La Scarola

I've only been here once, and I had the 'Pasta Lorenzo'.... it was the BEST pasta I've ever had (not exagerating at all). Go there right now and get the pasta lorenzo. I would give it 5 stars, but I need to try it one more time and get another dish (even though i'll probably get the lorenzo again), and it was a bit pricey?

Went here on a date.  We had to wait a long time for a table - it was packed.  I head good things about this eatery in yelp so I was excited.  We finally were seated at a table which seemed to be the worst in the restaurant.  I had a pasta with red sauce.   It tasted good enough, but not worth the wait.  I enjoyed he bread, but they would not serve me any MAYONAISE to put on it.  Seriously...if you don't have it fine, but don't question the customer when they request a very common condiment for bread!
I will not be back.

I have a feeling you either love La Scarola or you don't. It's crowded, pretty noisy and you're eating super close to those seated next to you. It sort of feels like a Italian family dinner, which makes sense.

The food is very good, the prices are reasonable and the kitschy Italian decor is fun. I'd definitely go again.

Bonus is it's next to Emmitt's and Richard's bar, so if you're looking for a classic, not fancy, typical Chicago night out on the town, you've come to the right spot.