Leona's

When it comes to Chicago institutions serving up tasty treats with terrific service, few places do it better than Leona’s.  Offering a huge menu filled with classic dishes done right, this bar and grill has been a local favorite for more than fifty years.

Once a one-spot city staple, Leona’s now boasts twelve locations throughout Illinois dedicated to great food at good prices.  Each lunch and dinner joint has Americana décor and a homey feel, an ideal place to order a drink and peruse the extensive menu chock full of delectable options.

While most entrees come with a bread board and delicious marinara to start, there are plenty of appetizers available.  Six different kinds of chicken wings (from traditional buffalo to more unusual spicy Thai) make a great starter, along with toasted jalapeno ravioli, calamari or Cajun fried shrimp.

Salads both big and small are another great option, from a tangy calamari Caesar to a tofu Italiano.  Sandwiches at Leona’s are a big step above typical diner fare, with mammoth burgers in dozens of varieties, wraps, grilled chicken or vegan options.  Each comes with a choice of side dish (including soups, pasta, salad, veggies or fries) and a chocolate muffin “Lenacake” that is not to be missed.

Pizzas at Leona’s come thin crust or Chicago stuffed, with countless combinations of toppings.  The spinach artichoke, roasted garlic chicken Alfredo, spicy taco and cheeseburger are particular standouts.  If in the mood for pasta, there are nearly a dozen varieties of lasagna, from mac and cheese to Italian meat, along with fettucinis and scampis galore.

If all of these options aren’t enough, there’s the “feast” menu complete with extra-sizeable entrees like chicken parmigiana, baked pesto salmon, fried catfish and BBQ ribs.  Even those with hearty appetites will likely leave with doggy bags here.  If somehow you still have room for dessert, there’s always Leona’s original tiramisu, cheesecake or fresh chocolate cake.  A wide array of beers, wines and specialty cocktails are also available.

While Leona’s may not be particularly elegant or edgy in food or decor, it does classic cuisine right with big flavors and hearty helpings.  Each location is a Chicago neighborhood stand-by, a great place to kick back, relax, and dig in.

- by D.J. Siegel, Chicago Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)