Alla Vita

Alla Vita had been on my list of must-try Chicago restaurants for a while—and it fully lived up to the hype. Located in West Loop, this stylish Italian spot is known for its wood-fired dishes, bold flavors, and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a lively Saturday night dinner or a cozy date night, Alla Vita delivers on both food and vibe.

We kicked off the meal with the arancini, filled with melty scamorza cheese, paired with a slightly spicy aioli, and topped with fennel pollen. The crispy exterior gave way to a creamy, flavorful bite with just the right balance of sweet and heat.

Next came a surprisingly addictive dish: marinated olives with herbs, citrus, olive oil, and a sweet balsamic glaze. The citrus and balsamic elevated the olives beautifully—and the portion was generous enough to snack on throughout the entire meal.

One standout for me was the wood-fired table bread, topped with taleggio cheese, orange blossom honey, and cracked black pepper. The sweet-savory contrast was incredible, and it paired perfectly with the marinated olive oil for dipping.

We also shared the Kale Caesar salad, made with sourdough croutons, black pepper, red onion, and a creamy parmesan dressing. The kale was finely chopped and ultra-fresh, making it a light but flavorful highlight.

To round out the meal, we shared the Rigatoni Alla Vodka—a bowl of pasta with a slightly spicy tomato cream sauce and perfectly al dente noodles. It was the ideal savory finish after a lineup of strong starters.

Alla Vita combines elevated Italian flavors with a fun, energetic setting. From the wood-fired bread to the vodka rigatoni, every dish was thoughtfully crafted and packed with flavor. I’m already planning my next visit!

Alla Vita: 564 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL