At the server's command, "Bon Apetito!," forks and spoons twirl into generous servings of pasta prepared simply and from the Italian heart at Bella Via in downtown Highland Park. At this neighborhood Italian restaurant, owner and chef Maurizio LoBosco brings fresh ingredients together in a simple way so each flavor sings boldly yet melds into a symphonic convergence on your tongue.
Bella Via's exposed brick walls are accented by warm lighting and huge posters of Cappiello's art. While a bit of Pavarotti might liven up the ambience, the dining room is continually packed with guests. This restaurant attracts a casual neighborhood crowd consisting of families and friends breaking bread together. In fact, all meals begin with crusty bread to dip in to extra virgin olive oil and grated parmesan. They end with desserts like the delicious cannolis filled with the slightest hint of orange-infused ricotta cream textured by the crunch of chocolate chips. In between antipasta and dessert lays a feast of flavor and tradition.
LoBosco's menu offers a wide variety of classic dishes in sizeable portions that range in price from $13 to $28. Cravings for comfort food are met by the oozing, cheesy calzones or with the rich creaminess of the pappardelle with Porcini mushrooms and caramelized onions combined into a Marsala sauce. The Italian tradition is upheld with basics like chicken Vesuvio and gnocchi stuffed with Portobello mushrooms.
While the flavors do not venture boldly into new territory, the food transports you back to memories of home-cooked meals. Bella Via's cuisine might even rival grandma's cooking, since they both come from the heart instead of a recipe book. This is one philosophy you can taste in every bite, which is undoubtedly what keeps Bella Via's guests happy and coming back meal after meal.
Average cost: $21-$30
Centerstage Reviewer: Katie Chelminski
