Ciao Amore

It’s tough to critique an Italian spot in a neighborhood with only one other similar option (Pilsen might have a plethora of taquerias, but Little Italy it ain’t). Still, while former Caro Mio chef Cesar Pineda might have honorable ambitions, they’re tough to appreciate when the food is mediocre and the room seems dated. Standards like calamari and arancini are fine but not memorable, lobster gets lost amid filler in its ravioli pocket, and braciole is both tough and underseasoned. Barring a drastic turnaround, the surrounding taquerias should remain unscathed by this competition.