Normally, La Bella in Oak Park is a tad too “rich” (in terms of style and Italian cuisine) for me to go there on a casual night out on my own or with friends. However, if you’re single and looking for an Italian restaurant that puts you in a favorable light on that all-important first date, La Bella is the ticket. They have a wide and impressive selection of Italian dishes, and the slightly refined atmosphere is lively but not deafening during the dinner hour (great when you and your date have stuff to talk about, and great for cushioning the impact of any awkward silent moments). The chicken pasta dishes are safe (but tasty) choices, and while the place is definitely a notch up from casual, it’s not too rough on the wallet.
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