When it comes to choosing the perfect venue for your wedding, you want a place that exudes charm, elegance, and unforgettable style. Located in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood, Francesca’s On Chestnut offers just that. With its intimate ambiance, exceptional service, and beautiful setting, this Italian-inspired restaurant is the perfect place to host a wedding that feels as special as the love you’re celebrating.

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that combines the best of classic sophistication with modern flair, Francesca’s On Chestnut could be exactly what you need. Here’s everything you need to know about hosting a wedding at this charming venue.

Why Choose Francesca’s On Chestnut for Your Wedding?


1. Italian-Inspired Elegance

Francesca’s On Chestnut offers a unique blend of traditional Italian elegance and modern sensibility. The venue’s stunning design, complete with rustic wooden beams, elegant chandeliers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, creates a romantic backdrop for your wedding day. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, the space is perfect for creating a memorable and elegant event.


2. Delicious Italian Cuisine

One of the highlights of Francesca’s On Chestnut is its exceptional Italian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its mouthwatering dishes, from fresh pasta and seafood to indulgent desserts. The catering team offers a variety of menu options, including plated dinners, buffet-style service, and passed hors d'oeuvres, allowing you to customize your dining experience to fit your wedding style.

If you're a couple that loves food (who isn’t?), having a wedding at Francesca’s means your guests will be treated to an unforgettable meal that enhances the overall experience.


3. Intimate Atmosphere with Flexible Space

Francesca’s On Chestnut offers a flexible layout that can accommodate both small, intimate weddings and larger celebrations. With its capacity to host up to 150 guests, the restaurant provides an intimate setting that’s perfect for couples looking for a venue with character and warmth. The restaurant’s charm extends beyond the food and décor; the service is personalized, ensuring that every detail of your wedding day is handled with care and professionalism.


4. Excellent Service

The team at Francesca’s On Chestnut is dedicated to providing impeccable service, ensuring your wedding day goes off without a hitch. From the moment you book the venue to the final toast, the staff works closely with you to ensure everything runs smoothly. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence means you can relax and enjoy your day, knowing that you’re in good hands.


5. Beautiful Location

Located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, Francesca’s On Chestnut offers easy access to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including Lake Michigan, the Magnificent Mile, and historic neighborhoods. After your wedding, you and your guests can take a stroll through the charming streets or enjoy the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago, making your wedding experience even more memorable.

What to Expect on Your Wedding Day at Francesca’s On Chestnut


The Ceremony

While Francesca’s On Chestnut is primarily a restaurant, many couples opt to have their ceremony in the restaurant’s lovely dining area, which is elegantly set up for nuptials. If your guest count is on the smaller side, the venue can also accommodate outdoor ceremonies or offer recommendations for nearby venues for larger ceremonies.

The intimate setting of Francesca’s, combined with its beautiful lighting and décor, ensures that your ceremony will feel special and personal. The restaurant can assist in arranging a professional officiant to ensure your vows are perfectly executed.


The Reception

After exchanging vows, your reception will flow effortlessly into the next chapter of your celebration. Francesca’s On Chestnut offers a variety of dining options, from plated dinners to family-style meals, ensuring your guests enjoy a flavorful, delicious experience. The restaurant’s charming atmosphere makes it feel like a private, exclusive event, with personalized touches that reflect your wedding style.

The venue’s elegant space is ideal for dancing, toasts, and cake cutting, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere for your reception. Whether you prefer a DJ, live band, or a more low-key atmosphere with a curated playlist, Francesca’s On Chestnut offers the perfect space for celebration.


The Decor

Francesca’s On Chestnut already boasts beautiful rustic decor, featuring exposed wooden beams, soft lighting, and tasteful touches that create a cozy yet upscale environment. However, there is always room to add your personal touch. From floral arrangements to custom table settings and lighting, you can customize the venue to reflect your style.

For couples who want to bring in unique decorations or special elements, the venue allows flexibility in styling your wedding, with the restaurant staff offering helpful suggestions and recommendations.

Steps to Book Your Wedding at Francesca’s On Chestnut


Reach Out to the Team

Contact Francesca’s On Chestnut early to discuss availability and pricing. The team can walk you through the booking process and offer tailored advice based on your wedding style.


Choose Your Menu

Francesca’s offers a variety of menu options, from hors d'oeuvres to multi-course dinners. You’ll work closely with the restaurant’s catering team to choose a menu that aligns with your taste and your guests’ preferences.


Finalize Your Event Details

Once the menu and date are set, you’ll work with Francesca’s event coordinators to finalize all the logistics. They’ll help with the timeline, seating arrangements, and any additional details you’d like to include in your celebration.


Celebrate Your Wedding Day

On your wedding day, all you need to do is show up and enjoy. The Francesca’s team will handle the rest, ensuring that everything runs smoothly so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love!

Final Thoughts: A Wedding at Francesca’s On Chestnut


A wedding at Francesca’s On Chestnut combines the charm of a beautifully designed venue with delicious Italian cuisine and exceptional service. Whether you're looking for an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, this venue offers everything you need to make your wedding day unforgettable. The team at Francesca’s ensures that every detail is handled with care, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day.

If you're dreaming of a wedding filled with romance, warmth, and delicious food in one of Chicago’s most picturesque neighborhoods, Francesca’s On Chestnut is the ideal place to celebrate your love.

Francesca’s On Chestnut

FAQ

What makes Francesca’s On Chestnut a great wedding venue?

Francesca’s On Chestnut offers an elegant, Italian-inspired atmosphere with delicious cuisine and exceptional service. Its intimate setting makes it ideal for couples seeking a cozy yet upscale venue.

How many guests can Francesca’s On Chestnut accommodate?

The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests, making it perfect for both small and medium-sized weddings.

What type of cuisine does Francesca’s offer for weddings?

Francesca’s is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, including fresh pasta, seafood, and decadent desserts. You can customize the menu to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Can we have both the ceremony and reception at Francesca’s On Chestnut?

Yes! Francesca’s can host both your ceremony and reception. The restaurant provides a charming setting for a ceremony, followed by a beautiful reception with a delicious Italian meal.

Do we need to decorate the venue ourselves?

While Francesca’s already has beautiful rustic decor, you’re welcome to add personal touches to make the space your own. Floral arrangements, candles, and custom table settings are all ways to personalize the venue.

Is parking available for guests?

Francesca’s On Chestnut is located in the Gold Coast area of Chicago, with nearby parking options including street parking and valet services.

Can we bring in our own wedding cake?

Yes, you can bring in your own wedding cake. Alternatively, Francesca’s offers a variety of dessert options if you prefer to have them provide the cake.

Is there a wedding coordinator at Francesca’s?

Yes, Francesca’s provides an event coordinator to help plan your wedding day. They will assist with details like menu selection, timing, and event logistics to ensure your big day runs smoothly.

How far in advance should I book Francesca’s On Chestnut?

It’s best to book at least 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular wedding dates. This allows enough time to coordinate all the details and secure your desired date.

What makes Francesca’s different from other wedding venues?

The combination of personalized service, incredible Italian cuisine, and a charming, intimate atmosphere sets Francesca’s On Chestnut apart. The venue offers a unique, warm, and stylish environment for your special day.

A couple shares their first kiss during an intimate wedding ceremony in a rustic brick-walled venue with floral arrangements.
Elegant wedding table setting with peach and white floral centerpiece in mason jar and glowing votive candle.
Classic stone building entrance with black awnings and white planters along a curved sidewalk.
Elegant dinner gathering in a rustic wine cellar with vaulted brick ceilings and ambient lighting.
People engaged in conversation at an indoor gathering with exposed brick walls and warm lighting.
A warm embrace shared between guests at a gathering in a rustic brick-walled venue.
Three people standing in front of white stone building with architectural details and sunlight.
Couple posing together at a rustic venue with exposed brick wall.
An intimate wedding ceremony takes place in a rustic brick-walled basement venue with warm lighting and autumn decor.
A couple in wedding attire share a romantic moment outside a building in dramatic lighting.
Romantic wedding reception in rustic cellar venue with exposed stone walls and overhead lighting.
A black and white photograph of an intimate wedding ceremony in a rustic brick-walled venue with floral arrangements.
Wedding ceremony taking place in rustic brick-walled venue with orange floral decorations.
Wedding seating chart displayed on stone wall with floral decorations and white tablecloth in foreground.
A black awning extends over the entrance of a luxury apartment building with white brick facade and ornate balconies.

Ready to Make Your Wedding Dreams a Reality?


Let Albany Capture LLC be your trusted Chicago wedding photographer. Reach out now and let's start turning your once-in-a-lifetime moments into forever memories!