Bestie Business Card
Delicious pizzas made with fresh ingredients daily!
Business Hours
Local Map
DirectionsAbout River Forest, Illinois, USA
MoreThe village offers a variety of points of interest, from its historic district showcasing Tudor Revival architecture to the expansive Thatcher Woods Preserve for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite not being a major tourist hub, River Forest attracts visitors with its architectural beauty and proximity to Chicago. The local economy is diverse, focusing on professional services, retail, and small businesses, while many residents work in nearby Chicago's finance, healthcare, and education sectors. River Forest promotes business development through supportive resources and associations.
Residents benefit from excellent schools and community resources such as the River Forest Public Library. Accessibility is a strength of the village, with convenient highway access and public transportation options like Metra commuter rail connecting to downtown Chicago. Safety in River Forest is prioritized, evidenced by its lower crime rates compared to national averages. The climate features distinct seasons, with warm summers and snowy winters. Local amenities include diverse restaurants, boutique shops, and recreational activities, offering a blend of historic charm and modern convenience that appeals to those seeking both tranquility and community vibrancy.
Nominated for BestAround
Bertollis River Pizza, a venerable fixture in River Forest, Illinois, has garnered attention for its nomination to the prestigious "BestAround" accolade. This recognition speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and operational excellence, despite the challenges inherent to family-owned businesses. The restaurant's history, dating back to River Pizza in 1963 under Frank Bertolli's leadership, sets a foundation of authenticity and tradition that resonates deeply with patrons seeking genuine Italian cuisine. The transition from Frank Bertolli's initial foray into pizzeria to the establishment of Bertolli's River Pizza in 1981, marked by a commitment to homemade, high-quality ingredients, has cultivated a loyal following.
Customer feedback paints a nuanced picture of Bertollis River Pizza's strengths and weaknesses.
Praise is consistently directed towards the restaurant's quality food, particularly the freshness and variety of its offerings, which cater to a wide range of tastes. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and the family's active involvement in operations contribute significantly to its charm.
However, operational issues such as long wait times, inconsistent delivery, and communication problems occasionally mar the dining experience. These challenges highlight the difficulties faced by small, family-run establishments in maintaining consistency and efficiency, especially when competing with larger chains.
Despite these hurdles, Bertollis River Pizza's resilience and commitment to its core values-authenticity, quality, and community-position it well for continued success. The restaurant's extended hours and consistent service for regular customers are notable strengths that foster loyalty. For the "BestAround" nomination, Bertollis River Pizza stands out as a beacon of tradition in a modern culinary landscape, balancing the demands of contemporary dining with the timeless appeal of its Italian roots. Its ability to adapt while staying true to its heritage offers a compelling narrative for discerning diners and critics alike.
About Bertollis River Pizza
Bertollis River Pizza, a beloved institution in River Forest, Illinois, has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1981, with roots tracing back to its origins as River Pizza in 1963. The pizzeria's transformation under the leadership of Frank Bertolli, an Italian immigrant who joined the business in 1981, has been pivotal in shaping its identity. Born in 1949 in Mola di Bari, Italy, Frank Bertolli immigrated to the United States in 1963 and quickly rose through the ranks in the pizza industry, starting with his uncle’s and godfather’s businesses on Chicago’s Southeast Side. His military service in the Marine Corps further honed his dedication to his craft, leading him to open his first restaurant in River Forest in 1981.
The rebranding of River Pizza as Bertolli’s River Pizza in 1981 marked a new chapter for the establishment, emphasizing homemade, high-quality dishes crafted by hand. Today, the pizzeria offers a diverse menu featuring classic Chicago-style pizzas, cannolis, and lasagna, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has become a cornerstone of the River Forest community, known for its warm hospitality, rich history, and commitment to tradition. In 2009, Frank Bertolli expanded his culinary ventures by opening Frank’s Deli, a convenient spot within walking distance of the main pizzeria, further solidifying the family’s presence in the local business landscape.
Today, Bertollis River Pizza continues to thrive under the stewardship of Frank’s children—Carlo, Tony, John, Nora, and Marilda—who are actively involved in its operations. The pizzeria’s enduring success is a testament to the Bertolli family’s dedication to preserving the authentic Italian culinary heritage that has made it a cherished destination for over four decades. With extended hours on weekends and weekdays, the restaurant remains a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike, offering not only delicious food but also a slice of Italian culture in the heart of River Forest.
Category Tags
What Customers Say
516
Official Google Reviews
Customer experiences at Bertollis River Pizza vary widely, reflecting the diverse clientele and operational challenges faced by the restaurant. Positive reviews highlight the quality of the pizza, particularly the fresh ingredients and consistent taste, with customers praising the variety of crust styles and toppings available. The friendly service and family-owned atmosphere contribute to a welcoming environment, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. However, negative feedback points to issues such as long wait times, inconsistent delivery, and poor communication from staff, which can significantly detract from the dining experience.
Some customers have reported difficulties in finding parking and dealing with overly aggressive service during phone interactions. Despite these challenges, Bertollis River Pizza maintains a loyal customer base, with many repeat visitors appreciating the authenticity and quality of their meals.
The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and its consistent delivery times for regular customers are noted strengths, even as it navigates the complexities of running a small, family-owned business in a competitive market.