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Best Italian Restaurants in Lake Forest

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28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Francesca's Intimo restaurant
1. Francesca's Intimo
4.5
Awesome(1680)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lake Forest
Booked 48 times today
Francesca’s Intimo, nestled in the heart of downtown Lake Forest, offers a slice of Italy with its authentic and rustic Italian cuisine. Diners rave about the "excellent food and service" and the cozy trattoria ambiance that encapsulates the spirit of Italy. The menu features traditional dishes that are both flavorful and fresh, with patrons particularly loving the "delicious Paccheri Alla Vodka" and the "tender filet mignon." The restaurant consistently impresses with its "professional staff" and a "robust wine menu," making every meal a delightful experience. Whether it's a milestone celebration or a casual lunch, Francesca’s Intimo remains a top choice for genuine Italian dining in Lake Forest.
A photo of Alex's Washington Gardens restaurant
2. Alex's Washington Gardens
4.8
Exceptional(1509)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Highwood
Alex's Washington Gardens, a beloved culinary landmark in Highwood since 1932, is renowned for its exceptional Pizzeria cuisine. Crafting thin, crisp crust pizzas since 1944, the restaurant has perfected its recipes, making it a local favorite for authentic Italian flavors. Diners consistently rave about the pizza, describing it as "the best pizza ever" and praising its "amazing" quality. The delightful combination of a cozy atmosphere and mouth-watering, reliably delicious pizzas ensures every visit is memorable. With its commitment to freshness and quality, Alex's Washington Gardens stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving genuine, scrumptious pizza in Highwood.
A photo of Disotto restaurant
3. Disotto
4.6
Exceptional(1269)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Highwood
Booked 48 times today
Step into Disotto in Highwood and experience the charm of dining in what feels like your Nonna's Italian countryside wine cellar. This jewel of Contemporary Italian cuisine consistently wows diners with its "delicious Italian food" and an ambiance that invites comfort and celebration. From the "perfectly al dente" Agnolletti to the "out of this world Risotto and Orchiette," each dish is a testament to authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "amazing wine list" and the "attentive and knowledgeable" service, making every visit memorable. As one satisfied customer put it, "This is my new favorite restaurant!" Disotto is truly a standout for anyone seeking a genuine contemporary Italian dining experience.
A photo of Bella Via Ristorante and Banquets restaurant
4. Bella Via Ristorante and Banquets
4.5
Awesome(1111)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Highland Park
Booked 17 times today
Bella Via Ristorante is thrilled to announce its new location at 431 Temple ave in Highland Park. An authentic Italian Restaurant, a true family owned and family operated that has served the North Shore communities for over 26 years. We feature classic Italian fare with an impressive selection of Italian wines. The menu consists of a variety of appetizers, homemade pastas, fresh fish, tender veal, chicken and many other Italian favorites.
A photo of Del Rio restaurant
5. Del Rio
4.7
Exceptional(1155)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Highwood
Booked 18 times today
Del Rio, nestled in the charming city of Highwood, is a beacon of authentic Northern Italian cuisine with a remarkable focus on fish dishes that delight the palate. Celebrated for its "excellent salmon, halibut and veal," as one diner raves, this nearly century-old restaurant offers a culinary journey that's both classic and innovative. Patrons often highlight the "delicious Bronzino and homemade pasta" and the "fish special Branzino," which are not only masterfully prepared but also served with warmth that makes everyone feel like family. A testament to its excellence, Del Rio’s fish cuisine is matched by an extensive wine list and an ambiance that echoes the best of old-world charm. This storied spot is a must-visit for anyone craving impeccably crafted fish dishes in a setting that feels like home.
A photo of SLYCE Coal Fired Pizza Company - Highwood restaurant
6. SLYCE Coal Fired Pizza Company - Highwood
4.8
Exceptional(219)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Highwood
Booked 5 times today
Thank you for choosing SLYCE, where pizza is our passion. We have preserved the art of making hand crafted artisanal coal fired pizzas. Our mission is simple: Have a simple menu that allows us to focus special attention to every ingredient that comes into our building. We choose and use the best quality ingredients possible. We do not believe in premade, mass produced food. We source locally grown or raised products whenever possible and use one of the cleanest natural burning resources to heat our ovens. At SLYCE less is more, as our fresh ingredients are delicately placed, not piled on, to create a perfectly balanced pie. Our dough is made in house daily, hand stretched to order, and baked next to a burning pile of coal giving it a thin, bubbly crust with charred edges and leopard spotting on the bottom. So sit back and relax, as we hand craft you one of your favorite, perfectly charred pies.
A photo of Di Pescara restaurant
7. Di Pescara
4.5
Awesome(5668)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Northbrook
Booked 91 times today
Di Pescara in Northbrook stands out as a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, delighting diners with its vibrant blend of traditional and modern dishes. Chef-Partner Francis Brennan's innovative approach shines in their house-made gnocchi and Italian-inspired specials that consistently receive glowing reviews. "The food is exquisite; everything was amazing!" exclaims one satisfied patron, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Another review raves, "I always have the chicken giardinara. It was all delicious," underscoring the authenticity and consistency of their offerings. With its lively ambience and exceptional service, Di Pescara promises an Italian dining experience that is both remarkable and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Rosebud - Deerfield restaurant
8. Rosebud - Deerfield
4.4
Awesome(1911)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Deerfield
Booked 47 times today
Rosebud - Deerfield is a gem for seafood lovers, consistently serving up exceptional dishes that leave diners raving about the quality and taste. Located in the heart of Deerfield, this restaurant has earned accolades for its superb seafood selections, such as the “amazing” crab topped sea bass and the delicately prepared Whitefish Piccata, which is “much better” and lighter, served over spinach with capers. Patrons highlight the generous portions and the beautiful presentation, ensuring that each visit is as delightful as the food. Whether it's the bustling vibe or the friendly service, Rosebud - Deerfield stands out as a must-visit for authentic and exquisite seafood cuisine.
A photo of Francesca's North restaurant
9. Francesca's North
4.4
Awesome(1859)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Northbrook
Booked 45 times today
Francesca’s North, nestled in the heart of Northbrook, has been a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine since its opening in 1995. Known for its robust flavors reminiscent of Rome and the Tuscan countryside, Francesca’s offers a culinary journey through Italy's rich gastronomic landscape. Patrons rave about the “outstanding service” and “delicious cuisine” that make each visit memorable. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident in dishes that burst with flavor, expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. As one guest noted, “The food was amazing and so was the service!” making Francesca’s North a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Italian dining experience.
A photo of Enzo and Lucia restaurant
10. Enzo and Lucia
4.8
Exceptional(1406)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Long Grove
Booked 36 times today
At Enzo and Lucia in Long Grove, diners rave about the "absolutely phenomenal" seafood offerings that are a highlight of their authentic Italian menu. Nestled in a historic Victorian-style home, this restaurant serves up fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes that consistently impress. Guests mention the "outstanding fish options" and the allure of dining al fresco on their charming patio. Whether it's the farfalle with vodka sauce or the gnocchi in pesto cream sauce, each dish is a testament to the quality and authenticity that Enzo and Lucia strive to provide. It's no wonder patrons eagerly return, calling it a "true gem" for seafood lovers.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barbara
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Nice selection of Italian food . Food was good, but didn't knock our socks off. Wait staff is amazing! Friendly and attentive.
    More info
    Bella Via Ristorante and BanquetsPrice: Moderate• Italian• Highland Park
    •
    4.5
  • Doris
    Denver / Colorado •40 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This was our first time at Disotto, and the weekend brunch was outstanding. The waitstaff were very attentive (but not overly so), and the food was hot and delicious. I would not hesitate to recommend to friends for a lovely anytime meal or special occasion.
    More info
    DisottoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Highwood
    •
    4.6
  • Howard
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    A keeper!!This was the first time we were at the restaurant. And it won’t be our last!The staff were wonderful, the food was delicious and the menu had so many great choices. Great place for family and friends. Thanks Carole and Howie
    More info
    Alex's Washington GardensPrice: Moderate• Italian• Highwood
    •
    4.8
  • Amandavip
    Chicago / Illinois •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    We were a party of 7 — our server did a fantastic job of dealing with a large group. The food was wonderful and we were happily surprised with the 50 percent discount on bottles of wine on Tuesdays. We’re looking forward to our next get together here!
    More info
    Francesca's IntimoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Lake Forest
    •
    4.5
  • Hamiltonvip
    New York City •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 9, 2024
    This was our first time to dine at Del Rio and it was outstanding. Service was friendly and impeccable, the food was great - amazingly good traditional Italian which is becoming more difficult to find - and the ambiance was exactly what you expect from a neighborhood favorite. Family-owned for 100 years doesn’t happen by accident. Many thanks to Bill, the owner, for spending a little time with us (and every other patron) and making us feel like old friends. Certainly worth a drive even if you don’t live in the area.
    More info
    Del RioPrice: Moderate• Italian• Highwood
    •
    4.7

Discover best Italian restaurants in Lake Forest

Discover the charm of Italian cuisine in the North Suburbs of Lake Forest, Chicago, where a selection of restaurants offers an authentic taste of Italy right in Illinois. The dining scene here boasts a variety of Italian eateries, each presenting a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques. These establishments pride themselves on their commitment to quality, sourcing fresh ingredients to craft dishes that transport diners to the heart of Italy. From classic homemade pasta and savory seafood to delightful risottos and robust wines, the Italian restaurants in Lake Forest cater to all tastes and occasions. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends, the welcoming ambiance and expertly prepared cuisine make for a memorable dining experience. Embrace the rich, culinary traditions of Italy with every dish in this vibrant and picturesque suburb.

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