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I have lived in Chicago for 8 years and have wanted to dine at Rose Angelis for a long time. I never got around to it. I finally went this past Saturday evening with my fiance. I found this restaurant to be nothing special. I am not sure why they are so crowded and busy with so many other great restaurants in Chicago. First of all, we had to wait for a table for two which is to be expected on a Saturday night. Then, they sat us in the back of the restaurant in a tiny cramped corner next to a large table having a party. Not exactly romantic at all!!! We asked for a new table and were seated by a doorway next to an extremely loud party. We were just waiting to get hit by a passing server. I found the atmosphere cluttered and cramped and not relaxing to say the least! And yes, I have been to Italy before for a real Italian experience. I ordered the salmon special which was "nothing special" and I could have made something better in my own kitchen. Maybe I should have. My fiance ordered manicotti and it was completely uninspired. The one thing that I did like was the infused olive oil. I wouldn't mind having a bottle at home to enjoy. I am disappointed in this restaurant because I was looking for a quaint and delicious Italian meal.

I enjoyed a lovely meal here on a Thursday night and we sat outside enjoying a great bottle of Meritage. Our server was great- very informative, sweet and didn't make us feel rushed. We enjoyed the Asparagus and Proscuitto appetizer and followed it with a caprese salad (they make their own mozzarella cheese daily). Then my husband had the special new york strip steak- so wonderful with gorgonzola cheese and onions on top. I enjoyed the special gnocci which was rich but had so much flavor and just the right texture. The presentation was lovely without being even a little pretentious. Then we finished up with the home made pistaccio ice cream and bread pudding. We loved eating at this restaurant in the middle of a neighborhood street- great all around.