La Scarola Italian Restaurant   

La Scarola stands out like a stubborn old man in its ultra-trendy neighborhood of River West. Surrounded by fancy eatery Thyme and hip lounge Funky Buddha Lounge, the quaint storefront holds its own by cranking out hearty Italian cooking that tastes like it's right from the old country. Hipsters dine next to seasoned foodies on such classic fare as spaghetti and meatballs as well as the signature dish, the escarole and beans. The little restaurant seats about 50 at exactly 12 tables, but the back room bar serves as a holding pen where hungry patrons will gladly wait their turn. For your own amusement, check out the framed vintage pictures on the wall with the owner Roberto Vasquez (who owned a longtime Italian restaurant in Lincoln Park) and various famous stars, including Frank Sinatra, Don Rickles, Sophia Loren and others.