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Writer's pictureShannon Heaton

Trivoli Tavern: Where Candlelight and Culinary Delights Collide

dim lit prohibition style restaurant with wooden features, bulb lights and red and white checked tablecloths

Imagine this: Step into a bygone era where vintage charm meets modern magic. Think red checkered tablecloths under dim, romantic lighting. Wine racks line the walls like trophies, each bottle a testament to good taste. Trivoli Tavern isn't just a restaurant, it's a haven for hearts seeking connection. It's the Don Draper of dining – oozing old-school charm with a modern twist where power moves are made with a clink of crystal and a wink over a perfectly cooked steak.


steak slice rare, with potato au gratin served in a casserole dish with glass of white wine behind

The house special prime rib is a tender, melt-melt-in-your-mouth ode to flavour, complimented by a delicate horseradish mousse, while the whole branzino, amazing on its own, pairs well with the decadent gorgonzola creamed spinach. Finish with the sticky date pudding, a sweet and gooey finale topped with the creamiest, sweet-but-salty butterscotch ice cream that leaves you wanting more of this traditional comfort food.

branzino fish butterflied and grilled with skin on, and toasted cheesy creamed spinach in casserole dish

As for wine, forget the tired routine of one bottle. At Trivoli, your palate becomes a passport, embarking on a global adventure with every course.

Imagine this: French bubbles tickle your nose, then a Californian Chardonnay sweeps you off your feet, smooth and oaky. Next, an Argentinian Malbec arrives, a tango of bold fruit and spice, and finally, a French Côtes du Rhône leaves a lingering memory on your lips. Individual gems, yes, but here's the twist: they're just chapters in your personalized tasting journey. Each glass, generously poured, showcases stunning quality with a reasonable price tag, as a testament to Trivoli's dedication to the grape.


silver tray on wooden table with 3 tea lights and small palm try in white pot on top
wine cellar with restaurant tables iwth red white checked cloths and checked tarten caroet

But your thirst for exploration needn't be confined to vineyards. The cocktail haven awaits, where classics like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan are reimagined with complex ingredients, each a unique making shaken or stirred to perfection. You can grab a seat at the bar as available, which is the perfect pre-dinner drink spot. This place is popular though, so standing room is common place, but you can find many a bench to perch amongst the glamourous decor.

man walking through laneway at dusk with red restaurant front and pontoon lights above

Whether you choose a vinous voyage or a classic cocktail waltz to accompany your taste sensation of a journey, Trivoli guarantees a good time, with flavours to tantalize your senses and leave you humming long after the last bite. So, raise a glass, and let your taste buds wander the world!


P.S. Getting a reservation may prove difficult, but if you place your name on the waitlist through their online reservations app, and you're lucky like I was and managed to score a Saturday dinner reservation (albeit 4pm - beggars can't be choosers!), the ambiance, even at this early hour, is truly worth the hype!


If you have been to Trivoli Tavern in Chicago, I'd love to hear from you!


sticky date pudding dessert with large icecream scoop on top with woman behind dish holding wine glass


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