Louie’s
1009 North Ave, Waukegan, IL, 60085
Louie’s Menu
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Address :
1009 North Ave
Waukegan, IL, 60085 - Phone (847) 244-0101
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Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
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.
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.
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Ian N.
I found this place by accident while I was out running. I saw that their parking lot was full and it looked like the kind of place/diner/dive I'd like to try. As it turns out... Louie's is an awesome little place! Menus selection is short and to the point, but their food is good. Definetly, worth checking out!
(5)Evelyn C.
a waukegan icon! Iove this place! More for the pizza actually, i don't think i ever had a sandwich. After a while people just know you by name. I haven't been there in years but i have really fond memories of this place. I liked it because it was right in the neighborhood. I highly suggest getting a pizza and six pack of pop (yes, even though im an east coaster, i still say pop). mmmmmm.....delish!
(4)John D.
Great sandwiches ...devil on horseback and angel on horseback .. I forget which one has the beef, but get that one with the blue cheese..succulent. The pizza is good. Great salads, the greek is #1 . If chicken livers are your thing ... the best around. Good chicken too. They give you a basket of bread to die for. Great waitstaff always friendly and responsive. An owner is usually there to keep an eye on things. Great atmosphere with all the mirrors and the giant clock. Probably one of the best in Waukegan
(4)Mick B.
I hadn't been to Louie's in some time. I wrote this update to assure people that nothing of note has changed other than they now have two beers on tap. It was my companion's first visit and she said was delighted with our lunch; she was upset about something that happened at work but after spending a half hour at Louie's, she said she could feel her blood pressure had lowered. I can't imagine a more sincere endorsement. Note: I learned after we left that owner George Patterson had suffered a fatal heart attack in November. I am sorry to hear of his passing (far too young) and he will be missed. He was a true "local character" and a warm and friendly man.
(5)Diane R.
I, too grew up near Louie's. Fond memories. I always loved their giant Greek salads with beets, kalamata olives, red onion and feta, but when they started to skimp I just started buying their dressing and did the rest on my own. Last week though, I ordered the salad again and found that it seems to have gotten a much needed makeover! Lettuce is bite sized (!), olives are finally pitted, and they are more generous with the feta. Great job Louie's!
(4)Phoebe W.
4.5 stars. I'm taking away 1/2 because I'm not a fan of their sandwiches, a bit too saucy and heartburn inducing for me. Other than that... Louie's is a great hole-in-the-wall, family restaurant in Waukegan. I try to swindle my friends into visiting every time I come to town. Louie's has my favorite fried chicken, thin crust pizzas, breadsticks (!!!), and Greek salad. I'm not quite sure what they put in that dressing, but it's probably from Zeus himself its so good. I've also heard great things about their "poor man's lobster" and perch.
(4)Tim S.
Very friendly wait staff. I'd come here again, if only for the great service. I got the corned beef sandwich. The beef was quite good and a generous serving. It was very good, especially after I added mustard.
(4)Danny R.
The pizza was great but very expensive! All I wanted was a pizza for myself. The cheapest I could find was a cheese pizza for $12. I finished it all by myself too. Nobody should ever have to pay that much for a meal of pizza. It would be nice if they had slices to go. I haven't found any pizza places around Waukegan area that do so. They should be the first!
(3)Dominick N.
Place is Great! The Staff is amazing, Bar is fast and the food is prompt. The food is okay. I go mainly because of the great service and friendly atmosphere. The family that owns it is as nice as they come. I love being greeted and remembered as a valued customer and hit Louie's at least once a week.
(5)John T.
Great pizza and wonderful family ambience. It is a bar type of restaurant, but the food and hospitality is amazing. The garlic breadsticks leave you constantly wanting more. This place is a staple from what I heard. I have gotten the pizza, salads, etc., and everything was always great. Keep mind that if you leave the pizza and bar and still want to catch a drink, just stop on by the adjacent liquor store and make some purchases. They are priced well and similar to everyone else in the area.
(5)Adamo W.
Another wonderful place to get dinner in Old Waukegan. Order up a delicious cocktail and have a basket of breadsticks or two. Loosen your belt and get a tasty pizza or the Angel on Horseback. Maybe you prefer the devil. Satan hath the power to assume a pleasing form! It's your eternal soul buddy, just remember you only get the one. The Italian food is also magnificent. Please give my regards to Tony, you won't soon forget it!
(4)Julie Z.
Nice place, my dad loves it here.
(3)Mike P.
By far the best restaurant in Waukegan. You'll feel like you've stepped back into time...time when good food and good service mattered. Family owned and operated, the atmosphere will take you back. My favorite is the BBB, the black bread burger. Also, on Wednesdays, the homemade chicken dumpling soup is out of this world. And don't forget the heavenly Louie's bread, served hot out of the oven (I'd like to get my hands on that secret recipe). One last thing...if you're there on a day that they are serving mashed potatoes, you gotta try them...they are the BEST!
(5)K Y.
i live not even one block away from lousie pizza and ive gone in numerous times. when i order food like the italian beef it tastes just like card board, the fries are flavorless and the quality isnt there. i have a full house of all ages and more than half of us have had bad, rude, and or rasict exsperiences in louise pizza. i myself have gone in for a simple arizona and been treated with pressure to leave and or pushed to buy w.e. and been rushed towards the door. it wasnt a buy day and it hasnt been the first time ive exsperienced that from the same person. who is a brother, tall, brown hair, deaf worker. ive sent my son into lewis after getting into an car accident where is eye was left black and hes come home telling me and this same worker creating problems for him aswell at the check out. picking up the arizona and placing it on his eye joking about the customers injury. that worker is there often and is rude MORE THAN OFTEN. after so many awful, rude, and offensive encounters at louise my family no longer stops in not even for a small item because thats thw worst and most unperfessional way to be treated as a customer.
(1)Timothy S.
FOUR STARS: this is a wonderful, family - owned restaurant. The food is good, well - prepared, and very reasonably priced. What it lacks in ambience it makes up for in charm. It is easy to root for a place like this, and the Patterson family who owns it. MISSING FIFTH STAR: Our waitress wasn't super pleasant. Since it was our first time visiting, we had questions about the menu. She wasn't particularly forthcoming. WILL WE GO BACK? Yes!
(4)Allison K.
While in town for the fiance's Navy graduation, we found this gem. We were looking for a local spot, with local people, and good food. We found it. I have not had such good chicken parm since I left New York years ago. We even got an order to go for my friend who was back at the hotel, and they were very generous with their portions and wrapped it up nicely. Our waiter was polite, fast, and efficient. Everyone was very polite and courteous, shaking the fiance's hand, congratulating him, or thanking him for his service. It meant a lot. Space is rather limited. We got there a bit early, so we had no trouble getting seated, but by the time we left the place was utterly packed. So, you may want to call ahead. It reminds me of the good, old fashioned family owned places back in NY. I loved it. We will be stationed here for the next six to nine months, and I am sure it is going to become one of our regular spots.
(4)J D.
I grew up in Waukegan and this place has always been a neighborhood fixture. My wife and I stopped by last time we were town and had their pizza. Quite good, thin crispy crust with a tasty sauce and toppings. Billy and Tony will take good care of you as will the rest of the staff. A friendly little place and highly recommended when you're in town.
(5)Pam D.
This is a cool old place. It is all paneled and retro and the people who work there are very very friendly. I would stop in again just for the charm and I'd probably try one of their pizzas for grins and giggles. For lunch, I had a sandwich that was toasted with roast beef, bacon, tomato and cheese. It was quite tasty and came with an interesting slaw that was vinegar based. It also came with their homemade chips which were quite good. Christopher had their beef noodle soup, which I tasted. It was a nice hearty soup and had a good flavor. I brought some home for Mom and she liked it a lot, in fact, she finished it in one sitting which is rare for her. He also had a pasta dish with Alfredo sauce, which was advertised as coming with fresh vegetables. Unfortunately, the vegetables consisted of mushrooms and Christopher hates shrooms, so the dish was a bit of a let down. Our lunch companion, Jack P. had a Chicken Parmesan sandwich which i gather from his review that he thoroughly enjoyed. I would say that apart from Christopher's pasta dish, everything else was a solid hit. It was Valentine's day (and also Jack Benny's birthday, which is what brought us to Waukegan) and our waitress was sweet enough to bring us a plate of homemade brownies to celebrate the day. Louie's the kind of place that makes you feel right at home. I'd say this place is 3 1/2 stars and worth a stop in if you are in Waukegan, just kinda pass on the pasta Alfredo.
(3)Jack S.
I've been here for years and can't believe I haven't found this earlier! Everything is good!
(5)T G.
What happened to Louie's? Ordered carry out: 2 lasagnas and a spaghetti with meatball. The lasagnas were completely dried out and tough! It tasted like it was made more than a week ago! Yuck!!!! I tasted my sons spaghetti and it tasted like a cigarette butt! Gross! Even the bread sticks were dried out! We hadn't ordered from Louie's in the past 9-12 months, and boy has the quality tanked! Very disappointing! Many fond memories of this place where the owner used to hand out free candy after your meal as a kid.... Too bad!
(1)Cynthia K.
Had a great late lunch or very early dinner here!! The restaurant is very lovely, a bit dark and intimidating when first walking in...however the food and service was fantastic!! The size of the portions was way more than one can do in a sitting.....to go box is a must at the beginning of the meal!!!
(5)Andy F.
Wish I could give this place 0 stars but it's generous to even give them one. Firstly, Louie's staff needs a HUUUUUGE class on customer service, starting with either reenforcement of appropriate attitude and treatment towards customers, and being considerate. I was here with my wife for dinner a little close to closing time (about an hour and a half away from closing) just to catch a bite before going back to Wisconsin. We were seated by our waiter, who was a high school age girl who sat us down unenthusiatically, handing us our silverware in the same manner. Few minutes after receiving our menus, we were ready to order. I choose to have the lasagna and my wife chose a simple house pasta. While waiting for our meals our waitress and a few of her fellow servers were having a inappropriate conversation about wanting to leave right away, and what they would do outside of work, all the while my wife and I were sitting there trying not to fee awkward the entire time, because of them and the owners as well. Any how, we received our meals, and my lasagna was very dry, the sauce tasted like it came out of a can, and the meat just wasn't spectacular either. My wife's meal was also shockingly bland. How can you mess up simply pasta? The prices were quite steep to and not worth it considering the quality of the food and service. I left, paid for our meals, and won't ever be coming back again. Even before then, I remember having horrible experiences with picking up a pizza from here. The deaf guy, whoever he is, was extremly rude, and gave my cousin the middle finger and wanted him out of there. All in all, I won't be coming back here ever again. Sucks because this used to be a childhood memory of mine, eating with an old friend back when I was in middle school. Oh well.
(1)Kate M.
Loved this place. Family owned, old school. The breadsticks were really good, I dipped them into the garlic dressing for more deliciousness. Fried chicken was hands down the best I've ever had. The Reuben was ok but I wouldn't get it again. They have a lot of craft beers to choose from which was a nice touch.
(4)Notah K.
The bread sticks are amazing . The owners are super friendly and we order pizza all the time. Thank you for the great service!
(5)Paul K.
Great perch sandwiches and they poured some strong drinks however the staff seemed a little stretched, also, be prepared to be sitting real close to the next table, like hey-you-gonna-eat-that kind of close. Not too bad over all
(3)Jeff L.
I hate to do this but gotta give it one star. Sat for 2 hours and service was terrible. Food came out cold. Couldn't get any service. Not sure what the owner/manager was doing but someone made a huge staffing mistake. I'll give it one more yet since there aren't many options in the area, but wow, huge disappointment.
(1)Diane L.
We dined at Louie's tonight for cozy dinner of lasagna, walleye, the most delicious balsamic dressing, dynamite marinaro sauce and a great local beer brewed in Waukegan. The service was good, the warm garlic bread perfect as we came in from the cold. Wish we would have known about the Sunday brunch Bloody Mary specials earlier today...the Blackhawks won and we caught the tiebreaker on the big screen behind the bar. A good time was had by all. Next time I'll save room to try the carrot cake cupcake!
(4)L B.
The reviews on here do NOT lie. The warm, fluffy breadsticks are 'da BOMB! I enjoyed dipping them in the garlic sauce (it was like a garlicky ranch dressing). On a whim, I ordered a cherry Coke to drink; imagine my surprise when the waitress came out with a can of Coke and a glass with ice and cherry syrup. Talk about old school! It was YUMMY, though. I ordered the chicken parmesan and didn't think much of the entree itself. It was heavily breaded and the chicken seemed dry and lacked flavor. The marinara sauce was tasty, and the side salad that came out before the meal was AMAZING! I seem to remember there being pieces of beet on it, which struck me as odd. After giving them a shot, I picked 'em off (classy, I know!) and enjoyed the rest of the salad. The restaurant itself is relatively small. A very family-like atmosphere and everyone seemed to know each other. It is heartwarming to see a true neighborhood restaurant with "regulars." It also has elements of a New York diner because the tables have removable dividers so two groups of 2 can sit at one table (across from each other) with a divider between the two parties. This makes for a very intimate (and a tad cramped) meal. Our table neighbors gave us some entertainment with our meal, getting in a disagreement with another inebriated patron. The juicy post-dinner gossip / speculation ("Did you hear him say that?! WOW!") only added to our enjoyment. Looking back on this experience, the only thing I would change is my entree. I'd listen to other reviewers and order the pizza.
(3)Jack P.
If you are ever cruising around like we were this week, in Waukegan, and hungry, Louie's is a nice little time warp of an Italian bar cum Italian restaurant where you can saddle up to the long bar or find a booth or table. The menu has some classic Italian dishes and a nice array of sandwiches, for which they are known. And of course, pizza. The ambience is a bit 1960's rec room, the people who work there are as friendly as your neighbors or friends, and the food is decent. I ordered my all-time fave Eye-talian sandwich, the "Chick Parm," and was very pleased with the reasonable portion, and with the soft squishy bun. With the side of Marinara I ordered, it was a nice combination of fresh chicken breast, with just the right amount of breading, cheese and sauce. House-made chips were great. And a slaw which was really unique with red peppers and a vinaigrette. Pam got one of the special big sandwiches, and Chris a big plate of pasta with veggies and white sauce. Warning if you do not like mushrooms, 'cause they are considered vegetables here. Chris was thinking it would be more primavera. Solid no-booze lunch for three for around $40. I'd recommend it especially if you appreciate those old out-dated bars with good food . The Aviary, it ain't! Oh, and ask the bartender about the clock.
(3)Russ G.
Very friendly staff, clean restaurant, and the food is delicious! What more is there to ask for?
(5)Mike L.
Much like Hillary's one of the places everyone says you have to try and after several chances I have yet to figure out why. The sandwiches I have tried always left me thinking that they sounded better on the menu than they actually were. Some were average others just left me scratching my head and going back to the menu to make sure they got my order right. Always thought it was funny that their parking lot was across the street, and yes there is a sign for it, which made this place seem very old. Once inside you can understand how old it is, much like the now closed Madison Avenue, this place has not changed in 40 years. I personally find it very funny that they have only 1, yes 1, tap handle set in the middle of a large bar and that it is Miller Lite. A place to get a good Gin-n-Tonic.
(2)Claire S.
Stopped here for dinner before seeing a show at the Genesee because of the great reviews on Yelp. I think Louie's is awesome! The breadsticks they bring out warm right when you sit down are phenomenal--ultimate comfort food. Their pizza is pretty good too! Definitely a retro vibe at this place, but I like that. Our server was incredibly nice and helpful as well. If you're in Waukegan, I'd highly recommend eating here.
(4)Genevieve S.
Louie's is a good place to enjoy good food. I think giving small businesses is important, so next time you get pizza, think about who you are supporting... big business or the little guy... Support the little guy & get a great meal in the process!
(4)Jen M.
We stopped here for a family lunch. The breadsticks were perfect for my girls. We got an appetizer as we were going to the Genesee Theater after. The onion rings were simply amazing... Seriously the BEST I've ever had!!! The food was good and the service was great. They were very attentive - we never had empty water or bread basket.
(5)barbara g.
I ate here after my uncle's funeral last weekend. The pasta was perfection, the breadsticks totally addictive, and the fried chicken crispy without being greasy. The last time I was here was back in 1975 way before I moved out of Lake County -- I was amused to see the decor has not changed one bit since then. Very cool little gem of a restaurant/bar.
(5)Christopher H.
Had the pizza once... Its good but I come for the Angel On Horseback (Roast beef, tomato & bacon bits on french bread) with a side of au jus. Perfect...
(5)Lynessa R.
Great food. Great Service. Gets packed very quickly! They have the best breadsticks in our area. Pizza is awesome, much better than the pizza chains that are out there.
(5)Rachel H.
I grew up eating here about once a week and the owner George lives down the street from my parents. I love the perch, the fried chicken, and the Friday night special, poor man's lobster. The service is good, but I know just about everyone who works here.
(5)Emily E.
Best bread sticks and salad!
(5)