Bar Roma - Andersonville Italian

Didn't see this on the Web site, but thought I'd drop my two cents. Apparently there has been a lot of turnover on this corner, per a quick search of the LTHForum. Went there over the weekend. They have a nice couple of store fronts on the South end of Andersonville. The marble bar dominates the entrance. There seems to be some nice "loungy"/bar seating. The second room is loud and handsome. Lots of wood and cute Italian graphics.

The food was tasty. We especially liked the pork meatball (they have many types) and the risotto croquettes (hard to beat deep fried rice). No one had any main dishes, but all ordered the excellent and toothsome pasta. My wife's squid ink pasta was the standout for me. Plenty of seafood in a "spicy" red sauce made for a delicious and beautiful dish. I had the spaghetti with pepper, that was also tasty. The table also had a very yummy ravioli. Dessert was the ice cream with espresso poured on top and the bread pudding with ice cream. Very sweet and tasty. The menu had a simple vibe; relying on ingredients and preparation. Bar Roma passes both tests in making the simple taste excellent.

5101 N. CLARK ST
CHICAGO, IL 60640
773.942.7572
http://www.barromachicago.com/

My wife and I have eaten here a few times (mainly drinks and appetizers) and have always been quite happy. Very good addition to the neighborhood - especially since the space had been vacant for quite a while.

Another thumbs up! Our group of four split two kinds of meatballs, a pasta dish, and a chicken dish. Also had a terrific dessert. All items ranged from good to excellent. Service was very friendly, drinks were well made, and space is cute.

After a futile search trying to find a north side restaurant, (party of 3, without a reservation) Saturday nite, 7pm we ended up eating at the bar at Bar Roma. This was our second visit.

The food and service surpassed our previous meal, which we had thoroughly enjoyed.

Meal consisted of:
A great arugula salad, Insalata di Rucola
Meatball appetizer. Very generous portion
Soup of the day. An Italian bean + vegetable
Tortelloni di Zucca con Salsiccia. Butternut squash with sausage in sage butter. Nice contrast of slightly sweet & salty.
Rich, delicious bread pudding was easily enough for the three of us.

The bar area was probably only half full by 8-8:30. Don’t know what happens later at night since my bedtime precludes restaurant ventures beyond 9 pm. Hopefully things pick up.
My wife and daughter really enjoyed Bar Roma and would hate to see it fall victim to the fleeting “hot restaurant for the moment” syndrome.

FYI, they have a decent happy hour, too. Last time I went, you could get Rose for $6 (I think), and all the apps are half price.