Siena Tavern is definitely a hot spot in town right now, and actually has been for some time! During happy hour the bar is packed and most nights you'll likely need a reservation to get a table. I've been several times and while I've read some less than stellar reviews, I have not been disappointed by anything I've tried, though some things are certainly better than others.
The service is very good; during my second visit one of our dishes was delayed due to a kitchen issue and the manager came over to apologize; we were having a "girls" night out so had not even really noticed. Without even being asked, they took the charge for that dish off the bill. I consider that to be over and above service. In general, both the wait and bar staff is very attentive, and knows the menu, including the wine list, well.
For an unusual salad I'd recommend the Farro Salad. The mixture of Farro, marinated calamari, shrimp and vegetables is topped with a mustard vinaigrette.
They have a good selection of pasta, most with a unique twist. If you are a mushroom lover, I'd recommend the Pasta in a Jar. The pizzas are also good and are a nice size for sharing; my favorite so far is the Prosciutto Pear.
I think the most unusual thing on the menu is the Coccoli, which is a combination of crispy dough, Stracchino cheese, prosciutto and truffle honey. It is absolutely delicious and melts in your mouth. Just be forewarned, it is very rich!
A tasty side dish is the Sticky Parmesan Potatoes; they taste much more interesting than the menu makes them sound.
While the 6 plus inches of snow and ground definitely mean that patio season has clearly ended, they do have a nice patio, which I'll look forward to visiting again next summer!
Siena Tavern is located at 51 W. Kinzie Street in Chicago.
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