Unearth The Voyage
Looking for that reliable Chicago refuge where comfort food tastes like a warm hug after a long day? Miss Ricky’s in the Virgin Hotels Chicago has locals whispering to friends and coworkers about their latest pasta crush and that perfect slice of pizza. The vibe feels casual yet polished, ideal for a quick solo plate or a celebratory table that lingers over dessert. If you crave familiar flavors with a smart modern twist, this spot will hook you from first bite to last spoonful of tiramisu.
1. House-Made Pasta Magic
Miss Ricky’s has built a quiet legend around pasta, and it starts with the texture. Al dente strands meet bright, balanced sauces that favor freshness over flash. The pasta pomodoro delivers ripe tomato sweetness with a hint of herbal lift, while salmon pasta adds buttery richness that never feels heavy. Risotto with shrimp arrives creamy and precise, each grain distinct. It is the kind of comfort food that respects technique and keeps you reaching for one more forkful. Locals say it is the place to surprise visiting friends who expect basic hotel fare. They leave impressed and planning a return. Pair with a tart mocktail or a crisp Prosecco and you have the kind of dinner that makes a weeknight feel like an occasion.
2. Oven-Baked Lasagna That Sparks Joy
The oven-baked lasagna at Miss Ricky’s inspires repeat orders and happy table debates. It arrives bubbling, layered with a silky béchamel and a savory sauce that feels both light and deeply satisfying. Expect generous portions that still manage a refined balance of texture, with tender pasta sheets and a browned top that crackles slightly under the fork. Some guests say they did a little chair dance after the first bite, and that tracks. It is classic comfort reimagined for people who want flavor without the leaden finish. If you usually split entrées, brace yourself for plate-guarding. This dish anchors a meal yet welcomes a bright salad or focaccia on the side. It is the sort of lasagna you remember on the walk home.
3. Squid Ink Lobster Ravioli Special
Ask any superfan of Miss Ricky’s about a must-try plate and the squid ink lobster ravioli comes up fast. The black pasta contrasts beautifully with a glossy sauce, while the lobster filling is sweet and delicate. It is indulgent but carefully balanced, the kind of special you plan a visit around. Sit at the bar, strike up a conversation, and savor each pocket slowly. The kitchen aims for precision and delivers. If you want a pairing, a bright cocktail or a mineral white cuts through richness and lifts the seafood. On nights when you want a taste of celebration without a formal scene, this is your move. Availability can vary, so ask your server. When it is on, regulars make a beeline.
4. Crisp-Edged Pizza and Focaccia Fix
Miss Ricky’s keeps pizza lovers happy with crisp crusts, thoughtful toppings, and the kind of balance that lets each ingredient shine. The prosciutto option gets special praise, salty and delicate against a lively sauce. Add a basket of warm focaccia and you have an instant crowd pleaser. The dough work shows off a patience you can taste, from airy interiors to golden edges. It fits the late-night comfort brief perfectly, easy to share yet tempting to hoard. Order with a Caesar or grove salad for a refreshing counterpoint. It is a solid plan for happy hour, a quick bite at the bar, or a relaxed catch-up with friends. When you want casual satisfaction without compromise, this combo delivers every time.
5. Breakfast Classics with a Twist
Though known for dinner, Miss Ricky’s morning game can be surprisingly magnetic. The farmer’s breakfast nails the essentials with creamy scrambled eggs, crisp bacon, and well-seasoned potatoes. Regulars also buzz about a pistachio cinnamon roll during breakfast hours, a playful nod to pastry lovers who like a nutty crunch with their sweetness. The room feels sunny and inviting, ideal for easing into the day or fueling up before a Loop stroll. Prices stay approachable, and service keeps things moving without rushing you out. If you are the type who judges a kitchen by its eggs and potatoes, this lineup passes the test. Pair with a tart mocktail or strong coffee, then plan your return for lunch or dinner.
6. Mocktails, Cocktails, and Easy Pairings
Drinks at Miss Ricky’s are as considered as the food. Mocktails lean tart and refreshing, great for resetting your palate between rich bites of pasta or pizza. Cocktails show care behind the bar, with staff ready to tweak or remake if something is not your style. It is hospitality you can feel, especially when you are settling in for a long chat with friends. Prosecco plays well with Caesar salad and seafood pasta, while a herbal mocktail brightens lasagna’s cozy richness. The bar seating is limited but welcoming, which adds to the neighborhood feel. Whether you are off the clock or taking it easy before a show, this is an easy pairing destination that respects all preferences.
7. Service that Feels Personal
One reason locals keep Miss Ricky’s in their rotation is the service. Names like Jeremy, Omar, and Brookie pop up in praise, with thoughtful suggestions and genuine warmth. The team is happy to guide you through pastas or steer you to seasonal highlights, and they check back at the right moments. If something needs a tweak, they handle it quickly and kindly. That hospitality builds trust, which makes trying a new dish feel exciting instead of risky. It turns a simple meal into a mini ritual. When the room hums with conversation and plates land with a flourish, you feel taken care of. For a spot tied to a hotel, the experience feels remarkably neighborhood-driven and sincerely welcoming.
8. What to Know Before You Go
Miss Ricky’s sits inside Virgin Hotels Chicago at 203 N Wabash Ave, near the action of the Loop and an easy hop from the ‘L’. The price range sits around 20 to 30 dollars, with generous portions that feel like a smart value downtown. Hours favor daytime and brunchy starts, opening early and closing midafternoon, so plan accordingly if you crave pasta later. Reservations help on weekends and busy event nights. The room balances chic and cozy, making it a safe bet for dates, solo bites, or groups. Check the website for menu updates or specials. With a steady 4.1-star buzz and a loyal base of repeat diners, it is the Chicago comfort stop that earns a place on your short list.
