After a lengthy lead up, Ideology Entertainment's (Chicago Q, Table 52) La Storia revealed itself to the public on Wednesday. You've seen the menus, and today check out how the space looked in October 2014, compared to its current finished form. Renovated from a building erected in 1896, the work retained many elements found in the space's two original residences, now merged into one full restaurant with seating spread out over two floors.
Dark wood grain is accentuated by pristine white tablecloths and red leather seating throughout. Classic built-ins have been re-purposed to showcase the restaurant's extensive wine collection. The upstairs feels like eating inside someone's home, and the six top by the large picture window that gazes out onto Dearborn Street is the most-prized table in the entire restaurant. Scattered throughout La Storia is an impressive collection of artwork from famed caricaturist Edward Sorel, who renders his takes on many of the city's most famous, revered and notorious personalities (Al Capone, John Belushi, Roger Ebert).
Look at the above photos, and take a stroll through this old-school Italian spot now open in the Gold Coast.
La Storia, 1154 N. Dearborn St., (312) 915-5950, open 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.