Siena Tavern

I've been there twice for lunch and enjoyed both visits. Last week, our server Merissa took great care of us and made recommendations for shared plates that worked well for our quirky group. We sampled a number of items then each had our own entree. The atmosphere was energetic and fun.

I'm starting to warm up to the small plate sharing thing within the context of a biz lunch. Resistance is futile, as so many of the tastiest and newest places have gone in this direction. But I really only recommend Siena for entertaining those clients who have also crossed over into Friend status. It's a little too hip, casual, and "after hours" in my opinion for a traditional Power Lunch. And the service is spotty. That said, I enjoyed Siena with two biz contacts who also happen to be Friends (you know who you are!), and within that comfort zone and without the need to clock watch, Siena was fun and very tasty. Broad and interesting menu; we enjoyed the mussels quite a bit and recommend sampling one or more of the excellent pasta dishes.

I become skeptical when someone adds to the already overly populated river north area with a celeb chef attached, but I was really happy with Siena! Great space, very comfortable. I had to make these reservations 3 months ago, and it was definitely packed, especially the bar. Our server was awesome, very professional, yet fun and engaging. The food was great! Started with a pepperoni pizza that was awesome, then the proscuitto pear pizza, short rib ravioli and squid ink linguini with lobster. The linguini was by far my favorite. Leave room for dessert, they were amazing too! Can't wait to go back, hopefully it won't take 3 months this time!

Opening night and Chef Fabio was on hand! Very attentive staff taking individual roles very seriously. Bar drinks: Quite excellent. Wine: Very good bottle at our moderate price point. Food: Highlights were crudo (we ordered hamachi) and pizza (Burnt Pepperoni... Y.U.M.) Overall: Great atmosphere and stands up to other high end casual Italian.