Chicago is home to some of the best Italian food in the country, so when a friend recommended La Bella Trattoria, I knew I had to check it out. Nestled in a cozy corner of downtown, this restaurant has a reputation for serving authentic Italian dishes with a homemade touch. I went in with high expectations—and let me tell you, they delivered.
From the moment I stepped inside, I could tell this was a special place. The warm lighting, exposed brick walls, and the faint scent of garlic and simmering tomatoes immediately transported me to a little trattoria in Italy. The staff was welcoming, and our server was more than happy to recommend their top dishes. After much debate (because everything on the menu looked incredible), I settled on three standout dishes that I now consider must-tries for anyone visiting.
1. Burrata Caprese – A Fresh Start
I always say that you can judge a good Italian restaurant by its Burrata Caprese, and La Bella Trattoria nailed it. When the plate arrived, I was greeted with a beautifully arranged mix of fresh burrata, heirloom tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
The first bite? Absolute heaven. The burrata was creamy and rich, with just the right amount of salt to enhance the natural flavors. Paired with the juicy, slightly sweet tomatoes and fresh basil, it was the perfect balance of flavors. What really set it apart, though, was the balsamic glaze—thicker and slightly more aged than most places, adding a deep, tangy sweetness that tied everything together.
If you’re a fan of fresh, simple ingredients that shine on their own, this appetizer is a must.
2. Pappardelle al Ragu – The Ultimate Comfort Dish
For my main course, I went with the Pappardelle al Ragu, one of their signature pasta dishes. I love a good slow-cooked meat sauce, and this one did not disappoint.
The homemade pappardelle noodles were perfectly cooked—soft but with just enough bite. They were generously coated in a rich, meaty ragu that had obviously been simmered for hours. The sauce was deep, slightly smoky, and bursting with the flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and red wine.
What made this dish stand out was the braised short rib mixed into the sauce. Every forkful had tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat that added an extra layer of indulgence. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan and served with warm, crusty bread on the side, it was everything I could want in a comfort meal.
3. Tiramisu – The Sweet Finale
No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and I knew I had to try their Tiramisu. I’ve had my fair share of tiramisus over the years, but this one? Easily one of the best I’ve tasted.
The layers were spot-on—light and airy mascarpone cream, perfectly soaked espresso ladyfingers, and a dusting of high-quality cocoa powder on top. It wasn’t overly sweet, which I appreciated, and had just the right amount of coffee flavor without being overpowering.
Each spoonful was a dream, with a smooth, velvety texture and a subtle hint of rum that made it feel extra special. Paired with a fresh espresso, it was the perfect way to end the meal.
