Several Italian eateries have opened in the past few months. Here's a look at two—one upscale, the other laid-back— that can host group meals or private events.
1. A fine-dining restaurant, Logan Square's Accanto opened in April. Depending on how it's configured, the main dining room can seat 28 to 40 guests, or can host cocktail receptions for 50. A flat-screen TV, which normally shows clips from old Italian films, can hook up to laptops or DVD players to broadcast logos or presentations. Formerly of New York's Le Cirque, Milanese chef Domenico Acampora can work with hosts to prepare customized tasting menus. On his regular menu, options include risotto with white celery, Tuscan pecorino cheese, and homemade pear sorbet; homemade ravioli with eggplant-mozzarella mousse; and braised Colorado lamb with sauteed peppers, potato flambé, and papaya-mint salad.
2. With bright murals, colorful lanterns, and painted confetti splashed across its floor, the vibrant Macello reopened in late January, after a year of renovations. The West Loop space—which occupies a former 1920s slaughterhouse—is available for buyout. The entire space can seat 120 or host cocktail receptions for 185, and a lounge at the back can be sectioned off to host private seated dinners for 25 or receptions for 50. For functions, the chef can prepare family-style meals, buffets, or individually plated dinners. Special party packages include a group salad-and-pizza dinner, and pasta, meat, and fish dishes are also available.
