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Amano Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Amano Bistro
8.0
Amano is an intimate North Center bistro leaning on fresh pastas, seasonal antipasti, and a compact wine list. It feels more like a neighborhood dinner party than a big-night-out destination, with a menu built for sharing a couple of starters and a pasta or two.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle Bolognese, Mushroom ravioli with brown butter, Margherita-style pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Small, chef-driven Italian bistro with a tight, seasonal menu.
Who should go: Couples and small groups who prioritize pastas over scene.
When to visit: Weeknights for easier reservations and a quieter room.
What to order: A shared antipasti, tagliatelle Bolognese, mushroom ravioli.
Insider tip: Grab a bar seat if tables are booked; service is just as attentive.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in the neighborhood; easier on side streets but can tighten up around peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly polished.
Noise level: Moderate — comfortable for conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Plan ahead — walk-ins may face 30–60 minutes depending on time.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited or seasonal; dinner is the primary focus.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several antipasti and pastas are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — some dishes can be adjusted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Some accommodations — ask about gluten-free pasta availability and preparation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate size, warm service, and thoughtful cooking create a relaxed but special-feeling atmosphere without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes on weeknights, though seating is limited. On weekends, a reservation is strongly recommended, but the bar can be a good backup.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more of an adult-leaning neighborhood spot. Well-behaved older kids or teens are fine, but it’s not designed for younger children or large family parties.
Best For
Better for: Cozy, chef-driven pasta dinners where the focus is on seasonal dishes rather than a long menu or big-scene energy.
Skip if: You’re looking for large-group seating, loud nightlife, or an extensive menu with lots of non-Italian options.
Amano Bistro
8.0
Amano Bistro is a compact North Center restaurant where handmade pastas, Mediterranean-leaning seafood, and a focused wine list make small tables feel like getaways. The room is intimate without being stiff, ideal for couples who want a slower, shareable dinner without downtown crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mediterraneo Branzino, Gnocchi, Fettuccine Gorgonzola
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: Small, softly lit bistro marrying handmade Italian pastas with Mediterranean seafood.
Who should go: Couples who prefer quiet, conversation-first bistro dinners.
When to visit: Midweek evenings or later weekend seatings for intimacy.
What to order: Gnocchi, Mediterraneo Branzino, shared antipasti board.
Insider tip: Reserve a two-top along the wall for the coziest feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood; usually manageable but can take a few minutes on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for date night
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally quiet enough for easy conversation
Weekend wait: Often fully booked; walk-ins may wait 30–60 minutes depending on time
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — primarily a dinner destination
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — several pastas and starters are naturally vegetarian
Vegan options: Limited — some vegetable-forward dishes, but menus lean dairy-forward
Gluten-free options: Some dishes can be modified; availability varies by preparation
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy space, candlelight, and relaxed pacing create a romantic, low-pressure environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — earlier seatings or late nights offer the best chance, but weekends usually require booking ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the intimate dining room and slower-paced service suit adults more than young children.
Best For
Better for: Romantic dinners with handmade pastas, attentive pacing, and a boutique wine list in a small-room setting
Skip if: You want big-group energy, loud crowds, late-night buzz, or a casual quick bite
Hours
Monday5pm - 10pm
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday3pm - 10pm
Sunday3pm - 9:30pm