La Storia, Italian Restaurant

"At first glance, the front patio at this Gold Coast Italian restaurant will look like your best bet for eating outside here. But don’t let the misdirection fool you—there’s actually a hidden back courtyard that’s way more appealing. It’s filled with pretty string lights, has the perfect atmosphere for a quiet dinner outside, and is a great place to avoid the neighborhood foot traffic." - adrian kane, john ringor

"La Storia in the Gold Coast rivals Piccolo Sogno for string lights - the decorations on the front of the building suggest that someone took full advantage of the discounted Walgreens seasonal aisle on December 26th. The courtyard patio, on the other hand, is peaceful and charming. And the Italian food is great, particularly their housemade pastas. The atmosphere is nice, but still relaxed, so this place works for a casual date night but also something a bit fancier." - adrian kane

"Most places in the Gold Coast are either high-end or ultra-casual. If you want something more mid-range, though, don’t give up—try La Storia. This place is serving pretty good Italian food in a space that’s nice, but still relaxed. You’ll be eating with the Gold Coast regulars, i.e. business folks and old money, and it isn’t exactly inexpensive, but it still feels like it could be at home in any Chicago neighborhood. Try the excellent housemade pastas." - adrian kane

"You’re out of excuses and backed into a corner - you’re finally going on a double date with that couple from the dog park. And you’ve just realized you don’t know anything about these people except that they have a Labradoodle. Go to La Storia, a Gold Coast spot with reliably good Italian food. While most places in the neighborhood are either high-end or ultra-casual, this place is nice but still relaxed, and best of all, you won’t be forced to share a bunch of small plates. (Still, get a pasta or two for the table.) If it turns out these people aren’t much fun, leave early and say you need to take the dog out. They’ll understand." - adrian kane

"Sometimes you want a place that’s a little serious, but still not super fancy. Try La Storia, a Gold Coast Italian spot with delicious homemade pastas. This is where to go when you need to tell your kids it’s time for you to sell their childhood home - or give them other news they might not be 100% excited about. It’s quiet enough that you won’t have to repeat yourself, but not so quiet that the tables on either side of you will be able to figure out your new address." - adrian kane