by Matthew Odam

Chicago-based BDG Hospitality opens Sophia's at 500 W. Sixth St. in the former Bess Bistro space Friday night. The group, which owns two lounges and nightclubs in Chicago, calls the restaurant a "modern take on a classic Italian-American supper club" in a "sexy and sophisticated environment."

The kitchen is led by executive chef Mark Sparacino, chef and owner of Prosecco Ristorante in Chicago's River North neighborhood. His menu includes pasta with cremini mushrooms and truffle cream, whole roasted fish, smothered pork chops, linguine with clams and brick chicken. The restaurant maintains some of the underground cellar feel with brick archways and walls, and is colored with blue velvet and dark leather furniture.

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Source: http://dining.blog.austin360.com/