50 Best Italian Restaurants near Riverside

“A delivery app made a mistake with my order. LaBarra took charge and the general manager personally delivered 2 delicious pizzas to make up for the outside apps mistake. Above and beyond! Thank you!“

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

“Wonderful food and service.“

“There is no better place for an amazing Italian meal in the Northside than this place
The food the staff the environment and the outdoor patio are excellent
We have been here so many times as we live close by and it is always perfect
This is a must try place
I promise you will be back“

“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. 🤣“

“We moved to North Center right around the time Armano opened. This has become our go to spot for dinners out as well as our favorite place to bring friends. The food is exceptional with a menu just big enough to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The team at Armano is also wonderful and we've consistently received excellent service. Can't recommend this place enough.“

“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“

“Best Lasagna hands down ! See you next month when I return to Chicago!“

“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!“

“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..“

“Best calamari and eggplant around. My husband and I go to different restaurants on Friday's for calamari & eggplant parmesan . Antonino's is the best.“

“The gm Stephan is amazing. Great experience and great good and service“

“This is our favorite restaurant in the neighborhood, hands down. We've been regulars since they opened, and we're always leaving happy and satisfied. The owner is consistently very welcoming and genuinely glad to see us return. My husband is known for ordering his favorite dish, pork chop, and I for constantly asking for the Chef's cheesecake, which is usually not on the menu. I'm excited to hear about their new uptown location. Congratulations!“

“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!!!!“

“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!!!“

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

“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.“

“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.“

“Absolutely loved my experience here! The food and atmosphere were wonderful, but what really made the night special was the amazing bartender “Fernanda”
She is incredibly friendly, attentive, and knows exactly how to make the perfect cocktail. Her Aperol Spritzes and martinis are honestly some of the best I’ve ever had! 🍸✨

She made us feel so welcomed and taken care of from start to finish. Definitely ask for her when you visit—you won’t be disappointed! Highly recommend this place for great Italian food, drinks, and exceptional service. ❤“

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

“Delicious food Free uncorking Excellent service Romantic atmosphere“

“Amazing food and hospitality“

“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.“

“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.“

“My first time trying Giuliano’s! I picked up a pizza last evening and literally could not stop eating it. This is arguably the BEST pizza in the entire Chicago suburbs. I got thin crust with spinach and roasted red peppers. The sauce, cheese, and toppings were absolutely amazing. What a great find and will recommend to all my friends!!“

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

“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.“

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

“Excelente servicio y comida deliciosa“

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

“Great cappuccino and dessert menu. Try the vegetable empanadas!“

“First time here, amazing service and food was delicious. Owner or manager came to every table to check in and thank us for coming in and support this business. I will definitely be back. So good!!!“

“Was perfect. Great wine great food. Great service. Will be back. Thank u.“

“EXCELLENT FOOD AND SERVICE EVERY TIME!“

“Absolutely the best Italian Beef sandwich on the south side, arguably the best in Chicago. The home made Giardiniera is also very good, with the perfect amount of heat. The sandwich is huge and the price is very good. Wish they had fresh cut fries. People working there are always nice. Small place, not a lot of seating, but has the old school Chicago vibe that I like. I live an hour away, but if I'm in the area I always stop in for a bite.“

“We did gonat 8:00pm on Sunday night, so restaurant was empty. Food was excellent, service great. Only thing I would complain about was that towards the end of our meal, we felt as if we were being rushed. They literally were coming by and taking plates and silverware when we weren't completely done, otherwise all was goid“

“I ate dinner at Donny G's several hours ago and am still thinking about my memorable fine-dining experience. I ordered the cream of broccoli soup, shrimp de jonghe, and chicken marsala. All three were really delicious. The sauces on the shrimp and chicken were outstanding. Hector was my waiter, and I appreciate his excellent service. I always look forward to dining at Donna G's because this restaurant never disappoints.“

“A hidden gem. I have been here twice now and have loved it both times. Everything is excellent. I love the Gnocchi they are like little fluffy pillows in brown butter, so yummy. The braised short ribs with risotto are fantastic. The Caprese salad was so fresh and tasty. A Great wine selection. I can't say enough good things about this wonderful restaurant. You must try it. A great place for a romantic night out. The service was top notch too.“

“The food was excellent. We were a party of 6 and everyone had something different. Portion sizes were large. Food was piping hot when served. Wait staff was friendly. The owner came over to check on our group at least twice during our dining experience. Loved the atmosphere. I will come here every time I’m visiting Chicago!“

“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 always stop when I’m nearby!“

“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!! 🏆👍🏻“

“The food and atmosphere were great!!!!!!!! Reasonably priced and attentive service!“

“Great atmosphere and great food and drinks. We came here for my friend’s birthday and John M was an excellent server! The mozzarella is EXCELLENT! It was in the caprese and the risotto and was probably our absolute favorite part of each dish. The gnocchi has a great homemade flavor and has a very flavorful sauce! Branzino is also very yummy! The espresso martini, green goddess, and luccacello martini are excellent as well. The crudo was also incredible and very fresh. 10/10 recommend for a nice dinner with fun live music!“

“My sister Shelly Nagy purchased tickets to a Sunday afternoon drag brunch to celebrate my birthday! Marco not only held the door open for his guests, but he was also very kind and generous! He offered 2nd helpings (my only regret is that I did not indulge on that offer). Our meal was plentiful, delicious and presented beautifully! The bartenders cocktails (garnished w/ fresh flowers!) are pure elegance and his customer service skills are excellent! The drag show was a blast! The music was a hit (inside and out) and the upscale atmosphere will always have me anxiously waiting to come back soon! Thank you Marcos & Shelly for the most wonderful birthday celebration anyone will ever dream of! Gorgeous Downtown LaGrange is lucky to have Marco’s Kitchen! Take me back already!“

“Food was good as hell frfr and u get a lot with the chicken Alfredo and broccoli 🥦“

“Posto 31 is arguably the best restaurant and ambiance in the La Grange/La Grange park area. The food is consistently high quality at a fair price point. Portion sizes are great and the drinks are delicious.“

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

“Incredible food. Very high quality“

“Amazing food and it tasted awesome .. Would love to visit again .. Staff were very helpful and ambiance was excellent .. 5 stars !!“