ROCKFORD, IL — The 2024 winner of Best Italian food in the Rockford area has been serving up traditional Italian cuisine since 1972.
Below are the top three Italian food spots in Rockford, as voted by readers 2024 What Rocks Community’s Choice Awards.
Winner: Linos
What makes an Italian restaurant great? Linos believes in the dedication to real ingredients, old-world techniques, and innovative approaches that have made them a household name in the Rockford area for over 50 years.
Lino’s famous baked lasagna and fettuccine alfredo are a couple of dishes that never go out of style. Made with time-honored recipes, each dish is packed with rich flavors and comforting textures that showcase the heart of traditional Italian cooking. Whether you’re a regular or visiting for the first time, these classics are a must-try on the menu.
Location: 5611 E. State St., Rockford
Phone: 815 397- 2077
For more: linos815.com
Finalist: Nunzio’s Restaurant
Location: 5800 N. 2nd St., Loves Park
Phone: 815 633-5000
For more: nunzios.com
Finalist: Salamone’s North
Location: 2583 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Phone: 815 639-1200
For more: salamonesnorth.com
The What Rocks Community’s Choice Awards each year recognize the top businesses and organizations across the Rockford area.
Readers of the Rockford Register Star cast their votes at rrstar.com in more than 140 categories, honoring their favorite local spots.
Nominations open this year on June 2. Voting takes place in August and ends Aug. 25. Winners will be announced at an awards gala on Nov. 6 and shared with readers online at rrstar.com and in a special section recognizing winners and finalists in print.
Jack Ivanic is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.