Cozy, family-style Italian restaurant with a warm atmosphere and quaint decor that feels homely and cutesy. Small, tight space includes a bar area reminiscent of Cheers and offers outside seating on the street. The vibe is lively and friendly, suitable for romantic dinners or large parties.
Crispy, well-seasoned calamari comes in a huge portion and stands out as a highlight. Lightly breaded and tasty, it ranks among the best ever had.
Grandmother's recipe shapes the lasagna with a perfect crisp on the cheese and generous portion size. It stands out as a mouth-watering dish that many find magical and delicious.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure seating.
Parking is limited; arrive early to find a spot nearby.
The restaurant is not handicapped accessible due to steep steps.
Small dining room with dark-stained wood and soft lighting creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Bar area contrasts with a tavern-like feel, offering a distinct vibe within the same space. Space feels intimate but can be cramped during gatherings.
Fried calamari comes lightly dusted and airy, not coated in heavy breadcrumbs. It serves as a delicious appetizer alongside other seafood starters like baked clams and grilled octopus.
Eggplant lasagna offers a great alternative to classic pasta versions. Both lasagna and gnocchi come out perfectly cooked with rich flavors.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly.
The cost for spaghetti and meatballs is $38, and fettuccine alfredo is $39.
A service charge is added to the bill before tax and gratuity.
Italian restaurant offers riverfront dining with unobstructed views of the Fox River. Atmosphere feels welcoming and friendly, with live music on the patio enhancing the experience. Pizza stands out as a signature dish, often praised for its quality and preparation.
Fried calamari comes in a massive portion for $17, cooked crispy and tender with only rings, no tentacles. The dish offers great value and consistent quality.
Lasagna comes with a large portion that can be split into three meals. It features a meat sauce that many find perfect.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.
Expect a higher price point for dinner compared to lunch.
The restaurant offers a nice view of the river.
Large dining room filled with lots of plants and a colorful accent wall creates a Caribbean vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly with a live DJ adding a fun touch. Bar area separates from dining room, keeping energy low key but vibe suits date nights and casual gatherings.
Chewy calamari comes with fried jalapeรฑos or fried giardiniera, adding a spicy crunch that stands out. The dish pairs well with other items like crab cakes and Parmesan fries.
Lasagna stands out as a generous portion that pairs well with sides like Brussels sprouts. It consistently ranks among the top dishes alongside Mac nโ Cheese and burgers.
Good to know
Happy hour runs weekdays with various food and drink specials.
Sunday brunch offers a $25 two-course meal deal.
Bottomless brunch is available on weekends.
Italian restaurant combines cozy bar, outdoor seating, and a packed dining room with a city vibe in a suburban setting. Atmosphere ranges from loud and lively inside to clean and relaxing outside. Decor features pig-themed accents that contrast with traditional Italian style.
Grilled calamari stands out with its great flavor and tender texture. Fried calamari also appears consistently perfectly seasoned and cooked, avoiding any rubbery feel.
Lasagna night on Thursdays offers a dine-in option with a well-liked lasagna. Pairing it with tiramisu adds a classic touch to the meal.
Good to know
Tuesday is half-price wine night, making it a great time to visit.
Lasagna and martini night happens every Thursday at Ottimo.
Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Tuesday and Thursday.
Italian restaurant offers a lively and inviting atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and a cozy, warm interior despite its large size. Large televisions above the bar create a bar-and-grill vibe rather than a refined dining experience. The private room provides a spacious and private setting for groups.
Fried calamari arrives fresh and cooked to perfection. It stands out as a scrumptious starter often favored alongside other dishes.
Lasagna stands out as the star of the meal with rich layers and satisfying flavors. Multiple visits confirm it consistently impresses and holds a special place among dishes.
Good to know
The restaurant offers gluten-free options on the menu.
Expect no wait time for large groups during peak hours.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.
Cozy Italian restaurant with a hidden garden patio that offers dim lighting and spacious outdoor seating. Atmosphere is generally warm and quiet, with friendly staff enhancing the experience. The front patio provides a spot for sidewalk people watching.
Calamari arrives as a first course alongside bruschetta. It pairs well with other dishes like pasta and polenta, making it a solid choice for starters.
Rich layers and savory sauce make the lasagna stand out. It pairs well with the bruschetta flight for a full Italian experience.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a family-style dinner for parties of six or more at 8:30 PM.
The price for the Mangia experience is $282 for six people.
Ordering individually would cost about $220, allowing for more customization.
Open design with a central bar surrounded by multiple TVs creates a lively, sports-focused atmosphere. Loud music and boisterous crowds make it energetic but not suited for quiet conversations. Decor reflects an old-school Italian vibe with plentiful seating and a welcoming, classic neighborhood feel.
Appetizer calamari offers a yummy taste with a generally okay quality. It stands out as a recommended starter option.
Huge portions of meat lasagna stand out here. The Lasagna Bolognese offers a rich, satisfying flavor.
Good to know
Karaoke night is every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm.
Kids eat free on Tuesdays with a paying adult.
Big Sammy's hosts all Bears games with special viewing events.
Italian restaurant offers a cozy fireplace and spacious bar seating with a lively yet relaxing atmosphere. Comfortable seating and pretty street view windows create a welcoming vibe. The patio adds an inviting outdoor option.
Fried calamari stands out with its tasty flavor and quick disappearance from the table. It pairs well with dishes like the Oak Park salad, making it a notable choice here.
Lasagna comes with a bit salty flavor. It appears alongside dishes like sausage n peppers and calamari on the table.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.
Half off bottles of wine are available on Wednesdays.
Parking can be challenging on busy days, so plan accordingly.
Italian restaurant offers open dining room with low lighting creating a comfortable, romantic atmosphere despite being noisy and crowded. Outdoor patio features fireplace and heaters but can be affected by cold or aircraft noise. Food includes homemade pasta and standout dishes like calamari and sea bass.
Calamari comes as a tasty appetizer with a tomato-based sauce that stands out more than the calamari itself. The dish pairs well with the bland white bread for dipping.
Handmade lasagna shows a perfect consistency throughout. It stands out among other main courses like spaghetti and meatballs and pairs well with dishes featuring capers and lemon sauce.
Good to know
Parking costs $7 and is cash only with valet service.
Reservations are not required and seating is often immediate.
The restaurant is open until 11 PM on weekdays.
Elegant Italian restaurant with 40โs-inspired decor and marble floors featuring Italian landscapes. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending cozy family vibes with refined city elegance. Seating offers comfortable privacy, making it suitable for special occasions.
Grilled calamari arrives perfectly cooked and tender. It works well as a bar appetizer to start the meal.
Sauce stands out with rich, savory flavor. Layers include mozzarella cheese that melts perfectly. Many say it tastes like the best lasagna they've had in a restaurant.
Good to know
Reservations can be made online and are recommended for busy nights.
Expect a wait time of 30 minutes during peak dinner hours.
Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during weekends.
Small Italian restaurant offers a cozy, family-style atmosphere with loud, lively energy inside and a charming patio with umbrellas outside. Regulars frequent the space, creating a welcoming vibe, while the BYOB policy adds a relaxed, personal touch to dining.
Calamari comes with a light batter and stays tender and not greasy. It tends to lack seasoning and flavor despite its freshness.
Lasagna stands out for its rich beef filling and customizable options like skipping spinach. It arrives ready to share, with plates brought out without needing to ask.
Good to know
VIA ROMA allows customers to bring their own beverages without a corkage fee.
VIA ROMA does not accept reservations.
Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.