ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Gold Coast & Old Town
Master Critic Review
Gussie's Handmade Italian
8.0
Gussie's Handmade Italian focuses on fresh pastas, seasonal sauces, and cocktails in a modern Old Town space just off North and Wells. It fills a niche between neighborhood trattoria and special-occasion spot, with enough polish for dates but a menu flexible enough for casual plates at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rigatoni Pomodoro, Brown Butter Honey Ravioli, Linguine al Limone with Shrimp
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Handmade pasta and seasonal seafood plates served with a cocktail-focused bar program.
Who should go: Pasta lovers wanting modern Italian in a buzzy Old Town room.
When to visit: Later-week dinners; earlier seatings for quieter conversation.
What to order: Rigatoni Pomodoro, Brown Butter Honey Ravioli, linguine al limone with shrimp.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar to watch pasta come out of the open kitchen while you snack.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Old Town can be limited during peak hours; paid garages are available within a short walk along North Ave.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many guests lean slightly dressy for evenings.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is doable but expect buzzier energy during prime time.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on time and party size.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated quickly or with minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several pastas and starters can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited, but some dishes may be adaptable with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free accommodations are available on select dishes; ask your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the space feels polished and lively without being stuffy, making it a comfortable pick for a casual-but-special first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — but waits are common on weekend evenings. The bar is a solid fallback for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens will be fine here, but the vibe leans more adult — best for families with kids who can handle a busier dining room.
Best For
Better for: Fresh pasta, a polished-but-fun atmosphere, and cocktails in a neighborhood setting rather than a formal downtown restaurant.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional red-sauce classics, very quiet dining rooms, or a fully vegan/gluten-free menu.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 9pm
Wednesday5pm - 9pm
Thursday5pm - 9pm
Friday4:30pm - 10pm
Saturday4:30pm - 10pm
Sunday5pm - 9pm