The BEST Gnocchi in Chicago hands down and... let's not forget the pasta dishes and I mean all the pasta dishes are aaaammmzing the owner is from Italy and his family recipes are incorporated in the menu all the pasta is handmade light and airy everything is made in house. This was my 1st visit and review and I'am so happy BERWYN FINALLY has a authentic Italian restaurant in the "Depot district" which is slowly becoming better and growing in its popularity.
Gaia was so freakin AMAZING I went twice in a row Friday & Saturday Lol so what does that tell you! I ordered the fried calamari and angel hair pasta with seafood on top OMG sause perfect, calamari fresh and also perfection. They should consider using a smaller plate for the Appetizers because the plate makes the food look like you're getting very little it doesn't need to be on this ginormous plate to begin with.
As far as space it is some what small in 1 section and the larger is in the 2nd area of the restaurant but tables are well spread apart in either area. I prefer the 2nd dining room area away from the bar. Bar area needs improvement which I will outline futher towards the end of my review.
There are area's in the restaurant that need improvement one is the DECOR stark in color (bad color choice) very sterile looking which may not be a problem for others but for me I prefer a more colorful room. And.. the bar area DEFINITELY NEEDS SOME HELP! Lighting on the back bar would be helpful to see the brands of liquor and some Tealight 's or..candels on the bar would be a nice touch or flowers geez anything would be nicer then what it looks like.which is zero decoration.
Any kind of Ambience with some art on the walls or color on these stark walls would be a huge difference in the vibe of the restaurant. hanging 4 gold mirror's doesn't work.😞 hopefully someone with some decorating taste will come in and consult with the owner to give it the proper touches that it truly needs. Restaurants not only need to serve exceptional good food but the décor also needs to make people feel comfortable and inviting so that they want to come back.
As for the food as I mentioned earlier regardless of the restaurants decorating choice it is authentic Italian cuisine with a menu that is not overwhelming in choices you should definitely give Gaia a try and.. when you do go ask for "STEVEN Z". this young man is an AMAZING server and goes above and beyond to make sure your dining experience is...
Read moreGaia Ristorante is a hidden gem, exuding rustic charm and warmth. As a family-owned establishment, passion and tradition are infused into every aspect of the dining experience. Returned several times and was able to try many options on their menu.
Starting with the appetizers, we embarked on a culinary journey through Italy with burrata, bruschetta, mini meatballs, fried calamari, mussels, and shrimp scampi—all bursting with flavor and made with the finest ingredients.
Seafood lovers will enjoy the succulent offerings, from the perfectly grilled salmon with vegetables to the outstanding seafood specials.
Pasta aficionados will be spoiled for choice with options like the rich and satisfying Pappardelle Bolognese, the indulgent gnocchi Rossini, and the flavorful short rib ravioli. And let's not forget the tableside flaming parmigiana reggiano pasta wheel, a spectacle that dazzles the senses.
For main courses, the gourmet pork chops, pollo parmigiana, and grilled lamb chops stole the show with their expert preparation and robust flavors.
The bar service is top-notch, offering craft cocktails and a fine selection of wines to complement every dish. And of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and Gaia Ristorante delivers with decadent offerings that satisfy every sweet tooth.
Throughout our meal, the service was exceptional, with attentive staff ensuring that every need was met with a smile.
In conclusion, Gaia Ristorante is a culinary haven where tradition meets innovation, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an exquisite meal, this is the...
Read moreWent for dinner first time there. We were greeted by a very friendly host very promptly.
Then things turn below average
We were seated at the bar while we waited for our party to arrive. The bartender was not friendly at all, as if she was having a bad night And we were imposing on her, also the bar was very messy and not very clean at all. Looks like it needed a good wipe down.
We were seated for dinner. Our server was friendly, and was trying to be attentive, but it appears that he was serving a lot of the tables at the restaurant, which created very long waits in between him, tending to our table.
Our appetizers were below average at best. A beet salad we ordered in particular was so poorly put together they called it a beet salad, but it had minimal beets in it. The lettuce was very dry. Just not good presentation at all.
Our dinner disappointed long long wait probably 40 minutes from appetizer to dinner And the food was best Average. We had to return an entrée because it was so poorly cooked And even the second entrée was not correct but we did not complain or send it back again.
The bathroom was right next to the kitchen. They were very messy not a good feeling when the kitchen is next to it.
Overall, we spent almost 3 hours there long waits for below average food. Unfortunately, I would not recommend...
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