Buona Terra

If I had to choose my favorite genre of restaurant, "neighborhood Italian" would probably be at the top of that list.  Buona Terra falls squarely within that genre, and they do it well.  

I really like the corkscrews with proscuitto, peas and mushrooms and the grilled chicken with fresh mozz, tomatoes and basil.  I've indulged in the four-cheese gnocchi and while it is very good (the spinach-potato gnocchi are really nicely done) it is WAY rich and needs something to cut the richness - the little tomato-onion garnish is not quite enough to do it.

On a recent visit, my mother-in-law had a special of fresh housemade linguine with seared scallops in a light tomato-roasted garlic cream sauce that was so good.  Maybe that can become a regular offering?

This is our family's go-to spot - everyone loves it, loves going on Thursdays for the excellent value and food and even had grandma's birthday here along with numerous other family events. My uncle is a dear that hands out gift certificates here like candy at Christmastime.
There are items that don't always appear on the menu - my favorite being the Vitello Serafino? - with mushrooms and pine nuts - deliciousness.
Perfect carpaccio - pounded out the way it should be, with fresh parm curls and capers and I think a bit of truffle oil.
Calamari is always fresh and divine as well as the ravioli - both veal and squash.
Their chocolate dessert in a hazelnut crust is my favorite but their panna cotta is pretty bangin' also.
Aaaaand - the most perfect Grey Goose cosmo in all of Chicago - yes people it is possible to screw it up. I have had way too many crappy ones, but never ever has it been here.

I saw Buona Terra featured on Check Please and then my brother recommended it.  Each time that I've been there, it did not disappoint.  Quaint setting, knowledgeable servers, and terrific food!.  Best roasted chicken in Chicago.