Chicago and its suburbs have an historical population of Italian Americans. With an estimated population of over 573,000 in 2023, this makes its Italian community one of the largest in the country. There were several waves of immigrants in the 1850s, then from 1880 to 1914 and again from 1945 to 2005. Many settled in the city as well as in the suburbs including Berwyn, Cicero and Oak Park.
Historic Little Italy on Taylor Street, is a hub for the city’s Italian-American community and is known for its Italian restaurants, bakeries, and delis. There is also The Heart of Italy neighborhood or Little Tuscany near Pilsen. With this Italian influence there continues to be a large number of Italian restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries and cafes throughout the city and the suburbs. My favorites include:
For a great traditional Chicago experience don’t miss Gene & Georgetti at 500 N. Franklin. This Italian steakhouse is a local institution, that has been serving steaks and Italian specialties since 1941. Not a trendy spot frequented by the younger, hip crowd, the crowd is older and consists of many regulars. The attentive waiters wear traditional white jackets and long white aprons. You feel like you’ve walked back in time. It has a warm, clubby feel with great photographs and murals. They have a great selection of steaks, chops, pastas, salads and seafood. The mussels marinara were really excellent! Unfortunately, the owner Anthony “Tony” Durpetti died in October 2024. The family will continue to operate the restaurant.
Club Lucky looks like an old neighborhood supper club with excellent Italian food and a retro atmosphere. The Christmas decorations in December are outstanding. It is located at 1824 W. Wabansia Ave. in the heart of Bucktown. I always enjoy my visits there. They also have a large outdoor patio in the summer months.
Club Lago, at 331 W. Superior at Orleans, is a wonderful old-world Italian restaurant complete with red and white checked tablecloths. Since 1952, it has offered Chicagoans great Northern Italian specialties. I always enjoy going with friends.
Located at 2424 S. Oakley in The Heart of Italy neighborhood, Bruna’s Ristorante has been a popular spot since 1933. I went back after my first visit over 35 years ago. I love the traditional atmosphere with its dim lighting and murals. The fried calamari were excellent as was the white fish entree and the tasty linguini frutti di mare with shrimp, scallops, clams and mussels…