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My husband and I went to La Scarola on a Friday night a few weeks ago with another couple. We had a 7 p.m. reservation and were seated promptly. Also prompt, was the hovering over our table with the bill at 8 p.m., as we were given the bum's rush by 8:15 p.m. I understand you're very busy on a Friday night and want to turn over your tables, but how quickly are 4 people supposed to eat dinner, supposedly enjoying themselves on a Friday night? The quality and taste of 3 of our dishses food seemed on par with Olive Garden: the portions were gargantuan, and fresh ingredients with nuanced taste were not prevalent. While some dishes seemed to have been made with fresh pasta, the shrimp with angel hair pasta consisted of SIX shrimp with a box of barrilla pasta dumped on the plate and about 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce - for $20! There are very few by-the-glass wine selections, none of which are good quality wines. In short, if you want a big plate of Italian food and aren't too discerning, this was good value. I would not recommend this restaurant to a foodie.

I say forget the fancy Italian spot that just opened in your neighborhood. Italian food is meant to be causal. And that's exactly what you get at La Scarola. What looks like a storefront with a handful of checkered tables is only a foyer for three bustling rooms where plates steam by, chairs fit tightly and voices clatter. Every nook is loud, but you feel happy here. Even more so when the food arrives. Grilled calamari has a crunchy charr that livens with lemon. The garlicky mashed potatoes hidden under the shrimp armani led me to order a side with my entree. Often, fish specials at Italian restaurants can be bland, but the trout was flavorful and earned extra points for its pine nuts. My friends complemented the penne alla vodka and chicken dish served with artichoke and goat cheese. The possibilities are endlessgo hungry, go often. Smile pretty and Armando will buy you a cognac.

I love this restaurant because it's still not known by the masses. It has some of the best pasta dishes in the city. The Ravioli Al Forno are to die for! You also have to try the grilled calamari appetizer. It's not always listed, but the kitchen will prepare it for you on request. They're lunch menu is great, with the same big portions, but at a cheaper price. You have to try it at least once. I've been "trying" it since I first ate there 6 years ago.

By far the best Italian I have had. The portions are large, service friendly and prices just right. This is a must try!

The best food at the most reasonable price with the best service and atmoshpere. A tucked away treasure.