Review: Petterino’s
Yesterday I went out to lunch in Chicago, a rarity for me. I haven’t been into Chicago much lately (thanks in part to a busy schedule and the freezing weather), so I was happy to explore a new part of the city and try out a new restaurant. Petterino’s was suggested as our destination, and I eagerly agreed to try it out.
My host and I arrived a little early for our reservation, but our table was nearly ready. While we waiting, I learned that the caricatures that served as wall decor portrayed actors who performed in Chicago. I also learned that several tables are reserved for public and political figures - for example, the table right behind the hostess station and directly across from the bar is reserved for Senator Emil Jones, Jr. My host learned the hard way - if the hostesses accidentally seat you and the President of the Senate comes in for a meal, you’re ousted.
The service was very professional, and the staff pay attention to dining cues. If you don’t know how to place your utensils when you’ve finished a meal, you’d do well to learn. Almost as soon as my host and I signaled that we were done with our soup, two waiters appeared and whisked our empty cups away. Our server was very nice and helpful, and he always kept my water glass full. There was a small issue with one waiter forgetting to bring a side dish, but it was promptly produced by our server.
My meal was delicious and filling. The tomato bisque was flavorful and perfectly seasoned. I opted for cheese ravioli with marinara sauce as my dish, and it was slightly problematic. Although the ravioli were enormous and the cheese filling was fresh and melted perfectly, I prefer pasta to be served al dente. The ravioli was by far too soft for my tastes. Additionally, the kitchen had drowned the meal in marinara sauce. Besides for a some of my persnickety feelings on pasta, the meal was precisely my cup of tea.
Overall grade: A-
