Aurora Street Restaurant Row
Chef-owned Italian eateries serving seasonal dishes and craft cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Aurora Street Restaurant Row
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chef-owned Italian eateries serving seasonal dishes and craft cocktails in a cozy, intimate setting.
"The food was absolutely phenomenal. I had the ravioli which was possibly the best Italian food I have ever eaten."
🎯 Book Your Table
Seating can be tight; reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. :calendar:
🍞 Don't Skip the Bread!
Seriously, the bread is a highlight. Many reviewers rave about it – get a taste! :baguette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chef-Crafted Italian Dishes
Experience seasonal Italian food, from perfectly prepared pasta to flavorful mains. The quality from small kitchens is astounding.
Exceptional House Bread
Praised as 'amazing' and a meal in itself, the bread is a standout starter you can't miss.
Craft Cocktails & Wine
Enjoy expertly mixed craft cocktails and a thoughtful selection of Italian wines to perfectly pair with your meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cozy Ambiance
Savor Seasonal Italian Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Table
Seating can be tight; reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. :calendar:
🍞 Don't Skip the Bread!
Seriously, the bread is a highlight. Many reviewers rave about it – get a taste! :baguette:
🍸 Explore the Bar
The bar offers great service and a fantastic selection of craft cocktails and wines.
✨ Dress Up for Occasions
Perfect for special celebrations; many feel it's a place to dress up and treat yourself. :dress:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Table
Seating can be tight; reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. :calendar:
🍞 Don't Skip the Bread!
Seriously, the bread is a highlight. Many reviewers rave about it – get a taste! :baguette:
🍸 Explore the Bar
The bar offers great service and a fantastic selection of craft cocktails and wines.
✨ Dress Up for Occasions
Perfect for special celebrations; many feel it's a place to dress up and treat yourself. :dress:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners consistently praise the exceptional quality of the chef-driven Italian food, with many highlighting the phenomenal pasta and the must-try house bread. The intimate, cozy atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable service are also frequently lauded, making it a top recommendation for a special meal. Some find the seating a bit tight, but most agree the culinary experience is well worth it.
"Mercato serves up excellent food in a cozy, intimate space. I had the fish baked in parchment paper—the special of the night—and it was absolutely delicious: light, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. My daughter had the skirt steak and fries, which were also excellent—tender, juicy, and well-seasoned.
The restaurant is on the smaller side, so seating can feel a bit tight, but the quality of the food makes it well worth it. A great spot to dine if you're in Ithaca and looking for something special."
Olivia Sadati
"This place is absolutely to die for. If you don’t like anything on the menu that you think you’ll like… GET THE BREAD!!! The bread is amazing and I could eat it all just for dinner. The service was also incredible, got a taste test of wine, as a family we felt very cared for and respected. I would come here again and again if I could. Definitely a recommendation!!"
Sierra Mitchell
"The food was absolutely phenomenal. I had the ravioli which was possibly the best Italian food I have ever eaten. Paired with a lovely Italian red wine, the pasta was perfectly prepared and the tomato sauce was divine."
Deborah Bennett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aurora Street Restaurant Row is located in downtown Aurora, IL. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation might be available depending on your starting point; check local transit schedules.
Yes, there are typically parking options available near the restaurants. Street parking and nearby lots are common, but it's advisable to check specific restaurant recommendations or local parking apps for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The 'row' implies a walkable area where you can explore different eateries. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere and decide where to dine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always mandatory, reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular spots and weekend evenings, as seating can be limited and intimate.
Hours vary by restaurant, but most chef-owned eateries on the row are open for dinner service, typically from late afternoon through the evening. It's best to check the specific hours for each restaurant you plan to visit.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Aurora Street Restaurant Row area. You only pay for the food and drinks you order at the individual restaurants.
Some restaurants may offer special tasting menus or host events. It's a good idea to check individual restaurant websites or social media for announcements about seasonal specials or unique dining experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The primary cuisine is Italian, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and chef-driven dishes. You'll find everything from pasta to expertly prepared mains.
Reviewers consistently rave about the house-made bread. Other highly praised items include ravioli, fish baked in parchment, and skirt steak. +1
While Italian cuisine often features vegetarian options like pasta and vegetable dishes, vegan options might be more limited. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant about their specific offerings.
Dining here is generally considered a treat, with prices reflecting the quality of chef-driven cuisine and craft cocktails. Expect mid-range to higher-end pricing, with many finding it 'worth every penny.'
Yes, the restaurants boast full bars with excellent craft cocktails and a curated selection of Italian wines. The bar service is often highlighted as a positive aspect.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cozy ambiance of the restaurants, the beautifully plated dishes, and the craft cocktails. The intimate settings offer great opportunities for atmospheric shots.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of other diners and the intimate atmosphere. Quick snaps of your food or the ambiance are usually fine, but avoid intrusive photography.
The unique home-turned-eateries and their patios offer charming exterior views, especially during the day or early evening.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking menus for simpler pasta dishes or sharing appetizers. The friendly and knowledgeable service often mentioned in reviews can also make families feel very welcome and cared for.
🥂 Couples & Special Occasions
Many reviewers suggest dressing up for the occasion, as the quality of food and service makes it feel like a true treat. The curated wine list and craft cocktails further enhance the celebratory mood.
🍷 Foodies & Wine Enthusiasts
The thoughtfully selected Italian wine list and expertly mixed craft cocktails are designed to complement the food perfectly. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from the knowledgeable staff to enhance your tasting journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Experience: Italian Excellence
Expect dishes that are both comforting and sophisticated. From hand-made pastas like ravioli, often described as 'the best Italian food ever eaten,' to perfectly cooked seafood and tender steaks, the culinary artistry is evident. Even the house bread receives widespread acclaim, with diners suggesting it's a meal in itself. This dedication to detail extends to the beverage program, featuring craft cocktails and a well-selected list of Italian wines.
While the kitchens may be small, the flavor and quality are immense. This intimate setting fosters a cozy and personal dining atmosphere, making it ideal for special occasions or a memorable night out. The consistent praise for flavor, nuance, and overall experience suggests that this row offers a truly exceptional culinary journey.
Ambiance and Atmosphere: Intimate Charm
When visiting, especially on weekends, the atmosphere can become quite lively and energetic. TikTok videos often capture the buzz of a Friday or Saturday night, highlighting the social aspect of these eateries. However, for a more subdued experience, weekday evenings tend to be quieter, allowing for deeper appreciation of the food and conversation.
The patio seating is also a significant draw, particularly during pleasant weather. These outdoor spaces provide a delightful setting to enjoy a meal and drinks, adding another layer to the overall charm of the restaurant row. Whether you prefer an indoor, cozy nook or an al fresco experience, the row offers a distinct and memorable ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit