23 Italian Restaurants in ILLINOIS (Hearty, Fresh & Rich)

Many people will agree that Italian cuisine is a solution when deciding what to eat.

Italian dishes are always hearty and incredibly attractive, from their appealing presentation to amazing flavors.

Because Illinois has seen a high volume of tourists worldwide, Italians are one of them.

Also, due to its long history, there are areas in Illinois that have the finest red sauce, such as Chicago.

Some Italian restaurants in Illinois even won awards because of how excellent the quality of their dishes.

Here are a few excellent choices regarding the top Italian restaurants in Illinois that you must always take advantage of when you visit.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Chinese Restaurants in Illinois.           

Italian Restaurants in Springfield, Illinois

1. Saputo’s (Handmade Classics)

Saputo’s restaurant is widely recognized for its handmade authentic Italian cuisine in Springfield.

A modest Italian family has owned this Italian restaurant since 1948.

The recipe is original and passed down through generations, which is why the flavor of each dish has the authentic taste of Italy.

Saputo’s Italian restaurant is on Monroe St., where there are few Italian restaurants, making it the most visited and experienced.

Many consumers prefer going to Saputo’s because of how classic and old-school the place is, where you can witness Italy’s early days.

Service is also commendable since consumers are constantly addressed and properly accommodated.

Saputo’s famous antipasto, signature pasta, and pizza are always customer favorites.

A huge proof of their high quality is the positive reviews from loyal customers.

Address: 801 E Monroe St, Springfield, IL 62701-1915

2. Gabatoni’s Restaurant (Authentic Italian Taste)

This Italian restaurant offers an authentic taste of Italian cuisine.

Gabatoni restaurant has provided customers with traditional Italian-American food for over 60 years.

Customers keep returning for more because of the delectable and flavorful Italian cuisine, which includes piping hot pizza and pasta dishes, salad and soup, and freshly cooked sandwiches.

Being an Italian restaurant, the owners of Gabatoni guarantee that the ambiance and setting are similar to those found in Italy.

The staff and servers are very kind and polite and frequently check on customers.

Food portions of the dishes are enough for two people, indicating that the size is worth the price and include the flavors.

There are also healthy alternatives because this restaurant accommodates vegetarians.

Some vegetarian dishes available are garden salad, vegetable pizza, and olive basil pasta.

Address: 300 E Laurel St, Springfield, IL 62703-3108

3. Bella Milano (Traditional & Modern Dishes)

For 20 years, Bella Milano has been serving exquisite Italian cuisine.

Many traditional and modern dishes of Bella Milano are a true favorite of many customers, not only locals but also tourists that travel especially to see this restaurant since it is truly an art of Italy.

The interior of this Italian restaurant is sufficiently spacious, which is why there are specific places for different major events such as gatherings, weddings, and birthday celebrations.

Because of their menu knowledge and continuous quality of service, the staff at this restaurant is incredibly impressive.

The most popular dishes are coconut panko white fish, shrimp rosaline, angel hair pasta with shrimp in rosemary sauce, and Milano salad.

Since the atmosphere inside is calm and tranquil, it is a great spot to hang out, relax, meet up with friends, or even dine.

Address: 4525 Wabash Ave, Springfield, IL 62711-7037

4. VELE (Sophisticated Coastal Italian)

VELE restaurant features sophisticated coastal Italian cuisine that many customers will undoubtedly appreciate.

This Italian restaurant offers a more luxurious touch and an elegant environment similar to fine dining.

The VELE menu has two sections because there is a section where they give samplers of each meal since, for VELE, sharing is always the best.

There are still larger servings available, and this is the whole serving.

Every dish is influenced by southern Italy, which means everything is clean, original, simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

As you receive your orders, they will immediately catch the attention of your eyes since they are Instagrammable due to their attractively plated presentation.

There is a wide selection of excellent wines to pair with VELE’s Italian dishes.

Grilled Caesar salad, Tuna Tartare, Chicken Piccata, Sea Bass, and Filet are some of the top specialties at this Italian restaurant.

Address: 3241 W Iles Ave, Springfield, IL 62711

5. La Piazza Cucina Italiana (Contemporary Italian Haven)

This contemporary, hearty, and intimate Italian restaurant is new to the neighborhood of downtown Springfield.

La Piazza Cucina Italiana is famous for serving real Italian cuisine, and the design offers a comfortable and peaceful environment based on the classic style of an Italian café.

Every ingredient used in their dishes is sure to be the best and freshest available; even the dough for bread and pasta is handmade fresh every day.

The restaurant’s environment is casual, meaning guests can dine in casual attire and enjoy dining in their most comfortable setting.

La Piazza Cucina Italiana consistently cooks and bakes its meals perfectly, including its best-selling Neopolitan-style pizza.

As you enter the restaurant, you will immediately fall in love with the aroma because of every fresh sauce cooked and baked fresh bread and pizza, a true heaven of sensations.

Address: 220 S 6th St Downtown next to Maldaners, Springfield, IL 62701-1503

6. Mario’s Pizza (25 Years of Homestyle Comfort)

This Italian restaurant is the best option in Springfield for amazing food and entertainment.

If you are searching for an Italian restaurant serving classic and homestyle Italian cuisine, go no further than Mario’s Pizza.

It has been in business for 25 years and continues to put smiles on people’s faces after dining here.

Food portions are large enough for sharing, and the ingredients are always prepared and cooked fresh; that is why every dish served here is guaranteed to be reasonably priced.

Because of how comfortable and pleasant the environment is in this Mario’s Pizza, many people consider it to be their favorite.

The setting is classic Italy, quiet and aromatic with Italian spices and herbs.

Party rooms within the restaurant are also available for large and private gatherings.

The greatest feature here is the create-your-own pizza choice, where you may add your toppings to your pizza.

Address: 2841 Mansion Rd, Springfield, IL 62711

Also see our article on Seafood Restaurants in Illinois.

Italian Restaurants in Richmond, Illinois

1. Paisano’s on Broadway (Italian-American Excellence)

Italian steakhouses are uncommon in Italy, but American cuisine has been added since this establishment started in the United States.

Paisano’s on Broadway is an excellent example of a restaurant that serves real Italian-American cuisine.

This restaurant is an Italian restaurant with a friendly and relaxing interior.

Beautifully painted artwork inspired by Italian villages accents the dining room.

The setting is perfect for a date night or a casual dinner since they serve dinner on the patio, which is romantic, and there is also live entertainment playing.

Its Head chef, responsible for the dishes on the menu, has been with the restaurant for more than 30 years, and the quality of the dishes has been consistent for numerous years.

Only the best flavors and freshest ingredients are accepted in Paisano’s on Broadway Italian restaurant.

The staff consistently delivers customers with high-quality service.

Address: 5614 Broadway St Richmond, IL 60071

2. Panino’s Italian Sandwiches and Crab Shack (Seafood & Italian Fusion)

Several online reviews say dining at this restaurant is always an experience.

Regarding excellent Italian cuisine and many fresh seafood dishes, Panino’s Italian Sandwiches and Crab Shack are a complete package.

This Italian restaurant is ideal for a small snack or a full dinner.

You are immediately seated because the staff here assures every guest or customer is well accommodated.

Special alcoholic cocktails are also provided here, constituting the restaurant’s trademark.

The most popular dishes are fresh oysters, sea bass, and lobster rolls. Pasta, pizza, and fresh salad are staples in Italian cuisine.

Panino’s Italian Sandwiches and Crab Shack’s atmosphere is intimate but casual.

This Italian restaurant is famous for serving flavorful, high-quality food.

The authenticity and consistency of the food and service are why Panino’s restaurant continuously gets attention.

Address: 5628 Broadway St, Richmond, IL 60071-7702

Also see our article on BBQs in Illinois.

Italian Restaurants in Galena, Illinois

1. Fried Green Tomatoes (Modern & Historic Fusion)

This stylish and sophisticated restaurant is a comprehensive package because it provides Italian and American cuisine and a great steakhouse.

Even if the setting is modern, the building’s design is traditional and historic.

Fried Green Tomatoes is a multi-level restaurant serving fusions of contemporary and classic cuisines.

Its decor is stylish and inviting, similar to a fine dining restaurant.

A large selection of good wines is also available to complement your meal.

This Italian restaurant is famous for its surf and turf selections, which is why many of its customers are frequent visitors.

Fried Green Tomatoes’ top dishes are Chicken Piccata, Marsala, and beautifully cooked Sea Bass.

Many customers find the restaurant’s name interesting; it is catchy and easy to remember.

Special menus are released for a certain period; make sure always to check online to catch it.

Address: 213 N Main St, Galena, IL 61036-2245

2. Vinny Vanucchi’s (Little Italy Charm)

If you are seeking a traditional Italian restaurant where you can discover the authentic ambiance of being in an actual restaurant in Italy, this is the place to go.

Vinny Vanuchi’s Italian restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine from the old neighborhood of Italy.

This Italian restaurant is famous as “Little Italy” because every guest is like a family member.

Every intricate or traditional meal is created from scratch and prepared fresh.

Vinny Vanuchi’s Italian restaurant consistently has many repeat customers due to the superb dishes, straight from the recipe passed down through generations.

You will fall in love with this restaurant since it is peaceful to look at as outdoor dining is available.

The interior has a complete design of grape vines to seem like an Italian winery.

Address: 201 S Main St, Galena, IL 61036-2284

3. Cannova’s Pizzeria (Family Recipes)

A meaty and warm pizza is what every Italian craves in an Italian restaurant, and Cannova’s Pizzeria will not disappoint.

Cannova’s Pizzeria is famous for serving the best Italian cuisine in Galena.

It is sitting on North Main Street, where you can enjoy the aroma of freshly made pizza and fresh ingredients.

This Italian restaurant is perfect for a romantic date night or an intimate dinner with family.

While small in size, the restaurant packs a powerful flavor punch in each of its dishes.

Every dish at this restaurant has been a family recipe since 1922 and has been developed through the years.

The restaurant’s décor has a warm and friendly dining atmosphere.

You can certainly taste ancient Italy because all the components are fresh and of the best quality.

Address: 247 N Main St, Galena, IL 61036-2245

Also see our article on Bed and Breakfasts in Illinois.

Italian Restaurants in Des Plaines, Illinois

1. Via Roma (Authentic Transvetere Cuisine)

Discover Via Roma, an authentic Italian restaurant that has been a Chicago secret nestled in downtown Des Plaines.

Via Roma is a small Italian restaurant owned by a couple specializing in delivering traditional, basic, yet excellent Italian cuisine from Transvetere, Italy.

The owners of Via Roma ensure that the quality and flavors of every dish served are above what is considered ordinary.

Most of the items offered here are entirely handmade, such as Fettuccine Bolognese, Zuppa Di Pesce, and all the pizzas available, which perfectly satisfy your appetite for any Italian food.

The restaurant layout is appropriate and seems flawless on social media, which is why many people come here and hear much wonderful feedback from the web.

A lot of positive reviews are steadily growing.

Address: 464 E Northwest Hwy, Des Plaines, IL 60016

2. Giuseppe’s Pizzeria and Catering (60 Years of Freshness)

For over 60 years, this Italian restaurant has been one of the top Italian restaurants in the Des Plaines area.

Giuseppe, the owner of this Italian restaurant, spent time building an amazing reputation for providing the freshest and best quality ingredients served fresh and to order.

Many customers return because of their satisfaction, concentrating on the flavor, quality, and professionalism of Giuseppe’s Pizzeria and Catering’s service.

Giussepe’s entire work resulted in an incredible outcome in which they received an award for their delicious and specially crafted pizzas.

Numerous reviews from various customers have confirmed the top quality of Giussepe’s Pizzeria’s pizza because of the constant strong feedback about the quality of their pizza and the bursting flavors it contains.

This Italian restaurant will not last for more than 60 years if it’s now exceeding every customer’s expectation.

Address: 554 E Algonquin Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016-6110

3. Rosati’s Pizza (Adventurous Pizza Varieties)

Regarding the quality of its pizzas, this Italian restaurant is quite adventurous.

Rosati’s Pizzeria is one of the most well-known restaurants in Des Plaines.

This famous pizzeria serves many Italian cuisines but has only been open for a few years.

Because of how simple and inviting the pizzas served in this pizzeria are, it has become a big favorite of the local people within the neighborhood.

Although this Italian restaurant is famous for its pizza, other dishes are available.

Rosati’s Pizzeria also provides various Italian cuisine such as pasta, sandwiches, and side dishes like French fries.

That is, in fact, a complete and substantial meal.

Every Italian dish is cooked and delivered fresh using only the finest ingredients in Rosati’s Pizzeria.

Because of the flavorful ingredients, many people enjoy their calzone, and their Chicken Parmigiana is also popular.

Address: 2665 Mannheim Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018-3601

4. Little Villa Restaurant and Pizzeria (Perfectly Crafted Italian)

There is an Italian flag immediately outside the entrance, making it easy to see that this is an Italian restaurant from the outside.

Prepare to savor authentic Italian cuisine because Little Villa Restaurant and Pizzeria have everything.

Everything about Little Villa Restaurant and Pizzeria is perfect, from the most authentic Italian dishes like pasta with perfectly and freshly cooked sauce from scratch to the hand-crafted dough of pizza and bread, to the freshest salad possible, the light and decadent taste of freshly made tiramisu.

Every pasta dish is dripping with cheese and sauce but has the perfect sweetness, sourness, and acidity.

Customers have consistently returned to dine and explore more of what this Italian restaurant offers.

One of Little Villa’s best and strongest dishes is its pizza, a real favorite of many customers.

Address: 660 N Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

5. Giacomo’s Ristorante (Beautifully Crafted Dishes)

Giacomo’s Ristorante, a real haven of Italian food, has created a significant impression regarding high-quality Italian cuisine.

This restaurant is one of the best Italian restaurants in the United States, having been named one of the top 20 restaurants by Tasting Table 2023.

Giacomo’s Ristorante offers an extensive selection of authentically traditional Italian dishes.

Every dish on their menu is a work of beauty on a plate.

The vibrant flavors hit your palate, as well as the beautiful presentation of the dish when served to you.

Every pasta, bread, and pizza dough is made from scratch.

Sauces are prepared fresh and to perfection.

Many verdicts and critiques have resulted in the remark that all customers, especially first-timers, will fall in love with the ristorante’s food and even lick their plates clean.

Giacomo Ristorante even has its signature sauce, a major selling point for this restaurant.

Several repeat customers praise the Lobster Bisque, Fra Diablo, Eggplant Parmesan, AntiPasti, shrimp fettuccine, and seafood pasta.

Address: 740 N Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

Also see our article on Desserts in Illinois.

Italian Restaurants in Rosemont, Illinois (Tasting Table’s Top 20)

1. Buona (Inviting & Pleasant Ambiance)

Over 40 years of existence, Buona Italian restaurant has proven that even over the longest period, as long as you have a strong purpose, nothing will ever be compromised.

It is already a Buona tradition to greet every client that dines in the restaurant or gets takeaway.

The owners of Buona Italian restaurant’s main goal is to have the neighborhood enjoy its traditional cuisine.

However, after several years, tourists worldwide are hungry to sample their exquisite dishes.

The restaurant is developed as casual to make it more inviting and pleasant for the customers.

Most of their menu items that receive positive feedback online are their full sandwiches, overflowing large pizzas, and pasta with fresh sauce.

The authenticity of the flavors in Buona’s food takes your palate to the villages of Italy.

Address: 10425 E Touhy Ave, Rosemont, IL 60018

2. Little Angelo’s Pizza (Homey Hangout Spot)

Little Angelo’s Pizza serves the best pizza if you are looking for a comfortable and warm location to hang out and dine.

This pizzeria is famous for its deep-dish pizza; it contains a variety of flavors and toppings.

The major attraction of this restaurant is that everything is freshly cooked, including the most popular pizza sauce and cheese.

Little Angelo’s Pizza has a very comfortable and casual atmosphere, which makes it a great place to hang out, chill with friends, or spend time alone and enjoy the amazing food of this Italian restaurant.

Pasta, ribs, fried chicken sandwiches, salad, and fish are just a few menu items you can choose from.

Everything is freshly prepared, well-seasoned, and cooked to perfection.

After you have tried their distinctive cuisine, this will become your new favorite comfort restaurant.

Address: 7112 Mannheim Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018-3620

3. Carlucci (Upscale Italian Excellence)

Carlucci Italian Restaurant is an upscale Italian restaurant excellent for a romantic date night, an intimate family event, or a nice simple dinner.

This famous restaurant is one of the finest romantic restaurants in Rosemont, serving Italian food.

In 1989, it started as a casual Italian restaurant.

It has been a local favorite in the neighborhood for its steady and continual offering of top-quality Italian food and progress.

Carlucci Italian restaurant has received several awards from various award-winning organizations for its exceptional performance.

One of these distinctions is being named one of the best 50 restaurants in Illinois.

The setting of Carlucci restaurant is highly exquisite, high-end, and sophisticated, yet the owners advise their customers to feel free and wear whatever they desire; it does not have to be formal.

One of the outstanding dishes recommended in this Italian restaurant is Linguine with Prosciutto and Rigatoni Al Vodka.

Address: 6111 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018-5158

4. Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse (Luxury & Tradition)

Luxury is worth your price if you get what you pay for it.

Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse is an example of well-deserved luxury.

This Italian restaurant is one of the high-end restaurants popular not just in Rosemont but across Illinois.

Its high-end environment and exquisite arrangement reveal a deeper meaning.

Harry Caray, a popular Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame newscaster, is celebrated at this Italian steakhouse.

This Italian Steakhouse is particularly known for its Italian old-school techniques and use of the finest and freshest ingredients.

The environment of this Italian steakhouse is sophisticated, and the vibe is warm and welcoming.

Owners of this steakhouse want customers to understand that even though it is a high-end establishment, they can be themselves while still behaving properly.

USDA prime aged steaks are one of this Italian steakhouse’s most popular menu items.

All meat is guaranteed to be juicy, tender, and prepared for customers’ preferences.

If you enjoy quality cuts of steak and traditional Italian cuisine while watching baseball, then you should go to Harry Caray’s Italian Restaurant.

Address: 10233 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018-3873

5. Giordano’s (Deep-Dish Pizza Classic)

When you hear this name, you know you’re in for your life’s finest sensory organ experience.

This brand is a classic for Italian cuisine and pizza in Rosemont and neighboring cities.

Giordano’s is one of the restaurants with the finest reputation for pizza and Italian dishes.

Whether you are in the neighborhood for a convention, a business trip, or just passing through, Giordano’s pizza place is your next stop.

Giordano’s is famous for its deep-dish pizza, which has the greatest dough and toppings and tastes like Chicago’s best.

Their pizzas are carefully cooked to get the best and flakiest pie-like crust.

Every local and tourist will plan an itinerary to visit Giordano’s and sample their special dishes; it is a complete waste if you fail to try even a single slice while in the area.

If you’re looking for anything other than pizza, Giordano’s also offers a wide variety of mouthwatering pasta dishes, exceptional hearty sandwiches and salads, and warm and soothing soups.

Address: 9415 W Higgins Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018

Also see our article on Coffee Shops in Illinois.

Italian Restaurants in Alton, Illinois

1. Castelli’s Restaurant at 255 (Local Favorite)

From the appearance of the restaurant outside to the style of the interior to the menu and the dishes available, Castelli’s Restaurant is a simple description of a traditional Italian restaurant.

When Castelli’s restaurant opened in 1937, it was still known as Moonlight.

Because of the original tastes and menu growth throughout time, this Italian restaurant has grown in popularity since its beginnings.

It originated as a local neighborhood landmark when it was still Moonlight.

However, over the years and when it became Castelli’s restaurant at 255, it is now a confirmed favorite that draws tourists worldwide to visit.

Fried Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser.

Due to the original recipe for this fried chicken, it grew increasingly popular, and about 70% of their diners have requested it since then.

Castelli’s restaurant at 255 also serves house specialties like Roman house salad and toasted ravioli, baked lasagna, and chargrilled salmon filet.

Address: 3400 Fosterburg Rd, Alton, IL 62002

2. Chez Marilyn (Cozy Italian Dining)

Chez Marilyn is your number one restaurant for being cozy, at home and eating top-quality Italian dishes.

This Italian restaurant has a laid-back setting and ambiance.

It’s perfect for a peaceful date night, relaxing alone, dinner with family, or a get-together with friends.

Cocktail drinks and other alcoholic beverages are available for ordering, which pair perfectly with the Italian food served here.

You will appreciate your stay here because of the food and the excellent and soothing ambiance, which is characteristic of a typical Italian restaurant.

While Chez Marilyn stays loyal to its traditional Italian food, their most popular dish is its mouthwatering pizza, which is not an ordinary but a square pizza.

Other highly suggested dishes include risotto, salad, spaghetti, steak and shrimp, and alcoholic cocktail beverages to enrich your palate.

Address: 119 W 3rd St, Alton, IL 62002-6274

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best High Tea, Seafood Restaurants, and Happy Hours in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the best Italian Restaurants in Texas and California’s finest Italian Restaurants.