. 1358 W. Taylor St. 312-455-8255.
Tip: Little Italy is absolutely charming–take a midnight stroll around Taylor Street and find out why Italian is considered the language of love.
