Victory Italian Now Open in River North

Victory Italian, a Chicago-Italian restaurant from Chef Joe Farina and Anthony Gambino of Victory Restaurant Group, opened at 434 West Ontario Street on Monday, August 13th. The menu features Chef Farina’s dishes and handmade pastas, including his award-winning “Mama’s Meatballs”, parmesans, and classic brick chicken, prime steaks and seafood. The dine-in menu includes a 10-inch Pizza Nova and 36-inch Yardstick pizzas from Chicago’s iconic Armand’s pizzeria (founded in 1956 and lauded by many as the best thin crust pizza in Chicago). All sizes of the brand’s old school tavern-style pizza are available for carryout and delivery.

“Victory Italian is the spot for classic Chicago-Italian food,” says Victory’s Operations and Beverage Director Yvonne Farina.“Our dishes are inspired by the second wave of Italian immigrants who made Chicago their home – we use only the freshest local and seasonal ingredients accompanied by simple and delectable sides and sauces. As one would expect, our pastas are made on premise each day.”

The wine list is extensive as both Chef and his wife Yvonne are certified sommeliers. Guests can choose from a wide selection of American and Italian wines; by-the-glass offerings include vintages at their peak, giving diners the rare opportunity to sample exclusive wines without committing to a full bottle. 

The restaurant’s design evokes the upscale taverns that served Italian-American food throughout 1920s and 1930s Chicago. The 5,000 square-foot space incorporates a bar and lounge area. The venue also offers seasonal outdoor seating and multiple options for private dining. Victory Italian is open for dinner seven days per week, with lunch service Monday through Saturday soon to follow.