Italian Village Restaurants Expands Downtown Legacy with Opening of Café Pisolino this June

Italian Village Restaurants, a cornerstone of Chicago dining since 1927, is expanding its presence with the addition of Café Pisolino, a new Italian espresso bar opening on the ground floor of its historic Loop location, set to open this June. Long known as a multi-level destination housing The Village, Vivere, Sotto, and Bar Sotto, the restaurant group continues to build on that legacy with a new casual, day-to-day offering. Inspired by the Italian idea of a pisolino, or a short midday pause, the café introduces a casual daytime experience, inviting guests in for coffee, something light, or simply a break from the pace of downtown. 

“Café Pisolino is our way of reimagining how Italian Village can serve the city throughout the day,” said Jonathan Capitanini, President of Italian Village Restaurants. “As the Loop continues to evolve, we saw an opportunity to create something that feels both timeless and new, a place where people can step away, even briefly, and reconnect. It’s about honoring our family’s legacy while contributing to the vibrancy and everyday life of downtown Chicago.” 

Rooted in nearly a century of Italian hospitality, Café Pisolino introduces a more modern, everyday rhythm in the heart of the Loop. Designed for both convenience and connection, it offers a welcoming space for guests to stop in and slow down. 

The menu reflects that same balance of tradition and approachability, featuring classic and specialty espresso drinks ranging from shakeratos and cappuccinos to a signature gianduja-infused House Latte, alongside seasonal offerings such as Vanilla Peach Cold Brew and Strawberry Matcha. 

A rotating selection of pastries follow suit, featuring Italian café classics and house-made favorites including Cornetti, Lemon Ricotta Cake, Tomato Tarts, and Strawberry Rhubarb Crostata. For those on the go, lighter fares like Lemon Blueberry Overnight Oats and Limoncello Chia Pudding complement more substantial midday options such as a Tuscan Chicken Salad Sandwich. 

Designed with neighbors, downtown workers, and longtime Italian Village guests alike, Café Pisolino offers something more than a quick stop, it creates a moment of intention in the middle of a busy day. Café Pisolino will be open 7am - 4pm Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, please visit https://www.thevillage-chicago.com/, or follow Café Pisolino on Instagram @cafepisolino_chi. 

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