Captivated by the Game Time Dine show with DC and Izzy at La Scarola and Chef Armando, I absolutely couldn't wait to summon a date, if not for the chance of true love, but the chance to try the Pasta & Fagiole soup that was all the rave during the GTD episode. I dreamt of it...I thought about it at work...in the shower. I had to have it. Just so we're clear...I'm talking about the soup.Without haste I pulled out my little black book (otherwise known as my iPhone), and found the perfect opportunity to have a stimulating conversation, enjoyable evening, perhaps a shot at love, but most importantly, the soup!
Greeted at the door by Chef Armando himself, and of course I am a shameless name dropper so I touted the DC and
Izzy show done just week's before at this high energy, near famous establishment. Hugs, hugs and more hugs. I felt like I was with family instantly. The walls are covered with pictures of celebrities who have joined Chef Armando for his creations. La Scarole, meaning "greens" was designed as a place of simple elegance, delicious fresh flavors, and a family-like feel. Done, done and done! For a Sunday night, this place was buzzing with energy. I did a quick scan to see if Johnny Depp had been tucked in a celebrity corner (and perhaps on a hiatus with his wife). No luck.My date and I had a cozy corner right by the window which made it feel like the whole place was all ours, plus or minus several hundred celebrities that adorned the walls.
A delicious Dirty Martini kicked off the night but was quickly followed by Pasta & Fagiole soup, and Clams Mondelli (stuffed with breadstuffing and served with brown mondelli sauce). I am only slightly embarrassed to say that I almost licked the bowl like a two year old. It was as good as I had dreamt. Creamy, and bursting with flavor. My date was in mid-sentence and as I scoured the sides of the bowl with my spoon it was like all I could see were his lips moving...blah, blah, blah, interrupted by "Gia...GIA!". I snapped out of my trance when the Entrees arrived. I opted for the special Chilean Sea Bass with spinach and sun dried tomatoes. My date ordered the Bistecca all Zorich, the fillet pan seared with herbs and garlic over potatoes, shallots, arugula, and topped with sauteed mushrooms. Thankfully, he was a super guy and didn't mind my fork wandering over to taste at least 4 oz of his 8 oz fillet. Gotta love a guy like that!
Maybe next time I'll go with Izzy. At least that's one guy who undoubtedly can eat more than me...I hope.
La Scarola is located at 721 West Grand 312.243.1740
I'm going back. Look for my picture on the wall! Where's Gia?????
For more adventures of Gia, check me out on Facebook, search "Gia Claire"
In photo: Gia Claire, Professional Bloggess, and Chef Armando Vasquez
Captivated by the Game Time Dine show with DC and Izzy at La Scarola and Chef Armando, I absolutely couldn't wait to summon a date, if not for the chance of true love, but the chance to try the Pasta & Fagiole soup that was all the rave during the GTD episode. I dreamt of it...I thought about it at work...in the shower. I had to have it. Just so we're clear...I'm talking about the soup.
