Pasta Bowl   

The Pasta Bowl has been a Lincoln Park staple for inexpensive Italian fare for years. But now with the addition of "The Other Side," it has an identically tight and cozy bar and grill, as well. The menu at both interconnected sides of the restaurant is rich in quality pastas and sandwiches, usually prepared in 10 to 20 minutes. Young professionals in nearby apartment buildings flock to the Bowl for fresh bruschetta and Caprese salad. The classic Cappellini Pomodoro (angel hair with fresh tomato marinara, basil and mozzarella) is the favorite dish of many patrons. Farfalle Pollo (bow-tie pasta with chicken and both sun-dried and fresh tomatoes) comes in a close second. The Other Side offers hamburgers, Italian sandwiches, and martini and draft beer specials on weekends. Owners Greg Steack and Christian McDermott have also added a "Bona Vita" (good life) menu of pasta dishes prepared -- as always, by chefs right behind the bar -- without oil, butter or cheese and served in fat-free marinara. Don't forget to leave your credit cards at home, because Pasta Bowl only accepts cash.