Italian Restaurants in Joliet, Illinois

One of the most unique places in Illinois is Joliet. It acts as the southwest barrier between Chicagoland and rural Illinois. There's nothing but farmland to the west and south of Joliet, and nothing but strip malls and town homes to its north and east. But Joliet itself is one of the fastest growing cities in America, and as a result has experienced an upswing in the caliber of its restaurants, primarily the Italian ones.

Barolo

One of Chicagoland's much praised dining establishments, Barolo Ristorante boasts as one of the finest menus in the southwest suburbs. If you're looking for a romantic date spot with a European style atmosphere, this is the place for you. Make reservations before heading out to Barolo, otherwise you could end up waiting an hour for a table. And keep an eye out for celebrities too, Barolo is often where the celebs go before they perform at Joliet's Rialto theater.

Barolo Ristorante
2765 Black Road
Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 729-3606
barolofinedining.com

Aurelio's

For the best thin-crust pizza in Illinois and authentic Italian food, don't pass up Aurelio's. This is an especially popular choice for families with small children because the pizza has a sweet tomato sauce. Order a fiesta size if you have more than four people in your party. If you're looking for an alternative to pizza, try their calabrese.

Aurelio's
3101 West Jefferson Street
Joliet, IL 60435
(815) 741-1400
aureliospizza.com

Giovan's

Although technically in the small, neighboring town of Crest Hill, some of the tastiest Italian food in the Joliet area is found at Giovan's. Their menu is large, featuring pasta, steak, fish, sandwiches, pizza and more. Giovan's also offers carry-out, which is a great option if you want to have excellent Italian food for a picnic on the go.

Giovan's
1804 North Larkin Avenue
Crest Hill, IL 60403
(815) 725-6000
giovansrestaurant.com

Article Written By Ron Augustine

Ron Augustine is a rookie freelance writer and producer who has worked primarily in radio and print media for Chicago Public Radio's Sound Opinions, Relevant Magazine, WMBI Chicago and the Burnside Writers Collective. He graduated Moody College in 2007 with a degree in Communications.

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