Francesca's On Chestnut

Holding an event at Francesca's on Chestnut starts with choosing the Wine Cellar or the Mezzanine and a family-style, plated or reception menu with the location's event planner. A deposit and signed agreement hold the date, menu choices are due 15 days out and the final count 7 business days out. On the day, the host can usually arrive up to an hour early to set up.

Vibe

A classic Italian trattoria that Time Out says feels emblematic of old-world Chicago, suited to seated dinners and relaxed receptions.

Space layout

A 150-seat restaurant with two event spaces. The Wine Cellar holds up to 80 guests seated or standing and works as a private or semi-private room. The Mezzanine holds up to 50 guests seated or standing.

Private events

Book either the Wine Cellar or the Mezzanine through the location's event planner. Each room carries a food and drink minimum that varies, plus a service charge. A deposit and a signed event agreement confirm the booking. Menu selections are due 15 days before the event, dietary needs 10 days before and the final guest count 7 business days before. Friday and Saturday evening plated events, or plated groups over 30, should check with the event sales manager.

Food & drinks

Family-style menus are for 10 or more guests, chosen by the host in advance and served on large platters. Plated menus suit groups up to 30. The reception menu is build-your-own, with hot and cold bites, skewers and sliders. Packages include bread, soft drinks, tea and Lavazza coffee. Bar options are two- or three-hour packages (wine and beer, house, premium or super-premium spirits, or zero proof), a host bar, a limited host bar or a cash bar; a bartender fee applies. Gluten-free pasta and vegan options are available.

Group size

Family-style menus start at 10 guests and plated menus go up to 30. The Mezzanine takes up to 50 and the Wine Cellar up to 80. The events page lists groups of 10 to 140.

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Good for: birthday, corporate dinner venue, dinner party, happy hour

• A service charge applies to group dining and is paid to staff.
• Beverage packages are charged for every guest 21 and older; valid ID is required.
• No outside food or drink, except a dessert from a commercial bakery arranged in advance.
• Decorations are allowed, but no confetti or glitter and nothing fixed to walls, ceilings, floors or fixtures.
• Specialty linens and AV equipment can be rented through a third-party vendor.
• Ask the event sales manager whether the chosen room is wheelchair accessible.
• Hosts can usually arrive up to 1 hour early to set up, depending on earlier bookings.