Formerly:

Bella may be located steps from the bustling intersection of Rush and Division Streets, but it feels miles away from the hubbub once you step inside. You won't find sports logos and bachelorette parties here; rather, you'll see a group that has graduated to a more grown-up attitude. Plush leather and suede seating and fancy drinks replace wooden bar stools and pitchers of beer, and an amber-hued bar and natural wood finishings complete the upscale atmosphere.

Hungry? Dig into contemporary American fare in the small dining area. If you're craving just appetizers, try the artichoke and spinach dip ($10) with artichoke, tomato, spinach, asiago and cream cheeses with cajun tortilla chips or the potato skins ($8) with andouille sausage, mozzarella, cheddar, sour cream and chives. If you want something heavier, go for the made-to-order Bella Burger ($10) or the pesto chicken ($10), marinated in pesto sauce with tomato, red onion and roasted red pepper.

Bella's four lounges offer the best of, well, four worlds. Perch at the Window lounge if you want to be displayed to the antsy crowd waiting for entry; the Library room is accessible to Bella's cream of the crop, or private parties. Downstairs is set for those who want to get down and dirty on the dance floor, while the Limo room is decked out with plush seating for a luxurious feel. Reservations aren't necessary, but head here early before the lines start to form.

Centerstage Reviewer: Janis Mabalay