Adalina

Executive chef, Soo Ahn (previously with lauded Band of Bohemia), reimagines Italian fare, with the "Soo twist" - traditional flavors but using techniques not typical in Italian cooking..Whatever he's doing, it's working. in the heart of the Gold Coast, Adalina is a moody, two-level space with pops of floral decor. The main dining room is on the second level with views of the neighborhood and the Rose Lounge, a speakeasy ensconced behind a secret door on the ground level opens in late February, 2022. The menu offers classic Italian dishes with unexpected turns. For example, veal Parm is a colossal and tender veal chop capped with melted cheese and crispy basil in an arresting tomato sauce. If you crave Chicago's own Vesuvio flavors, try chef's variation with salmon, gnocchi and micro oregano. Like arancini? Adalina's combines popular cacio e pepe with Forbidden black rice, nutty Manchego cheese and rich guanciale. You could make a fine meal from starters like tender meatballs, charred octopus, mussels au gratin, oysters, truffled Caesar salad and an impressive shellfish tower. Handmade pastas are exquisite. The floor-to-ceiling glass wine cellar displays 3,000 bottles, so you know the roster of grapes is extensive.