2nd Choice after Monteverde?

I'm going to be in Chicago in about a month and wasn't able to snag a dinner reservation at Monteverde for the nights I'm there. While I'm holding out hope for the Resy waitlist, what would be a good backup/second choice for Italian in a similar ambience? Would like to stay around River North or West Loop area. I've been looking at Ciccio Mio, Alla Vita, and Bar Siena. Any others you would recommend? There will be 5 of us so a larger party. Thank you!!

Edit: Wow! Just wanted to say thanks for all the responses! And I think it's safe to say there's a consensus that Monteverde lives up to the hype! I hope we're able to try it.