Trattoria Isabella is a welcome addition to a mostly residential West Loop neighborhood in Chicago. Floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to flood this spacious, traditional Italian restaurant. With fresh fish flown in daily, homemade pasta and a moderately priced but extensive wine list, Isabella may just turn into a neighborhood hot spot.

Owner/co-chef Michael Serratore and other dapper Italian gentlemen make the rounds during service; the friendly wait staff promote huge portions of Calimari Fritti ($8.95), house made Gnocchi ($12.95), and Risotto Ai Funghi, prepared with a selection of locally grown mushrooms ($14.95). Involvtini Di Pollo, boneless chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese, fresh spinach and sun dried tomato with vodka sauce ($15.95) is a heavy hitter, while lighter options like Pesce Alla Veneziana, sauteed white fish with garlic and capers in a white wine sauce ($14.95) still satisfy.

Gnocci Alla Casa

Calamari Fritti

Risotto Ai Funghi

Trattoria Isabella offers free parking to its patrons and is slated to open an outdoor dining area with a full bar this summer. Lucky West Loopers can enjoy their espresso and Trattoria Isabella’s decadent tiramisu al fresco, just like Mama did back in the Old Country.

Trattoria Isabella

217 N. Jefferson St. at Lake St.

Chicago, IL

(312) 207-1900

*Originally Published in Centerstage Chicago.

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