Chicagoland Culinary Reviews Part 3
This year A Toast to Travel is starting a new search, for the most authentic Italian experiences in the Chicagoland culinary world!
Part 3- Vinci
Vinci is the perfect place to stop for an evening meal. Located on the north side of Chicago the establishment is very inviting. The décor favors the color yellow with golden tones. The aesthetic brings you the feel of the Tuscan countryside without ever leaving the American Midwest. In fact, there is an effort being made to refurbish the interior with a more rustic design. The original tables are being replaced by all wood furniture. My eyes were drawn to the light fixtures, which have been designed to look like twigs that have been twisted into an ornate novelty. The walls are decorated with beautiful murals. As an artist, I was quite drawn to the line drawings of hands near the entrance. It appears to be drawn by charcoal, paying expert attention to line and form, and is quite beautiful. I was greeted by Mr. Richard Russo, the general manager at Vinci, this gentleman has been with the establishment for almost ten years. He states the familiar quality of staff; most stay longer than five years. That says something about the quality this company holds itself to, that even its employees keep coming back for more. In fact, most of Vinci’s business is found in their regular return clients. Vinci has a significant fan base and local following.
We were treated to a full menu experience. Richard was most happy to answer any questions and make recommendations for the evening. We began with the Antipasti Vinci, which is a sample platter of salame, stewed calamari, zucchini scapece, pecorino cheese, and giardiniera. Richard explained the delicious food on our sample platter as the dish was presented, while we drank delicious pinot grigio. The stewed calamari was excellently prepared, easy to chew, and slightly salty. It was an experience I will never forget.
We enjoyed the dining atmosphere. There was a group that sat next to us, regulars at Vinci, who had nothing but praise to share about the restaurant. They were also leaving for their Italy vacations the next day. Vinci, like A Toast to Travel’s wine and culinary experiences in Italy, offers guests a chance to live like a local and enjoy authentic Italian food and wine. A Toast to Travel’s all-inclusive experiences includes the opportunity of cooking in Tuscany as well as exploring the Tuscan countryside. A restaurant like Vinci is designed after our own heart offering their guests a vacation in Italy without going too far from home.
The main course, however, was its own trip. We ordered our Secondi, the Chicken Saltimbocca and the Grilled Hen. The Secondi were paired with a deep, full bodied red, Brunello di Montalcino. Perfectly seasoned, the juicy, grilled hen was better than I could have imagined. I am a lover of chicken entrees, and as a picky eater, it can be hard for me to find a dish so mouthwatering. Vinci succeeded. Not to neglect the Chicago Saltimbocca. “Saltimbocca” means to jump in your mouth in Italian and with the generous, delicious prosciutto wrapped all around the chicken, it sure did.
We finished dinner with a slice of Tiramisu. The coffee taste was sweet and complementary. The perfect Tiramisu to end the perfect evening.
Our evening with Vinci was excellent. Thank you to Richard Russo for his service and hospitality. Take a tour of Vinci which will feel like Italy tours! There is no doubt in my mind that Vinci is an Authentic Italian Experience in Chicago. When you visit, make sure you take #atoasttothegoodlife.
