Bella Rosa Ristorante and Galleria
(312) 527-2100
23 W Hubbard St
(at State Street)
Chicago,
IL
60610
41.89
-87.629
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, Central
Hours:
Mon-Tue 11am-11pm
Wed 11am-1:30pm
Thu-Sat 11am-3:30am
Price:
$$$$
Parking:
Street
Last updated 1.30.09
What People Are Saying About Bella Rosa Ristorante and Galleria
The Editor
Jennifer Olvera
Citysearch
The Scene
Colorful, surrealist artwork-courtesy of the owner-adorns the brick walls of this narrow, quiet trattoria. To the left, a vintage Art Deco bar gently illuminates sports-tuned flat-screens. A handful of candlelit tables to the right may or may not fill with diners; regardless, Rat Pack tunes keep the spirit light. Service, although well intentioned, could be more knowledgeable and attentive.
The Food
Italian classics--some with interesting takes--populate the large menu. A mound of puffy, fried gnocchi arrive with warm parsley and garlic-zapped olive oil for dipping. A mixed green salad sports sprightly balsamic vinaigrette, yet super-garlicky margherita pizza and prosciutto-wrapped filet with grape-brandy sauce lack oomph. Crisp-skinned, pepper and tomato-draped chicken Bella Rosa is a standout, gushing with wilted spinach and artichokes when cut. Creamy farfalle studded with sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts and portobellos is as richly caloric as the weightless, cocoa-dusted tiramisu.
Hits
The art on the walls is for sale. Alongside each piece is a card that explains the artist's intention.
Misses
Not everything arrives as described. Pasta was missing its Gorgonzola cheese, and a cocktail lacked its sparkling wine.
User Reviews
columthursday
April 06, 2008
After being snubbed by Andy's Jazz Club and angered over their crummy service, my wife and I were lured into Bella Rosa by a chalk board sidewalk sign reading "$7.00 Martinis!" For a later dinner on a Saturday night, I was surprised that there was no wait at all. We sat at the bar and ordered our drinks. The staff is friendly and attentive; the hosts, hostesses, waitstaff, and bussers each said "Welcome to Bella Rosa" as they passed by. What a great way to make you feel welcome! The dinner menu is a simple, one page authentic Italian - exactly what you'd expect to see. We ordered a margherita pizza and a few more libations before leaving a few hours later.
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worldwidetravelconcierge
January 16, 2008
I went for a networking reception and was totally impressed with friendly welcome, great food and spotless interior. It is very romantic with soft popular songs from the past and the staff was great. I went back the next week and the total package was still in effect (Their sauces tasted fresh from the garden and the taramisu was light and delicious, the best I have had) and I will continue to stuff myself there at least once a week. I want everyone there to know my name!
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christoferkemp
January 12, 2008
I come to Chicago a few times per year and my trip is not complete without a visit to Bella Rosa. (trip #1)I had the pleasure of discovering this gem when searching for a place to host a party after the marathon. The atmosphere was inviting, the service was gracious and the food was excellent (trip #2) Marathon weekend:The meal was the highlight of Sunday and helped many get over the marathon itsself. (trip #3) Returned with a party of nine (my boss among them) with the same result: greeted as friends and fed like family. For me they are 3 for 3 and I will be back for #4
read full reviewThe Details on Bella Rosa Ristorante and Galleria
Know Before You Go:
Not everything on the menu is available for delivery. The restaurant's take-home menu uses a "rose" symbol to denote those that are.
The Extras:
On Friday and Saturday nights from 11am-3am, the restaurant serves slices of cheese, sausage or pepperoni pizza from a truck parked out front.
Parking:
Although the restaurant doesn't have its own valet parking, diners can use the service at Rockit Bar & Grill across the street.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Family-Friendly Dining, Late Night Dining, Romantic Dining, Fine Dining, People Watching, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Dine At The Bar, Notable Wine List
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
