One of my favorite restaurants to grab lunch or a casual dinner out is Labriola Cafe. Any time Kevin and I are out shopping in Oak Brook we always make a point to eat at Labriola. There menu has everything from sandwiches to salads, pizza, pasta, and burgers. There really is something for everyone’s taste buds and if you dine in for dinner you are served a basket of their delicious homemade bread that they are locally famous for.
Before the restaurant was born, Labriola was solely an artisan bread company and they still serve restaurants and groceries in the Chicago area. Lucky for everyone Labriola recently opened a second location in downtown Chicago just off the Magnificent Mile.
I pretty much rotate between two menu items each time I go: Grilled Bread Salad and Margherita Pizza. Neapolitan style pizza is my absolute favorite and their version of a classic Margherita made in their wood fired stone oven is not to be missed. The crust is thin and chewy and the San Marzano tomato sauce with fresh mozzarella is a flavor match made in heaven.
Their Grilled Bread Salad is also one of my favorite dishes to order. I love a good Panzanella and the one at Labriola has fantastic fresh flavors. Made out of their Artisan Ciabatta, the grilled bread is tossed with Tomatoes, Black and Green Olives, Onion, Feta and Mozzarella Cheese, Watercress, and topped with a Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette. The briny olives and salty feta pair perfectly with the sweet lemon balsamic dressing.
While the pizza and salad are my standard orders, Kevin on the other hand is in love with their burgers. He typically orders the Richie Burger which is topped with White Cheddar, Lettuce, and Tomato on a Pretzel Bun. He thinks their burgers are some of the best in Chicago and it seems Chicago’s Best TV and the Chicago Tribune also agree.
If you can, you must save room for dessert! Not only is their cafe menu fantastic, they also offer tons of delicious bakery items and the creamiest gelato! The Chicago location even sells Stan’s Donuts!
Do yourself a favor and head to Labriola today!
Labriola Cafe is located at 3021 Butterfield Rd. in Oak Brook, IL | 535 N. Michigan Ave. in Chicago’s River North neighborhood
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