Chicago has one of the largest concentrations of Italian-Americans in the entire country, which means 1) LOTS of gesturing, and 2) plenty of delicious Italian food. The best of it? It's gonna come from one of these 10 Chicago restaurants flush with Michelin stars and red sauce classics.

Balena
Lincoln Park
What you're getting: Tagliolini nero
Although it's only been around since 2012, this modern Italian spot from the Boka Restaurant Group and B. Hospitality Co. has already had a major impact on Chicago's dining scene, and has the Michelin Bib Gourmand status to prove it. Starters like burrata di panna and grilled octopus are no-brainers, while the tagliolini nero with crab, sea urchin, and chili flake and the spicy mortadella pizza with pistachio pesto, red onion, and mozzarella are no-no-no-NO-brainers.

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Source: http://www.thrillist.com/