Alla Vita
I’ve been to Alla Vita twice now. The second visit was better than the first—though full disclosure, we’d been drinking dirty martinis loaded with blue cheese-stuffed olives beforehand, so the bar was either higher or much blurrier. You decide.
When it first opened, Alla Vita came in hot. Reservations were basically a lottery, and the vibe was pure West Loop hype: dramatic lighting, airy ceilings, olive trees growing indoors. It felt like the place you went to celebrate something—or to post like you were.
Where It’s Landed
Now? Easier to get a table. Which says something. And in my opinion, what it says is: the food hasn’t fully kept pace with the design.
That’s not to say it’s bad—far from it. The second visit showed real improvement. Pastas were better seasoned, pacing was tighter, and the overall flow felt more confident. They’ve clearly made adjustments since the early crush of diners. I give credit when a restaurant listens and tightens things up.
The Food
It’s clean, classic Italian. Nothing polarizing, nothing too bold. You’re not going to be surprised here—but you’ll eat well. Just don’t expect to have your mind blown if you’ve been to other Italian standouts in the city.
The menu plays it safe, which works for big groups, dates, and celebrations. It just doesn’t swing big—and in a city like Chicago, where Italian food gets deeply competitive, that matters.
The Verdict
Alla Vita is a good time in a great-looking space. The second time in, I walked away more impressed—maybe the kitchen was more dialed in, maybe the martinis helped. Probably both.
If you check my Beli (@graffiajr), it sits in the “worth a visit” tier—not top of the list, but I wouldn’t say no to going back. It’s the kind of place that nails the night when you want ambiance, good company, and a reliable pasta in a beautiful setting.
Just don’t order the restaurant expecting your Nonna’s Sunday sauce. Order it because you want a photogenic plate and a strong drink before heading somewhere else after dinner.
I would give it a 3.8 stars!
