You already know 16 W Maple as the home to Merlo on Maple, one of Chicago’s most authentic Italian restaurants. Every time we open the doors for the evening, we count ourselves blessed to be able to serve patrons in such a beautiful space. We’ve said before that the building looks a little like a home in a time capsule, untouched by the changes around the rest of the city. But how far back does the Merlo on Maple building go?

As it turns out, all the way to the 1880s!

In 1884, Mrs. Catherine Price decided to build a home that would become 71 Maple Street. (At the turn of the 20th century, the address would switch to 16 West Maple Street) The home would have limestone walls, red terra cotta trim, and plenty of space in its three stories.

It’s believed … Read More »

Vince Vaughn, one of Chicago’s most beloved actors, sat down for a holiday meal at one of the city’s most beloved authentic Italian restaurants. It was a great pairing! Before he left, Chef Silvia got a photo with Mr. Vaughn, which we wanted to share with you here.

Are you looking for a private place to host a special occasion? Merlo on Maple is ready for you! Visit our Private Events page to learn more.

Chef Silvia recently cooked up a weekday stone crab ravioli special, much to the delight of that evening’s customers. If you couldn’t smell and taste the delicious Italian cuisine, we’ve got the next best thing: photos!

Ever wondered how Chef Silvia is able to replicate the authentic tastes of Bolognese Italian food in Chicago? You’re in luck! We were able to sneak our camera past her and get some shots of her process in creating the Weekend Special from October 2012: Timballo di Ravaggiuoli Vestiti. Before you continue, please be warned: Merlo on Maple will not replace the keyboard you broke after drooling on it.

Making Authentic Bolognese Italian Food in Chicago

It starts, like many classic Italian dishes, with the pasta. Silvia creates the foundation, a layer of homemade ricotta ravioli.

Next, she adds to the flavor with bietina, herbs and Parmigiano Reggiano. The ravioli are then layered along with thin slices of prosciutto, quail eggs, more Parmigiano Reggiano, and tender cheese and cream. All ingredients are at the peak of their freshness, of course.

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One of the best parts about working at Merlo on Maple is hosting private celebrations. Whether big or small, we feel blessed to be a part of a customer’s memorable evening. Recently, Illinois State Senator Bill Brady and his family created two memories in one, celebrating his daughter’s birthday and recent engagement together.

The striking family dined on some of the best and most authentic Italian food in Chicago. It was a real pleasure to serve them, and we hope they return soon. If the letter we received from Mrs. Brady is any indication, they just might!

“Thank you so much for sending this picture. I am so happy to have a permanent reminder of a wonderful evening at our favorite restaurant in Chicago.

Please pass on my thanks to Giampaolo.

Have a great day.

Nancy Brady”

Want to celebrate a special occasion … Read More »