The group behind Chicagoland spots like Sophia Steak and Gemini is headed to the west suburbs this winter with the debut of a new DeNucci’s location in Hinsdale. Ballyhoo Hospitality’s third DeNucci’s location, in addition to Lincoln Park and Highland Park, will take over the space of Il Poggiolo, a neighborhood favorite owned by local Pete Burdi that closed in June after 17 years.
Located in the heart of Hinsdale’s downtown area at 8 E. First St., DeNucci’s joins neighboring hotspots Fuller House, the recently opened Hinsdale Prime Steak and Nabuki, which Burdi also owns (his portfolio also included a now-shuttered Mexican spot across the street).
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Helmed by chef Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio, DeNucci’s is bringing its Italian-American fare, including popular plates like branzino piccata, eggplant parmesan, veal marsala, lasagna bolognese and gluten-free pizzas. Although DeNucci’s is known for its 16-inch New York-style pies, courtesy of North Shore’s Pizza by Sal, the popular Monday Tavern-Style Pizza Days special will also be on offer. Diners can design their own pies or order any of the menu’s red sauce pizzas on a signature Chicago-style thin crust. An extensive Italian wine list complements the bill of fare, alongside beer, signature cocktails and aperitivo.
With a prime location on Hinsdale’s lively First Street, DeNucci’s is a welcome addition to the neighborhood’s dining scene. And with a sprawling outdoor dining area in front of the restaurant, which has remained popular every summer since Il Poggiolo debuted it during the pandemic, Hinsdaleans will soon have a fresh new neighborhood hangout.