La Sorella di Francesca in Naperville, IL, is a warm and inviting Italian restaurant that has been part of the community for over 20 years. Situated in the heart of downtown Naperville at 18 West Jefferson Avenue, this restaurant offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine made fresh from scratch using quality, seasonal ingredients. The dining experience here is both comforting and genuine, with a focus on traditional flavors and friendly service.
A Family Tradition
La Sorella di Francesca began as the sister restaurant to Mia Francesca, which opened in Chicago in 1992. Two years later, La Sorella di Francesca opened its doors in Naperville. It started as a small family-run trattoria and has grown into a beloved local spot where guests feel like part of the family. The owners and staff take pride in not only delivering rich and hearty Italian dishes but also creating a welcoming atmosphere where diners feel at home.
The Setting
The restaurant is located in a beautiful old city hall building, a two-story greystone structure that features large, arched windows letting in natural light and offering views of bustling downtown life. Inside, the décor is cozy and vintage-inspired with dark wood finishes, high ceilings, and intricately crafted antique bars that serve as beautiful focal points. While elegant, the ambiance is never stiff or formal — just comfortably inviting.
Menu Highlights
At La Sorella di Francesca, the menu celebrates the Northern Italian tradition with a focus on rustic, hearty meals alongside classic favorites that change with the seasons to showcase fresh, local ingredients.
Some of the standout dishes include:
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Pollo Arrosto alla Romano: Half roasted chicken seasoned with garlic, shallots, rosemary, lemon, and olive oil, served with roasted potatoes.
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Ravioli ai Spinaci: Fresh, handmade pasta filled with spinach and served in a rich four-cheese sauce with a hint of tomato and parmesan.
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Salmon Pagliacci: Pan-seared salmon topped with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, wild mushrooms, broccoli, and zucchini.
The restaurant also offers a variety of appetizers, salads, gluten-free options, and delightful desserts. Their tiramisu features just enough rum for perfect balance, and the chocolate torte pairs rich layers of chocolate cake and fudge with vanilla bean gelato. The staff is happy to accommodate special dietary needs and tailor dishes to your preference.
Service and Atmosphere
What truly sets La Sorella di Francesca apart is the staff’s warm approach. Everyone from the kitchen to the wait staff shares a passion for their work and a genuine desire to make guests feel like family. Quality food, attentive service, a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, and reasonable prices come together to make each visit memorable.
Dining Options
The restaurant offers both lunch and dinner service throughout the week. There is a private second-floor dining room that can comfortably host groups from about 15 to 100 people, making it an excellent choice for celebrations, business dinners, or special events. When the weather permits, guests can enjoy outdoor dining on the charming, flower-filled patio overlooking a fountain, adding to the pleasant and relaxed dining experience.
Location and Hours
Address: 18 West Jefferson Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540
Phone: (630) 961-2706
Open Hours:
Monday through Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Friday and Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Special Hours:
Weekend Brunch (Saturday and Sunday): 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Happy Hour (Monday through Friday): 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Takeout, Delivery, and Catering
La Sorella di Francesca also offers carry-out, delivery, and catering services for those who want to bring their favorite Italian dishes home or to events. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and for larger groups, but walk-ins are welcome.
Additional Features
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The restaurant accepts most major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and Diner’s Club.
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Plenty of street parking and nearby city lots make parking convenient.
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The dining rooms on two floors offer a lively yet comfortable ambiance.
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The full bar features mostly Italian and American wines, complementing the menu.
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The restaurant is accessible by car, bus, and train, making it easy to reach from various parts of Naperville and surrounding suburbs.
La Sorella di Francesca in Naperville is much more than a place to eat—it’s a restaurant that invites you to enjoy authentic Northern Italian cooking in a welcoming, family-style setting. Whether you are stopping by for a casual lunch, savoring drinks and appetizers during happy hour, celebrating a special event, or dining al fresco in summer, you can expect delicious food made with care and attentive, friendly service.
It stands out as a neighborhood favorite for good food, warm hospitality, and a relaxed but elegant atmosphere right in the heart of downtown Naperville.
If you’re looking for authentic Italian flavors paired with a friendly and unpretentious dining experience, La Sorella di Francesca is an excellent choice in Naperville.
Sources: miafrancesca.com, cvent.com
Header Image Source: downtownnaperville.com
