Chicago’s River North neighborhood recently welcomed UMMO, a contemporary Italian restaurant from SOMOS Hospitality Group helmed by chef and partner José Sosa.
The 100-seat dining room and its younger sibling—an upstairs, lofted social lounge—are two distinct, yet interconnected experiences that share a philosophy of culture and artful living.
Both spaces were imagined and brought to life by Karen Herold of locally based Studio K. Taking cues from one of Herold’s favorite galleries in Milan, the open-layout dining room and intimate bar are awash in tones of sage, tan, and brown—a warm, neutral palette that was chosen to allow guests to add color and vibrancy to the space. Ombré herringbone flooring guides the eye toward a bustling open kitchen with a copper countertop.
Art plays a central role in UMMO, which features a curated collection—including vintage jazz prints from Italian music festivals, midcentury finds, and sculptures—sourced by gallerist Laura Rashid.
The shared staircase wall leading upstairs is constructed of glass, creating visual connection points between diners and those on the upper level.
UMMO’s upstairs area includes a communal area and a separate private dining area that’s able to accommodate up to 16 guests. Here, eclectic furniture arrangements, well-loved Persian rugs, enigmatic art pieces, and a retro back-lit wall installation create a cool, 1970s-inspired atmosphere.
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