Legendary Chicago restaurateur Alex Dana opened Mia Rosebud (Glades & Plaza Real S) recently and the place has been packed ever since. Dana’s reputation (he has nine Illinois venues) and that of numerous celebrity patrons, precedes him. Despite the tony autos out front, the place is down to earth. Enthusiastic, friendly, well-trained staff keep service moving. Chicago-style hospitality has arrived, without snobbery or awkwardness. And oh, the food…
This is an Italian steakhouse with oversized portions to be shared. One starter or salad, entrée and (half) dessert are enough for two. Everything is delicious. If you’re with several people, order some antipasto for the table: Calamari (grilled or fried), Baked Clams, Lemon Butter Shrimp, juicy Stuffed Mushrooms, Meatball in Polenta, and more. Share a salad: traditional Rosebud Fish Salad (calamari, octopus, shrimp, scungilli, vinegar peppers, celery, lemon vinaigrette), 11-ingredient Chopped Salad, Chopped Wedge Salad, or Classic Chicago Meatball Salad (hand-rolled veal & beef meatball with Sunday Salad).
Pasta can be shared too, perhaps Rosebud Original Square Noodles (pappardelle) in light tomato basil sauce; Ribbons Bolognese (freshly made mafaldine pasta, veal & beef tomato sauce), Gnocchi Genovese (handmade potato dumplings, crumbled Italian sausage, garlic, tomatoes); or classic Tortellini Carbonara (parmesan cream, prosciutto, mushrooms, sweet peas). Sound like a lot? Wait until you hear about the entrees! …And desserts!
