The very first Mia Francesca restaurant opened its doors on 3311 North Clark St, in 1992. 30 years later, Francesca’s Restaurant Group has grown from a small, welcoming Italian restaurant, to a restaurant group of six concepts across 23 locations and two states.

If you’ve ever dined at Davanti Enoteca, Disotto, Joe’s Exports, Vasili’s, or even Fat Rosies Taco and Tequila Bar, you have experienced Francesca’s first hand. “ Across all concepts, the multi-unit restaurant group maintains its commitment to the original restaurant’s founding philosophy of Italian hospitality—where simple food with quality ingredients and thoughtful service make a meal.”

Chef Scott Harris opened the very first Mia Francesca, and now is the Chief Executive Officer of Scott Harris Hospitality. “Mia Francesca was a departure from what was happening in the Chicago dining scene at that time. We were purposely informal and affordable, but we didn’t compromise the quality of the food. It was important for us that our guests felt as though they were part of the dining experience, their family. A smile on their face is what keeps me motivated to this day,” he says. The Chicago native has come a long way since opening the doors, and now he personally oversees the vision and growth of all 23 restaurants.  

Mia Francesca has an extensive menu that stays true to Italian roots. “Mia Francesca features the zesty, earthy cuisine of Rome and the surrounding areas of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio.” Some menu highlights include the Vitello Alle Verdure, which is pan-Roasted veal medallions with seasonal vegetables in a garlic white wine sauce. If you’re coming for the pasta, the Cavatelli Con Ricotta e Pomodoro will hit the spot, which is homemade finger cavatelli in Pomodoro, with fresh basil topped with seasoned ricotta.  

The ambiance is also a part of the dining experience. Chef Harris states, “Waiting for a table at the beautiful antique bar is part of the charm of Mia Francesca. The plush upstairs dining room and lounge can be reserved for private events, as can the more intimate coach house tucked away behind the restaurant. The coach house is the perfect place to sit down with some friends and a bottle of wine while waiting for your table. In the summer, al fresco dining is also available on a charming cobblestone terrace.”  

We are so lucky to have this Chicago staple right here in Lakeview East. Congratulations to Chef Scott Harris and all the rest of Francesca’s crew for how far they have come. We can’t see what they create next! Next time you’re craving Italian, you know where to go. 

To see Mia Francesca’s full menu, click here. 

For reservations, click here.