Lucca Grill

Founded in 1936 by Fred and John Baldini, the Lucca Grill was named for their hometown, Lucca, Italy. The restaurant features Italian-inspired cookery and was noted for its fine oysters. With the advent of pizza in American dining, the Badini’s installed the first pizza oven in town!

It was around that time that Fred’s sons, John and “Tot,” took over the restaurant. John Baldini became chair of the county Democratic party, and Lucca became the unofficial party headquarters. In that role, Chicago-based politicians driving down Route 66 to the state capitol would drop in for a friendly word – John had become one of Illinois’ leading “slate-makers.”

Known for its thin-crust pizza, house-made sauces, and vintage tavern atmosphere, Lucca’s still features much of its historic character, including traditional tin ceilings and an elegant antique mahogany bar. The Lucca Grill presents a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere--echoing the days when road trippers packed downtown streets.