Il Girasole Trattoria sprouts up on Western Avenue

“Il Girasole” means “sunflower” in Italian and a “trattoria” refers to a small restaurant. Located at 2700 North Western Avenue, Il Girasole Trattoria replaced the gastropub Owen & Engine and opened in July of this year.

The team is still planting roots on the corner of Western and Schubert Avenue

The Mexican co-owners Rodolfo and Christian Hernandez are trying their hand at northern Italian fare after previously working at Piccolo Sogno and Riccardo Trattoria.

This bustling area makes a good spot to pregame before enjoying a movie at the Regal City North directly across the street. Cozy up to the bar and take in a Tuscan wine or Peroni beer.

A strong and concise menu has been conceived here with skilled execution.

Try the Polpette Alla Arrabiatta, a beef meatball appetizer bathed in a spice tomato sauce. Instead of large meatballs the chef chose smaller handmade ones which makes the dish more unique.

For pastas dig into the Gnocchi Al Girasole, a potato dumpling made from a small roll of dough that's mixes with lobster and chopped tomatoes.

The Cotoletta Classica is a large portion of breaded veal with a small arugula salad placed on top combined with baby tomatoes.

For desserts the Torta Di Pere Con Gelato Alla Cannaella or pear cake paired with cinnamon ice cream is dense and filling. Add a gourmet coffee to the treat and complete the experience.

Having pictures in the menu could help in assisting diners with their individual selections as there is a long list of items to choose from. The titles being in Italian with limited descriptions can make it a challenge for some. The website was really helpful in conveying the products thanks to visual aids.

Il Girasole Trattoria has a brighter and more open concept than the previous establishment which works will in its favor. The staff is warm and inviting across the board. This sunflower leaves room to grow, but the space will surely blossom even more in the spring with an outdoor patio and private event space on the second floor.

Visit ilgirasoletrattoria.com for online reservations and much more, ciao!