But where did the name and concept for Cocello (pronounced “co-chell-o”) come from?!
“(It’s a) long story that involves a reckless trip through the Mediterranean in my 20s with warm weather, lots of cheap wine and friends,” reveals Sodikoff. “I’d like to stress though that our focus has evolved a bit and we’re all about good wine these days.”
He also wants to stress that Cocello is not Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf 2.0. That’s his super-successful French steakhouse that’s located only a few blocks away from Cocello.
“This is boutique Italian with great drinks, hand-made pasta and smaller cuts of prime meats and fish,” he continues. “(Also expect) lots of Italian wine and Amaro-based cocktails. It’ll be very traditional with a touch of old Chicago, but no red sauce.”