50 Best Italian Restaurants near Norridge

“Simply the best food period. As so many in this area I've been coming to see Anthony and his family for 25 plus years. I'll say this, if anyone ranks rexs lower than 4.8 they shouldn't be allowed back because they're insane and a risk to society. 🙃 My #1 spot in the Chicagoland area for anything Italian food. My personal favorite is the eggplant parm sandwich.“

“Ordered catering for a 40th birthday party and it was excellent! A great value and everyone enjoyed the food! Huge portions of chicken and salad and guests devoured the beef! And of course the pizza never disappoints! Highly recommend! Great service!“

“Was here in town for a weekend for the Bears/vikings game. Our crew planned on trying a bunch of different pizzas but ended up eating here 3 times! So good everything we got- Pepp/green olive, Italian beef/hot peppers, sausage/garlic/onion. I tried the Italian sub too, also good.“

“Great espresso and amazing staff!“

“I ordered here and fell in loveeeeeee with their food. Pizza was fire and ordered a Kickin Chicken wow wow wow wow wow“

“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 food and service.“

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

“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!!!!“

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

“I always stop when I’m nearby!“

“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.“

“Delicious spot for a special occasion or a fancy night out. The food, service and ambiance were exceptional. Our server Jeff was so delightful - funny, attentive and patient. He knew the menu insight out and offered great recommendations. He made our evening really enjoyable. Will return!“

“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!“

“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.“

“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!“

“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!“

“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“

“Just a fantastic place everything I order is always excellent! I ordered the sun-dried tomatoes and a side order of meatballs that were fantastic. I highly recommend this place the pizzas excellent the cannolis out of this world, etc..“

“Excellent food, great service, knowledgeable waitress“

“This was our second time dining at Positano’s and it was just as fabulous! The food here is superb, the wait staff are very attentive and we love the photos on the wall! The Seabass was to die for and the grilled seafood appetizer was divine! Our only regret is that we live in New York and cannot be frequent patrons of this wonderful establishment! Mille Grazie!!“

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

“Nottoli's is the Best Italian Food in Chicagoland Period! Everything is Handmade! The Homemade Italian Sausage is World Class! The Sandwiches are Amazing, They Also Have Frozen Food, The Frozen Handmade Pizza's are Delicious! We Have 4 Generations of My Family that have Shopped at Nottoli's...We Highly Recommend it!! 🏆👍🏻“

“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.“

“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!!“

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

“Carlos & Carlos in Wilmette was a good night out. We enjoyed the beef carpaccio, linguine with clams, and the meatballs—all well-prepared. Loved the sangria, and the service was excellent. We also tried the cannoli for dessert—beautifully presented, though probably not our favorite part of the meal. Overall, a good experience!“

“Our reservation was for 5pm and we walked in at 502pm. The food for both my wife and I were absolutely the best Italian food we have ever had. The price was excellent for such great quality. We will try to come at least once per month. Thank you very much for our delicious meals. We will see you soon.“

“Truly a family-owned, family-run and family-centric establishment. We've witnessed them grow since they opened in 1999, and their craft is perfected. Whether you want a quiet date night with some ridiculously delicious pasta and wine; or a coffee and Gelato; or a quick lunch of a sandwich, pizza or arancini and pasta salad... you can't go wrong. They're expert caterers and you won't have to worry about a thing if you're hosting an event of any kind. Love!“

“awesome place thank you Jackie and Gio“

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

“we had a table reservation 10 people walked in what a pleasant surprise interior was nicely done our waiter was excellent ordered drinks excellent our dinner order was great food was amazing we all had different entrees very well done I can't say enough about the staff we will definitely be back“

“My family and I love this place. You can’t go wrong with anything you order. Great service and family atmosphere too.“

“Let's start with our incredibly kind, humble and attentive server, Dario. He made our whole experience even better and left a lasting impression! We dined leisurely with great friends and we both ordered the special steaks that were carved and served tableside by Chef Francesco. WOW, he cooked the steaks to absolute perfection 👌
We enjoyed the robust flavors of homemade pasta figioli that had a nice accent of fresh rosemary. Finished it off with a terrific cup of Cappacino and homemade fresh desserts of creme briulle and flourless chocolate cake. Dario served us complimentary, smooth orangecello served in a frozen shot glass. The atmosphere was lively and fun. Overall, the experience was worth every penny. We will def be back and will certainly request Dario!“

“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. 🤣“

“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!“

“Amazing staff and the food was literally so fresh and DELICIOUS!!!! Worth the trip & portions are HUGE! I had the Diablo shrimp pasta, so flavorful and the shrimp was cooked perfectly. Will be back again! :)“

“Our entire experience was wonderful, from the valet parking, the excellent service, friendly faces, mouth watering entrees and delicious desserts! We are from southern Illinois and have always wanted to visit. So glad we did, as we had an excellent time, never felt rushed and will definitely visit again!“

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

“Excelente servicio y comida deliciosa“

“great food, great service, good times.“

“This is a little gem of a restaurant. The chef was there without a waiter for the afternoon and it didn’t matter. His service was so great and we felt special to be able to be the only ones in the whole restaurant because of the timing. The food he cooked was delicious. It’s a cute restaurant with unique options and traditional options too. We are so glad we found this place!“

“This was a Friday during rush hour. But waited too long for our first order of drinks. 2 martinis. Appetizers were good and came out at an exceptional time. Ordered our 2nd order of drinks ( glass of wine & martini ) at the same time with our entrees. Drinks did not come out until I was a couple bites away from finishing my entree! Ordered a glass of whisky neat, with my dessert which came out after some minutes receiving the dessert. I Usually have about 4-5 drinks with my dinner to try a couple of things. Would recommend maybe just getting a bottle of wine instead. Food is tasty and staff is nice.“

“Ate here for the first time a couple weeks ago. This un-assuming spot had great veal and a fantastic Braciole. Prices were reasonable. Atmosphere is lacking (it's not fancy) but food is great. Good spot to take kids for some great Italian food. Will be back“

“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.“

“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.“

“Donny G’s is a great restaurant! Starting from the manager George to his staff! They all are very welcoming and make sure that the food is cooked to your liking to your cocktails made great! I went with a party of ten for my daughter’s birthday and we all had different plates and we loved our tasty food . To our surprise they had entertainment which added to our experience. We will definitely be going again soon💕.“

“I have been coming to this location for a little over a year now and they just. don’t. miss. You walk in that front door and they are always ready to push out orders! I go so often I’m starting to think I annoy them a little 😂 all jokes aside, I have tried pizza from all over the state and others too, but nothing can compare to a slice from Anthony B’s. They never have the pizza just sitting it’s always fresh and piping hot. It’s HONESTLY the BEST PIZZA I have ever tasted in my life. I find myself coming back at least once a week (or more 😂) if you feel like you’ve never tasted REAL pizza come to Anthony B’s, you’ll never want a slice from anywhere else. Thank you to the amazing employees who are dedicated to providing AMAZING quality and thank you specifically the young lady with the blonde streaks, she is so so amazing, kind and SUCH a hard worker. Thank you Anthony B’s for being so MARVELOUS !“