WITH RED SAUCE ON TOP

Ballyhoo Hospitality’s DeNucci’s brings the best of Italian-American cuisine to Hinsdale.

DeNucci’s, the celebrated Italian restaurant from Ballyhoo Hospitality, has made its mark on Chicago with locations in Lincoln Park, the original, and Highland Park, and will be coming to Hinsdale this late winter 2025. Known for its welcoming, beautifully designed spaces, DeNucci’s has quickly become a destination for both exceptional dining and casual gatherings.

At the heart of DeNucci’s is Chef Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio, whose passion for pizza is evident the moment he steps out of the kitchen holding a freshly baked pie. “And there you go!” he says with a grin, presenting a pesto pizza at the Highland Park location. Lo Cascio’s skill as a pizzaiolo was honed in Sicily and perfected at Ballyhoo’s Coda di Volpe in Chicago, then at Pizza by Sal in Wilmette, and now shines at DeNucci’s.

“I become obsessed,” Lo Cascio admits, “especially when I am working on a new crust. Every day is about balancing time, temperature, and stretch to create something perfect.”

DeNucci’s pizzas are New York-style, with a dough that undergoes a three-day fermentation for the perfect balance of crisp and chew, and a subtle sourdough flavor. Guests can enjoy three white pizzas, pesto pomodorini, mushroom, and tartufo, or four red varieties, Margherita, sausage and onion, spicy pepperoni, and good veggie. For those with dietary restrictions, Lo Cascio’s gluten-free Sicilian-style pizza, created for his wife who has celiac disease, is a standout, with a pillowy top, crisp bottom, and fresh, flavorful toppings that make it one of DeNucci’s most beloved offerings.

Beyond pizza, Lo Cascio has curated a menu that ensures there is something for everyone. Signature dishes include four-finger cavatelli al ragù, lumache alla vodka, and classic eggplant parmesan. Monday nights are a particular favorite with fans, featuring tavern-style pizza that brings a lively, communal spirit to the restaurant.

DeNucci’s also excels in its to-go program, making it easy to enjoy these crafted dishes anywhere. Add in a robust wine list of more than 50 selections, inventive cocktails including the N/Agroni, a non-alcoholic twist on the Phony Negroni, and indulgent desserts like the pistachio blondie sundae, and it is clear why DeNucci’s is fast becoming a North Shore and Chicago favorite.

With locations in Lincoln Park, Highland Park, and soon in Hinsdale, DeNucci’s combines a beautifully curated menu, exceptional pizzas, and welcoming spaces to create an elevated Italian dining experience that can be enjoyed at the restaurant or at home.

For more information, visit denuccisitalian.com.