Chicago - November 30, 2004

Scenes from an Italian Restaurant

Osteria Via Stato Opens

FADE IN:

ClOSE-UP: A Stucco Storefront

The SIGN reads: “Osteria Via Stato.”

CUT TO:

INTERIOR: RESTAURANT — NIGHT.

The look is Milan meets Florence: clean lines with ebony wood, terrazzo stone, and beamed ceilings.

AT A TABLE

A smartly dressed MAN and WOMAN survey their menus as WAITER approaches.

WAITER
How’s everyone tonight?

MAN
Fantastic. Dinner at Tru is a bit too, er, rich for us, so we felt fortunati (wink, wink) when we heard Rick Tramonto was opening this place up. Is the rumor true? Three-course prix fixe for a mere 35 bucks?

WAITER
Si. We do an Italian-style progression, meaning portions get smaller as you go. You begin with a hefty assortment of antipasti, move onto a moderate-size pasta or risotto, and finish with a light fish, meat, or vegetarian dish. Desserts and cheeses are à la carte.

WOMAN
And the wine? We always disagree about that.

WAITER
The classic dilemma. And solved easily with our Just Bring Me Wine plan. The sommelier will pair the dinner with three four-ounce pours — all Italian, of course. You can choose the $15, $28, or, if you’re feeling thirsty, the unlimited option.

WOMAN
The sommelier? The one from Charlie Trotter’s?

WAITER
Yes, Belinda Chang.

MAN
Well now. Rick and Belinda. (Turning to woman.) It’s a dream come T-R-U. Get it?

WOMAN (ROLLING EYES AT WAITER)
Yes, caro. You’re just so corny.

FADE OUT.

Osteria Via Stato, 620 North State Street, at Ontario Street (312-642-8450).