Caffe Baci

Chicago, United States

3.6

Open now

20 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards

Contacts

QR code, vCard

Telephone:
+1 312-629-2216
Website:
www.caffebaci.com
Address:
2 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL, 60602
b/t Madison St & Calhoun Pl
The Loop
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
260 ftWashington/Wells
330 ftLa Salle & Madison
620 ftClark & Madison
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Bussiness info

Takes Reservations
No
Delivery
Yes
Take-out
Yes
Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Good For
Lunch
Parking
Street
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Good for Kids
Yes
Good for Groups
Yes
Attire
Casual
Ambience
Casual
Noise Level
Average
Alcohol
No
Outdoor Seating
No
Wi-Fi
No
Has TV
No
Waiter Service
No
Caters
Yes

Today

Today 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Open now
Local time (Chicago) 1:46 PM Friday, November 29, 2024

Business hours

Monday 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday 6:30 am – 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday –
Sunday –

Description

Specialties

What sets us aside from other fast casual restaurants is our ability to provide high quality gourmet food at maximum speed. Our Executive Chef, Gimi Hamili (formerly head chef at La Spiagga in Rome), and his team of highly trained sous chefs take great effort in developing and preparing our special recipes.

Step into any one of our six locations for breakfast, lunch, a quick coffee or snack, or place a delivery order and you will see why Caffè Baci has been the choice of Chicagoans since 1992.

History

Established in 1992.

The Caffè Baci story begins with a sandwich. Funny, but true…

Caffè Baci’s proprietor, Joe «Jojo» DiCarlo, loves a perfectly crafted Italian sandwich. Jojo knew that Chicagoans would as well. So, almost 20 years ago, Jojo drew upon his experiences at his family’s restaurant and his many trips home to Italy and created what is now regarded as Caffè Baci’s signature sandwich, the «Jojo» — a combination of imported prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, marinated artichoke hearts, sweet basil and plum tomatoes, all of which are served on an Italian filone and drizzled with balsamic vinegar.

From this sandwich, the concept of Caffè Baci grew. With an expanded menu offering both authentic recipes and modern interpretations of Italian gourmet food, the choices abound.

Since Caffè Baci’s doors first opened on April 15, 1992, we have sought to build a legacy and reputation for excellence. All of us at Caffè Baci pride ourselves on exceeding our guests’ expectations time and time again.

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20 reviews of Caffe Baci

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Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
Came here today for the first time and got the Jojo Special. Can’t stop raving about how good it is! I am very impressed and will be coming back. No, it’s not cheap, but it’s fantastic food, large portions and it’s in the Loop, so really no surprise there.
Place rating: 5
Grayslake, IL
I am vegetarian and there are a lot of options. Pasta, Pizza, Sandwiches & Salad. I love it all and I have been a regular for almost 13 years.
I did at one point order the Eggplant Parmigiana almost every time I visited, but they discontinued it and I was very disappointed. I wrote to them, and they told me that they were not selling enough of it for it to be on the menu.
I hope they bring it back, regardless, I love everything they have there.
Place rating: 4
Morgan Park, Chicago, IL
I’ve been here twice now, once for breakfast when I got the breakfast burrito and coffee, and then for dinner when I did the pick 3 salad buffet, I will say it’s a bit pricey, but at least you get your money’s worth, as I was full each time, and everything definitely tasted good. Maybe not a regular stopping point, but I wouldn’t be opposed to returning
Place rating: 1
Northbrook, IL
I had high hopes for this place as they serve everything I love– salads, paninis, pizza, etc. BUT the prices were ridiculously high and the food was actually so terrible.
I decided to go with the Tuscan Kale salad and it was just terrible. Tasted like it should be a topping on a sandwich instead of a huge salad. Had a few bites then dumped it out. AND it was $ 9. Seriously? Probably costed them not even a dollar to make.
My friend had the panini and also did not enjoy it at all. she actually thought it was disgusting from the first bite. The sandwich was also $ 9. We both wish we could have gotten our money back.
Very disappointing and will not be back.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
I really like Caffe Baci as a lunch option. Yes, this location is always ridiculously busy (but of course, that’s always a good sign!), so I wouldn’t recommend dining-​in, but overall this is a great choice.
Their soups are always delicious, and the serving is pretty large for the price. They have specials on rotation… salmon, etc., but you can get almost anything you could imagine. Pizza, salads, sandwiches, soups, you name it, they have it. And it’s all delicious!
Place rating: 4
Northbrook, IL
Café Baci is pretty nice option for lunch with several locations in downtown Chicago. Not truly authentic Italian dishes, but rather high quality food, fast, efficient, and fairly priced. Like their soups, sandwiches, and trio of salads options.
Place rating: 3
Chicago, IL
For around 10 – 12 bucks, there’s some decent salads, sandwiches, personal pizzas, entrees that run the gamut from fish/​chicken with sides;pasta and change daily. The vision is generally better than the taste, which runs the gamut from lukewarm to pretty tasty; but a meal at Baci is never a bad meal. The breakfast sandwiches are quite good, but pricey at around $ 8 – 9. Most of the sides and snacks are a complete rip-​off, of which Caffe Baci is certainly not alone. While the gelato looks like the real Venice/​Florence/​Rome McCoy — luscious and the flavors tempting, I wouldn’t bother. Baci’s tastes the same as mediocre American ice cream of the Edy’s or any grocery store variety.
Place rating: 3
Elk Grove Village, IL
this review is for their catering department… i have been using for the last 10 years — roughly 15 – 30 events per year for my downtown chicago meetings… there were times when they are not that dependable (mostly when there are staff turnovers)…the main food is good and fresh… we normally have the burritos for the breakfast and fajita bar type sterno buffet for lunch for the main items along with other side dishes and fruits… their desserts are not so good and small in quantity so make sure you increase this (typically 3x more per person)…the cost is very reasonable and competitive… that is the main reason i am still using them…
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
Caffe Baci is a fine little lunch spot. I appreciate the large selection: sandwiches, pizzas, salads, pasta, and fish/​chicken entrees.
The counter spans a good length but you just walk up to whichever section you’d like to order from (e.g. sandwiches, salad, pizza, soups, etc.).
They have a great duo or trio salad in which you can select from t wo or three selections of any veggies, caprese, quinoa, pastas, tuna salad, chicken salad, etc. It’s fantastic.
They have chips, drinks, cookies, brownies, and a gelato/​coffee bar. Lots of indoor seating.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
So… I’ve worked across the street from this place for months, and only in the past two weeks have I been bold enough to actually step inside and try it.
Right off the bat, I like the interior, very bright. There’s never been a rush, which means grabbing lunch has never taken more than a few minutes. Awesome. They have salads, pizza, sandwiches, etc. but I’ve only tried their entrees which usually consist of a chicken or fish dish complemented with rice/​pasta and veggies. So far, I’ve had their Salmon and Tilapia– both were fresh, cooked perfectly. Basmati and Saffron rice is always flavorful and their veggies, seasoned well and surprisingly filling. I would say the portions are just right, and I’ve never had a less than stellar meal.
Only reason I can’t give it 5 stars is because of the price. Averages $ 12 – 14 bucks, which for fast food lunch, ist kinda pricey. But overall, Caffe Baci is pretty dope.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
Café Baci is my lunch go to for tre ensalad… Albacore tuna is great, chicken salad, and Baci pasta salad are my go too. Also recommend their sweet balsamic dressing it’s the Best! My coworkers love their cookies.
As others mentioned don’t be worried by the long line it moved fast. The staff is always friendly.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
I’ve been going to Café Baci the last four years now. Not a place I frequent a lot, but it’s one of those places when I do go I wonder why I don’t go more often. I use to go here more frequently for breakfast and get the country omelet, burrito, or waffles. All were good. For lunch I enjoy the Roma pizza (spicy Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, caramelized onions) and I love the Salmon. I actually had the Salmon yesterday and it comes with red rice and steamed vegetables. A pretty filling meal. My friend opted for the pasta (can’t remember which one it was), but he said it was good. I find the meals to be a little on the pricey side, but for the quality of food and the location it’s not too bad.
I was good, but they do have desserts… hmm…should of gotten a cookie too. Oh well next time.
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
A great place if you’re looking for the on the go lunch! I work in the loop so I’m always looking for something quick to bring back to the office to eat. They have a great variety of lunch items to pick from. Paninis, Wraps, Salads, Soups, and more! What makes this place great is the option to pick your perfect meal. (like many other cafes) If you want to sample more for lunch, you can choose between either a bowl of soup and half sandwich, half sandwich, and a salad, or a salad and a bowl of soup.
I go straight for the Tre Insalate where I am able to mix and match any 3 of Café Baci’s salads. It also comes with a slice of bread, all for $ 8.99! The combinations are endless as they have around 18 different types of salads. Have fun and enjoy. I never get the same thing every time, which makes this place all the more refreshing.
Place rating: 3
Ballwin, MO
Fast. Good. Crowded. Clean. It was my first experience in the city for lunch in many, many years. I love a bustling place. it tends to mean it is good and this was.
I was a bit confused when I walked in. There was apparently a long counter where you could order various things but there didn’t seem to be rhyme or reason to how the folks in the various LINES at the counter were lined up.
After going just up to the counter and asking for help I was told there was a line for salads, one for hot plates, one for sandwiches, and so on. He then asked me what I would like. I quickly grabbed a menu and got a wrap named after the place.
I then wandered down to the sides and got some veggies.
There was no line to check or at the soda fountain. All the seating places were constantly being cleaned and maintained. There was plenty of seating though this was lunchtime.
Want to get a weird look? If by yourself, like I was, and sit at one of the long tables with a group. They all stopped and watched me sit. I said «hi» sat and began to eat. They then went back to their group chatter.
The inside of the wrap was OK. The wrap itself was a bit dry. Also the steamed veggies must have been cold steamed for they were COLD and crunchy. Not a bad thing if you like them that way (I do) but not what I expected when I ordered steamed veggies.
Someone at the end came and took my tray, I refilled my soda, then headed out. Great place to people watch as well.
Place rating: 3
Sycamore, IL
I happened on this place searching for another place but I couldn’t find it. I was in the mood for Italian food, so this place fit the bill. I had the gnocci, and it was just OK. The place is huge inside, but seems to be little more than generic Italian. It kind of felt like a lunch line, taking my tray, ordering, getting my pasta, then moving my tray down the track.
Salads looked good, as did the salmon, but the salmon noodles looked really oily.
You go down the food line, and pay, then find yourself at the far end of the building, opposite of the door, with only 2 isles between chairs and tables to walk through to get out. It’s kind of an annoying design if you aren’t staying there to eat. They had a few tables outside with umbrellas, so on those nice days it’s a nice option.
Price wise, it wasn’t bad, but the food wasn’t really amazing either, so the price seemed to fit.
As a side note, it seemed like there were a lot of cute girls that come there. I would say a good 1⁄3 of the place was attractive girls (the patrons).
Good place, OK food, and I’d probably head back if I was in the area, but there has to be a really WOW kind of Italian place around here somewhere!
Place rating: 4
Chicago, IL
Tuesday 1pm lunch at Caffe Baci is crowded but service is quick and efficient!
Four of us shared a chili bowl, Roma pizza, and two Havana Panini sandwiches. The chili was very cheesy and meaty. It was less of a soup and it definitely fills. The Panini sandwiches were a bit slim but I’m not difficult when it comes to perfectly toasted bread paired with healthy deli meat and pickle. The pizza was an approximate 8 inch and piled with sausage, pepperoni, caramelized onions, and mozzarella. Ingredients aren’t as rich but it’s an inexpensive price for a quick pizza fix.
Would definitely frequent Caffe Baci and also save room for gelato which is conveniently found on the side of the lunch entrees.
Place rating: 5
Chicago, IL
Trying out the Chicken Pillard
I asked someone sitting at the table next to me what was good in here and oddly enough it was another employee on their lunch (Sorry!) But she did recommend the Chicken PIllard and shortly afterwards I was in a lethargic state. It was really good… as was teh gelato afterwards.
It’s a pretty big place with a line you go through and you tell the servers what you want and you hava a decent amount of choices. Plenty places to sit and the atmosphere was friendly… it felt more like a resturaunt than a café.
Place rating: 3
Chicago, IL
Facts:
A Lovely Loop Lunch (triple «L“s? Is that better than triple «D“‘s?) is hard to find. Another fact, four leaf clovers are easy to find for me… I have a preternatural instinct finding irregularities.
This seems to be a lunch time hit but it’s just ok. I don’t like the mess hall cafeteria style of the layout. I had it picked up for me. I ordered:
Tre Insalante
With Antipasto-​genoa salami, Asiago Cheese, and marinated vegetables. Caprese– Fresh Mozzerella, plum tomatoes, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. Couscous– traditional curried couscous. All on bed of romaine with country bread.
A bit bland. It could’ve used more basil. The couscous was smaller size bits than I was used to. I prefer the Isreali and Iraqi preparations of the dish which are much more flavorful and playful.
Chicken Rice soup.
Again bland! But not too salty and lots of meat.
I don’t recall the bread. Since I have photogentic memory I assume it was mundane.
So. Ok lunch spot but didnt rock my sox.
One last fact… salad made of four leaf clovers would taste bad and not cause leprechaun to lead you to pot gold. But can that petite scamp direct to a good triple «L» (Lovely Loop Lunch? Making up slang is fun. Or stupid. These days it’s the same thing). Also, can he be tall and hot and pay for it? Now THAT would be lucky!
Place rating: 3
Wauwatosa, WI
Other reviewers are right, Café Baci reminds me of Panera. I had a chicken wrap with avocados, lettuce and something described as «Tuscan Ranch Dressing». The wrap was pretty good — there was a ton of chicken and the avocados were fresh and not brown. There wasn’t any dressing, ranch, Tuscan or otherwise that I could discern but that was ok, I didn’t really want it anyway.
I also had a side of fruit, and that was pretty bad — the fruit didn’t taste fresh at all. The melon was kind of slimy — yech.
It’s an «ok» place for lunch if you’re in the area. They also do lots of catering/​box lunches for local companies.
Place rating: 1
Chicago, IL
Yuck.