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Balena

1633 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60614

Phone: 312-867-3888
Neighborhood: Chicago
Style: Italian
Website Link


Only Local

751

  • 8 Reviews
  • 5 Favorite
  • 6 Recommend
  • 2 Been There
  • 5 Vault
  • Food: Homemade, farm to table Italian
  • Decor: Rustic
  • Service: Friendly/Knowledgeable
  • Cost: $$$
  • Wine / Cocktails: Speciality cocktails and wine

Overview:

From the moment I walked into Balena, I fell in love with the rustic ambiance. Once we were seating in the dining area, we were greeted by our server. He was very knowledgeable about the menu and offered up suggestions to get us started. Once we told him we were interested in a bottle of wine, we were introduced to the sommelier who suggested an outstanding and affordable bottle of wine. Then came the delicious food…we started with the heirloom tomato bruschetta, followed by the Orecchiette with lemon and kale deliciousness. The main dish was the swordfish and was my least favorite, but gives me a reason to go back and try the chicken thigh that everyone recommends. The baked polenta was out of this world and made up for the swordfish. Now on to my favorite part…dessert. Started with a cappuccino and split the tiramisu and a?ogato,- can you say homemade cinnamon sugar donuts- YUM! I can't wait to go back and dive into the other dishes. Enjoy!

Special Dishes:

Orecchiette, heirloom tomato bruschetta, a?ogato


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