Carmine's is back and better than ever!
After a two-year, $4 million transformation, Carmine’s on Rush made its return in January 2026, and the comeback feels like a glow-up in every sense. Longtime fans of the original will find plenty to love, but the redesigned space raises the experience to a whole new level while honoring the dishes that built its loyal following.
Carmine's on Rush, a beloved favorite returns bigger and better than ever.
The 10,000-square-foot restaurant now unfolds across two polished floors, blending timeless Italian-American charm with a sleek, contemporary edge. The redesign by Jackson Harlan Architectural Group introduces a dramatic entrance and a sweeping staircase that leads to an intimate 40-seat private dining room upstairs. Rich wood tones, brass accents and moody lighting create a supper-club atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Dramatic entryway staircase. (Not to worry, there's an elevator too)
You might also like these Chicago Star articles:
Let’s help Navy Pier win its 4th best fireworks title
Harry Potter Drone Art Show brings wizardry to Chicago’s night skies
‘Going Bacharach’ brings timeless hits to Chicago’s Apollo Theater
A mother’s love and a chance encounter: Patti Guzak’s ‘The Not-So-Exciting Adventures of Tuxedo Man’
One of the most notable additions is the four-season enclosed terrace overlooking Mariano Park. Guests can now enjoy Rush Street’s energy year-round, whether it’s summer patio season or a snowy Chicago evening. The terrace elevates the restaurant’s beloved outdoor dining tradition into a comfortable, all-weather destination.
Delicious favorites can be enjoyed in a romantic, sexy ambiance.
The heart of Carmine’s, of course, remains the menu. Signature favorites have returned, including square noodles, homemade eight-finger cavatelli, Mama Maria’s braciole and a lineup of classic Parmesan dishes. The 48-ounce steak Florentine is still a showstopper, and longtime fans will be happy to see the crispy onion strips, breaded eggplant caprese and the famously indulgent coconut cake back in rotation.
The all-weather terrace, overlooking Rush St., will be a bonus year-round.
The refreshed Carmine’s succeeds by blending Chicago’s red-sauce heritage with a more refined and stylish setting. Coral booths add a playful pop of color, and the entire space feels designed for lingering dinners, celebrations and nights that stretch a little longer than planned. A warm welcome back is well deserved and kudos (again) to Alex Dana for bringing new life to a Rush Street favorite.
(Carmine’s on Rush, 1037 N. Rush St., Chicago, carminesitalian.com | 312-988-7676. Also located in Rosemont)
Every detail is perfection.
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.