"Would you like to sit on the patio?"
This is the question the hostess asked me when I entered Fiorentino's Cucina Italiana ( 2901 N. Ashland Ave.; fiorentinoscucina.com ) on one of those wonderful "polar vortex" nights.
After I gave the hostess a look that said, "Lady, it's minus-200 degrees outside," she realized my reaction and responded, "Don't worryit's a heated patio."
Still skeptical ( but realizing I could always make a U-turn and stay in the main area of the restaurant ), I followed her to the patio. It was, indeed, heatedand looked like a page from a travel brochure on Italy.
This was the first of many pleasant surprises about Fiorentino's, which has been around for seven years.
Fiorentino's is definitely Old Worlddown to the Sicilian-style cuisine and even the music. It all works wonderfully.
My guest and I started things with Sicilian arancinirice balls stuffed with with ground meat, peas, mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. These golden orbs were extremely tasty, and are highly recommended. The calamari fritti also was great, avoiding the rubbery texture some restaurants produce.
As for entrees, the pappardelle alla Bolognese was fantasticwhich the wide pasta ribbons immersed in pork, veal and beef. The orrechietti was incredible as well; it's one of the best I've had in Chicago. However, for me, the lobster cappellacci was everythingand I do mean everything. With the seafood-stuffed pasta immersed in a sumptuous sauce, this dish was absolutely sinful, in a good way.
Now, if by some miracle, you have room for dessert, Fiorentino's has plenty of delicious options available. You could try the white raspberry cheesecake with cookie crush, the cannoli dream, tiramisu, key lime pie or the triple chocolate mousse cake.
Meals like this are the reason I have to work outbut it's definitely worth it.
( By the way, there are several menus available, including a gluten-free version and one for "Sunday Suppa." )
This neighborhood eatery has a ton of options, including salads and even a dish called "Best Italian Meatballs Ever!" ( I'll have to try those the next time I go there. ) Definitely give this place a goand don't be afraid to sit out on the patio.
Additional photo spread at the link: www.windycitymediagroup.com/gay/lesbian/news/photospreadthumbs.php .