Time Out Market Chicago, home to the city’s best restaurants and chefs, is welcoming another stellar concept to the family starting on February 17. Stefani’s Bottega Italiana will bring its lineup of Roman-style pizzas, pastas and schiacciata sandwiches to Fulton Market. The Gladstone Park restaurant is known for its seasonally-driven, made-from-scratch Italian specialties and is a part of Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants, the group behind beloved spots like Tavern on Rush, Tuscany and Stefani Prime. Though Stefani’s Bottega Italiana debuted in 2024, its origins go back much further. When owner Phil Stefani opened his first restaurant in the ‘80s, he decided all of the pastas would be made in house using machines imported from Italy. As the Stefani empire expanded, the company found itself looking for a space that not only produced fresh pasta for all of its eateries, but also the public as well. Thus, Stefani’s Bottega Italiana was born. First, let’s talk about the incredible handmade pastas. The flour used is flown in from Italy and the sauces are classic recipes that the Stefani group has built its reputation on. There’s the Tagliatella Bolognese, a marriage of long, flat ribbon noodles and a meat-based sauce. Also on offer will be the Mezzaluna Cipriani, a signature dish that dates back to the original Stefani concept. It stars ravioli filled with ricotta, parmigiano and pecorino cheese in a tomato vodka sauce. Photograph: Kristen Mendiola Just as delicious are the Roman-style pizzas. For those who are unfamiliar, these thin, round pies are airy and crispy. They’re also healthier than a regular pizza because of the lightness of the dough, which is fermented for 48 to 72 hours. At the Market, you won’t have to worry about being too full after finishing one—they’ll be served as personal pizzas. Options include Margherita, Spicy Soppressata and a sauceless Funghi e Tartufo featuring sauteed spinach, mushrooms and truffle oil.  “My focus is always giving Chicago something different that they can’t get anywhere else,” says Stefani managing partner Anthony Stefani. “I know that people will love it.” Photograph: Kristen Mendiola If you’re in the mood for a hearty sandwich, Stefani’s Bottega Italiana has some good ones. Served between schiacciata, a thin Tuscan flatbread, the sandwiches are packed with a variety of ingredients, from the traditional caprese (tomato, mozzarella, basil, pesto aioli) to the Bottega (prosciutto, spicy soppressata, provolone, lettuce, tomato, red onion, Italian vinaigrette, spicy mayo, giardiniera).   Photograph: Kristen Mendiola While the Stefani group has decades of experience running restaurants, this will be its first foray into an environment like Time Out Market Chicago. Nonetheless, Anthony Stefani is excited for the new venture. “What we want is just to be able to showcase what we’ve been about for 40+ years. We have had a very loyal following … I think the Market allows us the opportunity to introduce the younger generation to Stefani’s Italian brand.”

Time Out Market Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants and chefs in the city, but we’ve made the experience even sweeter with our latest pop-up. Have you been wanting to try the viral Dubai chocolate bar? Well, the wait is over! Chef Jorge Kauam has launched a chocolate pop-up shop at the Market, where guests can enjoy a variety of indulgent delights. Open Friday through Sunday for a limited time, the boutique is offering the famous chocolate bar so that you can finally see what the buzz is about. Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out First, a brief explainer. The candy bar is inspired by the Middle Eastern dessert knafeh and features a milk chocolate shell with a filling made from pistachio, knafeh pieces and tahini paste. It originated in Dubai and exploded on social media last year. Now, it’s made its way to Chicago via the Market.  Of course, you’ll find more than just the Dubai chocolate bar at the pop-up. Kauam, a chocolatier who’s also behind Gutenburg at the Market (and one of the best burgers in Chicago, in our opinion), has created an irresistible selection of sweets. Try bonbons, an assortment of chocolate bars, chocolate teddy bears, housemade spreads and more.  Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out With Valentine’s Day only a few weeks away, there’s no better time to pick up a gift for that special someone. Express your love with a box of bonbons, chocolate cigars or even a two-pound chocolate heart, which can be cracked open to reveal a surprise. And you know what pairs perfectly with a bouquet of roses? A dozen chocolate-covered strawberries.   Photograph: Jeffy Mai for Time Out Don’t miss out—the pop-up will only be around for a few more weeks. For more exciting happenings at the Market, check out our calendar of upcoming events, including a Valentine’s Flower Workshop on February 12.

The Michelin Guide revealed its Chicago selections this week, honoring some of the city’s best restaurants. While we’re excited for all the Michelin-recommended spots, one in particular has us feeling extra proud—Demera. The Ethiopian stalwart has been a local favorite since opening in 2007. It has also been included in every edition of Chicago’s Michelin Guide. Last year, Demera joined Time Out Market Chicago, bringing the bold and vibrant flavors of East Africa to Fulton Market.  In its writeup, Michelin noted the numerous vegetarian and omnivorous offerings on the menu and praised the spicy yesiga wot as a “hearty pleasure,” adding, “Sop up the extra sauce with piles of tangy and soft injera, presented in the traditional manner in lieu of silverware.” Chef-owner Tigist Reda learned how to cook at a young age from the women in her family. She turned her passion into a profession with Demera, showcasing the cooking of her home country. At the Market, guests can try a variety of options, from starters like sambussas—fried pastries stuffed with beef cheese or lentil—to rich and spicy ye-beg wot, a lamb stew that’s perfect for the season. If you’re looking for something lighter, the beet salad, cherry tomato salad and honey awaze Brussels sprouts are all delicious choices as well. Our suggestion: Go with a messob platter to try a little bit of everything. It comes with meat or veggie entrees, plus sides. And they’re served with injera—sour flatbread that’s used for scooping up the dishes. It’s the ultimate communal dining experience, but we won’t blame you if you don’t feel like sharing. So what are you waiting for? Check out Demera and more of the city’s best restaurants and chefs under one roof at Time Out Market Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Sign up for Time Out's newsletters and receive a voucher for $5 off food and drinks at Time Out Market Chicago on your next visit

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, is just days away and Time Out Market Chicago is celebrating with an oh-so-delicious pop-up starting this weekend. Visit the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market on Saturday, March 1 to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort. Chefs Jamie Gilmore (Southern Bites) and Darnell Reed (Luella’s Southern Kitchen) are teaming up to whip up a variety of New Orleans-inspired dishes for the occasion at their Back to Bourbon Street kitchen. Those who are familiar with the Big Easy know the muffuletta is a staple, and for good reason. The sandwich features Genoa salami, mortadella, ham, provolone and olive salad packed in an Italian loaf. Of course, no Cajun feast would be complete without a po’ boy so Gilmore and Reed are offering a version loaded with fried Mississippi catfish. Craving a bowl of chicken and sausage gumbo? Mmhmm, the hearty stew will be on offer as well. And we can’t forget the crawfish empanadas—the flaky dough crescents are filled with the “holy trinity of veggies”—onions, bell peppers and celery—plus rice and crustacean. Make sure to save some room for dessert. The praline and bourbon pecan bread pudding is simply the perfect end to any meal, but we’ll understand if you opt for one of our other favorites: Beignets dusted in powdered sugar. Wash it all down with a drink from the Time Out Market Bar, which will be slinging Hurricanes, the classic New Orleans cocktail. The Back to Bourbon Street kitchen will be open from 11am-8pm on March 1-2 and 4. New Oreleans-inspired band La Travalliant will also perform live at the Market on Saturday from 2-4pm. We can’t wait to see you there!

The wait is almost over! The biggest game of the year is this weekend, and Time Out Market Chicago will be the best place to catch all of the action. Gather your crew and watch the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, February 9 at the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market. We’ll be showing the game on a giant 32 feet wide by 6 feet tall screen with sound, as well as upstairs on the second floor, so no matter where you are, you won’t miss a single play (or Kendrick Lamar’s much-anticipated halftime performance). Of course, the game is only half of the fun. All of the Market’s kitchens are ready to feed you and your friends a host of delicious bites. We know how difficult it can be to order with a big group, which is why the Market is the perfect spot to accommodate all palates. And with mobile ordering, you can order from multiple eateries in one seamless transaction. There’s even tableside delivery—yes, someone will bring the food directly to you! If you’re in the mood for traditional game day foods, there are plenty of options. The wings—available in soy garlic or gochujang—from Bill Kim Ramen Bar are a favorite, as are Urbanbelly’s hot chicken bao buns. Craving nachos? Lil Amaru’s version is piled high with chihuahua cheese, beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, salsa macha and choice of protein. These dishes are all shareable, but if you want something all to your own, consider one of Gutenburg’s mouthwatering burgers, Sporty Bird’s irresistible fried chicken or Libanais’ shawarma wraps. To finish, 2d Restaurant and Molly’s Cupcakes have an assortment of sweet treats waiting for you. The Market bar will be pairing all of the scrumptious offerings with a menu of creative cocktails, wines and beers. Try concoctions like El Malo (Dos Hombres mezcal, Rhine Hall mango brandy, mango habanero, lime), White Noise (Botanist gin, dry vermouth, Italicus) and the classic Espresso Martini (Truman vodka, cold brew coffee liqueur, La Colombe espresso). Or sip on a glass of your favorite wine or local craft brew. Plus, there will be free tastings of the Kelce brothers’ Garage Beer and more happening both downstairs and upstairs. See you there!

St. Patrick’s Day is still over a week away, but Time Out Market Chicago is getting the party started early. Visit us this weekend at the culinary and cultural hub in Fulton Market for a host of exciting events. On Saturday, March 8, local author Laura Bityou Beriau and musician Ray Hogan will lead an hour of musical storytime. Bring the little ones for a morning of song, dance and classic Irish tales. Afterwards, you can purchase books and have them signed by Beriau. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly interactive experience, 2d Restaurant is hosting a donut decorating class for young chefs. They’ll be able to unleash their creativity by decorating three mochi donuts with a variety of toppings and sprinkles. All of the ingredients will be provided, and everyone can take their delicious sweet treats home. Tickets are $25 and available via Eventbrite. Finally, the Market is here to help you find your perfect match. Whether you're looking for love or just want to test the waters, join us for an evening of speed dating on Saturday night, presented by MyCheekyDate. Participants will be able to see all of their potential matches through a mobile scorecard and choose who they’d like to be paired with. Casual and comfortable, it’s a fun and low-pressure way to mingle, laugh and maybe meet that special someone. Tickets are available via Eventbrite. The St. Patrick’s Day festivities continue on Saturday, March 15, when the Market will have an all-day celebration featuring Finvara cocktails, drink specials and more. Join us after the Chicago River dyeing and St. Patrick's Day parade to keep the good times going. See you there!

Winter in Chicago means snowy days, frigid cold and lots of indoor activities. One of the best ways to stay warm is by digging into hearty, comforting fare. Luckily, Time Out Market Chicago offers a variety of excellent options to make the coldest months more bearable. From rich bowls of ramen to decadent soup dumplings to delightful salads, the following dishes will help you overcome the winter blues. Pork ramen at Bill Kim Ramen Bar   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   While ramen is always a great choice, there’s no denying its appeal during the coldest months. Celebrated chef Bill Kim offers several versions to satisfy every type of palate. Our personal favorite is the pork ramen–kimchi-braised pork, crispy shallots, egg, marinated bean sprouts, cabbage, scallions, cilantro—but you can get your bowl with spicy shrimp, chicken wontons, pork mandu or tofu as well. Lamb and coriander dumplings at QXY Dumplings   Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out   The city’s best dumplings are at the Market, courtesy of Chinatown stalwart QXY. You won’t go wrong with any of the offerings, but our go-to is the steamed lamb and coriander soup dumplings. If you want an even more decadent bite, opt for the wagyu beef and black truffle dumplings. All dumplings are available steamed or pan fried, and you can mix and match flavors. Wings and waffles at Southern Bites   Photograph: Time Out Market   Chef Jamie Gilmore delivers Southern-style brunch fare with Creole love at Southern Bites. Start the day off right with dishes like shrimp and grits, French toast and smashed avocado toast. When you need to warm up with a hearty plate, the wings and waffles with hottie syrup is the move. Shawafel at Libanais   Photograph: Time Out Market   Shawarma shaved right off a vertical spit is this Lebanese restaurant’s specialty, and you can get either chicken or beef. While both are fine choices, we can’t resist the shawafel. A pita is stuffed with chicken shawarma, crisp falafel, lettuce, pickles, hummus, garlic spread and tahini, and served with fries. Yum. Chicken paillard and salad at Art Smith's Sporty Bird   Photograph: Time Out Market   Looking for some healthy options for the new year and beyond? Art Smith’s Sporty Bird has you covered. The celebrity chef is known for his signature fried chicken, but don’t overlook the chicken paillard. A piece of chicken breast is pounded thin and pan-seared, and served alongside a salad of market greens, cucumber, tomatoes and citrus vinaigrette. Simple, yet delicious. Beyaynetu messob at Demera   Photograph: Just Coast   Showcasing the bold flavors and cooking of Ethiopia, Michelin-recommended Demera has been a local standout since opening in 2007. At the Market, you can enjoy a variety of veggie-forward offerings, from beet salad and cherry tomato salad to honey awaze Brussels sprouts. Don’t like to make decisions? Get the beyaynetu messob, which comes with five veggie sides and injera—sour flatbread that’s used to scoop up the dishes. Hot chocolate at Molly's Cupcakes Dessert expert Molly’s is where the sweetest dreams come true—for both kids and adults alike. Beat the cold and pair your indulgent cupcake with a cup of hot cocoa. The rich, silky drink warms the body and soul, and provides the boost needed to make it through a cold day. Dry January mocktails   Photograph: Time Out Market   For those who are participating in Dry January or just want a tasty, nonalcoholic drink, the Market bar has created a lineup of inventive mocktails that will be available all month long! Sip on libations like the Bunny Hill (rosemary syrup, lime, ginger beer), Mango Picante (nonalcoholic tequila, mango, Hagave, lime juice), Lavender Bliss (lavender syrup, lemon juice, nonalcoholic sparkling rosé) and Strawberry Spritzless (strawberry syrup, lemon juice, nonalcoholic blanc de blanc).

National Margarita Day is February 22, and Time Out Market Chicago is celebrating in style. Join us at the food and cultural hub in Fulton Market for refreshing agave cocktails and good vibes all week long. We’re serving special margaritas at the bar and on National Margarita Day, a live DJ will be spinning the hits while guests can enjoy Tromba Tequila samplings and a photo booth from 1-4pm. And if you want some delicious bites to pair with your drinks, check out Lil Amaru for its selection of tacos, sandwiches and sides like sweet plantains and mojo fries. But that’s not all we have planned. On Sunday, February 23, the Market is hosting a Best Margarita Contest. Nine Chicago restaurants and bars are gathering to compete for the crown, and you can help decide the winner. Each participating spot will offer their own take on the classic margarita and attendees will choose their favorite. The one who receives the most votes will get a cash prize, trophy and bragging rights. The competition will be fierce as we’ve enlisted some of the best in town to battle it out. The lineup includes Big Star, La Josie, Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, Mercadito, La Luna, Cantina Rosa, Lonesome Rose, Tzuco and the Market bar. Tickets are on sale now via Eventbrite—entry gets you samples of every cocktail. We can wait to see you there!