We arrived at La Strada just before noon on a weekday. The hostess was very nice and sat us right away. The first thing we noticed is that we were the only ones in the restaurant which we thought was not a good sign. However, withing 15 minutes the entire restaurant was filled. The ambiance is first rate with small statues and sculptures, muted colors, and faux exposed brick behind stucco. Very inviting. The ceiling is painted like an evening sky and reminded me a bit of Ceasers in Vegas. It is a really nice touch as it makes the upstairs balcony seem like it is outdoors which is a very pleasant experience when it is 5 degrees outside.
Any time I try a new Italian restaurant I order the pasta marinara. If you can't make a great marinara then you don't deserve to call yourself an Italian restaurant. The waiter was efficient and pleasant and I am happy to report that the pasta was very good. Cooked al dente with a light flavorful sauce. I even sopped up what was left with the Delicious bread. Being the sister restaurant of La Dolce Vita I had high hopes and I was not disappointed. Actually, the sauce seemed a little lighter and fresher at La Strada. A stronger flavor of basil which I really liked.
Another important point is that we never felt rushed, but we were also out in time to get back to work within the hour we have for lunch. Nothing ruins a good meal like being ten minutes late for work and not even having the check yet (Metropolitan anyone?).