Spiaggia

Without a doubt the worst dining experience I have had in the last few years. The horribly overpriced wine arrived with wine glasses so water stained that you could actually feel the stains. I sent my first plate back (greasy, overcooked beef scallopini served with wilted arugula and tasteless raw cherry tomatoes) and was equally disappointed by the replacement dish (chicken piccata) again overcooked and served with same lackluster garnish. Although the hostess was delightful and the service efficient, the food was so terrible that it tarnished an otherwise perfect day in an outstanding culinary city.

We visit Chicago at least once or twice a year, and every time we are sure to get in a meal at Spiaggia. Very romantic, especially if you get a table at one of the lovely windows. Be sure not to eat all day prior so that you have plenty of room to indulge. The truffle gnocchi is fantastic. We always order several courses, and just when we think a dish has hit the top of the scale, the next one is even better. Save room for cheese sampling after dinner. The fromagier is very knowledgable and interesting to talk to. Excellent wine selection. Some may consider pricey, but for the true foodie, and considering that you are dining on the Magnificent Mile, it is worth it.

We had our daughter's wedding reception at Spiaggia. The food was fine and the location was great. Everything was very nice--until we got the final bill. We were overcharged by $2,000 in "extras" (premium brand upcharges that we didn't agree to, additional hours that we didn't agree to, etc). When we tried to negotiate a settlement, our requests fell on deaf ears. It's probably a fine place to have lunch or dinner, but if you're planning an event, avoid it like the plague! There are many choices in PVR. Choose a different place.

My wife and I ate their for a late lunch on a Saturday. She order a specialty pizza which was pretty good. I had a butternut squash pasta dish which was very good and unique. Good service and good atmosphere.

The culinary experience at Spiaggia was a true disappointment. The food was mediocre at best. There was not one dish(and there was seven of us!) that anyone believed deserved a five star rating. The service and the wine were very good, however, if you are planning a special evening, look elsewhere!