Alfano’s Pizza : The stuffed pizza of your dreams

The area around Chicago has no shortage of Italian cuisine.  While there is a huge representation of many cultures and cuisines, foods like pizza and sandwiches get a special Chicago touch. The menu at Alfano’s Pizza and Italian Food offers a delectable assortment of some of Chicago’s finest foods.

Originally opening in 1958, the Alfano family’s recipes and takes on classic Italian and Chicago style dishes are among the best in the area. A delicious assortment of foods in a warm, friendly environment. Every person who works there is incredibly friendly, and the service is top-notch. And beyond their regular restaurant offerings, you can get a take-and-bake version of their pizzas.

What to eat at Alfano’s Pizza

Fried Pickles: If fried pickles are on the menu, they are getting ordered every time. It’s great when they are chips but even better when it’s full spears like these. A lightly seasoned coating over the tart pickle – a delightful way to start any meal. 

Italian Beef: If you’ve never had Italian Beef, it’s very similar to a french dip but on a softer roll and with an au jour heavily seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs; This one was pleasantly oregano forward and was incredible soaked in that soft roll. The meat was flavorful, tender, and melted in your mouth. No matter what you get, you should get one of these to share.

Stuffed Pizza: the deep dish pizza that is controversial to others outside of the Chicago area is the usual go-to. But Alfano’s had an offering not usually seen: a stuffed pizza. Not quite deep dish but also not anything you’d find in New York – essentially a pizza topped with another pizza, it is gooey, cheesy,  and incredibly delicious. The sauce was well balanced, not too sweet but not too acidic either. And the toppings were generous – we went with sausage and peppers and it was a perfect combo for this titan of pizza. 

Cinnamon Puffs: Pizza dough twisted and baked, covered in cinnamon and sugar and a sticky-sweet glaze. It may sound decadent but it was surprisingly light and tasty.. great with a hot cup of coffee tucked away in a icy cold hotel room. 

One thing I can say – as important as good food is, good service is an equal component of the entire restaurant experience. Having this delivered to us on a long road-trip after an existing and requested a small side of chicken for the dogs. They initially forgot it but quickly returned with it – and even gave us a complimentary side of chicken for their breakfast. Little touches like this show that there is care in what they do… pair that with delicious food and you have a winning combination that should not be missed.

Whether you are traveling near Chicago or are a local looking for a new spot to try, the trip to Ottawa for a slice of cheesy heaven is one worth taking.