Rhapsody--Aldino's Revisited

I was one of the disappointed diners when Aldino's closed after only four months. Now its chef, Dean Zanella, has come to Rhapsody in the Loop, bringing many of the items from the Aldino's menu along with him (octupus, arancini, gnocchi, veal meatballs are some of those that I recall), transforming Rhapsody into one of the better (the best IMO) Italian restaurant in the Loop.

We were there last night for Restaurant Week, and unlike many other restaurants, quite a few of the specialties were in play. Some of the highlights were the crisp, spicy shrimp grilled in suits of smoked prosciutto (heads and shell still on), gnocchi in a rich lamb ragout, a flat iron steak (not especially Italian other than in its simplicity and a taste of salsa verde, but perfectly rare with an appropriate accompaniment of spinach and fingerling potatoes), and some decadent bomboloni (filled Italian doughnuts).

The restaurant has a dual personality. We arrived at 7:00 on a Friday in the midst of a preconcert rush when the atmosphere was frenetic, noisy, vibrant, and, in general, the patrons were pretty well-dressed. Once the concertgoers cleared out, the pace became far more leisurely (partially, I suspect, through fatigue on the part of service), the atmosphere more subdued (and perhaps more appropriate for a romantic occasion), the patrons younger (an effect of Restaurant Week?) and more casual. So, if you're considering Rhapsody as an option for a Loop walk-in, you'll want to check the CSO's schedule first. During concerts and on concertless nights Rhapsody would (for the time being, anyway) likely be a good choice for a quick table. Preconcert, be prepared to wait.

Rhapsody
65 E Adams Street
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 786-9911
http://www.rhapsodychicago.com/