I absolutely love intimate dining! Archive Lounge, an intimate Sicilian pizza and wine destination by Executive Chef Steve Chiappetti is located on the lofted, mezzanine level of Hotel EMC2. I got a chance to check them out and while EVERYTHING was delicious I have a few favorites:
- App: Fried Olives, Hot Shrimp, and the Arugula
- Pizza: The 4 Cheese and the Soprasato
- Dessert: Just get the whole cookie cart! LOL my favorite would have to the Brown Butter cake
Read on below for the full press release.
Located on the lofted, second level of Hotel EMC2 – overlooking the Albert’s vibrant dining room – Archive is a spirited extension of Chef Chiappetti’s expression of cuisine inspired by his Italian heritage, with a focus on house-made artisan pizzas, cicchetti (shareable snacks) and a boutique, all-Italian wine selection. Opening one year after he joined the property to reimagine the Albert’s culinary offerings, Archive Lounge debuted on Friday, February 9, 2024, coincidentally falling on National Pizza Day.
Suited for a range of occasions, the casual, 40-seat Archive Lounge is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed meetup after the workday, or a pre- or post-evening night on the town. It can also stand alone as a local dinner spot for those who wish to make pizza the main event. In developing the concept, Chef Chiappetti had a vision of bringing one of his favorite pizza styles to life while also utilizing Hotel EMC2’s airy loft in a new way.
“Pizza has always been a staple, but the trend seems to have really exploded in Chicago. I grew up making Sicilian-style pizza with my family so focusing on this niche feels right. It is really unique, and so enjoyable for me as a chef,” said Chef Chiappetti. “Called sfincione, which loosely translates as “thick sponge”, Sicilian pizza has a fluffy, spongy bread base that really absorbs sauces and toppings unlike any other style. It is made in a rectangular shape, which is best suited to this type of crust.”
Snacks include delightful bites such as Sicilian Fried Olives with orange, rosemary and chili oil ($10); Salsiccia & Peppers, featuring roasted fennel sausage, sweet peppers and amatriciana sauce ($14); Hot Shrimp with Calabrian chili and herb focaccia crumbs ($12); and Arugula Salad tossed with asiago cheese, red onion and torn focaccia ($12). Pizzas are made championing the Sicilian method and include rectangular-shaped pies – ideal for sharing – with a variety of toppings. Six selections rotate seasonally and include 14-inch varieties.
And for dessert? The Cookie Cart is a carefree option, with freshly baked cookies, merengue and candies on offer via a roving trolley (4 for $12), while one can never go wrong with Tiramisu ($14). For true decadence, the 2nd Level is the ideal choice, featuring a 5-layer chocolate cake with whipped cream ($15). Cart – 4 for 12
A well-edited wine list includes one dozen white, red and rosé varietals by boutique producers found throughout Italy’s vibrant wine-making regions. All are available by the bottle or as 3, 6 or 9-oz pours.
Archive Lounge is open daily from 4 to 10 p.m. available on a first come basis. For more information, visit archivelounge.com or call (312) 471-3883.
