ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Elmwood Park
Master Critic Review
Donny G's Ristorante & Bar
8.1
A polished neighborhood Italian spot that works well for date nights and small celebrations, with a menu that leans into seafood starters and hearty mains. It’s best when you start with one shareable appetizer, then commit to a single centerpiece entrée rather than over-ordering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Octopus, Capellini Siciliana, Lamb Shank Osso Buco
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A neighborhood Italian bar-and-dining room with polished pacing.
Who should go: Couples and small groups who want sit-down Italian
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easier seating
What to order: Grilled octopus, capellini Siciliana, lamb shank osso buco
Insider tip: Start with octopus, then share one rich main and add one lighter pasta.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking in the immediate area; availability is generally manageable on weeknights but can tighten during peak weekend dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; jeans are fine, but many guests opt for date-night or evening-out attire.
Noise level: Moderate – lively enough to feel energetic, but you can still hold a conversation at the table.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very short waits
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pasta dishes, salads, and vegetable-focused appetizers can work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – possible with simple pasta or vegetable modifications, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options available, including protein-forward mains and salads; ask the server about pasta substitutions or preparation details.
Best For
Better for: Polished neighborhood Italian dining with a social bar energy, especially for date nights and small group celebrations.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a quick, casual red-sauce spot or a highly kid-focused family restaurant.