Craftbeer_BYOB: Caro Mio

If you are looking for a romantic, Italian BYOB check out Caro Mio in Chicago's Lincoln Square/East Ravenswood Neighborhood. I have been coming here since having my birthday dinner in 2005. That night my grandmother, Ilomay, requested an item not featured on the menu: linguini with clams and red pepper flakes, and the owner did not hesitate. She told me, between sips of her sauvignon blanc, that it was the best she had ever had! Well that did it for me, I was hooked and have been since. Over the last few years the restaurant has expanded but the food has not fallen off one bit. Enjoy the candlelit feel of this restaurant with that special someone or come with a group and have an epic Italian feast. Be sure to call for a reservation though, as this restaurant is in high demand.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Appetizers

Enjoy the complimentary olive oil, freshly minced garlic, and crushed red peppers served with sliced bread
Caprese salad
Polenta al sugo: grilled polenta topped with a ragu sauce

Entrees

Gnocchi rossini: gnocchi stuffed with creamy pesto and asiago cheese (Pair with a pinot noir)

Cavatelli con salisiccia: cavatelli and italian sausage baked in a creamy pesto sauce (Pair with a sangiovese)
Suprema di pollo: chicken stuffed with provolone and prosciutto and served with ravioli and gorgonzola sauce (Pair with a chardonnay, preferably oak-aged)
Beef brasciole: a rolled tenderloin stuffed with garlic, parm, parsley, white wine, and marinara (Pair with a chianti)
And of course ask for the Ilomay special (Pair with a sauvignon blanc)! I am sure they would have no problem making it for you.

Deserts