50 Best Italian Restaurants near Forest Park

“It’s great place with great service, a variety of wine options, and delicious pasta!! 100/10“

“One of the best spots for authentic Italian and the best traditional atmosphere and great service and customers!“

“Excelente servicio y comida deliciosa“

“Amazing Pizza. Top notch staff and service. This place is a must try!!!“

“Il Milanese is hands-down one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had in Chicago. From start to finish, everything was impeccable — the service, the atmosphere, and most importantly, the food.
My mother-in-law was craving Italian for her birthday, and Carlo and his team absolutely delivered a special evening we’ll never forget. We tasted so many incredible dishes, but the lamb shank special with risotto was on another level — tender, flavorful, and perfectly paired. Truly the best I’ve ever had.
This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a place that makes you feel like family while serving world-class Italian cuisine. Thank you, Carlo, for making my mother-in-law’s birthday unforgettable. We’ll be back often and will be recommending Il Milanese to everyone we know!“

“Wonderful restaurant. Food was excellent very close to what I had in Rome. Staff very friendly and made our dining very enjoyable! Go here!!“

“We drove down from Milwaukee. I’ve been wanting to try Tortello since they’ve opened and I found out that they source their eggs from where I get mine (they are the best). Dario was kind, friendly, and extremely engaging. The food was fantastic. We started with Focaccia Ricotta & Honey which was ridiculously good. I had the spaghetti pomodoro which was perfectly balanced sauce to pasta to cheese. My husband had the Cacio e Pepe and devoured it. Our son had the Kids Lumache and ate half (he’s only two) and inhaled the rest tonight. It smelled even better the second time around if that’s possible. Best authentic Italian I’ve had in the States. Felt great after too, not like I’d eaten a pound of pasta. If you aren’t making plans to go sometime soon…you’re missing out!“

“Wonderful food and service.“

“Good food and lovely atmosphere“

“If you are looking for a really special food experience with a cozy casual atmosphere, this is an awesome place to visit. The chef, Ms Dani Kaplan, is the daughter of one of my closest bff. OMG! Each bite is a tastebud delight! And the bar - so special! If you want a true, high-quality, Chicago, eating experience don’t miss this place!!!!“

“Best Italian sub I've ever had in my life! The atmosphere epitomizes Old Italy and all its charm. Definitely coming back!“

“We had friends in town for the night and knew we would get a good meal and experience at Gaia. We sat outside so had to pause conversation for the passing BNSF and Metra trains, but that is all part of the ambiance. We had the arrancini special appetizer which had the perfect ratio of rice to filling. I had the halibut, and it was perfectly prepared with a piccata sauce and angel hair. Our friends enjoyed that the staff is familiar and all welcoming which adds to the neighborhood feel.“

“The risotto in the arancini was undercooked (crunchy) and the pasta vesuvio and shells were bland. Atmosphere was cool and wine was delicious. Would be a good place just for drinks and possibly apps. Otherwise, there are so many other better pizza and pasta restaurants in the city.“

“**Long Review – Worth the Read!** I first noticed this charming restaurant while driving by a month ago. Intrigued, I did some research and couldn’t wait to visit. Unfortunately, each time I attempted to dine there, they were closed. Lesson learned: always check the hours! Finally, eight days ago, I arrived on a busy Saturday evening. With no seats available inside, we opted for the patio near a heater despite the chilly weather. **What I Loved**: I was impressed as the staff graciously apologized to walk-in guests without reservations, offering them the option to wait or take food to go. Once seated, we were informed about the busy night ahead and things may take a little longer. They made sure to take care of us, even inviting us inside when seats became available. Walking into the restaurant felt like stepping into a trattoria in Italy, the kind only locals know about. The pizza was divine—and reminded me of Naples. The homemade pasta was perfection, and the mussels were absolutely to die for! This meal transported me back to my days living in Italy, away from the tourist trap restaurants. **A Second Visit**: I returned today, craving pizza and pasta, but they were out of pizza. While disappointing, it’s a sign of their growing popularity. Pamela, my server, delivered the news with grace and empathy, which made the experience enjoyable despite the setback. We quickly and playfully switched gears, and she suggested some fantastic alternatives that I loved! I truly appreciate good communication and understand the importance of patience in the dining experience. To those leaving negative reviews: It’s easy to critique from the sidelines. I challenge anyone who thinks they could do better to step into a server's shoes. Patience and kindness are free and go a long way.“

“We were at a holiday/retirement party. Large group. We were well cared for. I highly recommend them for a date night, happy hour or a large party!“

“Free Valet to start our experience here was a pleasant surprise and much appreciated. Hostess was very friendly, and our server Jose was thorough and had such a positive energy. Everyone chips in to help keep the table clean, waters refilled, etc. We truly had an amazing experience and would recommend to anyone looking for an Italian gem!“

“5 stars for HECTOR in Western Springs!!! Hands down this was the absolute best dining experience I’ve ever had! While the food was delicious and the overall ambiance and decor of the restaurant was cozy, it was our server that made this dining experience over the top, great! HECTOR, you are a gem, a diamond! You have an absolutely charming personality and made my mother in law’s birthday dinner an experience to remember! From your spot on suggestions, to your lovely rendition of “Happy Birthday”, to the funny banter, our whole family left talking about how wonderful you were! We will be back and we will be sure to come when you are serving! Thank you Hector!!!“

“Last week I hosted a private party for 20 people. We had drinks, dinner, dessert and it was all delicious! The service was outstanding and Eileen went out of her way to ensure the event was beautifully planned. It was everything I could have asked for. Thank you!“

“From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat—but I had no idea just how satisfying it would be. Let’s start with the French toast: golden, fluffy, and kissed with just the right amount of cinnamon and sweetness. It was perfection on a plate—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with fresh fruit and syrup that made each bite better than the last. Next up? A wholesome egg white omelette that didn’t skip a beat on flavor. Packed with vibrant veggies and just the right amount of seasoning, it was light, fresh, and oh-so-satisfying. And that’s just scratching the surface. The service was warm, the vibe was cozy yet elevated, and every dish was crafted with care. From start to finish, this brunch felt like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re a fellow foodie, a brunch aficionado, or just looking for your next go-to spot, add this one to your list. Trust me—your taste buds will thank you.“

“Gpay didn't work and I had no physical card. After trying the Gpay several times, I gave up. The manager asked for the drink I was drinking back, lol. I got in the car, saw my wallet in the seat and decided not to go back in. I drove out of my way to try this food, but this experience with being asked for the drink back was shocking. #theapartmentlady“

“Excellent food, great service, knowledgeable waitress“

“La comida estuvo deliciosa, cada platillo con un sabor auténtico y bien preparado. El servicio fue excelente y el ambiente muy acogedor. Definitivamente un lugar para volver muchas veces y para disfrutar en familia o con amigos. The food was delicious, each dish authentic and well-prepared. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was very welcoming. Definitely a place to return to many times and enjoy with family or friends.“

“Well, we just loved it! We expected a slightly more bustling urban Italian experience, but being a bistro, we got a more home kitchen feel. The prices were a little lower than expected, but typical with a dine-in Italian experience.

But the food! We have tried lots of Italian restaurants in Chicago recently. This was a standout. They offer a delicious homemade cornbread and feta spread upon arrival. We ordered the Gorgonzola fettuccine and the linguine putaneska and they were just to die for! The Gorgonzola was creamy and not overpowering. The putaneska was savory, salty in the right way, with lots of umami. The shrimp was cooked to perfection. And the carrot cake with cream cheese icing was delicious. The food was just wonderful.

Going along with the home kitchen feel, the server was casual and friendly. Lovely and personal attention is given. Please give this place a try. It is worth it.“

“Love this new for me tasty omg takecare uslike a VIP excellent service quality and oldiest place wonderful“

“Grande! Finalmente anche gli americani possono mangiare una pizza seria.“

“Been wanting to try this place and it did not disappoint. Service was great and waiting time isn’t long, I would definitely recommend the Italian beef combo, and the Mexican grilled chicken sandwich if you’re looking for something more spicy. Overall fantastic experience and I highly recommend coming to Tony’s.“

“Family friendly restaurant with food choices for everyone but the made fresh pasta was the best part!“

“The food was very good. Our server, however, was so hyper, it was hard to even communicate with him. NOT fine dining experience for sure, but not worthy of a diner even. The “music” continues to be merely a pounding sound, not an addition to ambience as it should be.“

“Love this place! We eat here frequently on Sundays!“

“Raffi is a wonderful host and the server is very attentive. Loved all of the meals I have had there over the years. My favorite is the mostaciolli with spinach and ricotta, better at Raffis than anywhere else I’ve been.“

“an instant superstar in this community, people will come from near and far for this quality of Italian.“

“Great vibe! Sat outside.“

“I always stop when I’m nearby!“

“Had dinner on 12/17/2023 service and food was excellent. Gluten free menu available.“

“Very good food. We enjoy the dinner. Very good service too“

“My FAVORITE grilled chicken sandwich! Everything is amazing! Highly recommend!“

“An exceptional dining experience!! The flavors in each dish were perfectly balanced, and the ingredients tasted incredibly fresh. The steak was cooked to perfection! Our waiter Luis was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations. We felt well taken care of!!“

“The food here is beyond exquisite. Homemade gnocchi and table side polenta steal the show, but everything is amazing. Make sure to ask for a table outside in the wine garden in the back. You will pass through this tiny restaurant into a true oasis in the back. The unassuming front of the restaurant wouldn’t make you think the food is as incredible as it is.“

“Wonderful all around. Amazing food,amazing wait staff, 10/10 atmosphere as well.“

“Just had lunch with my neighbor Jorge and as usual was NOT disappointed! Chris was her usual friendly self. She’s always on the ball about pleasing people and sending them home happy and full. Rose was the waitress everyone dreams of. Patient and funny all in the same breath. If you haven’t been to LaVilla I highly recommend a visit. You will want to return again and again! I’d be there more often but I have no self control. 🤣“

“Whether I’m celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply treating myself on a quiet Thursday night, Saba is my first choice — and it never disappoints. I’ve come with friends, with family, and even by myself, and every single time, I’ve been greeted with warmth, genuine hospitality, and food that speaks straight to the soul.
The dishes here don’t just arrive — they make an entrance. You can see it in the way heads turn as plates are delivered, hear it in the excitement at each table, and feel it in the joy that fills the room. Every meal feels deeply personal, like it was made just for you. Everything about Saba is intentional, comforting, and unforgettable.
I never leave without a full heart and a full belly. I’ll never pass up a chance to return — because Saba isn’t just where I eat. It’s where I feel most at home and I can swear by that. Can’t wait for my next meal there♥️“

“great food, great service, good times.“

“Solid food every time! Had great risotto last night, their pastas are always good & great cocktails. Take home family meals are delicious and a lot of food for the money. Recommend!“

“I stopped by for the first time although I had tried their food before. Service and atmosphere were not bad but not welcoming just simple.
The food was excellent! I ordered a lamb lasagna that was perfect for us, lots of meat, not too much pasta or cheese just the perfect amount. The flavor was awesome. I also ordered the steak salad ... ( I don't ever order salads as I'm very picky about the ingredients) but here at T Kitchen all was fresh and delish!
I have had their beef stew before and it is cooked to perfection! I definitely recommend it and I will be back!“

“awesome place thank you Jackie and Gio“

“Good food, good wine and a good time !!!

Came to enjoy diner here with a close friend, although I will say the food was good overall the prices were out of line for what food was being served at this restaurant. They need to be a bit more conscientious about what they are charging for some of the dishes there, although I love pasta I did not enjoy spending as much on the food there as I did when knowing I could’ve easily had a better meal from a restaurant I would’ve preferred for steak, but this is the restaurant my friend wanted to go to in particular for the breadsticks and soup, fortunately that is what made the visit worth going. The unlimited soup and breadsticks helped balance out the value of the meal.“

“It is always a pleasure dining here. Wonderful service is always provided. Great food with large portions. The cocktails are amazing! Let’s not forget the tasty appetizers and scrumptious desserts!!! GA must try!! You will not be disappointed!!“

“Perfect all around. Great atmosphere, prompt perfect service, polite attentive staff. The chef has a gift and talent. The bone in new york strip cooked to my specification and the sauce had a rich deep flavor that complemented the steak perfectly. The grilled calamari and shrimp was perfect, and the flavor was like nothing I had before. Dessert was Bananas Foster was mind blowing and prepared table side. We will be back again. This is a must try and repeat spot. The drinks were also on point.“

“I live across the street and go here often; I have never had a bad experience. From the wine shop , to the grab and go coffee & pastries, Nettare never disappoints. But, the star of the show is dinner. It is a rotating menu, and all of them have been delicious.
You need to go here!“

“If you like Italian food, you’ll love Bacchanalia! Located in the Heart of Chicago, this restaurant has some of the finest dishes outside of downtown Chicago, with arguably the best lasagna in the city, as well as some of the best calamari and baked clams, and not to mention the tiramisu. I heard they make other good pastas, some excellent chicken and veal dishes, as well as a phenomenal Lake Superior Whitefish, which I would love to try! There are many amazing Italian restaurants in Chicago, and Bacchanalia is one of them! Go try it! You won’t be disappointed!“