Classic risotto — where in Chicago?

I have fond memories of risotto from some time I spent in Italy, and I'm hoping to learn to make a good one myself. But first I'd like to try a few professional efforts here in Chicago, to refresh my memory and (hopefully) inspire me. A classic risotto alla milanese would be great, but I'm open to other flavors, seafood or otherwise. Can anyone recommend a good place to go? Specifically, is there anywhere that consistently gets the texture right, so it's creamy but each grain of rice still has some individual solidity to it?

Thanks.

La Piazza, Forest Park (corner of Circle and Madison). Chef Gaetano has a great touch for risotto.

It's a bit more ingredient-studded than the classic risotto alla milenese, but I've enjoyed the risotto offering at Timo very much. I've only been there once, but the risotto was the highlight of the meal. If I recall correctly, I believe it was a sausage and asparagus risotto, topped with arugula. Perfect creamy-yet-not-mushy texture, flavors were in perfect balance. I should have just skipped the so-so entree and ordered another bowl of this stuff. (Risotto is available in both appetizer and entree portions--I had it as an appetizer. I believe they usually have two different risottos on the menu at any given time.)

Timo
464 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 226-4300

The lobster risotto at Sweets & Savories is perfect.

Sweets & Savories
1534 W Fullerton
Chicago 60614
773-281-6778
http://www.sweetsandsavorieschicago.com/

When I think of a classic risotto I think about eating outside at Bice. The Risotto Milanese and a risotto of the day are still on the menu. Very nice.

BICE
158 E Ontario
Chicago, IL 60611

chef tony montuano and his staff at spiaggia make a wonderful risotto.shaved truffles anyone?

spiaggia
980 n. mich ave.
corner of oak and michigan

Thanks for the advice!

Binko wrote: ...I've enjoyed the risotto offering at Timo very much... (Risotto is available in both appetizer and entree portions--I had it as an appetizer. I believe they usually have two different risottos on the menu at any given time.)

Timo
464 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 226-4300

I'll second that emotion. Timo and Spiaggia are probably the two most memorable risottos I've sampled in the Chicago area.

Socca, at Clark and Aldine in Lakeview, makes a fantastic risotto with rabbit.