Bar Sotto

A New Era With Bar Sotto

In a city as steeped in history as Chicago, few restaurants can claim the kind of legacy The Village holds. For nearly a century, the Capitanini family has shaped Italian-American dining in the heart of downtown, evolving across generations while remaining a cornerstone of the culinary scene. As the family embarked on a new chapter with Bar Sotto and Sotto, they turned to Dunne Kozlowski to bring their vision to life, which honored the past while making space for the future.

With expertise spanning architecture, interior design, procurement, and construction administration, Dunne Kozlowski approached this project as more than just a redesign. It was an opportunity to tell a story, layer by layer, through thoughtful materiality, curated artistry, and a deep respect for the space’s evolving identity.

A Balancing Act

Preserving the Past, Embracing the Present

Rather than erasing history, the design team leaned into it. The goal was to create an environment that felt like it had always been there—lived-in, layered, and rich with stories—while ensuring it resonated with today’s patron. Exposing original brick and steel elements allowed the space’s historical bones to shine. At the same time, modern touches introduced a sense of refinement and intentionality.

Stepping into the entrance of the reimagined Bar Sotto, guests are transported into a timeless Italian plaza, where intimate lighting and warm textures evoke the charm of an old-world neighborhood. The bar area of Bar Sotto takes inspiration from classic dive bars, offering a relaxed, familiar, and effortlessly cool atmosphere.

An Authentic Collaboration

Executing a project of this depth required more than just great design—it demanded the right partnerships. Dunne Kozlowski leveraged their extensive vendor network to bring the vision to life, collaborating with muralists, millworkers, and artisans who understood the importance of craftsmanship in storytelling.

The Power of a Trusted Vendor Network

Custom furniture and millwork were crafted to echo the character of a traditional Italian establishment. At the same time, carefully selected wall coverings were installed with layered and textured techniques to evoke a sense of history. Even the installation of existing stained glass elements was approached with the utmost care, ensuring that nothing felt out of place in the newly refreshed space.

This meticulous attention to detail extended to every aspect of Bar Sotto, down to the finishing touches of signage, lighting, and material selections. Rather than opting for off-the-shelf solutions, each component was tailored to fit seamlessly within the broader narrative.