Two Classic Illinois Italian Spots Named the Best in U.S.

When it comes to Italian food, Illinois and Chicago in particular have the kind of history you can taste. That's to say, it's no shock that two of its old school favorites landed on 24/7 Tempo's list of the Best Traditional Italian Restaurants in America.

La Scarola: A Chicago Favorite for Hearty Italian Classics

First up is La Scarola on West Grand Avenue. The place has been around for two decades, and the owners apparently run one of the friendliest rooms in the entire city. It's the kind of place where the server remembers your order, and pasta portions are so huge that it's best to come on an empty stomach. From bruschetta to calamari and a killer chicken vesuvio, these apps and plates keep the tables packed and wine glasses loaded.

The Village: Downtown Chicago’s Italian Time Capsule

The other restaurant is The Village. It's part of the Italian Village Restaurants in downtown Chicago. It's been around since 1927, and the recipes have been around even longer. Whether it's a mostaccioli, the eggplant parm, or four cheese ravioli, you know you're getting a classic Italian-American dish. The pizza looks incredible too.

Why These Italian Icons Still Matter

Neither of these two spots is new, or flashy, or even trying to do something more than provide a great meal for family, friends, or both. What they both do is do it right, and if you're considering heading to Chicago for a weekend food road trip, both are quick jaunts down 1-90. Just save room for dessert.