Scratch Pastificio,

133 Park Ave, Barrington, IL 60010, United States

"I write this review with great sadness. My local book club tried this restaurant when it was new. As it was tonight, the food is excellent. On our first visit, we asked the manager about the noise level. It was very hard to hear each other. We were told that plans were in the works to put sound absorbing panels on the ceiling. Another visit, noise level still bad. Tonight, TGIF, we made a 7pm reservation and planned to celebrate with cocktails and good food. We found a lively group at the bar and had to yell across the table. Instead of celebration after a long week, we quickly ate our meal and felt incredible stress. We spoke to Nick the manager who pointed out the sound absorption panels on the ceiling. He admitted they hadn't worked and agreed the noise echoing off the bar was excessive. The group at the bar would have been fine in virtually any other restaurant. Nick mentioned the owner was aware. The food was outstanding. I hope the owner will take this noise issue seriously. The 4 tables near the front/window would easily be improved with room divider screens at a low cost The screens could be moved or removed during quieter times. It's a shame that the most important aspects of great food and good service were undermined by an intolerable atmosphere. Unfortunately, we won't be back."

"We started with the octopus which was slightly over cooked, resulting in a chewy texture. The flavors were strange and underwhelming, I couldn’t put my finger on it. Not bad but also not good. Could’ve used an acid component? The little tiny pieces of sweet potato on the edge of the plate were odd. Our second dish was the tagliatelle with the wild boar. It was very tasty and I would probably return to try that and another main course again. My husband and I both ordered the hanger steak for our main dish. I’m not sure if it was the because it was sous vide, but the steak came out cold. It was also very under seasoned and could’ve used a sprinkle of flaky maldon salt on top. The sauce underneath the steak was kinda weird, and very strong with basil, which I’ve never had with steak. The green beans and the potatoes that came with the dish were okay. I love potatoes cooked in duck fat but the duck fat used was a little too gamey and strong flavored which gave off a slight scent of a wet dog. Our server was nice and all the food came out spaced well. The lighting was too bright for dinner service. We would probably give it another try in about a year or if we happen to crave the tagliatelle."

"Discovered this restaurant on a whim driving through Barrington and it is impeccable. Excellent food, great drink selection, friendly staff and wonderful ambiance. There's really nothing they could improve upon, their restaurant is perfect. I highly recommend the airline chicken and the hangar steak, although I will be back to try their pasta next time."

"Yes, this place is legit! 5 stars! Excellent creative cocktail menu. We started with the amazing pork belly appetizer which is big enough for 4 or a main dish. Best we ever had! I got the tagliatelle and husband got the spaghetti and it was the freshest most delicious pasta dishes ever and I am a very picky Italian! We will definitely be back to try more!"

"Upscale Italian restaurant/bar featuring well executed, beautifully presented dishes. Homemade pasta. Pork belly appetizer could have been an entree. Octopus appetizer was unique and delicious. Hanger steak was prepared perfectly. Chocolate mousse was smooth and not too sweet. Modern decor. Great for a date night or a night with friends. Reservations recommended."