You don’t have to go all the way to Italy for a true Italian feast. The oldest Italian restaurant in Illinois will give you the authentic experience you’ve been craving without the need for expensive airfare.

From charming decor to flavorful food, this unforgettable restaurant is a must-try. Scroll on for more details.

In business since 1933, Alongi’s Italian Restaurant was opened by an immigrant from Italy who is known as the first to introduce pizza to southern Illinois. The place started as a saloon called Guy’s Place that had a 60-foot bar and a liquor store.

Google/Johnny Mnemonic

The building was remodeled in 1985 and then expanded into the State Theatre in 1994. This portion of the restaurant contains a dining area, a banquet room, and a fireplace.

Facebook/Alongi’s Italian Restaurant

The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, and the walls are covered in history. Many stars have made a point of visiting the place, including Sonny and Cher, Connie Stevens, and Joe Garagiola.

Facebook/Alongi’s Italian Restaurant

The menu at Illinois’ oldest Italian restaurant includes a wealth of delicious dishes. Appetizers include fried cheese, garlic cheese bread, mini pizzas, wings, Italian fries, bruschetta, and soups and salads.

Google/Indramohan Alapati

Main courses include pasta, eggplant Parmigiano, lasagna, toasted ravioli, penne Alfredo, scampi, tilapia, veal, steak, and more. Everything is authentic and made with the freshest ingredients.

Facebook/Alongi’s Italian Restaurant

Alongi’s Italian Restaurant is open daily. Hours are 11 a.m .to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Facebook/Alongi’s Italian Restaurant

Alongi’s Italian Restaurant is located at 18 W Main St., Du Quoin, IL 62832, and you can learn more about it on its website or Facebook page.

Google/Johnny Mnemonic

Facebook/Alongi’s Italian Restaurant

Google/Indramohan Alapati

If we had you at pizza, check out these six restaurants in Illinois with the biggest pies you’ve ever seen.

If you’ve ever eaten at Illinois’ oldest Italian restaurant, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your favorite dishes with us below in the comments.

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