Sometimes we’re willing to wait for a date with Mia (Francesca) or Rose (Angelis)–other times we just want to slip into someplace a little more comfortable. Here are some worthy contenders among Chicago’s almost absurd abundance of cozy neighborhood Italian spots.
Bruna’s Ristorante
Old-guard doesn’t begin to describe this Heart of Italy favorite (opened in 1933), where stalwart servers bear overflowing portions of the signature veal scaloppine, chicken Vesuvio, zuppa di pesce and traditional pasta dishes. 2424 S. Oakley Ave. 773-254-5550.
La Mora
Come on in, it’s warm inside (and not just because of the fireplace). This inviting spot mixes it up with straightforward Italian dishes (veal Marsala, spaghetti carbonara) and eclectic eats like shrimp with Greek garlic sauce and mahi mahi with black bean-mango relish. Rest a while in the loungy back room with plush furniture. 2132 W. Roscoe St. 773-404-4555.
La Scarola
They’re not afraid to serve spaghetti and meatballs at this crowded, noisy River West hideaway, known for its massive portions, celeb photo gallery and hearty fare like pasta e fagioli, eggplant parmigiana and veal chops two ways. 721 W. Grand Ave. 312-243-1740.
Mario’s Gold Coast Ristorante
Neighbors of this popular–you guessed it–Gold Coast hangout are partial to the welcoming, everyone-knows-your-name atmo and the no-nonsense fare (well, except for the tortellini jambalaya) “representing the whole boot.” They make a mean martini, too. 21 W. Goethe St. 312-944-0199.
Merlo
Expect gracious hospitality and authenticity in the deceptively simple, seasonal Bolognese fare at this tasteful Lincoln Parker. Specialties include perfectly cooked, fresh housemade pastas (notably multiple variations of tortellini and memorable lasagna verde). Twenty-five wines by the glass. 2638 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-529-0747.
Piazza Bella Trattoria
It’s always busy at this friendly trattoria, with warm lighting and murals of Calabria setting a rustic, romantic mood. Check out thin-crust pizza bianco (arugula and prosciutto), tagliata di manzo (sliced filet mignon with peppercorns and rosemary, a constant special not on the menu), and save room for the zesty lemon tartufo. Wine specials are listed on a blackboard. 2116 W. Roscoe St. 773-477-7330.
Prego
Made-to-order risotto, if you please. Plus panzanella (bread salad); pork tenderloin with figs, apples and walnuts; and cannoli filled with fresh seasonal fruit (often infused with wine or liqueur). This simply stylish little spot has a romantic ambience with richly colored walls and low lighting. Full bar service, but BYOB is allowed. 2901 N. Ashland Ave. 773-472-9190.
RoSal’s Italian Cucina
Far from the madding crowds of Taylor Street’s bigger-name pasta palaces, this romantic little cafe-style classic serves homey, big-portion Sicilian specialties–try the gnocchi in vodka cream sauce and baccala (salt cod) Siciliana. The soothing room is done in soft colors with twinkling white Christmas lights year-round. The $6.95 weekday lunch buffet is a great bargain. 1154 W. Taylor St. 312-243-2357.
Salvatore’s
Daters of all ages swear by the intimate, white-tablecloth setting and zuppa di mare at this supper-clubby Northern Italian in a historic converted hotel. The traditional menu is laced with the occasional surprise, like conch in spicy tomato sauce and gorgonzola-stuffed pasta with roasted garlic, pancetta, scallions and fresh pears in gorgonzola cream sauce. Live piano on weekends. 525 W. Arlington Pl. 773-528-1200.
Sapori Trattoria
This more refined Pane e Pomodoro spinoff carries on the tradition of affordable Italian fare in a casual setting. Familiar Chicago storefront design elements make comfy surroundings for snarfing the house lamb shank or cappellacci (resembling thick, crescent-shaped ravioli) stuffed with lobster or pumpkin in burnt butter sauce. Reasonably priced wine list. 2701 N. Halsted St. 773-832-9999.
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