Jim & Pete’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
7806 W North Ave, Elmwood Park, IL, 60707
Jim & Pete’s Restaurant & Pizzeria Menu
-
Popular Items
Healthy Meal suggestions for Jim & Pete’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
-
Popular Items
Visit below restaurant in Elmwood Park for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Elmwood Park for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
7806 W North Ave
Elmwood Park, IL, 60707 - Phone (708) 453-5204
- Website https://www.jimandpetes.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Rebecca V.
Delicious old-school Italian, casual (albeit slightly crowded) atmosphere. The artichoke appetizer is delicious, and the creamy pesto is to DIE for. Thumbs up on the vodka sauce, too. My new favorite local Italian joint.
(5)CJ B.
This place is definitely having identity crisis....the decor and their cocktail list says they are aiming for fine dining or a nice steakhouse. But they service and quality of food screams diner! They have way too many tables in that place....I understand as a restaurateur you want your restaurant to be busy and capable of seating many, but when you have a table in the walk way/ entrance, it's too desperate. Our service was less than mediocre, she was unorganized and not welcoming. The food was diner level quality, and if you order spaghetti you will get 2 lbs of over cooked pasta. But if you order ravioli you only get 6 of them that are about as big as a silver dollar. These plates that the food was served on was as big as a tray used at most restaurants. The punchline!? The servers don't carry their dishes to their tables, they push them on a cart to the tables.....OMG
(2)John K.
Okay, I've only ever had the steak salad, but let me say, Fantastic steak salad! Try it now!
(4)Mabel M.
Good food and great prices, but the service is not always consistent.
(4)Brian F.
A year or more ago I had become kind of a regular at this place, basically for one dish, the Grilled Calamari. This dish was absolutely perfectly cooked and the sauce was divine. I was taking Advanced Sauces at Kendall Culinary school at the time and so I brought a sample for my chef-instructor to taste. That is how much I loved this. Then something changed, the dish became hit-or-miss, and finally just became miss and I stopped coming to Jim & Pete's. A few days ago, I gave it another shot. The Grilled Calamari was overcooked and the sauce was what I expected, just OK. The dish's saving grace is the ENORMOUS calamari. They do not skimp on this product.. I just wish the old cook or recipe would return. Along with the Calamari I had the wedding soup which was good but not great. It was served a little cold and I had to add a bunch of Parmesan cheese to season it properly. Kind of strange thing about this place is that the waitstaff appear hostile when you first arrive. The look at you with a "Well, what do you want" kind of expression. It's like they automatically assume you are a sales person and not a customer. Maybe they don't get paid enough for their liking. For any reason, this should be a high priority of the management to fix this problem. Also, they also should consider getting rid of the ugly plastic coated menus. The plastic attracts food and debris making the menu look messy. Kind of a gross way to start out a meal.
(3)Jon B.
well i just hate my meal from Jim and Petes... the burger was a burger and the fris were fris.. nothing crazy or different.... the price was great only about 9 bucks with a tip.. however the person who took my order didnt seem to know who or where he was, and that was interesting, over all maybe id order again if i cant think of anywhere else..
(3)Cristina T.
It was a Friday during Lent and my best friend and I were craving something delicious. I was in the mood to carbo-load and she suggested Jim & Pete's since her parents love it. Although it was quite crowded and we didn't have reservations, we were seated in less than 5 minutes. Our server was very attentive and friendly. We ordered our wine and it arrived almost instantaneously. For an appetizer we split the breaded artchoke "casserole". I am normally not a fan of a breaded artichoke because it takes too much effort to pull the leaves off and try to scrape as much breading off as possible. This was different;it was genius. The artichoke hearts had been soaked in vinegar and pretty heavily breaded. They were easy to eat, garlic-y and delicious! My friend and I also split a medium spinach and onion pizza. I loved the thin crust. It was extremely crunchy. There was an ample amount of spinach too. Overall for all the food we consumed, our bill was less than $50 with tips included. Jim & Pete's is a great Italian restaurant with reasonable prices and great service!
(4)Jo D.
We purchased a Groupon months ago & had a mediocre experience. We decided to go again today because we were sent an email coupon, just for pizza. Our 1 pizza that we ordered was wrong (again, same as last time) and they did offer to re-make it, but since it took 30 minutes to get it, we decided to keep it. The owner approached us to tell us we are the only people who have ever had a problem with their order? He actually went out of his way to tell us this, not the make the situation right or offer an apology, but to tell us that we basically are the only people who have had an issue with their order. We will not be back. There are way too many choices of great restaurants in Elmwood Park to deal with stuff like that.
(1)Jie S.
A few co-workers and I tried out this place today. We were really happy with the Italian wedding soup and delicious fresh warm bread. But we didn't have much luck with our entrees. I have ordered Angel hair with Alfredo sauce. There was NO flavor at all. I could not taste cheese or salt or anything. It was bland. I had to ask the waiter to re-cook with marinara sauce. Veggie sandwich was nice looking with Spinach, Olives, and Artichokes together except it was cold when it served. And we were told this was the way supposed to be. Service was fine. Well, they were not able to give us salad or veggie to substitute the fries. Parking was a headache. I had to circle 3 times to find a spot on the street. Maybe we will give it another try with different dishes.
(3)Rhonda G.
Staff was quick and attentive to our very large party. They kept the food coming and the alcohol flowing. I've had the pasta a couple of times and i'm not that impressed with it. I think the pizza is the real winner at this place. Cheese is awesome and the veggie is awesomer (i know, not really a word).
(3)Kat K.
I really enjoyed a girls night out at Jim and Pete 's. The interior is very nice and cozy- soft lighting and brick. There are nice wines on the menu, and the food was simple and tasty. We had pizzas and broccoli salad, both were delish. The diners around us were having seafood and it looked great. It would be a good date night spot, and families were also there. The bar area was very nice .
(4)Kai R.
The restaurant was nice and packed on a Friday night, but the $17.99 grilled seafood platter I had was not great at all. It was a small octopus was three shrimp and calamari. I ate the octopus and shrimp, but the rest was not very good. Honestly, there was not much else on the menu. Nice atomsphere!
(3)Joel M.
I have enjoyed my meal every time I have visited Jim & Petes. I have had the pizza a number of times and my only objections are to the crust (too doughy for me) and its sauce (not enough spice, too sweet), but different folk, different strokes. As for the rest of the menu, I find it very solid with the exception of the beef sandwich. There is a bit too much bread for my taste in that area. The roasted chicken and red potatoes, however, are very delicious and moist. My rating on this one is more focused to my palate so take this review with a grain of salt.
(3)Joy S.
Went with the family for a big bday a few weeks ago, so we had about 12 people with us. Opted for pizzas and apps to make it easy, but I looked over the menu to see if my fiance and I would want to return to try their pasta another time. All pastas come with marinara (or red sauce, as many of us call it) - to change the sauce to alfredo or pesto or vodka sauce, etc. would be an upcharge or $2-3. Seriously?! The table we were sitting at had the extendable leaves to make it either a round or square table. The leaves were extended to make it round, but the side I was at was drooping quite a bit, so I had to keep my food and drink about a foot away from me to keep it from sliding down into my lap. They do carry Moretti's Italian beer, but were out of it on the day we were there. My fiance and I just ordered water, but had to wait about 15minutes after everyone else had their drinks before we could flag down a busboy (the waitress had disappeared) to ask again for waters, and then another 5 minutes for a straw. Unless it's where the grandparents decide on again, we won't be going back.
(2)Carolynne M.
They crank out a damn fine pepper & egg sammich, thats for sure. Hope you like soup too, because when you order a bowl you literally get half a cauldron. My tiny friend Renee C was dwarfed by this massive portion and took more than half home. Cute interior, with a central bar area and outdoor seating. We had excellent, attentive service when we were there but it could have been because we were only one of two tables occupied at the time.
(4)Bryan S.
Was promised a credit of a free pizza and attempted to collect on this "FREE" pizza and was denied - the impeccable service from Jim & Pete shines through again! Good riddance!
(1)Stephanie V.
I went the other night for my second time and had another great meal in a beautiful setting. They inside of the restaurant is beautifully decorated with stone/rock walls and has a romantic feel to it. They also have a sit down bar if you dont want table service. The first time I went I ordered the roasted chicken entree. It came with half of a roasted chicken with your choice of pasta and potato, and soup or salad. The chicken had great flavors but was a tad bit dry but the lemon wedge helped with that. It was a rather large mean and costs about $15. The other night I went and ordered the eggplant parmesan. It was delicious!! lots of flavor and lots of cheese melted on top for you cheese lovers out there (like me!!). I also had a taste of their ribs (they are ok), and their delicious mashed potatoes and green beans. Overall, I enjoy coking here. The staff is great and they are open late during the week which is hard to find around here. Definitely give this place a try! A great date night spot! Casual or dressy!
(4)Megan S.
My fiance and I have been here several times and like this place so much that we decided to give it a quick co-review. Consensus between us is that: A) The pizza here is phenomenal. B) We've always had great service here. C) It's very reasonably priced. It's a great casual restaurant, great for dine-in or delivery.
(5)Mike D.
This place is right next to Johnnies Beef. It is pretty hard to walk by and say oh i'll stop in here, and then see Johnnies and say..ahh nevermind. However, Jim and Petes has some pretty awesome food. The pizza is really good and the lasagna is actually awesome. So many italian places have dry, tasteless lasagna, but this place really knows how to make it great. The antipasto salad is pretty good too I like the dressing. If you're looking to switch up your pizza orders, try this place you won't be disappointed.
(4)Kevin L.
So far my only 5 star pizza in the neighborhood. We live in Elmwood Park, so we eat at Jim & Pete's a lot. Their pizza is second to none. I have yet to try any that is better. Perfect mix of garlicky sauce, crisp (but not hardtack) crust, bubbling cheese, and chunky flavorful sausage. This is the pizza we order when out of towners come to visit, it's our go to place for delicious Italian food, and it's a wonderful spot to eat outside (if you don't mind the traffic noise on North Ave). A true 5-star neighborhood joint.
(5)Sara O.
We've driven by this place a few times, always thinking to ourselves, "I wonder if that place is good..." And last night, while driving by with our bellies empty, our curiosity got the best of us. Our plan was to stop in and grab a drink at the bar before we made our final decision. After a brief review of their menu (the price was just right!) and a scan of the dining room, we decided to go for it. We ordered their Signature Pizza--thin crust of course--and we were so glad we did! It was simply AMAZING. The flavors complemented one another perfectly--fresh garlic, spinach, red peppers, artichokes, and lots of fontinella cheese. It had to be one of the top 5 thin crust pizzas I've had in the Chicago area. And I'm a serious pizza connoisseur--have I mentioned this before? Because I am. And that is why you need to trust me on this. Go here! If not for the pizza, then for the cozy atmosphere, good wine, and happy wait staff. Oh, and they have delivery! And I hope they deliver to Oak Park, because I'll be programing these peeps into my phone for sure.
(5)Evan S.
Now that Armand's is closed I tried this...not that great. It can't shake a stick at Armand's Chicken Parm sandwich and my girlfriend got the chicken ceaser salad and had to spit out tough pieces of chicken twice. Sad.
(2)Jessica L.
This place is just okay. I know it is really popular in the neighborhood, but I have never been blown away by the food or the service. I also always feel like its a little pricey for what you are getting. I definitely will probably be back there because we can walk and its not terrible, but it is never my first choice of places to go.
(3)Johnny T.
4.5 stars for my medium thin crust sausage pizza but, 2.5 for the service. First off, great pizza. From the light airy crust to the enormous favorable sausage toppings, they know how to make a great pie. However, the customer service I got was anything but professional. When I came in, even with only 2 tables occupied, it took a few minutes to be waited on. It took the waitress around 5 minutes to process my order due to computer problems. Then, she just darts off all of a sudden in the back area without saying anything. While I was standing in between the bar area & the kitchen, her and another waitress (short gray hair lady) passed by me without saying how long the wait nor the total and their were only 2 seated tables so it wasn't like they were busy upfront. While waiting and being ignored, it was amusing to hear those 2 same waitresses arguing and yelling in the kitchen, in their Elmwood Park accents, (if there's such a thing) about the food not being done right and then seeing them talk ever so politely with their customers on the floor. They might of been short staffed or caught them during a bad time but, still thought it would be proper to at least be acknowledged while waiting.
(3)Megan T.
Great food and good people! The oysters rockefeller appitizer is fabulous! I also recommend the fettucini alfredo, you get a huge portion enough to take to lunch the next day too! They also make good drinks and would be a great place to have a app and drink while sitting at the bar even though not a huge bar.
(4)Len W.
First, parking. Well, it sucks around North Avenue. The side streets are marked "residents only" but I risked it with no issue. There's a lot next door, but only use the one to the west if that office is closed. The one to the east says they'll tow no matter what. Decor was ok, but we were seated under a big screen tv. Is this a sports bar or a restaurant? The service was very good. One of our party has some dietary restrictions and they were very careful to follow orders. The bread was pretty good, but slow in coming. You could do just as well to buy from a bakery and warm it up yourself. Salads? Really? Iceburg and a few chopped veg. And the house dressing was pretty boring as well. The tortellini was just ok. Sauce was too sweet. Not sugary, but nothing special. And the sausage was bland as well. Someone else had the veal/lemon. Three small pieces that looked like leather. Meh. No dessert for us. I would rather have gone to Johnny's.
(1)Nancy M.
An Institution!! We love Jim & Pete's. Dinner, lunches, pizzas! Staff!! Everything!! Classic!! We've eaten here many times, and done take out pizza countless times. The best pizza in Oak Park/River Forest area.
(5)John T.
I love the decor and I love the actual food, but I came for pizza and left truly disappointed. The service is not always there, and, unfortunately, it seems that the food is really hit-or-miss. The appetizers are always good, though. Especially the fried calamari!
(3)LT B.
I love this place! I don't understand the mediocre reviews. Each time I visit, it's with all or part of my family. That said, we are a decent sized table. Every time we visit, we have a tasty meal. Do they blow you out of the water with their creativity? No. Is the food some cutting-edge Trend...on small plates? No. If you're looking for that or if you're looking to wait hours for a table go somewhere else. If you're looking for dependable Italian food at a reasonable price, with flexible menus go to Jim and Pete's. I'm a pretty picky eater and I'm one of those who is big on holding this and having something else addd. I know what I want and I know how I like it prepared. Jim and Pete's never hesitates to customize my food. They accommodate without an attitude and without an up charge! Probably helps that my family just orders normal things and doesn't ask for any special requests!! This place has some of the best shrimp I've had no matter how you order it... shrimper arrabiata, shrimp and garlic olive oil any kind of shrimp pasta is delicious. The shrimp are a very good size and not the scrimp that you see it other places!! The bread arrives at the table warm ...crusty on the outside soft on the inside. Your entrée comes with a salad or soup and either one is delicious. I typically order the shrimp arrabiata with salad and house Italian. My brother orders the eggplant parm, my nephew sons variation of chicken, m sister the veal. The house Chianti is also very good. Give this place a shot for dependable Italian food especially if you live in the area. Excellent food, reasonably priced and friendly service. Sometimes parking can be a pain but it's worth it!
(5)Kornelia F.
My friends and I stopped at J&P after our vegan dinner to enjoy some wine and conversation, and all I can say is that I was not impressed! The waitress was clueless about any of the wines, and it seems like every time we named a wine we would like to try she had to run to the bar and find out if it is available. She was a sweet lady, but come on, if it is on the menu shouldn't it be at the bar? We also did not appreciate being rushed! Our party was the last one there and we were still chatting it up 20 minutes before closing time, and it seems that every time we turned around the wait staff was starring at us with the hopes of having us leave. They even started cleaning all the tables and putting all the chairs up while we still sat there comfortably w/o having any plans of leaving. I am not a negative nancy, but please, patrons pay for the service...
(2)Steve S.
First visit, nice place, comfortable, roomy; not very crowded but it was Monday night. We were seated promptly; service was good and attentive. Food was good - chicken/veal parm; bbq chicken, veal cutlet were ordered at our table - all good - not outstanding but good. Tomato/onion salad with blue cheese was good - a bit too big for a salad, but good. I would go back - it's a nice place and I would recommend it. They turned the MLB playoff game on for us - that was nice. Menus were wet/moist on the inside - kind of nasty - please make sure they are dry next time you clean them before the guests show up. They forgot to bring my glass of wine with dinner; not good. The hostess was also the bartender and most of the time she sat at the bar looking bored - too bad, she should be more engaging with the customers. It's close to a 4+ with a little attention to the customers.
(3)Adam r.
good place to come for a full family night out
(4)Boniface J.
Amazing food. I had the tomato and basil pasta, and it's just amazing. The portion is very generous, but I usually eat it all in one sitting. Very fresh and their house dressing is so delicious. I bought a bottle of it. Their service is great. Very friendly staff. The draw back to the restaurant is the parking. Parking is not so great and
(4)Sar M.
super food- good value! good service
(4)Annette A.
I ordered delivery, the delivery guy was really nice. Pizza was not bad, sausage was delicious, and sauce was good too.
(4)Rich A.
Growing up in NW Oak Park, we ate Jim and Pete's all the time. I love the deep dish, but when I want thin crust - Jim and Pete's is the pizza that I judge all others by. A nice greasy, thin crust with fresh sausage. MMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmm!
(5)Caley R.
Loved this place since I was little. I don't know crap about "authentic Italian" food really, but the pizza here is delicious. Still tastes great as microwaved leftovers as well. I love their bread with oil and cheese here, it's better than other restaurants I've been too. Fettuccine Alfredo is to die for. Calamari is good. Everything here is good.
(5)Andrea B.
I've been here twice and both times had pizza. I've had the thinner crust and the double dough. The double dough is very filling and addicting, you can't stop eating it. I've had it with toppings but its delicious without them as well.
(4)Ann S.
Both of our meals were decent. The service was quick and friendly. We will return.
(3)Chris D.
The 2 stars say it all - I've experienced better. Starting from the beginning - the salad was old and wilting - the dressing may have come from Sams Club. Our fried Calamari had no flavor at all. All of the pasta comes with marinara sauce and if you want another sauce they charge you more - okay - strange way of doing it but I got the pasta with vodka sauce for an additional $3. Ugh - it was a little better than "out of the jar" sauce. Service very slow. Food took forever. Our waitress would completely disappear - that seemed to be a trend throughout the restaurant - as I was searching for our waitress I noticed that everyone was searching for their waitress!!! That was actually amusing - we kept trying to guess who was and wasn't looking for service! We were right 80% of the time. 8 out of 10 to be exact! The other 2 were just looking around I guess - not much to see by the way. Took forever to get our check - or should I say - ask for our check. I had to ask the hostess if she could find our waitress so we can get the check. That's right I had to beg to pay! She didn't seemed to thrilled about that - maybe I'm paranoid but she seemed a little snooty when we left. Whatever - we won't be back, especially after the tip we left. Others seem to say they have good pizza, maybe that's what you order when you go there.
(2)Katrina B.
This place is really adorable. It is snuggled in the strip of North Avenue where there is nothing but restaurants, so do yourself a favor and don't miss this place. The thin crust was really the best thin crust I have had in the Oak Park - Surrounding area. There is a cute little bar with a bunch of regulars, and decent pasta dishes. There were couples and families and it really had the correct ambiance for a family style pizza place that is also appropriate for a date. There is a ton of seating and the bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The bathrooms were clean, and the parking was ample. I will be going back here for a second run soon.
(4)Rachel F.
Favorite place for pizza in the area. The sauce is just right.
(4)Gary P.
I don't usually like pasta. I had the oyster pasta. It's very good.
(4)M W.
We thought we would try out this restaurant on a recent Friday evening. We got there early, around 6:30pm and were seated quickly (the restaurant was 1/2 empty). Pro: good, warm crusty bread and water brought to our table immediately with prompt refills. Cons: Once we were seated we waiited. and waited. and looked around. and waited some more for our waitress. Nothing. I finally went up to the bar to order our drinks. It was still 5-10 minutes before the waitress came to our table to take our order. Our waitress seemed to disappear for long periods of time. I ordered the rigatoni with spinach and the rigatoni was not cooked. I know the difference between "al dente" and "uncooked". This was uncooked. It was also overwhelmingly garlicky - way too much. The salad dressing tasted like it came right out of a bottle. So maybe we went there on an "off" night for the waitress and cook, but we won't be going back. There are too many other Italian restaurants in the area that are better. Two dinners, one beer, two drinks and tip came to $70.
(2)Ray S.
If the food was good, I could deal with the very rude staff. Not so much our waitress but the hostess and the people running the place came across as hostile. Apparently if they've never seen you there before, you get the 'evil eye'. Luckily I was wearing my anti-evil-eye-charm so the death look the hostess gave us won't stick. Food was very average, almost on the blah side and the atmosphere was nothing to write home about, although bad enough to write on Yelp about.
(1)Garrett and Kristal J.
What can we say .... hmmm .... for starters ... if you're planning on going on for a special occasion ... say .. Valentine's Day .... you may want to make a reservation BEFORE 6pm, because after this, they don't take anymore and it's on a first come, first serve. Ok, so we get there around 7:30, find a place to park on the street, and then enter into Jim & Pete's for the first time. 1) All the tables were full 2) Approximately 30 minute wait 3) Pianist playing to our left on a baby grand piano, 4) Loud chatter, happy faces, couples holding hands, incredible smells coming from the kitchen .... 5) Waitresses looking tired, over-worked, and yet ... still smiling! Though the wait for our table was more than half an hour, we were seated, received a red plastic champagne heart flute glass filled with a few hershey kisses ... and started our meal with .. well for me a glass of water, and my hubby, a glass of red wine, and an appy of bruchetta. The bruchetta was brought out on the "trolley" (which we will get to in a second) and because it was filled with food for everyone, our bruchetta sat there, within our reach for quite some time, while the waitress passed out the food to others. By the time we received our appy, it was soggy...it was okay...but soggy. What was weird for us, was that when the waitresses bring out the meals, they put them on a little trolley and push that to the tables!! Not only that, but my hubby's dish came in a rarebit on the trolley and then was put into a plate on the trolley before serving it to us. Our waitress, Pati, did a great job keeping up with her section, which was still .... FULL ... and for a busy night, you can expect to be waiting quite some time for your dirty dishes to be removed and the check to come. Keep in mind that the portions are HUGE!! I mean, almost everyone leaving had their little white boxes with them when they left!! We will most likely be back someday...but we will know not to go when it is so busy...or at least call for a reservation 1st!
(4)MyOpinion C.
Very yummy super thin pizza :) Delicioso for sure!
(4)Josclyn W.
This place is our go to italian joint, The chicken cesar is great, and huge!!! The chicken soup, comes home in gallons and we always have some in our freezer its like a meal in a bowl. The pizza is delish, deep dish or the crispy, you will enjoy! We don't eat in the often, but have always had good service!
(4)Kelly R.
We had our rehearsal dinner here. We ended up with 10 extra people (oops) but the staff just picked it up as if nothing happened. The prices are very reasonable. The portion sizes are rather large so my husband and I will generally split a meal. We have never been disappointed with the food here. The bread is wonderful! I've never had bad service here... ever. Jim was very helpful planning our menu and setting a tone for our wedding weekend. Quintessential family owned Italian restaurant!
(5)Sarah R.
Why is everyone hating on Jim and Pete's? This is our go-to place. Usually when the convo goes like this...."What do you want for dinner?" "I don't care, I'm too tired to think." " Well, I don't care either, I'm tired too." When this mess happens, we end up bellying up a the bar at Jim and Pete's. Because we know it will always be good, and we will always be taken care of. Is it an Italian restaurant with a big screen on the wall? Sure. But tv's are a priority when it comes to places to eat. The White Sox must always be on, if they are playing that day. We usually get the same things, the soup of the day (it doesn't matter what it is), the baked clams, and the antipasto salad. People, this salad is awesome. Some lettuce, some salami, some various peppers, some artichoke, some other veggie and meaty goodness all served in a wooden bowl with tongs. And a really great homemade dressing. We usually round things off with an entree to share, sometimes when we are feeling really indulgent, we will get the manicotti. Holy crap. Pasty, cheesy, saucy amazingness. And our drinks are always full. Their pizza is pretty great too. When we are feeling super worthless, we get this shit delivered. Never had any problems there either. I'm not sure where all this 2-3 star crap is coming from, but I felt I needed to review one of my favorite places to try to bump up their star rating a little bit. Jim and Pete, I hope you will always be there for me.
(5)Bridgette K.
Jim and Petes has great food their appetizers are delicious the artichoke caserole is a must have the stuffed shells are very good. The service is alright depending on who's taking care of you. Don't do delivery it isn't that great I rather do sit down. They need to get some booths in here.
(4)Beth Z.
Good, reliable Italian food and excellent thin crust pizza. Service is always good. Longstanding neighborhood "go to" - I cannot recall the last time I was here when I did not run into someone I know. You won't get fancy food - but you will not leave hungry, or without a smile on your face.
(4)angelica r.
cutest little Elwood park Italian spot. would def go back.. yum. my bestfriend and i went there on for lunch and shared the Tortellini Florentine and an Eggplant parmesan sandwich. Both were perfect, especially the homemade pasta. wow. We sat outside, enjoyed the nice weather. they have a small outside eating area, but im sure just enough to accommodate the amount of people who come in. Will def make it a point to come back for dinner and drinks there one night.
(4)Zuella M.
Used them for the 1st time for lunch delivery at work. Just got to say.....WE ARE GOING TO USE THEM FROM NOW ON!!! The food is ON-POINT! We ordered the monster pizza w/ giardenere peppers, medium thin sausage, 10' cheese pizza (had free coupon), breaded veggie combo and house salad tray all for $84.95! They called me to let me know they are on the way too!!! Very considerate! They even included plates & plasticware! Mega brownie points there!
(5)Rob W.
It's frustrating to do an update and knock a star off an old favorite. But downgrade, I must. On Tuesday nights, Jim & Pete's runs a half off pizza special - delivery only. I rarely get pizza delivered as it's usually less painless to just go pick it up than to wait for a delivery guy to show up. But... back when Domino's initiated the 1/2 hr delivery, lots of local places stepped up their delivery game a bit from 1-1 1/2 hours down to around 45 minutes. Not Jim & Pete's though... the previous time I ordered the pizza special I was quoted a 1 hr wait - the guy got here about 7 minutes in advance of that, so I tipped him an extra $3 on top of the $3 delivery charge. So, tonight I went to order again and given the slightly early delivery last time, I asked to add a $3 tip to my bill. No reply - just the sound of the kitchen in the background. So I called back and asked if it had been added - nope, sorry, didn't hear that. At that point I also asked the ETA on my pizza. "Within an hour" I was told, so at 7PM, I now know that my meal will be here by 8PM. Or will it? Eight PM comes and goes and there's no extra-large with sausage to be found. Minutes keep ticking, but no pizza in sight. At 8:15 I put a call in - "they're all out - they should be there in a moment" I'm told. Well, the clock strikes 8:25, and finally the delivery arrives. No sign of the "pre-tip" I had asked about and at this point, the delivery charge will be all she wrote anyway. Of course, the absence of the $3 tip on the receipt might just be a system snafu - it might have been added, who knows? The driver apologizes for the wait, to which I probably responded with a grunt. I bring the pizza to the table and my biggest concern has come to fruition - the pizza is warm at best. Now here's the thing... if in order to get the deal being offered, I have to use delivery, then doggonit, that delivery process should be smooth. I ended up with a "deal" that wasn't really a deal at all when one takes into account the extended wait and the fact that I received a sub-par pizza. It will likely be awhile before I opt for this "deal" again. And no more "pre-tipping" for me either!
(3)Mani S.
Decent pizza, okay service. Nothing great! It's mostly over priced for the quality and service.
(3)Lisa A.
I have been here about 3 times since my kids moved into the area, but Jim & Pete's feels like a restaurant that has been there for many years and they have a local following. I find their menu is not exhaustive but generally it is a traditional Italian restaurant with the routine pastas and they offer pizza and daily specials. On this occasion, I ordered the risotto special with aspargus and mushrooms and it was done perfectly well. My son ordered the cheeseburger which he enjoyed and my daughter in law ordered the Chef's salad which was ample. I just didn't enjoy the pizza as much that my husband ordered because the crust was not very crispy. The Italian sausage on the pizza was good and the sauce was flavorful. I didn't find the service to be impressive but average. I like that we were able to enjoy dinner and watch a football game so the televisions in the restaurant are a plus.
(3)Biana K.
Restaurant is a Gordon Ramsey nightmare. Outdated decor. Slow service. It took over 45 min to get a sandwich and salad. Salad was $18 because I had 4 shrimp added...they adjusted to $16 when I pointed it out (the point was missed entirely). Salad was okay but nothing great. Either Jim or Pete was there and gave my husband and I a terrible look after the waitress asked him to adjust the bill. Eggplant appetizer was greasy. I wouldn't come back.
(2)Thomas C.
Second trip to this spot was the charm. The Pizza (yes, I know, all I had to do was read the yelp reviews to know just how good the pizza is ... shame on me) is every bit as good as the yelp reviews say it is. We had the thin, I love meat so of course got the vegetarian pizza and ... I'd have a hard time not ordering it again for fear that nothing could be as good. Of course you can OD on bread and olive olio (and did) the meatball sandwich and pasta dishes all looked good as well.
(4)Mike W.
More than anything Jim and Pete's earns 5-stars from me based on their service. I was in the area looking for a place to catch a game and decided to randomly stop in; I certainly picked the right place. When I entered I was greeted by Mike, one of the managers/part owners, who was very gracious in helping me get the game on one of the TVs above the bar. Between Mike and the waitresses (especially Maria), everyone was very friendly and very accommodating to me doing some work from the bar when I was there. While I was at Jim and Pete's I ordered a couple of drinks and had the Chicken Cesar Salad. The beers were reasonably priced and chilled perfectly so can't complain there. It's been my experience that ordering salads from most restaurants is hit-or-miss, but today it was a big hit. For $9 I got a good sized salad that had a generous portion of chicken that was seasoned well, fresh greens, and an appropriate amount of dressing (not too much, but not too little). Add a little parmesan cheese and pepper from the shakers and you'll be good to go! Whether you are a local wanting to eat out or someone passing through the area in need of food/drink, stop by for excellent service and good food in a relaxed atmosphere!
(5)Jenn K.
I love this place and there food is great. What I can't deal with is the wait and it hasn't been only one time every time I come here I'm sitting between 10 to almost 20 min for someone to take my order.
(3)Vegas S.
fast friendly delivery and the pizza was one of the best I have had in chicago being here 32years.
(5)Dorotka K.
I was very hesitant to try this place based on the mixed bag reviews. But it was pretty much the only place on North Ave that was closing at 10 on Sunday. I had a good experience here. We opted for outside seating, so I cannot say much about the inside ambiance. Our waitress was great and the food was good, too. Prices reasonable for the area.
(4)Caitlin J.
This place is a joke. It doesn't deserve any stars. The waitstaff are rude and incompetent. When I went there the waitress never even asked what we wanted to drink we had to tell her. The service was incredibly slow and it was not because the restaurant was crowded. When our dinner finally arrived it wasn't even what we had ordered. When she brought back the right orders the food was awful. I couldn't believe that a chef would put that food on a plate and serve it to people. We couldn't get out of there fast enough. My family and I have decided to forget about this restaurant.
(1)Joanna S.
Come here a couple times a year. I recommend the sausage pizza with fresh mozzarella. Delicious!
(4)Yvonne B.
They started us off right. We had reservations for five people and they gave us a choice about where we wanted to sit, warning us that there would be small children near one. BIG SCORE for Jim & Pete's! Next, the server asked if we were celebrating anything and we responded that it was for my birthday. That's pretty cool that the server reached out like that. I'm trying to think if a server has ever done that before and I think only once... SCORE again! Well, we had the artichoke casserole and calamari appetizers and they were both delicious. The artichoke casserole was DELICIOUS. It's pretty much stuffed artichokes cut up. I'm not a big fan of calamari (it's okay and I'll eat it but I'd never order it on my own). My friends liked it a lot. We got their specialty pizza (artichokes and spinach) as well as a sausage and bell pepper one. Both were good but the specialty pizza was ah-mazing. In the end, the server brought me vanilla ice cream with a candle on it. It was good, but I really liked the two cannoli we ordered afterward. The cannoli were crispy on the outside and traditional cannoli goodness on the inside. The server said that they made them fresh just for us because they'd run out! We had a good time at Jim & Pete's. It seemed as if all kinds of groups and people would enjoy it too. I mean, it's casual and down to earth but it's not a dive. There's a bar area with TVs, an outside patio (I actually would NOT recommend sitting out there because it faces the busy street), and a dining room.
(5)Anne W.
A great place to dine in Elmwood Park, Jim & Pete's menu has something for everyone. The daily specials are worth trying, but the regular menu is filled with classic Italian dinners. The service is wonderful and you will have leftovers, enough for lunch the following day! My recommendation, chicken florentine and their homemade soup with a glass of wine. Enjoy!
(5)Mary Ann C.
Super friendly staff. Easy parking. Large portions of food. Everyone was thrilled with their selections. I sampled the thin crust pizza, pasta with marinara, and sausage and peppers. All were tasty.
(3)Bob E.
Other than our waiter being very good the rest was down hill. Ordered a thin crust pizza which had practically no tomato sauce on it. My girlfriend is big on Italian food and hated everything that was brought to the table. The building looks nice on the outside but inside looks like a scene in the movie Goodfellas with the same decor from that era.
(1)Mark L.
I dined here with my parents and my god parents last Friday. They stuck us at a corner table, against two angles of windows, that had a burned out bulb. I'm a younger guy so i had no problem seeing the menu, and even took the very corner seat. The other individuals struggled to read the menu given the lack of light. Not exactly upset as we didn't have a reservation, but not an ideal spot. I asked the busboy if he could change the bulb and he looked at me and said "uhh, that would take a ladder." Brilliant. On to the better - the appetizers and main courses were all delectable. We started with a bottle of wine, baked clams and calamari. It came out in a timely fashion and tasted great. We all tried different pastas for our main courses and they were very tasty. The table next to us got a pizza that looked and smelled amazing. It's been years since we ordered a pizza from this place (we typically order delivery rather than dining in) but I am determined to try one soon. Server was very friendly. We will definitely continue to eat here.
(4)Christina G.
This review is for the catering/event service. For just the restaurant I suppose I would give it 3 stars, but the even experience supersedes any dining experience I've had here. First of all, if you're thinking of having any sort of event here, THINK TWICE. I booked a work event three weeks in advance, and because a larger party booked after me, we were moved from the space we were supposed to have, and it was changed from the style of seating and serving food to something totally different. I found this out when I arrived that night to make sure everything was set up correctly. This would have been okay, if only the owner had handled it professionally. Or alerted me ahead of time to give me a chance to book elsewhere or change what I wanted. One of the owners (I guess Jim or Pete), was so rude, so arrogant, so condescending, and so unapologetic, that I wonder if he even cares about his business. When things like this happen, and I understand that they do, at least TRY to be a little nice and apologetic, it would go a long way with customers. But he wasn't. He was truly a piece of work. The food here is mediocre and overpriced. Good pizza but pasta and sauces are bland and blah. It's the suburbs I guess. The ONLY saving grace was that the hostess, waitresses, manager, and bartender were all really nice. Basically everyone except the owner. It's really too bad the owner isn't, because ultimately you are the face of your restaurant. I have been planning work events for years now and cannot recall a comparable experience.
(1)Mister M.
Solid local Italian eatery that has been in the area for generations. Pasta dishes are good. Marinara (red sauce) is really good. It is the smooth type but the flavor is great. Eggplant is really good. Calamari is terrific. Soups are hit or miss. Complimentary bread is very good-Torpedo loaves(possibly Gonnella?) Wide selection of Italian american favorites as well as seafood. My wife enjoys the Cheese ravioli. She also loves the Alfredo sauce. I like the Pasta Primavera, the aglio olio, the red sauce, the meatballs, the eggplant. Pizza is also very good. Nice ambiance inside. A few too many tables in the East dining area, but the newer side is more comfortable. I like the exposed brick wall and the lighting. Bar is in the center and can be a bit boisterous, but it is not a big deal. I say go here and enjoy a local favorite.
(5)Edward R.
The food was delicious and our server Gail was very friendly...I recommend the calamari!
(5)Sean B.
My wife and I came in for dinner around 5 on a Saturday. Our server Patty was very nice and attentive. The restaurant is warm and cozy. We had appetizers, fried eggplant with marinara was very good. We also had the artichoke casserole an scallops Dijon which were decent. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli which she enjoyed. I had the pork tenderloin which was over cooked and under seasoned. Our server Patty did not hesitate to make things right. Overall the ambiance is very nice. The service was great and the food was very good. We got a little history of the place from Patty who has worked there for 13yrs! - Jim & Petes is a family owned business around for 72 years. Our overall experience was very good and we will be back to try their pizza.
(4)Mike G.
Have been here a few times, food is good, service was solid as well. Parking in this area does get a little tough, had to park a little far away. Tables on the inside were very tight together. Guests and other customers sometimes had to squeeze through seats. Overall the food and service were pretty good though.
(3)Lisa B.
I came in from out of town to visit friends and attended the Taste of Elmwood Park with them. We had the clams from Jim & Pete's and absolutely loved them. The best that I've ever had. I am definitely going to check out the actual restaurant next time I visit for the holidays!
(5)Rita M.
Bought a groupon (thank goodness I did) (one star for that) Nice ambiance (one star for that) We made reservations on Monday night. There were probably about 7 total tables of people at the restaurant. We had an Asian female server (IF YOU HAVE HER, REQUEST FOR SOMEONE ELSE!) she had two other tables (us and another couple). We arrived about at least twenty mins before the other couple. We placed out drink orders, then when she came with those, we ordered our appetizers and main course all at once. We waited forever for our appetizers (half dozen clams and mozzarella sticks). We were wondering where were our salads. Finally, after sitting with empty drinks waiting for about ANOTHER 15 mins, she serves the other table's salads first (REALLY?!?!) before us. Then main course came(I got the lobster ravioli with vodka sauce which was ok but hubby's chicken alfredo was dried out). Then, the painful check time (which I looked at my watch to count how long she would take) 15 mins!!!!!! I got so irritated, I ended up walking up to the bar with my credit card at hand. Had service not been so poor, we would've ordered another round of drinks but we were worried about waiting forever for them to come. I should have listened to everyone else's reviews about poor service before buying my groupon. It sucks, because this place is really aesthetically appeasing but the service is sub par! Maybe she knew the couple at the other table??? Maybe she is a new server??? I really hope management sees this and brings it up to her. Constructive criticism is key in life. Patrons dining notice inattentiveness and special treatment to other people dining. Glad we went on a non busy Monday. I'd HATE to see what service is like on a Fri or Sat! Won't be back. Would not recommend.
(2)Em P.
I really only can speak on their pizza considering thats all we get when we go there. Been there a handful of times the past year and overall happy. Only once did our party of 8 get slightly lacking service by the waitress. The pizza has always been great. Fresh ingredients and comes out hot! The ONLY complaint i actually have about the restaurant itself is how loud it can get in there. We have always been seated towards the back/bathroom/wine rack area and i feel like i spend the entire time screaming across the table. Interested to go there off hours to try a pasta dish sometime soon..
(3)Cinthia R.
Amazing Food. I Always Go With Fried Calamari for appetizer! They are the best. The lemon chicken, meatballs, and pizza are amazing!!!
(5)Nicole K.
So I had a really good pasta dish that I can't remember because all I can remember is the really gross fried broccoli. At first when I saw it on the menu I questioned it but the waitress told me it was good so I went for it. The best way I can describe the taste is sun dried broccoli coated with a flavorless batter and bland sauce to do it in, it was hard to chew and even harder to swallow. I don't know who thought this was a good idea.
(3)Lauren D.
Very average pasta. Excellent pizza. We rate their pasta dishes with three stars while the pizza gets four stars. Go here for the pizza and skip the pasta dishes. They were very average pasta dishes. You can get much better pasta on Taylor Street. I'll pass on the pasta here next time around. The calamari was very fresh, great texture and oh so yummy! Service was okay, but could have been better. We tip on how service is for us, so don't expect outstanding or above average service here. This restaurant has been around for over four decades, so they are obviously doing something right. A restaurant doesn't survive for this long for no reason :) Parking in this area is a royal pain in the ass, so be prepared to park several blocks away.
(3)Anthony F.
I was at Jim & Pete's on 12/3/13. The party was for 30 people. It was the worst food & service you could imagine. All 30 people were dissatisfied. Do not go to this establishment . The correct date was 12/13/13.
(1)Michelle F.
I don't know why, but I was expecting this place to be a dump. Boy, was I wrong! It's super cute inside, has great service and good food. I'm not too familiar with Elmwood Park, which is probably why I thought this place would be a dive. I just don't come out this way very often since I try to avoid the suburbs, but I went to a bridal shower here, so I had to make the trip. I actually passed by Jim & Pete's as I was driving - I just didn't see it. I had to turn around. It's sort of confusing. Jim & Pete's doesn't really have its own parking lot. I parked next door in front of some kind of physical therapy office. I went inside and asked if I could park there, and they said I could. There is a lot on the other side of the restaurant that you CANNOT park in, so keep that in mind. For the shower, they had a family-style lunch for us. We had flatbread, salad, pasta, sausages, chicken and potatoes. I think that was all, though I may have missed something. Everything was really tasty. We were set up toward the back. We weren't in a separate room, but we had some privacy. The decor is nice. Lots of warm woods, natural light and exposed brick walls. I have to say that it was kind of hot in the restaurant. It wasn't super hot outside or anything, but it seemed like they turned their AC off, and it was kind of uncomfortable. Other than that, it was a good time. I don't know how it is to order food off the regular menu, but I definitely recommend this place for private parties with a family-style menu.
(4)Shin M.
Started off with bread that was very warm and soft. Then had a salad that was very delicious and full of many vegetables and meats (probably super unhealthy). Finished with thin crust pizza- pepperoni and some special pizza that had like everything on it. Overall good!
(4)Exseli C.
I went with 4 other adults and 2 kids ( ages 4 & 5 ). The hostess and our waitress seated us by the bathroom and by the wine rack ( of course with bottles of wine) that stands from the floor that could easily be a recipe for accidents and disaster with the kids. I politely told the waitress that this table might not be a good one with the kids. She did not say anything nor tried to do something about. I have to ask her again if we could be seated to another spot which she did transfer us. We had to ask for our bread basket after waiting for a while...other customers that came later than us were served right away with theirs. Food was mediocre. For appetizer, we ordered the fried calamari which i think was the best part of our meal and the breaded mushroom. We ordered an 18 in supreme thin pizza, nothing in it that would make me come back to this place. We also had their baked mostacioli and meat lasagna, again, mediocre... Our waitress was not as attentive. She forgot to give my credit card back and had to remind her that we are still waiting for it after waiting for a while. We still gave 20% gratuity despite the experience but i will not come back and eat here.
(2)M W.
Solid thin crust, though I remember it tasting better a few years ago. The artichoke casserole was absolutely disgusting. Even my boyfriend, who usually will eat anything, wouldn't touch it. The atmosphere is very inviting and warm, and service is attentive.
(3)Veronica J.
When we arrived we wasn't greeted with nice service and also the food when brought out to us was cold I would not recommend coming to this place at all it seems like the only service they receive is there regular customers if I could give no stars I would
(1)nancy c.
I am writing this review after giving Jim and Pete's another chance, I wrote about a negative dining experience I had on February 1, 2014. (please see that review) I recently revisited the restaurant after hearing from the management who looked into the facts I described. Management was very conciliatory and thus I returned for another helping. I ordered the baked rigatoni which was absolutely delicious and my friend ordered spinach lasagna which was made to perfection. I must also add that our service was gracious with just the right balance of helpfulness and attentiveness. Realizing that all restaurants can have a bad day, Jim and Pete's has once again returned to my list of local choices. I would recommend it wholeheartedly.
(5)Adriana B.
I give 3 stars bc their food is decent. Pizza is good and their house salad is delicious. The service needs alot of improvement. We live in the neighborhood, and it's pretty much the only decent sit down around. The servers aren't very friendly. They don't seem to go above OR BEYOND. I've worked in a restaurant for 10yrs. If I don't know someone by name, I still make it known that the guest is familiar to me.."HI how have you been?" Jim and petes servers rarely smile and aren't personable. The service aspect of this restaurant needs an upgrade. THEY'D have alot more regular business if they got to know their guests. Ntm we have a child and they don't seem to be a child friendly restaurant. It is a family restaurant so they should at least act like they like kids. I hope the management hires new personable people who, at least, ACT like they like their job. It would be a more positive experience for us.
(3)Megan F.
Not only is the food delicious, the service is outstanding! I placed a catering order with Michael and he exceeded my expectations. He made wonderful suggestions and helped me stay within my budget. Highly recommended for any occasion.
(5)Terese S.
This place is old school Italian. It has a modern decor, bar and outdoor seating - but remains mediocre Italian. I'd go to Jimmy's in Forest Park before going back here. The food was ok, not bad, just average. Lasagna was solid and we also had the Veal Marsala - only ok. Service was slow, but the waitress was apologetic - but when the tables around you (who were sat after you) get their drinks and appetizers before you even get water, it sets a bad tone. Bottom line: There's better bang for your buck and your belly out there.
(3)Blaine H.
Food was ok. Nice interior and everything but had a sub-par experience primarily due to the service. Server was super slow, got the martinis wrong (which tasted funky btw), late getting wine to the table for dinner, and topped the night off with a dropped fork from a dinner plate onto my back. "Where did that fork go" said the waitress.
(2)Mike L.
When I was a kid, we used to go to the old Jim & Pete's that was across the street where Sally's Pancake House is now located - we went every Friday night and the Pizza was incredible. I have been to this new location 6 times in the 5 years and have yet to eat anything that was any good. First off, the pizza sucked last time I was there, and this time I ordered the Grilled Seafood Platter - the quality of the seafood was fine, but there was NO OIL OR SEASONINGS in the Balsamic at all! It was grilled Seafood smothered in Balsamic Vinegar. THUS, NO FLAVOR!! The salad was the same - the first bite was ok, then it was downhill from there... One other time I ordered the grilled Calamari appetizer - same crap, obviously made by the same chef who has NO CLUE how to cook Italian Food, yet people keep coming back for more? We went as a group last night so I was out numbered - plus I was hungry, so I didn't care, but I will NEVER go back - EVER! And neither will they...... It's a shame Antico Forno closed that was located about 1/2 mile east of Jim & Pete's - their food blew away this garbage by a long shot. When I mentioned it to the waitress that I didn't like the food here anymore, she said; "We've been in business for 70 years and the place is packed so what's the problem?" To this day I am always amazed how this place survives, let alone always packed - but as I always say, THE OLIVE GARDEN IS STILL BUSY TOO!! Save your money and get a sub at Alpine down the street - or some pasta and a salad from Spizzico - you will be much more satisfied,and leave with money so you can get an Italian Ice from Johnnie's or Gelato from Massa!
(1)jemms j.
I love Jim n Petes pizza!! I think it is one of the best out there. Back in the day I would go with my family once a month to their old restaurant. When I was in college nearby, I would go as often as possible. Once I moved to the far west suburbs, I will still make the drive for this pizza...It is awesome!!
(5)MR. F.
baked clams are the best!
(5)Tater S.
The only reason I held the 5th star is for cleanliness. The window shades and menus were filthy. They need a good cleaning. Nobody likes to handle food encrusted menus and have to look at filthy dusty shades. The food however was top notch and I am one hard to please Italian. I had the Linguinni and white clam sauce my hybby a chicken dish that I don't recall the name. The chicken breast was huge! and so was the pasta portion it sat on. Its was absolutely delish. My pasta was equally awsome and huge, I did not expect fresh pasta but that is what I got, a very nice surprise. The clam sauce was very nice and flavorfull. We had the fried calamar app, It was very good but not the best I've had. Will try the artichoke app next time we go, which will be real soon and often after that (even if they dont clean). LOL
(4)Nick C.
Great thin pizza ever! We've been going there since it's original location over 30+ years ago. They have an outstanding lasagna and antipasta platter. Their homemade dressing is outstanding. We used to buy it for our Christmas Eve dinner every year. It's a great place for a group. Sometimes it can be a little loud, but have you ever been to an Italian restaurant that isn't? I'd worry if it wasn't. Mangia!
(5)Rob L.
This is an extremely solid Italian restaurant. Plenty of choices, many favorites, nothing fancy and family owned and run. There were a lot of families, couples, groups and all with smiles on their faces. Friendly service, from our waitress to the hosts. Large portions, I am amazed that my group and I finished off everything we ordered. From the calamari, baked artichoke, bruschetta, linguini and shrimp, chicken parmigiana, it was all delicious. We came, we drank, we feasted and we left with full stomachs and smiles on our faces. I sadly did not have the pizza, perhaps that will be for the next time.
(4)kathy g.
Love their pizza!! It has a really unique sauce, very mellow. Their lemon chicken is some of the best I've ever had. I found out about them when the Fenwick High School mother's club had them cater one of their events at the school. Their food is very good!
(4)Patty V.
I have never had the pizza here, but keep meaning to try it! I get so distracted by all the other goodies on the menu that I forget all about pizza.I love the Eggplant Parm here, both the meal and sammie. I have had a few of the fish specials and have not been disappointed. Food has always been fresh,hot and plentiful. The place can get a little crowded on the weekends, but I am happy to sit at the bar a nurse a vino until a table is ready.
(4)Frank S.
Excellent homemade pizza, and sanwiches. Full menu, and bar. Very comfortable setting, clean, and waitstaff is very attentive. Nice during good weather there is outdoor seating. Restaurant expanded several years ago, and is at least twice the size it was. Parking can be a little tricky when the surrounding area is busy. Been a customer since the 1980's, and this place has yet to not satisfy. Nice place for family, on a date, or even a group.
(4)Edward B.
I haven't been recently, but several years back, when I lived closer, this was THE place for deep dish pizza. It's the best I've ever had. They've expanded after moving from River Forest to Forest Park (practically just across North Ave.), but the pizza is soooo good I never tried anything else - how could I??
(4)Lori S.
I love this place. Absolutely love it. Great pizza (deep dish and thin crust), great octopus, great fish, great pasta, great garlic bread.....have never had one dish I have not loved and I've been there about 20+ times. I'm getting hungry thinking of it now. Laid back, family feel to the restaurant. Can get pretty crowded. Highly recommended. One of my favorites!
(5)Allison K.
All I can say is Jim & Pete's is by far the best pizza I have in the Chicago-land Area. It's located right on the North Ave. strip of the Elmwood Park restaurants. The pizza itself is "mouth watering" (seriously!) Last time I had there thin crust pepperoni pizza....it was soooo cooked to perfection. The restaurant itself is a great place to grab some food and drinks and watch sporting events.
(5)Mike G.
Have been here a few times, food is good, service was solid as well. Parking in this area does get a little tough, had to park a little far away. Tables on the inside were very tight together. Guests and other customers sometimes had to squeeze through seats. Overall the food and service were pretty good though.
(3)Lisa B.
I came in from out of town to visit friends and attended the Taste of Elmwood Park with them. We had the clams from Jim & Pete's and absolutely loved them. The best that I've ever had. I am definitely going to check out the actual restaurant next time I visit for the holidays!
(5)Mark L.
I dined here with my parents and my god parents last Friday. They stuck us at a corner table, against two angles of windows, that had a burned out bulb. I'm a younger guy so i had no problem seeing the menu, and even took the very corner seat. The other individuals struggled to read the menu given the lack of light. Not exactly upset as we didn't have a reservation, but not an ideal spot. I asked the busboy if he could change the bulb and he looked at me and said "uhh, that would take a ladder." Brilliant. On to the better - the appetizers and main courses were all delectable. We started with a bottle of wine, baked clams and calamari. It came out in a timely fashion and tasted great. We all tried different pastas for our main courses and they were very tasty. The table next to us got a pizza that looked and smelled amazing. It's been years since we ordered a pizza from this place (we typically order delivery rather than dining in) but I am determined to try one soon. Server was very friendly. We will definitely continue to eat here.
(4)Christina G.
This review is for the catering/event service. For just the restaurant I suppose I would give it 3 stars, but the even experience supersedes any dining experience I've had here. First of all, if you're thinking of having any sort of event here, THINK TWICE. I booked a work event three weeks in advance, and because a larger party booked after me, we were moved from the space we were supposed to have, and it was changed from the style of seating and serving food to something totally different. I found this out when I arrived that night to make sure everything was set up correctly. This would have been okay, if only the owner had handled it professionally. Or alerted me ahead of time to give me a chance to book elsewhere or change what I wanted. One of the owners (I guess Jim or Pete), was so rude, so arrogant, so condescending, and so unapologetic, that I wonder if he even cares about his business. When things like this happen, and I understand that they do, at least TRY to be a little nice and apologetic, it would go a long way with customers. But he wasn't. He was truly a piece of work. The food here is mediocre and overpriced. Good pizza but pasta and sauces are bland and blah. It's the suburbs I guess. The ONLY saving grace was that the hostess, waitresses, manager, and bartender were all really nice. Basically everyone except the owner. It's really too bad the owner isn't, because ultimately you are the face of your restaurant. I have been planning work events for years now and cannot recall a comparable experience.
(1)Mister M.
Solid local Italian eatery that has been in the area for generations. Pasta dishes are good. Marinara (red sauce) is really good. It is the smooth type but the flavor is great. Eggplant is really good. Calamari is terrific. Soups are hit or miss. Complimentary bread is very good-Torpedo loaves(possibly Gonnella?) Wide selection of Italian american favorites as well as seafood. My wife enjoys the Cheese ravioli. She also loves the Alfredo sauce. I like the Pasta Primavera, the aglio olio, the red sauce, the meatballs, the eggplant. Pizza is also very good. Nice ambiance inside. A few too many tables in the East dining area, but the newer side is more comfortable. I like the exposed brick wall and the lighting. Bar is in the center and can be a bit boisterous, but it is not a big deal. I say go here and enjoy a local favorite.
(5)Edward R.
The food was delicious and our server Gail was very friendly...I recommend the calamari!
(5)Sean B.
My wife and I came in for dinner around 5 on a Saturday. Our server Patty was very nice and attentive. The restaurant is warm and cozy. We had appetizers, fried eggplant with marinara was very good. We also had the artichoke casserole an scallops Dijon which were decent. My wife ordered the lobster ravioli which she enjoyed. I had the pork tenderloin which was over cooked and under seasoned. Our server Patty did not hesitate to make things right. Overall the ambiance is very nice. The service was great and the food was very good. We got a little history of the place from Patty who has worked there for 13yrs! - Jim & Petes is a family owned business around for 72 years. Our overall experience was very good and we will be back to try their pizza.
(4)Rita M.
Bought a groupon (thank goodness I did) (one star for that) Nice ambiance (one star for that) We made reservations on Monday night. There were probably about 7 total tables of people at the restaurant. We had an Asian female server (IF YOU HAVE HER, REQUEST FOR SOMEONE ELSE!) she had two other tables (us and another couple). We arrived about at least twenty mins before the other couple. We placed out drink orders, then when she came with those, we ordered our appetizers and main course all at once. We waited forever for our appetizers (half dozen clams and mozzarella sticks). We were wondering where were our salads. Finally, after sitting with empty drinks waiting for about ANOTHER 15 mins, she serves the other table's salads first (REALLY?!?!) before us. Then main course came(I got the lobster ravioli with vodka sauce which was ok but hubby's chicken alfredo was dried out). Then, the painful check time (which I looked at my watch to count how long she would take) 15 mins!!!!!! I got so irritated, I ended up walking up to the bar with my credit card at hand. Had service not been so poor, we would've ordered another round of drinks but we were worried about waiting forever for them to come. I should have listened to everyone else's reviews about poor service before buying my groupon. It sucks, because this place is really aesthetically appeasing but the service is sub par! Maybe she knew the couple at the other table??? Maybe she is a new server??? I really hope management sees this and brings it up to her. Constructive criticism is key in life. Patrons dining notice inattentiveness and special treatment to other people dining. Glad we went on a non busy Monday. I'd HATE to see what service is like on a Fri or Sat! Won't be back. Would not recommend.
(2)Em P.
I really only can speak on their pizza considering thats all we get when we go there. Been there a handful of times the past year and overall happy. Only once did our party of 8 get slightly lacking service by the waitress. The pizza has always been great. Fresh ingredients and comes out hot! The ONLY complaint i actually have about the restaurant itself is how loud it can get in there. We have always been seated towards the back/bathroom/wine rack area and i feel like i spend the entire time screaming across the table. Interested to go there off hours to try a pasta dish sometime soon..
(3)Cinthia R.
Amazing Food. I Always Go With Fried Calamari for appetizer! They are the best. The lemon chicken, meatballs, and pizza are amazing!!!
(5)Nicole K.
So I had a really good pasta dish that I can't remember because all I can remember is the really gross fried broccoli. At first when I saw it on the menu I questioned it but the waitress told me it was good so I went for it. The best way I can describe the taste is sun dried broccoli coated with a flavorless batter and bland sauce to do it in, it was hard to chew and even harder to swallow. I don't know who thought this was a good idea.
(3)Lauren D.
Very average pasta. Excellent pizza. We rate their pasta dishes with three stars while the pizza gets four stars. Go here for the pizza and skip the pasta dishes. They were very average pasta dishes. You can get much better pasta on Taylor Street. I'll pass on the pasta here next time around. The calamari was very fresh, great texture and oh so yummy! Service was okay, but could have been better. We tip on how service is for us, so don't expect outstanding or above average service here. This restaurant has been around for over four decades, so they are obviously doing something right. A restaurant doesn't survive for this long for no reason :) Parking in this area is a royal pain in the ass, so be prepared to park several blocks away.
(3)Anthony F.
I was at Jim & Pete's on 12/3/13. The party was for 30 people. It was the worst food & service you could imagine. All 30 people were dissatisfied. Do not go to this establishment . The correct date was 12/13/13.
(1)Michelle F.
I don't know why, but I was expecting this place to be a dump. Boy, was I wrong! It's super cute inside, has great service and good food. I'm not too familiar with Elmwood Park, which is probably why I thought this place would be a dive. I just don't come out this way very often since I try to avoid the suburbs, but I went to a bridal shower here, so I had to make the trip. I actually passed by Jim & Pete's as I was driving - I just didn't see it. I had to turn around. It's sort of confusing. Jim & Pete's doesn't really have its own parking lot. I parked next door in front of some kind of physical therapy office. I went inside and asked if I could park there, and they said I could. There is a lot on the other side of the restaurant that you CANNOT park in, so keep that in mind. For the shower, they had a family-style lunch for us. We had flatbread, salad, pasta, sausages, chicken and potatoes. I think that was all, though I may have missed something. Everything was really tasty. We were set up toward the back. We weren't in a separate room, but we had some privacy. The decor is nice. Lots of warm woods, natural light and exposed brick walls. I have to say that it was kind of hot in the restaurant. It wasn't super hot outside or anything, but it seemed like they turned their AC off, and it was kind of uncomfortable. Other than that, it was a good time. I don't know how it is to order food off the regular menu, but I definitely recommend this place for private parties with a family-style menu.
(4)Shin M.
Started off with bread that was very warm and soft. Then had a salad that was very delicious and full of many vegetables and meats (probably super unhealthy). Finished with thin crust pizza- pepperoni and some special pizza that had like everything on it. Overall good!
(4)Exseli C.
I went with 4 other adults and 2 kids ( ages 4 & 5 ). The hostess and our waitress seated us by the bathroom and by the wine rack ( of course with bottles of wine) that stands from the floor that could easily be a recipe for accidents and disaster with the kids. I politely told the waitress that this table might not be a good one with the kids. She did not say anything nor tried to do something about. I have to ask her again if we could be seated to another spot which she did transfer us. We had to ask for our bread basket after waiting for a while...other customers that came later than us were served right away with theirs. Food was mediocre. For appetizer, we ordered the fried calamari which i think was the best part of our meal and the breaded mushroom. We ordered an 18 in supreme thin pizza, nothing in it that would make me come back to this place. We also had their baked mostacioli and meat lasagna, again, mediocre... Our waitress was not as attentive. She forgot to give my credit card back and had to remind her that we are still waiting for it after waiting for a while. We still gave 20% gratuity despite the experience but i will not come back and eat here.
(2)M W.
Solid thin crust, though I remember it tasting better a few years ago. The artichoke casserole was absolutely disgusting. Even my boyfriend, who usually will eat anything, wouldn't touch it. The atmosphere is very inviting and warm, and service is attentive.
(3)Veronica J.
When we arrived we wasn't greeted with nice service and also the food when brought out to us was cold I would not recommend coming to this place at all it seems like the only service they receive is there regular customers if I could give no stars I would
(1)nancy c.
I am writing this review after giving Jim and Pete's another chance, I wrote about a negative dining experience I had on February 1, 2014. (please see that review) I recently revisited the restaurant after hearing from the management who looked into the facts I described. Management was very conciliatory and thus I returned for another helping. I ordered the baked rigatoni which was absolutely delicious and my friend ordered spinach lasagna which was made to perfection. I must also add that our service was gracious with just the right balance of helpfulness and attentiveness. Realizing that all restaurants can have a bad day, Jim and Pete's has once again returned to my list of local choices. I would recommend it wholeheartedly.
(5)Adriana B.
I give 3 stars bc their food is decent. Pizza is good and their house salad is delicious. The service needs alot of improvement. We live in the neighborhood, and it's pretty much the only decent sit down around. The servers aren't very friendly. They don't seem to go above OR BEYOND. I've worked in a restaurant for 10yrs. If I don't know someone by name, I still make it known that the guest is familiar to me.."HI how have you been?" Jim and petes servers rarely smile and aren't personable. The service aspect of this restaurant needs an upgrade. THEY'D have alot more regular business if they got to know their guests. Ntm we have a child and they don't seem to be a child friendly restaurant. It is a family restaurant so they should at least act like they like kids. I hope the management hires new personable people who, at least, ACT like they like their job. It would be a more positive experience for us.
(3)Megan F.
Not only is the food delicious, the service is outstanding! I placed a catering order with Michael and he exceeded my expectations. He made wonderful suggestions and helped me stay within my budget. Highly recommended for any occasion.
(5)Terese S.
This place is old school Italian. It has a modern decor, bar and outdoor seating - but remains mediocre Italian. I'd go to Jimmy's in Forest Park before going back here. The food was ok, not bad, just average. Lasagna was solid and we also had the Veal Marsala - only ok. Service was slow, but the waitress was apologetic - but when the tables around you (who were sat after you) get their drinks and appetizers before you even get water, it sets a bad tone. Bottom line: There's better bang for your buck and your belly out there.
(3)Blaine H.
Food was ok. Nice interior and everything but had a sub-par experience primarily due to the service. Server was super slow, got the martinis wrong (which tasted funky btw), late getting wine to the table for dinner, and topped the night off with a dropped fork from a dinner plate onto my back. "Where did that fork go" said the waitress.
(2)Mike L.
When I was a kid, we used to go to the old Jim & Pete's that was across the street where Sally's Pancake House is now located - we went every Friday night and the Pizza was incredible. I have been to this new location 6 times in the 5 years and have yet to eat anything that was any good. First off, the pizza sucked last time I was there, and this time I ordered the Grilled Seafood Platter - the quality of the seafood was fine, but there was NO OIL OR SEASONINGS in the Balsamic at all! It was grilled Seafood smothered in Balsamic Vinegar. THUS, NO FLAVOR!! The salad was the same - the first bite was ok, then it was downhill from there... One other time I ordered the grilled Calamari appetizer - same crap, obviously made by the same chef who has NO CLUE how to cook Italian Food, yet people keep coming back for more? We went as a group last night so I was out numbered - plus I was hungry, so I didn't care, but I will NEVER go back - EVER! And neither will they...... It's a shame Antico Forno closed that was located about 1/2 mile east of Jim & Pete's - their food blew away this garbage by a long shot. When I mentioned it to the waitress that I didn't like the food here anymore, she said; "We've been in business for 70 years and the place is packed so what's the problem?" To this day I am always amazed how this place survives, let alone always packed - but as I always say, THE OLIVE GARDEN IS STILL BUSY TOO!! Save your money and get a sub at Alpine down the street - or some pasta and a salad from Spizzico - you will be much more satisfied,and leave with money so you can get an Italian Ice from Johnnie's or Gelato from Massa!
(1)Rebecca V.
Delicious old-school Italian, casual (albeit slightly crowded) atmosphere. The artichoke appetizer is delicious, and the creamy pesto is to DIE for. Thumbs up on the vodka sauce, too. My new favorite local Italian joint.
(5)CJ B.
This place is definitely having identity crisis....the decor and their cocktail list says they are aiming for fine dining or a nice steakhouse. But they service and quality of food screams diner! They have way too many tables in that place....I understand as a restaurateur you want your restaurant to be busy and capable of seating many, but when you have a table in the walk way/ entrance, it's too desperate. Our service was less than mediocre, she was unorganized and not welcoming. The food was diner level quality, and if you order spaghetti you will get 2 lbs of over cooked pasta. But if you order ravioli you only get 6 of them that are about as big as a silver dollar. These plates that the food was served on was as big as a tray used at most restaurants. The punchline!? The servers don't carry their dishes to their tables, they push them on a cart to the tables.....OMG
(2)John K.
Okay, I've only ever had the steak salad, but let me say, Fantastic steak salad! Try it now!
(4)Brian F.
A year or more ago I had become kind of a regular at this place, basically for one dish, the Grilled Calamari. This dish was absolutely perfectly cooked and the sauce was divine. I was taking Advanced Sauces at Kendall Culinary school at the time and so I brought a sample for my chef-instructor to taste. That is how much I loved this. Then something changed, the dish became hit-or-miss, and finally just became miss and I stopped coming to Jim & Pete's. A few days ago, I gave it another shot. The Grilled Calamari was overcooked and the sauce was what I expected, just OK. The dish's saving grace is the ENORMOUS calamari. They do not skimp on this product.. I just wish the old cook or recipe would return. Along with the Calamari I had the wedding soup which was good but not great. It was served a little cold and I had to add a bunch of Parmesan cheese to season it properly. Kind of strange thing about this place is that the waitstaff appear hostile when you first arrive. The look at you with a "Well, what do you want" kind of expression. It's like they automatically assume you are a sales person and not a customer. Maybe they don't get paid enough for their liking. For any reason, this should be a high priority of the management to fix this problem. Also, they also should consider getting rid of the ugly plastic coated menus. The plastic attracts food and debris making the menu look messy. Kind of a gross way to start out a meal.
(3)Jon B.
well i just hate my meal from Jim and Petes... the burger was a burger and the fris were fris.. nothing crazy or different.... the price was great only about 9 bucks with a tip.. however the person who took my order didnt seem to know who or where he was, and that was interesting, over all maybe id order again if i cant think of anywhere else..
(3)Cristina T.
It was a Friday during Lent and my best friend and I were craving something delicious. I was in the mood to carbo-load and she suggested Jim & Pete's since her parents love it. Although it was quite crowded and we didn't have reservations, we were seated in less than 5 minutes. Our server was very attentive and friendly. We ordered our wine and it arrived almost instantaneously. For an appetizer we split the breaded artchoke "casserole". I am normally not a fan of a breaded artichoke because it takes too much effort to pull the leaves off and try to scrape as much breading off as possible. This was different;it was genius. The artichoke hearts had been soaked in vinegar and pretty heavily breaded. They were easy to eat, garlic-y and delicious! My friend and I also split a medium spinach and onion pizza. I loved the thin crust. It was extremely crunchy. There was an ample amount of spinach too. Overall for all the food we consumed, our bill was less than $50 with tips included. Jim & Pete's is a great Italian restaurant with reasonable prices and great service!
(4)Jo D.
We purchased a Groupon months ago & had a mediocre experience. We decided to go again today because we were sent an email coupon, just for pizza. Our 1 pizza that we ordered was wrong (again, same as last time) and they did offer to re-make it, but since it took 30 minutes to get it, we decided to keep it. The owner approached us to tell us we are the only people who have ever had a problem with their order? He actually went out of his way to tell us this, not the make the situation right or offer an apology, but to tell us that we basically are the only people who have had an issue with their order. We will not be back. There are way too many choices of great restaurants in Elmwood Park to deal with stuff like that.
(1)Jie S.
A few co-workers and I tried out this place today. We were really happy with the Italian wedding soup and delicious fresh warm bread. But we didn't have much luck with our entrees. I have ordered Angel hair with Alfredo sauce. There was NO flavor at all. I could not taste cheese or salt or anything. It was bland. I had to ask the waiter to re-cook with marinara sauce. Veggie sandwich was nice looking with Spinach, Olives, and Artichokes together except it was cold when it served. And we were told this was the way supposed to be. Service was fine. Well, they were not able to give us salad or veggie to substitute the fries. Parking was a headache. I had to circle 3 times to find a spot on the street. Maybe we will give it another try with different dishes.
(3)Rhonda G.
Staff was quick and attentive to our very large party. They kept the food coming and the alcohol flowing. I've had the pasta a couple of times and i'm not that impressed with it. I think the pizza is the real winner at this place. Cheese is awesome and the veggie is awesomer (i know, not really a word).
(3)Kat K.
I really enjoyed a girls night out at Jim and Pete 's. The interior is very nice and cozy- soft lighting and brick. There are nice wines on the menu, and the food was simple and tasty. We had pizzas and broccoli salad, both were delish. The diners around us were having seafood and it looked great. It would be a good date night spot, and families were also there. The bar area was very nice .
(4)Joy S.
Went with the family for a big bday a few weeks ago, so we had about 12 people with us. Opted for pizzas and apps to make it easy, but I looked over the menu to see if my fiance and I would want to return to try their pasta another time. All pastas come with marinara (or red sauce, as many of us call it) - to change the sauce to alfredo or pesto or vodka sauce, etc. would be an upcharge or $2-3. Seriously?! The table we were sitting at had the extendable leaves to make it either a round or square table. The leaves were extended to make it round, but the side I was at was drooping quite a bit, so I had to keep my food and drink about a foot away from me to keep it from sliding down into my lap. They do carry Moretti's Italian beer, but were out of it on the day we were there. My fiance and I just ordered water, but had to wait about 15minutes after everyone else had their drinks before we could flag down a busboy (the waitress had disappeared) to ask again for waters, and then another 5 minutes for a straw. Unless it's where the grandparents decide on again, we won't be going back.
(2)Carolynne M.
They crank out a damn fine pepper & egg sammich, thats for sure. Hope you like soup too, because when you order a bowl you literally get half a cauldron. My tiny friend Renee C was dwarfed by this massive portion and took more than half home. Cute interior, with a central bar area and outdoor seating. We had excellent, attentive service when we were there but it could have been because we were only one of two tables occupied at the time.
(4)Bryan S.
Was promised a credit of a free pizza and attempted to collect on this "FREE" pizza and was denied - the impeccable service from Jim & Pete shines through again! Good riddance!
(1)Stephanie V.
I went the other night for my second time and had another great meal in a beautiful setting. They inside of the restaurant is beautifully decorated with stone/rock walls and has a romantic feel to it. They also have a sit down bar if you dont want table service. The first time I went I ordered the roasted chicken entree. It came with half of a roasted chicken with your choice of pasta and potato, and soup or salad. The chicken had great flavors but was a tad bit dry but the lemon wedge helped with that. It was a rather large mean and costs about $15. The other night I went and ordered the eggplant parmesan. It was delicious!! lots of flavor and lots of cheese melted on top for you cheese lovers out there (like me!!). I also had a taste of their ribs (they are ok), and their delicious mashed potatoes and green beans. Overall, I enjoy coking here. The staff is great and they are open late during the week which is hard to find around here. Definitely give this place a try! A great date night spot! Casual or dressy!
(4)Megan S.
My fiance and I have been here several times and like this place so much that we decided to give it a quick co-review. Consensus between us is that: A) The pizza here is phenomenal. B) We've always had great service here. C) It's very reasonably priced. It's a great casual restaurant, great for dine-in or delivery.
(5)Zuella M.
Used them for the 1st time for lunch delivery at work. Just got to say.....WE ARE GOING TO USE THEM FROM NOW ON!!! The food is ON-POINT! We ordered the monster pizza w/ giardenere peppers, medium thin sausage, 10' cheese pizza (had free coupon), breaded veggie combo and house salad tray all for $84.95! They called me to let me know they are on the way too!!! Very considerate! They even included plates & plasticware! Mega brownie points there!
(5)Bobby D.
Not bad, But actually not the best. Seems to be very quiet on the weekends. The plus is that circa 1970's-80's contemporary montage art work of the Italian American sports greats. Which was actually salvaged from the old Godfather's restaurant that used to be in the same town, On the same street. During the mid-late 1980's.
(3)Biana K.
Restaurant is a Gordon Ramsey nightmare. Outdated decor. Slow service. It took over 45 min to get a sandwich and salad. Salad was $18 because I had 4 shrimp added...they adjusted to $16 when I pointed it out (the point was missed entirely). Salad was okay but nothing great. Either Jim or Pete was there and gave my husband and I a terrible look after the waitress asked him to adjust the bill. Eggplant appetizer was greasy. I wouldn't come back.
(2)Thomas C.
Second trip to this spot was the charm. The Pizza (yes, I know, all I had to do was read the yelp reviews to know just how good the pizza is ... shame on me) is every bit as good as the yelp reviews say it is. We had the thin, I love meat so of course got the vegetarian pizza and ... I'd have a hard time not ordering it again for fear that nothing could be as good. Of course you can OD on bread and olive olio (and did) the meatball sandwich and pasta dishes all looked good as well.
(4)Rob W.
It's frustrating to do an update and knock a star off an old favorite. But downgrade, I must. On Tuesday nights, Jim & Pete's runs a half off pizza special - delivery only. I rarely get pizza delivered as it's usually less painless to just go pick it up than to wait for a delivery guy to show up. But... back when Domino's initiated the 1/2 hr delivery, lots of local places stepped up their delivery game a bit from 1-1 1/2 hours down to around 45 minutes. Not Jim & Pete's though... the previous time I ordered the pizza special I was quoted a 1 hr wait - the guy got here about 7 minutes in advance of that, so I tipped him an extra $3 on top of the $3 delivery charge. So, tonight I went to order again and given the slightly early delivery last time, I asked to add a $3 tip to my bill. No reply - just the sound of the kitchen in the background. So I called back and asked if it had been added - nope, sorry, didn't hear that. At that point I also asked the ETA on my pizza. "Within an hour" I was told, so at 7PM, I now know that my meal will be here by 8PM. Or will it? Eight PM comes and goes and there's no extra-large with sausage to be found. Minutes keep ticking, but no pizza in sight. At 8:15 I put a call in - "they're all out - they should be there in a moment" I'm told. Well, the clock strikes 8:25, and finally the delivery arrives. No sign of the "pre-tip" I had asked about and at this point, the delivery charge will be all she wrote anyway. Of course, the absence of the $3 tip on the receipt might just be a system snafu - it might have been added, who knows? The driver apologizes for the wait, to which I probably responded with a grunt. I bring the pizza to the table and my biggest concern has come to fruition - the pizza is warm at best. Now here's the thing... if in order to get the deal being offered, I have to use delivery, then doggonit, that delivery process should be smooth. I ended up with a "deal" that wasn't really a deal at all when one takes into account the extended wait and the fact that I received a sub-par pizza. It will likely be awhile before I opt for this "deal" again. And no more "pre-tipping" for me either!
(3)Mani S.
Decent pizza, okay service. Nothing great! It's mostly over priced for the quality and service.
(3)Lisa A.
I have been here about 3 times since my kids moved into the area, but Jim & Pete's feels like a restaurant that has been there for many years and they have a local following. I find their menu is not exhaustive but generally it is a traditional Italian restaurant with the routine pastas and they offer pizza and daily specials. On this occasion, I ordered the risotto special with aspargus and mushrooms and it was done perfectly well. My son ordered the cheeseburger which he enjoyed and my daughter in law ordered the Chef's salad which was ample. I just didn't enjoy the pizza as much that my husband ordered because the crust was not very crispy. The Italian sausage on the pizza was good and the sauce was flavorful. I didn't find the service to be impressive but average. I like that we were able to enjoy dinner and watch a football game so the televisions in the restaurant are a plus.
(3)Mike W.
More than anything Jim and Pete's earns 5-stars from me based on their service. I was in the area looking for a place to catch a game and decided to randomly stop in; I certainly picked the right place. When I entered I was greeted by Mike, one of the managers/part owners, who was very gracious in helping me get the game on one of the TVs above the bar. Between Mike and the waitresses (especially Maria), everyone was very friendly and very accommodating to me doing some work from the bar when I was there. While I was at Jim and Pete's I ordered a couple of drinks and had the Chicken Cesar Salad. The beers were reasonably priced and chilled perfectly so can't complain there. It's been my experience that ordering salads from most restaurants is hit-or-miss, but today it was a big hit. For $9 I got a good sized salad that had a generous portion of chicken that was seasoned well, fresh greens, and an appropriate amount of dressing (not too much, but not too little). Add a little parmesan cheese and pepper from the shakers and you'll be good to go! Whether you are a local wanting to eat out or someone passing through the area in need of food/drink, stop by for excellent service and good food in a relaxed atmosphere!
(5)Jenn K.
I love this place and there food is great. What I can't deal with is the wait and it hasn't been only one time every time I come here I'm sitting between 10 to almost 20 min for someone to take my order.
(3)Dorotka K.
I was very hesitant to try this place based on the mixed bag reviews. But it was pretty much the only place on North Ave that was closing at 10 on Sunday. I had a good experience here. We opted for outside seating, so I cannot say much about the inside ambiance. Our waitress was great and the food was good, too. Prices reasonable for the area.
(4)Vegas S.
fast friendly delivery and the pizza was one of the best I have had in chicago being here 32years.
(5)Caitlin J.
This place is a joke. It doesn't deserve any stars. The waitstaff are rude and incompetent. When I went there the waitress never even asked what we wanted to drink we had to tell her. The service was incredibly slow and it was not because the restaurant was crowded. When our dinner finally arrived it wasn't even what we had ordered. When she brought back the right orders the food was awful. I couldn't believe that a chef would put that food on a plate and serve it to people. We couldn't get out of there fast enough. My family and I have decided to forget about this restaurant.
(1)Joanna S.
Come here a couple times a year. I recommend the sausage pizza with fresh mozzarella. Delicious!
(4)Yvonne B.
They started us off right. We had reservations for five people and they gave us a choice about where we wanted to sit, warning us that there would be small children near one. BIG SCORE for Jim & Pete's! Next, the server asked if we were celebrating anything and we responded that it was for my birthday. That's pretty cool that the server reached out like that. I'm trying to think if a server has ever done that before and I think only once... SCORE again! Well, we had the artichoke casserole and calamari appetizers and they were both delicious. The artichoke casserole was DELICIOUS. It's pretty much stuffed artichokes cut up. I'm not a big fan of calamari (it's okay and I'll eat it but I'd never order it on my own). My friends liked it a lot. We got their specialty pizza (artichokes and spinach) as well as a sausage and bell pepper one. Both were good but the specialty pizza was ah-mazing. In the end, the server brought me vanilla ice cream with a candle on it. It was good, but I really liked the two cannoli we ordered afterward. The cannoli were crispy on the outside and traditional cannoli goodness on the inside. The server said that they made them fresh just for us because they'd run out! We had a good time at Jim & Pete's. It seemed as if all kinds of groups and people would enjoy it too. I mean, it's casual and down to earth but it's not a dive. There's a bar area with TVs, an outside patio (I actually would NOT recommend sitting out there because it faces the busy street), and a dining room.
(5)Anne W.
A great place to dine in Elmwood Park, Jim & Pete's menu has something for everyone. The daily specials are worth trying, but the regular menu is filled with classic Italian dinners. The service is wonderful and you will have leftovers, enough for lunch the following day! My recommendation, chicken florentine and their homemade soup with a glass of wine. Enjoy!
(5)Mary Ann C.
Super friendly staff. Easy parking. Large portions of food. Everyone was thrilled with their selections. I sampled the thin crust pizza, pasta with marinara, and sausage and peppers. All were tasty.
(3)Bob E.
Other than our waiter being very good the rest was down hill. Ordered a thin crust pizza which had practically no tomato sauce on it. My girlfriend is big on Italian food and hated everything that was brought to the table. The building looks nice on the outside but inside looks like a scene in the movie Goodfellas with the same decor from that era.
(1)Kai R.
The restaurant was nice and packed on a Friday night, but the $17.99 grilled seafood platter I had was not great at all. It was a small octopus was three shrimp and calamari. I ate the octopus and shrimp, but the rest was not very good. Honestly, there was not much else on the menu. Nice atomsphere!
(3)Joel M.
I have enjoyed my meal every time I have visited Jim & Petes. I have had the pizza a number of times and my only objections are to the crust (too doughy for me) and its sauce (not enough spice, too sweet), but different folk, different strokes. As for the rest of the menu, I find it very solid with the exception of the beef sandwich. There is a bit too much bread for my taste in that area. The roasted chicken and red potatoes, however, are very delicious and moist. My rating on this one is more focused to my palate so take this review with a grain of salt.
(3)Mabel M.
Good food and great prices, but the service is not always consistent.
(4)Mike D.
This place is right next to Johnnies Beef. It is pretty hard to walk by and say oh i'll stop in here, and then see Johnnies and say..ahh nevermind. However, Jim and Petes has some pretty awesome food. The pizza is really good and the lasagna is actually awesome. So many italian places have dry, tasteless lasagna, but this place really knows how to make it great. The antipasto salad is pretty good too I like the dressing. If you're looking to switch up your pizza orders, try this place you won't be disappointed.
(4)Kevin L.
So far my only 5 star pizza in the neighborhood. We live in Elmwood Park, so we eat at Jim & Pete's a lot. Their pizza is second to none. I have yet to try any that is better. Perfect mix of garlicky sauce, crisp (but not hardtack) crust, bubbling cheese, and chunky flavorful sausage. This is the pizza we order when out of towners come to visit, it's our go to place for delicious Italian food, and it's a wonderful spot to eat outside (if you don't mind the traffic noise on North Ave). A true 5-star neighborhood joint.
(5)Sara O.
We've driven by this place a few times, always thinking to ourselves, "I wonder if that place is good..." And last night, while driving by with our bellies empty, our curiosity got the best of us. Our plan was to stop in and grab a drink at the bar before we made our final decision. After a brief review of their menu (the price was just right!) and a scan of the dining room, we decided to go for it. We ordered their Signature Pizza--thin crust of course--and we were so glad we did! It was simply AMAZING. The flavors complemented one another perfectly--fresh garlic, spinach, red peppers, artichokes, and lots of fontinella cheese. It had to be one of the top 5 thin crust pizzas I've had in the Chicago area. And I'm a serious pizza connoisseur--have I mentioned this before? Because I am. And that is why you need to trust me on this. Go here! If not for the pizza, then for the cozy atmosphere, good wine, and happy wait staff. Oh, and they have delivery! And I hope they deliver to Oak Park, because I'll be programing these peeps into my phone for sure.
(5)Evan S.
Now that Armand's is closed I tried this...not that great. It can't shake a stick at Armand's Chicken Parm sandwich and my girlfriend got the chicken ceaser salad and had to spit out tough pieces of chicken twice. Sad.
(2)Johnny T.
4.5 stars for my medium thin crust sausage pizza but, 2.5 for the service. First off, great pizza. From the light airy crust to the enormous favorable sausage toppings, they know how to make a great pie. However, the customer service I got was anything but professional. When I came in, even with only 2 tables occupied, it took a few minutes to be waited on. It took the waitress around 5 minutes to process my order due to computer problems. Then, she just darts off all of a sudden in the back area without saying anything. While I was standing in between the bar area & the kitchen, her and another waitress (short gray hair lady) passed by me without saying how long the wait nor the total and their were only 2 seated tables so it wasn't like they were busy upfront. While waiting and being ignored, it was amusing to hear those 2 same waitresses arguing and yelling in the kitchen, in their Elmwood Park accents, (if there's such a thing) about the food not being done right and then seeing them talk ever so politely with their customers on the floor. They might of been short staffed or caught them during a bad time but, still thought it would be proper to at least be acknowledged while waiting.
(3)Megan T.
Great food and good people! The oysters rockefeller appitizer is fabulous! I also recommend the fettucini alfredo, you get a huge portion enough to take to lunch the next day too! They also make good drinks and would be a great place to have a app and drink while sitting at the bar even though not a huge bar.
(4)Len W.
First, parking. Well, it sucks around North Avenue. The side streets are marked "residents only" but I risked it with no issue. There's a lot next door, but only use the one to the west if that office is closed. The one to the east says they'll tow no matter what. Decor was ok, but we were seated under a big screen tv. Is this a sports bar or a restaurant? The service was very good. One of our party has some dietary restrictions and they were very careful to follow orders. The bread was pretty good, but slow in coming. You could do just as well to buy from a bakery and warm it up yourself. Salads? Really? Iceburg and a few chopped veg. And the house dressing was pretty boring as well. The tortellini was just ok. Sauce was too sweet. Not sugary, but nothing special. And the sausage was bland as well. Someone else had the veal/lemon. Three small pieces that looked like leather. Meh. No dessert for us. I would rather have gone to Johnny's.
(1)Nancy M.
An Institution!! We love Jim & Pete's. Dinner, lunches, pizzas! Staff!! Everything!! Classic!! We've eaten here many times, and done take out pizza countless times. The best pizza in Oak Park/River Forest area.
(5)John T.
I love the decor and I love the actual food, but I came for pizza and left truly disappointed. The service is not always there, and, unfortunately, it seems that the food is really hit-or-miss. The appetizers are always good, though. Especially the fried calamari!
(3)Jessica L.
This place is just okay. I know it is really popular in the neighborhood, but I have never been blown away by the food or the service. I also always feel like its a little pricey for what you are getting. I definitely will probably be back there because we can walk and its not terrible, but it is never my first choice of places to go.
(3)LT B.
I love this place! I don't understand the mediocre reviews. Each time I visit, it's with all or part of my family. That said, we are a decent sized table. Every time we visit, we have a tasty meal. Do they blow you out of the water with their creativity? No. Is the food some cutting-edge Trend...on small plates? No. If you're looking for that or if you're looking to wait hours for a table go somewhere else. If you're looking for dependable Italian food at a reasonable price, with flexible menus go to Jim and Pete's. I'm a pretty picky eater and I'm one of those who is big on holding this and having something else addd. I know what I want and I know how I like it prepared. Jim and Pete's never hesitates to customize my food. They accommodate without an attitude and without an up charge! Probably helps that my family just orders normal things and doesn't ask for any special requests!! This place has some of the best shrimp I've had no matter how you order it... shrimper arrabiata, shrimp and garlic olive oil any kind of shrimp pasta is delicious. The shrimp are a very good size and not the scrimp that you see it other places!! The bread arrives at the table warm ...crusty on the outside soft on the inside. Your entrée comes with a salad or soup and either one is delicious. I typically order the shrimp arrabiata with salad and house Italian. My brother orders the eggplant parm, my nephew sons variation of chicken, m sister the veal. The house Chianti is also very good. Give this place a shot for dependable Italian food especially if you live in the area. Excellent food, reasonably priced and friendly service. Sometimes parking can be a pain but it's worth it!
(5)Kornelia F.
My friends and I stopped at J&P after our vegan dinner to enjoy some wine and conversation, and all I can say is that I was not impressed! The waitress was clueless about any of the wines, and it seems like every time we named a wine we would like to try she had to run to the bar and find out if it is available. She was a sweet lady, but come on, if it is on the menu shouldn't it be at the bar? We also did not appreciate being rushed! Our party was the last one there and we were still chatting it up 20 minutes before closing time, and it seems that every time we turned around the wait staff was starring at us with the hopes of having us leave. They even started cleaning all the tables and putting all the chairs up while we still sat there comfortably w/o having any plans of leaving. I am not a negative nancy, but please, patrons pay for the service...
(2)Steve S.
First visit, nice place, comfortable, roomy; not very crowded but it was Monday night. We were seated promptly; service was good and attentive. Food was good - chicken/veal parm; bbq chicken, veal cutlet were ordered at our table - all good - not outstanding but good. Tomato/onion salad with blue cheese was good - a bit too big for a salad, but good. I would go back - it's a nice place and I would recommend it. They turned the MLB playoff game on for us - that was nice. Menus were wet/moist on the inside - kind of nasty - please make sure they are dry next time you clean them before the guests show up. They forgot to bring my glass of wine with dinner; not good. The hostess was also the bartender and most of the time she sat at the bar looking bored - too bad, she should be more engaging with the customers. It's close to a 4+ with a little attention to the customers.
(3)Boniface J.
Amazing food. I had the tomato and basil pasta, and it's just amazing. The portion is very generous, but I usually eat it all in one sitting. Very fresh and their house dressing is so delicious. I bought a bottle of it. Their service is great. Very friendly staff. The draw back to the restaurant is the parking. Parking is not so great and
(4)Adam r.
good place to come for a full family night out
(4)Sar M.
super food- good value! good service
(4)Annette A.
I ordered delivery, the delivery guy was really nice. Pizza was not bad, sausage was delicious, and sauce was good too.
(4)Rich A.
Growing up in NW Oak Park, we ate Jim and Pete's all the time. I love the deep dish, but when I want thin crust - Jim and Pete's is the pizza that I judge all others by. A nice greasy, thin crust with fresh sausage. MMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmm!
(5)Caley R.
Loved this place since I was little. I don't know crap about "authentic Italian" food really, but the pizza here is delicious. Still tastes great as microwaved leftovers as well. I love their bread with oil and cheese here, it's better than other restaurants I've been too. Fettuccine Alfredo is to die for. Calamari is good. Everything here is good.
(5)Andrea B.
I've been here twice and both times had pizza. I've had the thinner crust and the double dough. The double dough is very filling and addicting, you can't stop eating it. I've had it with toppings but its delicious without them as well.
(4)Ann S.
Both of our meals were decent. The service was quick and friendly. We will return.
(3)Chris D.
The 2 stars say it all - I've experienced better. Starting from the beginning - the salad was old and wilting - the dressing may have come from Sams Club. Our fried Calamari had no flavor at all. All of the pasta comes with marinara sauce and if you want another sauce they charge you more - okay - strange way of doing it but I got the pasta with vodka sauce for an additional $3. Ugh - it was a little better than "out of the jar" sauce. Service very slow. Food took forever. Our waitress would completely disappear - that seemed to be a trend throughout the restaurant - as I was searching for our waitress I noticed that everyone was searching for their waitress!!! That was actually amusing - we kept trying to guess who was and wasn't looking for service! We were right 80% of the time. 8 out of 10 to be exact! The other 2 were just looking around I guess - not much to see by the way. Took forever to get our check - or should I say - ask for our check. I had to ask the hostess if she could find our waitress so we can get the check. That's right I had to beg to pay! She didn't seemed to thrilled about that - maybe I'm paranoid but she seemed a little snooty when we left. Whatever - we won't be back, especially after the tip we left. Others seem to say they have good pizza, maybe that's what you order when you go there.
(2)Katrina B.
This place is really adorable. It is snuggled in the strip of North Avenue where there is nothing but restaurants, so do yourself a favor and don't miss this place. The thin crust was really the best thin crust I have had in the Oak Park - Surrounding area. There is a cute little bar with a bunch of regulars, and decent pasta dishes. There were couples and families and it really had the correct ambiance for a family style pizza place that is also appropriate for a date. There is a ton of seating and the bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. The bathrooms were clean, and the parking was ample. I will be going back here for a second run soon.
(4)Rachel F.
Favorite place for pizza in the area. The sauce is just right.
(4)Gary P.
I don't usually like pasta. I had the oyster pasta. It's very good.
(4)M W.
We thought we would try out this restaurant on a recent Friday evening. We got there early, around 6:30pm and were seated quickly (the restaurant was 1/2 empty). Pro: good, warm crusty bread and water brought to our table immediately with prompt refills. Cons: Once we were seated we waiited. and waited. and looked around. and waited some more for our waitress. Nothing. I finally went up to the bar to order our drinks. It was still 5-10 minutes before the waitress came to our table to take our order. Our waitress seemed to disappear for long periods of time. I ordered the rigatoni with spinach and the rigatoni was not cooked. I know the difference between "al dente" and "uncooked". This was uncooked. It was also overwhelmingly garlicky - way too much. The salad dressing tasted like it came right out of a bottle. So maybe we went there on an "off" night for the waitress and cook, but we won't be going back. There are too many other Italian restaurants in the area that are better. Two dinners, one beer, two drinks and tip came to $70.
(2)Ray S.
If the food was good, I could deal with the very rude staff. Not so much our waitress but the hostess and the people running the place came across as hostile. Apparently if they've never seen you there before, you get the 'evil eye'. Luckily I was wearing my anti-evil-eye-charm so the death look the hostess gave us won't stick. Food was very average, almost on the blah side and the atmosphere was nothing to write home about, although bad enough to write on Yelp about.
(1)Garrett and Kristal J.
What can we say .... hmmm .... for starters ... if you're planning on going on for a special occasion ... say .. Valentine's Day .... you may want to make a reservation BEFORE 6pm, because after this, they don't take anymore and it's on a first come, first serve. Ok, so we get there around 7:30, find a place to park on the street, and then enter into Jim & Pete's for the first time. 1) All the tables were full 2) Approximately 30 minute wait 3) Pianist playing to our left on a baby grand piano, 4) Loud chatter, happy faces, couples holding hands, incredible smells coming from the kitchen .... 5) Waitresses looking tired, over-worked, and yet ... still smiling! Though the wait for our table was more than half an hour, we were seated, received a red plastic champagne heart flute glass filled with a few hershey kisses ... and started our meal with .. well for me a glass of water, and my hubby, a glass of red wine, and an appy of bruchetta. The bruchetta was brought out on the "trolley" (which we will get to in a second) and because it was filled with food for everyone, our bruchetta sat there, within our reach for quite some time, while the waitress passed out the food to others. By the time we received our appy, it was soggy...it was okay...but soggy. What was weird for us, was that when the waitresses bring out the meals, they put them on a little trolley and push that to the tables!! Not only that, but my hubby's dish came in a rarebit on the trolley and then was put into a plate on the trolley before serving it to us. Our waitress, Pati, did a great job keeping up with her section, which was still .... FULL ... and for a busy night, you can expect to be waiting quite some time for your dirty dishes to be removed and the check to come. Keep in mind that the portions are HUGE!! I mean, almost everyone leaving had their little white boxes with them when they left!! We will most likely be back someday...but we will know not to go when it is so busy...or at least call for a reservation 1st!
(4)MyOpinion C.
Very yummy super thin pizza :) Delicioso for sure!
(4)Josclyn W.
This place is our go to italian joint, The chicken cesar is great, and huge!!! The chicken soup, comes home in gallons and we always have some in our freezer its like a meal in a bowl. The pizza is delish, deep dish or the crispy, you will enjoy! We don't eat in the often, but have always had good service!
(4)Kelly R.
We had our rehearsal dinner here. We ended up with 10 extra people (oops) but the staff just picked it up as if nothing happened. The prices are very reasonable. The portion sizes are rather large so my husband and I will generally split a meal. We have never been disappointed with the food here. The bread is wonderful! I've never had bad service here... ever. Jim was very helpful planning our menu and setting a tone for our wedding weekend. Quintessential family owned Italian restaurant!
(5)Sarah R.
Why is everyone hating on Jim and Pete's? This is our go-to place. Usually when the convo goes like this...."What do you want for dinner?" "I don't care, I'm too tired to think." " Well, I don't care either, I'm tired too." When this mess happens, we end up bellying up a the bar at Jim and Pete's. Because we know it will always be good, and we will always be taken care of. Is it an Italian restaurant with a big screen on the wall? Sure. But tv's are a priority when it comes to places to eat. The White Sox must always be on, if they are playing that day. We usually get the same things, the soup of the day (it doesn't matter what it is), the baked clams, and the antipasto salad. People, this salad is awesome. Some lettuce, some salami, some various peppers, some artichoke, some other veggie and meaty goodness all served in a wooden bowl with tongs. And a really great homemade dressing. We usually round things off with an entree to share, sometimes when we are feeling really indulgent, we will get the manicotti. Holy crap. Pasty, cheesy, saucy amazingness. And our drinks are always full. Their pizza is pretty great too. When we are feeling super worthless, we get this shit delivered. Never had any problems there either. I'm not sure where all this 2-3 star crap is coming from, but I felt I needed to review one of my favorite places to try to bump up their star rating a little bit. Jim and Pete, I hope you will always be there for me.
(5)Bridgette K.
Jim and Petes has great food their appetizers are delicious the artichoke caserole is a must have the stuffed shells are very good. The service is alright depending on who's taking care of you. Don't do delivery it isn't that great I rather do sit down. They need to get some booths in here.
(4)Beth Z.
Good, reliable Italian food and excellent thin crust pizza. Service is always good. Longstanding neighborhood "go to" - I cannot recall the last time I was here when I did not run into someone I know. You won't get fancy food - but you will not leave hungry, or without a smile on your face.
(4)angelica r.
cutest little Elwood park Italian spot. would def go back.. yum. my bestfriend and i went there on for lunch and shared the Tortellini Florentine and an Eggplant parmesan sandwich. Both were perfect, especially the homemade pasta. wow. We sat outside, enjoyed the nice weather. they have a small outside eating area, but im sure just enough to accommodate the amount of people who come in. Will def make it a point to come back for dinner and drinks there one night.
(4)jemms j.
I love Jim n Petes pizza!! I think it is one of the best out there. Back in the day I would go with my family once a month to their old restaurant. When I was in college nearby, I would go as often as possible. Once I moved to the far west suburbs, I will still make the drive for this pizza...It is awesome!!
(5)MR. F.
baked clams are the best!
(5)Tater S.
The only reason I held the 5th star is for cleanliness. The window shades and menus were filthy. They need a good cleaning. Nobody likes to handle food encrusted menus and have to look at filthy dusty shades. The food however was top notch and I am one hard to please Italian. I had the Linguinni and white clam sauce my hybby a chicken dish that I don't recall the name. The chicken breast was huge! and so was the pasta portion it sat on. Its was absolutely delish. My pasta was equally awsome and huge, I did not expect fresh pasta but that is what I got, a very nice surprise. The clam sauce was very nice and flavorfull. We had the fried calamar app, It was very good but not the best I've had. Will try the artichoke app next time we go, which will be real soon and often after that (even if they dont clean). LOL
(4)Nick C.
Great thin pizza ever! We've been going there since it's original location over 30+ years ago. They have an outstanding lasagna and antipasta platter. Their homemade dressing is outstanding. We used to buy it for our Christmas Eve dinner every year. It's a great place for a group. Sometimes it can be a little loud, but have you ever been to an Italian restaurant that isn't? I'd worry if it wasn't. Mangia!
(5)Rob L.
This is an extremely solid Italian restaurant. Plenty of choices, many favorites, nothing fancy and family owned and run. There were a lot of families, couples, groups and all with smiles on their faces. Friendly service, from our waitress to the hosts. Large portions, I am amazed that my group and I finished off everything we ordered. From the calamari, baked artichoke, bruschetta, linguini and shrimp, chicken parmigiana, it was all delicious. We came, we drank, we feasted and we left with full stomachs and smiles on our faces. I sadly did not have the pizza, perhaps that will be for the next time.
(4)kathy g.
Love their pizza!! It has a really unique sauce, very mellow. Their lemon chicken is some of the best I've ever had. I found out about them when the Fenwick High School mother's club had them cater one of their events at the school. Their food is very good!
(4)Patty V.
I have never had the pizza here, but keep meaning to try it! I get so distracted by all the other goodies on the menu that I forget all about pizza.I love the Eggplant Parm here, both the meal and sammie. I have had a few of the fish specials and have not been disappointed. Food has always been fresh,hot and plentiful. The place can get a little crowded on the weekends, but I am happy to sit at the bar a nurse a vino until a table is ready.
(4)Frank S.
Excellent homemade pizza, and sanwiches. Full menu, and bar. Very comfortable setting, clean, and waitstaff is very attentive. Nice during good weather there is outdoor seating. Restaurant expanded several years ago, and is at least twice the size it was. Parking can be a little tricky when the surrounding area is busy. Been a customer since the 1980's, and this place has yet to not satisfy. Nice place for family, on a date, or even a group.
(4)Edward B.
I haven't been recently, but several years back, when I lived closer, this was THE place for deep dish pizza. It's the best I've ever had. They've expanded after moving from River Forest to Forest Park (practically just across North Ave.), but the pizza is soooo good I never tried anything else - how could I??
(4)Lori S.
I love this place. Absolutely love it. Great pizza (deep dish and thin crust), great octopus, great fish, great pasta, great garlic bread.....have never had one dish I have not loved and I've been there about 20+ times. I'm getting hungry thinking of it now. Laid back, family feel to the restaurant. Can get pretty crowded. Highly recommended. One of my favorites!
(5)Allison K.
All I can say is Jim & Pete's is by far the best pizza I have in the Chicago-land Area. It's located right on the North Ave. strip of the Elmwood Park restaurants. The pizza itself is "mouth watering" (seriously!) Last time I had there thin crust pepperoni pizza....it was soooo cooked to perfection. The restaurant itself is a great place to grab some food and drinks and watch sporting events.
(5)