Went on a Friday night when the place should have been packed, but found ourselves one of the few people in the expansive dining room. The lower level bar was also empty. However, the service was good and the food was good but nothing special. Not a bad experience minus the lack of any sort of crowd.
The restaurant is a more refined version of the bar downstairs and delicious to look at. However the impression we got when we checked in was confusion. We were taken to a table right across from the open kitchen and was concerned about noise. The menu is simple with appetizer, pasta and second course. The wine list is good and expansive. The service was good. The food is adequate. The restaurant is more aspirational than the service or the food.
Good food the worst service ever.
Stick to the bar - better food, better service
Filini is one of the most authentic Italian experiences in Chicago but in a modern, elegant ambiance. The best part is the large wheel of Gran Panano cheese given to every guest upon arrival! I also love being able to watch the chef on the line in the open kitchen. The pastas and authentic dishes like the rabbit with polenta are worth the trip!
Sep. 2011