The Chicago Traveler

Even though Gennaro’s has been around for nearly 50 years, it’s still a well-kept secret among its foodie fans. It all started when owner Mary Jo Gennaro’s mother, Eleanore, would make food for all the patrons of her husband’s bar on Saturdays, hoping to attract more customers. Realizing just how good the food was, John Gennaro began selling the food rather than giving it away, and so, a restaurant was born.

The recipes haven’t changed in 50 years, and that’s just the way the customers like it. Gennaro’s has some of the best Italian food on Taylor Street. But the food isn’t the only constant. Most of the restaurant has stayed the same through the years, including the front door. A flashback to the neighborhood’s shady past, the bartender buzzes patrons in from behind the bar. The walls are lined with brown plywood and decorated with sport fish and faded celebrity photos, creating a homey, old-school ambiance. This is “old Chicago.”

With that in mind, this is a cozy, neighborhood restaurant, meaning they have a regular clientele from the area. The staff knows most of their customers on a first-name basis, so newcomers may have to have a little patience with the service. Gennaro’s also isn’t about specialty dishes; this is traditional Italian. Mostaccioli, manicotti, lasagna, pasta with dark red sauce… you get the picture. This food isn’t meant to be impressive; it’s comforting. The wine selection is also simple, and it works well with the familiar dishes.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) hhjack

Gennaro’s ($$): 1352 W Taylor St; 312-243-1035
Thurs: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sun: 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Street parking available
Public trans: Bus # 9, X9, 12, 60, 127

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