Zarella Is Coming to River North: Boka's New Pizzeria and Tavern Promises to Be the Neighborhood's Next Great Gathering Spot

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · March 17, 2026

Near North pizza lovers, get ready to mark your calendars. Boka Restaurant Group — the celebrated Chicago hospitality powerhouse — is set to open Zarella this spring at 531 N. Wells St., planting its latest flag right at the corner of Grand and Wells in the heart of River North.

The Italian-inspired concept brings together two of Boka's most acclaimed culinary talents: chef Chris Pandel (of Swift & Sons and Cira) and chef Lee Wolen (of Boka and Alla Vita). Together, they're crafting an ever-evolving menu of fresh salads, small bites, entrées, and both tavern-style and artisan pizzas. Specialty pies will include inventive combinations like spicy vodka with Calabrian chili and mozzarella, carbonara with pancetta, pecorino, and egg, and Italian sausage with giardiniera, oregano, and mozzarella — a lineup that signals serious, thoughtful cooking in an approachable neighborhood setting.

For Near North residents, Zarella looks poised to become a reliable community anchor — the kind of lively, welcoming spot perfect for date nights, family dinners, and everything in between. And with the beloved Taste of River North festival already on the summer calendar for July 17–18, 2026, the neighborhood's culinary momentum shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. Keep an eye on Boka Restaurant Group's channels for Zarella's official opening date — and start thinking about which pizza you're ordering first.

Sources:
1. https://www.modernluxury.com/new-best-restaurants-in-chicago/
2. https://chicagoevents.com/event/taste-of-river-north/