Union Pizzeria: Fresh from the brick oven
There are two things about Union Pizzeria that make you feel as if you're not in the Midwest. First, of course, is the fresh, thin crust, wood fired pizza so reminiscent of Italy. Secondly, the setting. Located in a vast, warehouse space, the beamed ceiling and exposed brick feels much more L.A.
How did this hot spot find it's way to Evanston? Launched by the owners of the highly acclaimed Campagnola, the inspiration behind Union Pizzeria was to create not only a restaurant with true Italian pizza but to also serve it in a lively yet beautiful setting. Chef Vince Dibattista offers an eclectic menu, with pizza as the focus. Among the most popular are his wild mushroom, the lamb sausage, potato and asparagus and four cheese thin crusts.
Union has more than just pizza on the menu. Their "Daily Plate" might be anything from lamb stew to Italian pot roast, and Chef Dibattista has created a mix of small plates--both hot and cold--that have become a signature at Union. If calamari or octopus are on your list of favorites, be certain to put both on your order. Two other popular small plates are the eggplant caponata and French lentils in Greek yogurt. When available, Chef Dibattista uses local organic produce.
While there's great seating at Union, many customers prefer eating in the lounge. Located by the floor to ceiling windows in the front of the restaurant, the lounge is decorated with sleek couches and colorful pillows. A second favorite to the lounge is Union's large, open bar situated underneath rows of soft lighting.
Because of the high ceilings and exposed brick walls, Union has a high noise level, but that energy is part of the dining experience. The open kitchen with the brick oven as a focal point adds warmth to the restaurant's size, especially in the winter months.
As well as serving some of the best pizza on the North Shore, Union is a great choice if you want to break away from the low-key dining experience. Named, perhaps, because of the chef's noted craft of combining unusual ingredients, the rear of Union is also the home of SPACE, a live music venue that brings in top names in everything from folk to rock.
HelloMetro Tip: Earlier in the evening, Union tends to attract more families, but by 8 p.m. the kids are gone and it becomes a much more social scene.
Posted by Lori Rotenberk
