Rosebud Restaurants is thrilled to announce this Summer is coming up rose[bud]s,” marking the highly anticipated reopening of three iconic locations: The Rosebud on Taylor Street, Rosebud Naperville, and Carmine’s Chicago. Leading the celebration is the return of The Rosebud on Taylor Street, located at 1500 W. Taylor Street, Rosebud’s original location which is set to reopen in summer 2025.
After a brief hiatus, during which the space operated exclusively as a private event venue, the flagship restaurant is ready to welcome back the public, reclaiming its place as a cornerstone of Chicago’s Little Italy.
“This location is more than a restaurant—it’s a reflection of Chicago itself,” said Alex Dana, founder of Rosebud Restaurants. “We’re bringing back not only the food people love but also the atmosphere that makes them feel part of a community. It’s a celebration of the past and a testament to where Chicago and Rosebud are headed.”
Founded in 1976 by renowned restaurateur Alex Dana, The Rosebud quickly became synonymous with authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality. Originally named Bocciola della Rose (“bud of the rose”), the restaurant gained acclaim for its classic dishes like chicken parmesan, chicken vesuvio, veal piccata, and its famed baked ziti—once lauded by Tom Hanks as the best he’s ever had.
Over the decades, The Rosebud on Taylor Street evolved into a beloved gathering spot for both locals and celebrities, hosting the likes of Frank Sinatra, Robert De Niro, Oprah Winfrey, and even international dignitaries such as former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair. Its walls, adorned with photographs and memorabilia, tell stories of countless memorable evenings and illustrious guests.
At the heart of each Rosebud location lies a menu filled with cherished Italian-American classics that have delighted guests for generations. From The Rosebud on Taylor Street’s iconic dishes capture the soul of authentic, comforting Italian cuisine. Carmine’s Chicago and Rosebud Naperville will also bring back their signature specialties, promising a return to the hearty, flavorful meals that have made Rosebud Restaurants a beloved part of Chicago’s dining landscape.
The Rosebud on Taylor Street offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends vintage charm with timeless elegance, deeply rooted in Chicago’s Little Italy. Rich dark wood paneling and black-and-white photographs showcase decades of history, while plush leather booths and bar in what was once a 1800s macaroni factory create a setting steeped in tradition.
Further inside, a cozy dining room—once a family butcher shop—features wood panels, vintage lighting, and eclectic art pieces steeped in Chicago history, offering guests a hidden gem that feels both familiar and unique. The space on top of the upstairs event space, accommodates 130–150 guests with two distinct rooms: the front area includes booths for 16, a bar for 14, and additional seating for two to three, while the back dining room provides an intimate experience for around 105 guests.
While renovations are underway, loyal patrons of Rosebud on Taylor Street, Rosebud Naperville, and Carmine’s Chicago can look forward to unforgettable experiences when these beloved spaces reopen this summer. In the meantime, diners can continue to enjoy Rosebud classics at other Rosebud Restaurants throughout the Chicago area, suburbs, or Boca Raton.
