Chicago Eats: Vapiano | chicago foodie girl

5.05.2014

Chicago Eats: Vapiano

I was recently contacted by Vapiano to see if I would be interested in visiting their newest Chicago location. Considering I missed out on their big opening party last year and the fact that I still hadn't managed to make it down there (bad me!), I was definitely eager to check out what they have to offer.

Vapiano is a German casual restaurant chain offering Italian food; their primary focus is pizza and pasta, all of which are made to order. Their newest Chicago location is perfectly situated for business people and tourists alike - downtown, right across from the Palmer House (in the old Carson's building!). Having worked in that area for a little over seven years, I know Vapiano is definitely a welcomed addition to the neighborhood, as there is a plethora of fast-food chains and high-end restaurants, but not many fresh casual options. It is the perfect spot for those days in which you don't have a ton of time/money, but want still want to sit down in a nicer environment (bonus: it has an adorable/hip European vibe).

The restaurant is divided into individual stations (pizza, pasta, salad/soup, dessert/bar) - upon entering, you're issued an individual chip card that you scan at the individual stations each time you order something. At the end of your meal, you scan your card at the register upfront and pay on the way out (similar to Foodlife in Water Tower Place). The cards definitely make visiting with a group extremely easy, as everyone has their own individual billing cards, so there's no scramble to try to figure out how to split the bill at the end of the meal.



Insalata Caprese: mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil

Greek Salad: feta cheese, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, onions, and fresh dill 

Capricciosa: tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, mushrooms, artichokes, and black olives

While waiting at the pasta station, I had a nice view of the front of the restaurant, which looks out over Wabash & Monroe (perfect for people watching!). The seating is a mix of high tops, low tops, and communal tables (I love the cute little seating area around the tree!).

Carbonara: cream sauce, Parmesan, egg, and bacon 

Ravioli Con Carne: ravioli with bolognese filling, fresh vegetables, and creamy tomato sauce

The dessert station/bar area

Panna Cotta: cooked cream & vanilla beans topped with strawberries
Tiramisu Della Casa: coffee flavored mascarpone dessert

Vapiano is located at 44 S. Wabash Ave. Chicago, IL (right around the corner from DSW... shoe shopping + awesome pizza + wine = the perfect girly afternoon!). You can also visit their other Chicago location at 2577 N Clark St. 
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4 comments

  1. I love Vapiano! I always stop by the one in Bethesda for lunch whenever I'm in town. The pizza you tried is my favorite.

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  2. Those desserts look delectable!

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  3. sorry Ive been out of my mind busy but I have been lurking just no drive to post Suzi my older daughter got a full ride to college she will be going to muhlenberg!hope that you are doing well.

    J

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  4. @jbgrinch: I'm glad to see you're back! Good for Suzi -- that's fantastic!

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