Best of 12 breadsticks in River North
Indulge in the delightful experience of savoring breadsticks in River North. This Chicago neighborhood is not only known for its vibrant nightlife and arts scene, but also for its diverse range of dining options. Among the many culinary offerings, breadsticks in River North stand out for their unique flavors and textures. Whether you're in the mood for classic Italian breadsticks or something more adventurous, this area has got you covered. From upscale restaurants to cozy cafes, breadsticks in River North are a must-try for any food lover.
- 1. Maggiano's Little Italy
- 2. Giordano's
- 3. Pizzeria Ora Chicago
- 4. Pistores
- 5. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago in River North
- 6. Il Porcellino
- 7. Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop
- 8. Parlor Pizza Bar River North
- 9. Gino's East - River North
- 10. Pizzeria Portofino in River North
- 11. Torchio Pasta Bar
- 12. Levain Bakery – River North
1. Maggiano's Little Italy
In-restaurant pasta making and family-style dining

Maggiano's breadsticks are a standout menu item, known for their delightful taste and texture. Customers rave about their softness and homemade flavor, making them a popular choice. These breadsticks arrive at the table fresh and hot, adding to their appeal.
There's something special about the Maggiano's breadsticks that keeps customers coming back for more. Their soft and flavorful quality is reminiscent of homemade bread, providing a comforting and satisfying experience. Every order of breadsticks is freshly baked, ensuring a hot and delicious treat with each bite.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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2. Giordano's
Serving Chicago-style deep-dish pizza since 1974, dine-in or carryout available

The breadsticks at Giordano's were a delicious and satisfying appetizer. Served hot and with a tasty marinara sauce, they were a great way to start the meal. The breadsticks were fresh and full of flavor, making for a highly enjoyable start to the dining experience.
Overall, the breadsticks at Giordano's are a standout choice. They are consistently fresh and flavorful, and the marinara sauce adds an extra touch of deliciousness. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a side, these breadsticks are sure to please.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Pizzeria Ora Chicago
They use fresh ingredients, offer vegan and gluten-free options, and have a cozy atmosphere.

The breadsticks on offer were lightly breaded and had a crispy texture, making them a delightful appetizer or snack. A marinara sauce was served alongside these delicious breadsticks, adding an extra element of flavor to the dish.
These breadsticks were lightly coated in breading and fried to a crispy finish. A marinara sauce, crafted in-house, was provided as the perfect dip for the breadsticks. Overall, the combination of the crispy breadsticks and rich marinara sauce made for a satisfying and enjoyable culinary experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Pistores
Cozy atmosphere with an open kitchen

The breadsticks served at the meal were a standout feature. They were delicious and well-seasoned, making them a memorable part of the dining experience.
Pistores is known for its amazing breadsticks. They have a perfect combination of crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. These breadsticks are a must-try for anyone visiting Pistores.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago in River North
Both Portillo's and Barnelli's are popular local chains with a loyal following, offering a casual and family-friendly dining experience.

The breadsticks at this establishment were a source of mixed opinions. On one hand, they were praised for being perfectly seasoned and providing an excellent accompaniment to the pasta dish. Their flavors were evidently a good match, enhancing the dining experience. However, there were also reservations about the freshness of the breadsticks. They did not meet the expectations of some diners, who hoped for a fresher, more appealing texture.
Despite the differing views on the breadsticks, there was agreement on the quality of the rest of the meal. The pasta dish, in particular, was a hit with diners, who appreciated its taste and the way it paired with the breadsticks. Overall, while the breadsticks may have been a slight disappointment for some, they did not detract from the overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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6. Il Porcellino
The restaurant's cozy and intimate ambiance makes it a popular spot for dates and special occasions.

The breadsticks served at this establishment are truly exceptional. They boast a perfect seasoning that immediately caught my attention. The meal began on a high note with these impressive breadsticks. Moving on to the interior of the breadsticks, they were incredibly soft and fluffy. When combined with the warm butter and garlic, each bite became a burst of delicious flavors.
This place's breadsticks are a must-try. They have a perfect combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The warm butter and garlic added an extra layer of flavor to the breadsticks, elevating them to a whole new level. Overall, the bread served here is a standout and should not be overlooked.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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7. Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop
They use locally-sourced ingredients and offer vegan and gluten-free options.

The breadsticks at this establishment are truly exceptional. They are consistently served hot and fresh, indicating a commitment to quality and freshness. The seasoning on the breadsticks is perfectly balanced, adding flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the bread.
I was very pleased with the breadsticks I ordered. They had a delicious flavor and a satisfying texture. The care taken in preparing the breadsticks was evident, as they were clearly made with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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8. Parlor Pizza Bar River North
A spacious patio, rooftop bar, and live music on weekends.

The breadsticks were a standout item on the menu, consistently warm and possessing a desirable level of softness. They were generously seasoned with garlic and herbs, adding an appealing depth of flavor. Serving as an excellent starter, the breadsticks were enhanced by the accompanying dipping sauces, which provided a complementary taste.
In summary, the breadsticks were a highlight of the meal, boasting a delightful warmth and soft texture. Their garlic and herb seasoning was on point, and the dipping sauces added an extra element of taste. The breadsticks proved to be a great beginning to the meal, functioning as an ideal appetizer with their savory flavor profile.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Gino's East - River North
Family-friendly atmosphere, casual dining, Chicago-style pizza, craft beer, full bar

The Caesar salad featured crisp, fresh ingredients that were delightfully refreshing. It was served in a generous portion, perfect for sharing among a group. Accompanying the salad were garlic breadsticks that were warm and delicious, providing a satisfying crunch to each bite.
The family style salad, in particular, was massive and easily feeds multiple people. It was a hit at the table, with its crisp greens and flavorful dressing. The garlic breadsticks, served warm, were a tasty complement to the salad and quickly became a crowd favorite.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
10. Pizzeria Portofino in River North
They offer an extensive wine list, comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, and a happy hour menu featuring discounted drinks and pizzas.

The breadsticks served as a starter were a delightful way to begin the meal. They had a crispy exterior that provided a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the inside was soft and flavorful. These breadsticks are a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying appetizer.
The breadsticks were warm and inviting, with a buttery and indulgent flavor. The marinara sauce provided a tangy and complementary contrast to the rich and savory breadsticks. The combination of the two created a perfect balance of flavors that made for a delicious and enjoyable start to the meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Mid-Range
11. Torchio Pasta Bar
Handmade pasta and breadsticks, extensive wine list

The breadsticks at this establishment are truly exceptional. They feature a desirable warmth and freshness that immediately stands out. Their texture is another appealing aspect, offering a satisfying consistency that makes them a joy to eat. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, the breadsticks are a must-try.
Diners will be pleased to know that the breadsticks make for an excellent beginning to any meal. They boast a crispy exterior that gives way to a delightfully soft interior. The breadsticks' texture is further enhanced when paired with the accompanying olive oil dip, making for a truly enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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12. Levain Bakery – River North
Artisan bakery using traditional French techniques and organic ingredients

Levain Bakery in River North, Chicago, is a popular bakery with a rating of 4.6 stars based on 89 reviews. The bakery specializes in cookies, with favorites including the Caramel Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookie, Two Chip Chocolate Chip Cookie, and Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie. They also offer other baked goods like Sour Cream Coffee Cake Loaf, Baguette with Butter and Jam, Oatmeal Raisin Scone, and Chocolate Lovers Blueberry Muffin. The bakery is pet-friendly and open from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Levain Bakery is dedicated to creating high-quality baked goods, starting with the mission to create the world's greatest chocolate chip cookie. Their signature cookie features semi-sweet chocolate chips and chunks of walnuts, while the Two Chip Chocolate Chip Cookie is packed with two types of rich chocolate chips. The Oatmeal Raisin Cookie is a decadent take on a traditional favorite, and the Dark Chocolate Chip Cookie is dense, chewy, and crafted with extra dark French cocoa. The bakery also offers a Vegan & Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie made with vegan chocolate chips and cashew-based butter. Catering services are available for special events.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
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