Last summer Ascione Bistro opened in downtown Skokie, Illinois, about two blocks south of me. It is a great addition to the area.

Third-generation restaurant owner Alex Argirov and his wife, Lauren Lucchesi, also own Ascione Bistro in the Hyde Park area of Chicago, about 15 minutes south of downtown. Hearing great reviews for that one but not making it there yet, I was excited when they opened one so close to me.

The setting is elegant and classy, yet casual. Covering 5,000 square feet, it features a large 24-seat bar. In warmer weather patio seating is available. It’s one of those places you know you’ll love as soon as you enter.

We started with a calamari appetizer. Lightly breaded and fried, it tasted incredibly fresh. We also split mushroom truffle risotto. It wasn’t an even split though because I love risotto, and this was cooked to a perfect creamy delight.

On a risotto high, I was tempted to order lobster risotto as my main meal. Knowing I’d be back, I resisted temptation and ordered tagliolini, handmade egg pasta with black truffles. Cooked slightly al dente, as I like it, the serving was big, bold and colorful.

© Ascione Bistro

© Ascione Bistro

Jodie ordered a smashburger. When we saw the size of it, we had to laugh, as there was no way she would come close to finishing it. She saved half for her leftovers.

© Ascione Bistro

I could have finished my meal, but we already decided to share limoncello marscapone cake on the recommendation of friends. Light and airy, it beautifully balanced the cheese and lemon flavors.

© Ascione Bistro

We left perfectly full without feeling heavy. We bantered about what to order next time. I was already looking forward to finishing my leftovers the next day.

Aside from being close to me, it is about halfway to the Skokie Theater, making it the perfect pre-show dining option. I can’t wait to work my way through the menu.

— John Wroblewski, special projects manager