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Best of Illinois

Italian food spots

Made for those who view Italian dining as a non-negotiable ritual rather than an occasional treat.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pasta Fresh image 1
Pasta Fresh image 2
Pasta Fresh image 3
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Pasta shop

Family-run pasta shop offers fresh pasta like fettuccini with marinara and arancini. Shelves hold imported Italian goods and focaccia bread. Cash-only policy keeps a traditional vibe that feels like old Italy.

Fresh pasta stands out with fettuccini and marinara sauce highly praised. The menu includes arancini and panzerotti, alongside delicious focaccia bread and a market of Italian goods.

People are saying

"I found the fresh pasta here amazing and delicious."

"Anthony just made fresh pumpkin ravioli and gave us some to try."

"The Italian food here, especially the arancini, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments.

2

Pasta Fresh offers fresh pasta and a variety of Italian foods.

3

Pasta Fresh makes fresh pasta daily on premises.

02
Scudiero's Italian Bakery & Deli image 1

Cozy spot blends classic Italian specialties with a youthful vibe. Cannolis shine as the best ever, paired with juicy fennel-seasoned sausage. Fresh salads, pastas, and pizzas feature high-quality mozzarella in a neat, affordable setting.

Cannolis stand out as the best ever, paired with juicy Italian sausage seasoned with fennel. Freshly made salads, pastas, and pizzas complement the high-quality mozzarella and rich pasta sauce.

People are saying

"The deli sandwiches here are delicious and made with quality ingredients."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the hot, crispy pizza slices."

"I thought the cannolis were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, with one hour available in front.

2

Cash is preferred for payments at this family-owned business.

3

You can get pizza to go for a quick meal.

03
D & D Foods image 1

Old-fashioned Italian deli offers homemade sausage and fresh ravioli in a family-oriented setting. Walls lined with family photos add to the authentic Italian aroma. Regulars love the wide selection of ethnic Italian foods and amazing cheeses.

Italian sausage stands out with both hot and mild varieties that work well in spaghetti and mostaccioli. Fresh ravioli, homemade pasta, amazing cheeses, and cured meats also feature prominently.

People are saying

"Their Italian sausage is amazing and a hit at parties."

"The Guido sandwich is outstanding and packed with meat."

"Their Italian sausage is amazing, perfect for spaghetti or mostaccioli."

Good to know

1

D & D Foods specializes in high-quality Italian groceries, including meats, cheeses, and sauces.

2

The deli offers a wide selection of authentic Italian products not found elsewhere.

3

Prices at D & D Foods are affordable for the quality of products offered.

04
Chef Ciccio, Beef-Balls-Beer image 1

Italian-style restaurant offers authentic Italian vibes with a family-like dining experience near Lake Michigan. Garlic bread and cannolis are flavorful highlights, while sandwiches like Al Pesto and Italian sausage are freshly made. Chefs entertain in a lively, busy atmosphere.

Garlic bread and cannolis stand out for their flavor. Sandwiches like the Al Pesto and Italian sausage combo come fresh and perfectly made.

People are saying

"The Italian Beef sandwich here is absolutely delicious."

"The meatball sandwich here is outstanding and authentic."

"The Italian beef and sausage here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is open on Christmas Day for those looking to dine.

3

Expect a quick service with orders completed in 5-7 minutes.

05
Legends Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, clean spot with thin crust pizza and a full stocked bar featuring standout Bloody Marys. Family vibe shines with holiday decor and gaming machines. Italian eats impress with huge pasta portions and scratch-made desserts like tiramisu.

Combo Italian sausage patty beef sandwich offers full flavor and a good size. Pasta alla Vodka features great taste and huge portions. Desserts include scratch-made tiramisu, cannolis, and s'mores pizza.

People are saying

"I felt like family here, especially with Michelle's homemade pizzas."

"The thin crust pizza here is served with such friendly, welcoming staff."

"I felt like family with Michelle and the staff at this Italian food place."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for busy weekend nights.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special breakfast pizza on the first Sunday of every month.

06
Lusha Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic New York style pizza with creamy mortadella and burrata pie. Bright, clean space offers a friendly, welcoming environment and casual family vibe. Tiramisu shines with rich espresso flavor for a sweet finish.

Tiramisu stands out with rich espresso flavor and balanced sweetness. The bolognese sauce has a well-crafted recipe, and pizzas like the mortadella and burrata pie offer creamy, indulgent flavors.

People are saying

"This New Yorkโ€“style pizza has a perfect crust and balanced sauce."

"It's a great family-owned place."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, has a phenomenal, perfectly balanced flavor and spot-on crust."

Good to know

1

Lusha Pizza is family-owned and offers authentic Italian pizza.

2

The pizza is a bit more expensive than competitors.

3

Expect a clean environment with limited seating available.

07
Ciro image 1
Italian restaurant

Eight-seat counter wraps an open kitchen where chefs craft authentic Italian dishes like gnocchi pillows and tiramisu. Walls show family photos, adding cozy, intimate atmosphere with lively energy. Guests bring wine, boosting the home-like vibe and personal touch.

Pasta here stands out with grandmother's recipe and unbelievable gnocchi pillows that have unique sauces. Desserts like light tiramisu and fresh focaccia bread add to the authentic Italian food experience.

People are saying

"I found the Italian food here to be incredibly authentic."

"The tiramisu here is amazing and decadent."

"It's a uniquely intimate dining experience here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at Ciro.

2

Ciro has a BYO policy, allowing guests to bring their own wine.

3

A $7 per person fee applies for BYO wine.

08
Mortadeli & Lounge image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy deli blends authentic Italian sandwiches with a family-like atmosphere and a contemporary lounge vibe. Fresh mozzarella and pistachio pesto highlight the menu, while video gaming slots add a relaxed, fun element. Space feels bright but small and sometimes cramped.

Sandwiches feature fresh mozzarella and unique combos like pistachio pesto with mortadella. Pasta comes with a standout marinara sauce. Desserts include superb cannoli and sweet, fresh peppers in veggie options.

People are saying

"The meatball sandwich was loaded and sloppy, so good I got a second."

"The pistachio cream on the sandwich was amazing."

"You must try this Italian Food; I highly recommend it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect possible wait times during peak hours.

2

Limited seating is available, which may lead to longer wait times.

3

Some menu items may be unavailable due to freshness; check before ordering.

09
Forno Mauri image 1
Pizza restaurant

Wood-fired pizzas boast thin crusts and top Italian ingredients, creating authentic flavors. Cozy patio offers a peaceful setting while indoor seating can feel hot. Homemade tiramisu shines as a rich dessert, and lasagna delivers a hearty pasta experience.

Homemade tiramisu stands out as a rich, creamy dessert that many find exceptional. The lasagna takes some time to prepare but delivers a fantastic, hearty pasta experience. The Milano pizza also features as a recommended dish.

People are saying

"The pizza here has an incredible, authentic Neapolitan crust."

"I should definitely have the tiramisu; it's like being back in Italy."

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is delicious and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

2

The restaurant does not offer takeout or phone orders.

3

Pizzas are only available in one size, which is 12 inches.

10
Piacere Mio Uptown image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere perfect for quiet dinners. Enjoy gnocchi with light texture and rich dishes like veal parmigiana. Generous portions pair well with a solid wine list for a relaxed, inviting experience.

Gnocchi stands out with its light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. Dishes like veal parmigiana, short rib stuffed ravioli in mushroom cream sauce, and cacio e pepe showcase rich, classic Italian flavors executed with care.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious, especially the seafood."

"Their wine list is fantastic with great pairing suggestions."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was divine."

Good to know

1

Half-price bottles of wine are available on Mondays.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend nights.

3

Parking is available on the street, but can be limited during peak hours.

11
Pastina Eatery image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot offers homemade pasta with fresh sauces like pesto and vodka. Large portions include bruschetta and rich risotto. Warm, intimate vibe suits special occasions and friendly gatherings in a charming setting.

Homemade pasta stands out with fresh, flavorful sauces like pesto and vodka. Large portions include tasty appetizers such as bruschetta with olive oil and cheese and an unbelievable risotto.

People are saying

"The homemade Italian food here is delicious, with expertly crafted pasta."

"The desserts here are delicious and exquisite."

"It's a charming and cozy spot, perfect for a date night."

Good to know

1

Pastina Eatery is cash only and allows BYOB.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups.

3

Street parking is available, but allow time to find a spot.

12
Arturo Express Restaurant and Catering image 1

Italian restaurant serves large portions with affordable lunch specials like the #12 combo featuring spaghetti and salad. Menu highlights include spinach lasagna and Italian beef sandwiches. Fast, friendly service makes it great for quick, filling meals.

Lasagna varieties include spinach and cheese with marinara, and meat with meat sauce and a meatball. The menu offers chicken tortellini salad in a huge portion and a #12 lunch special with spaghetti, salad, and a drink for $12.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is really friendly and provides wonderful service."

"The staff here is really friendly and amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $12 lunch special that includes spaghetti, salad, and a drink.

2

A rewards card is available where the 11th meal is free.

3

The restaurant is not open for dinner, so plan your visit accordingly.

13
Dominick's Villa Rosa Pizzeria image 1

Small space with authentic Italian cooking offers a large menu of highly praised pizza and large lasagna portions. Atmosphere feels like an old school family-run pizzeria with affordable prices and tasty Italian beef sandwiches.

Lasagna stands out with large, healthy portions and authentic flavor. Pizza and pasta dishes come fresh and delicious, alongside tasty Italian beef sandwiches and wings.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"I love their Thin Crust Pizza; it's a real old school family-run place."

"This Italian food is the best pizza I've ever had."

Good to know

1

A slice of pizza, fries, and a soda cost $6.50.

2

Lunch specials are available for a budget-friendly meal.

3

The portions are very big, providing great value.

14
Flour Power image 1
Restaurant

Small pasta spot offers fresh ingredients and a cozy BYOB vibe. Intimate seating and soft music create a relaxed atmosphere. Popular, so arrive early to enjoy Campanelle with blue cheese and house-made focaccia.

Fresh, quality ingredients make the pasta stand out, especially the Campanelle with blue cheese, almonds, and green beans. Focaccia bread pairs well, and you can bring your own drinks to enjoy with the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the pasta here was world-beater, so fresh and delicious."

"The meatballs here are fantastic and packed with flavor."

"The Italian food's pasta is fresh and has a perfect texture."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is very limited with only four tables.

2

The menu changes daily, so check Instagram for updates before visiting.

3

Flour Power allows customers to bring their own alcohol (BYOB).

15
Antico image 1
Northern Italian restaurant

Northern Italian restaurant shines with pappardelle pork ragu and house-made gnocchi. Upscale yet relaxed vibe features a year-round back patio with herb gardens and a wood-burning fireplace. Cozy outdoor space offers a charming escape from the city.

Pappardelle with pork ragu and house-made gnocchi with San Marzano tomatoes stand out for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and high-quality ingredients. The smoked duck risotto special adds a unique twist to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"The outdoor space is so quaint and charming."

"The gnocchi here just melts in your mouth."

"The homemade pasta here is fantastic and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, Antico offers half-priced wine.

2

The back patio is lively and great for gatherings.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to avoid overbooking.

16
Dolce Ville image 1
Italian restaurant

Warm, cozy space with classic Italian music sets a romantic mood. Fresh, handmade pasta and pizza shine, especially the spaghetti Carbonara with guanciale. Beautiful decor and carefully crafted tableware make it perfect for intimate dinners and date nights.

Fresh, handmade pasta and pizza stand out here. The spaghetti Carbonara bursts with guanciale, while appetizers like bruschetta with prosciutto, pear, and gorgonzola and arancini impress with bold flavors.

People are saying

"The truffle pizza and octopus carpaccio at these Date Spots are amazing."

"It's so cozy and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed evening."

"The Italian food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Everything at Dolce Ville is Zabiha Halal.

2

It was BYOB until they attained their liquor license.

3

The parking situation at Dolce Ville is convenient with plenty of street parking.

17
Limoni Belli Neapolitan Style Pizzeria โ€“ Food Truck image 1

Wood fire ovens craft Neapolitan pizza with a light crust and fresh toppings. Italian options shine with spicy sausage and prosciutto e rucula pizzas, plus spectacular cannoli for dessert. Outdoor pizza bar offers a smooth, welcoming experience.

Italian sausage pizza stands out with its fresh sausage and spicy pepper flakes. Prosciutto e rucula pizza offers a nice balance of flavors, and the cannoli are spectacular.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be amazing and delicious."

"The food trucks here serve delicious Neapolitan pizza with fresh ingredients."

"I loved the delicious Italian sausage pizza with its perfect crust."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located outside Begyle Brewery.

2

Prices for pizza and cannoli are reasonable.

3

The food truck offers a variety of pizza options.

18
810 Entertainment - South Barrington image 1

Large open space offers bowling lanes and pool tables for fun. Italian dishes like gnocchi ala vodka and lobster ravioli bring rich, creamy, and delicate flavors. Stylish furniture and a vibrant vibe make it perfect for socializing.

Gnocchi ala vodka stands out with its rich, creamy sauce. The burrata pasta offers a smooth, cheesy texture. Lobster ravioli delivers a delicate seafood flavor.

People are saying

"It's a great place for bowling with friends and family."

"The food here is amazing and very well presented."

"The Italian Food here has outstanding service and friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to meet friends after work.

2

Sunday brunch is a popular tradition and continues at this venue.

3

Saturday and Sunday brunch will be added to the menu soon.

19
Bar Sotto image 1

Hidden underground bar glows with soft red light and a jazzy vibe. Italian dishes like cacio e pepe arancini and short rib pasta offer rich flavors. Creative cocktails and unique design make it perfect for fun nights or romantic dates.

Cacio e pepe arancini stands out with its rich flavor. The menu features short rib pasta and a special gnocchi with jerk chicken, both highly flavorful.

People are saying

"The bar staff here feels like family and makes you feel right at home."

"The cacio e pepe arancini were flavorful and a must-try."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and arancini, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bites after work.

2

The bar features a rotating menu of small shareable plates and pasta.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy evenings, especially weekends.

20
Capri Italian Food image 1

Deli offers house-made Italian sausage and fresh provolone on crispy bread, creating an authentic Italian taste. Old-fashioned atmosphere and cash-only policy add to its traditional vibe. Homemade pasta with savory meatballs completes the genuine experience.

Homemade pasta and sauces come with authentic, delicious meatballs. Italian sausage made in house offers fresh, savory flavor alongside layers of Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is authentic and delicious pasta."

"I loved the authentic and delicious pasta and meatballs from the Deli."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as credit cards are not accepted.

2

Expect affordable prices for high-quality meals.

3

The deli offers a variety of authentic Italian sandwiches.

21
Dario Mercato image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy cafรฉ offers Roman style pizza with natural grain flours and Italian mozzarella. Quaint outdoor seating creates a romantic setting on a quiet street. Classic affogato dessert rounds out the authentic Italian experience.

Roman styled pizza uses natural grain flours and mozzarella from Italy. Unique dishes replace typical pasta, but pizza and spaghetti stay delicious even as takeout. Affogato offers a simple, classic dessert.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is outstanding and fresh."

"It's a small, warm, and cozy place."

"It's a great place for date nights."

Good to know

1

Seating capacity is limited to about 16 people, so arrive early.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

3

The pizza is a great deal and customizable with toppings.

22
Riviera Foods Chicago image 1
Italian grocery store

Italian grocery store shines with fresh Barese sausage and homemade mozzarella. Deli meats and cheeses like Parmesan Reggiano offer authentic flavors at fair prices. Friendly staff create a family-style atmosphere that feels like a scene from the Sopranos.

Fresh Barese Italian sausage and deli meats stand out here. Freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano and pecorino Romano cheese come at reasonable prices, alongside homemade mozzarella and Italian beef.

People are saying

"The Italian beef sandwich food is huge and packed with tender, flavorful meat."

"I found the Italian sausage here to be the best I ever had."

"This Italian food sandwich is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The deli offers fresh handmade sandwiches daily.

2

Parking is available next door for customers.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for all guests.

23
Minelli Italian Meats and Deli image 1

Old school Italian deli offers fresh Italian meats and homemade sausages with a family-run feel. Nostalgic mall vibes and plenty of seating create a casual spot for exceptional sandwiches and hot food. Pasta, pizza slices, and made-to-order subs add to the authentic Italian experience.

Italian sausage stands out as a signature item here. Freshly prepared pasta, pizza slices, and made-to-order subs fill the refrigerated section, alongside a variety of desserts, cheeses, and breads.

People are saying

"Their sandwiches are fresh and delicious, especially with the meat sliced to order."

"The bread for the subs is amazing, especially for the prosciutto."

"I thought the Italian sausage was the best."

Good to know

1

Expect busy weekends and lunch hours; arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

The deli offers a variety of fresh meats, sandwiches, and hot meals.

3

Premade Italian sauces and meals are available for purchase.

24
Charlie Martin's image 1

Cozy spot with Hollywood regency decor sets a speakeasy mood. Bartenders serve exceptional cocktails like Old Fashioneds and martinis. Italian dishes shine with vodka rigatoni and fresh seafood like mussels and linguine, perfect for jazzy date nights.

Vodka rigatoni stands out with its flavorful and slightly spicy sauce. Plump mussels and al dente linguine with a cheesy sauce highlight the seafood options, while dishes like steak tartare, crab cake, and shrimp scampi add variety to the Italian offerings.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The French food here is phenomenal, with bold, refined flavors."

"The vodka rigatoni and steak frites were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

25
American Italian Cultural Society image 1

Small event hall buzzes with lively gatherings and Italian heritage celebrations. Monthly spaghetti dinners serve amazing spaghetti and meatballs with large portions. Atmosphere is energetic but seating is uncomfortable and sound quality is poor.

Monthly spaghetti dinners offer amazing spaghetti and meatballs at a reasonable price. Large portions make the event enjoyable and memorable.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is authentic and excellent."

"I thought the spaghetti here was the best I ever had."

"The spaghetti dinners here are amazing and a great time."

Good to know

1

Spaghetti dinners occur on the first Thursday of every month.

2

The annual festival takes place on August 12th each year.

3

Reservations are recommended for large gatherings to ensure space.

26
Penguino's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Family-owned spot serves scratch-made Italian sausage pizzas with both deep dish and thin crust options. Breadsticks are light and fluffy, and cheesy bread offers a gooey blend of mozzarella and cheddar. Friendly vibe makes it perfect for locals and takeout fans.

Pizza comes with scratch-made Italian sausage and fresh dough. Breadsticks are light and fluffy, and cheesy bread blends thick mozzarella and cheddar for gooey goodness.

People are saying

"I thought this thin crust pizza was the best I've ever had."

"The owner's great manners make me want to come back for the sausage."

"The pizza and breadsticks here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Penguino's Pizza is a bit more expensive than other places.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred.

3

Takeout is available and recommended for convenience.

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