04/06/08

Great Italian in the heart of The Loop

by columthursday

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.

01/16/08

Best fried rav's & calamari!

by worldwidetravelconcierge

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!

• Pros: Friendly welcome, they remembered my name on second visit-delicious Italian fare.
• Cons: None

01/12/08

My trip to Chicago is not complete without a visit to Bella Rosa

by christoferkemp

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

12/05/07

Contemporary River North restaurant and gallery serves Italian eats in an intimate, low-lit storefront.

by Jennifer Olvera

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.