Bruno Abate will offer tasty Italian dishes like this calamarata pomodoro e basilico at Tocco, opening this fall in Winnetka.

Stepping onto Chestnut Court in Winnetka this fall will have one wondering if they stepped into Europe, says chef Bruno Abate of his new Italian hot spot, Tocco, opening in October. Born on the Amalfi Coast and raised in Milan, Abate says his cooking “embraces the traditions of Northern and Southern Italy. I have a love of simple Italian food and the finest ingredients.” After amassing a devoted following the last 11 years in its Wicker Park location, Tocco is moving north to serve favorite dishes like spaghetti rustici and pappardelle alla norcina, alongside the finest vegetables, seafood and meats. Sourcing the majority of ingredients from Italy, including flour, Abate cooks with his signature pure silver pans, which allow dishes to be cooked slowly over low heat, creating a flavor infusion that will keep you returning time and again. Out of a side window, baked goods such as panini, pizza and breads will be sold from 11am until the restaurant closes—creating the new perfect spot to grab picnic provisions before heading to Dwyer Park a block away. Or treat yourself to a bird’s-eye view of his “no fusion, no confusion” cooking from the exclusive chef’s table in the kitchen. 507 Chestnut St., Winnetka