Italian food in Illinois is one of our best-kept secrets. Sure, everyone knows Chicago is famous for its pizza and Italian beef, but if you dig into the smaller communities a bit, you'll find some of the most exceptional Italian eateries on the planet. In fact, some of the freshest Italian food in Forest Park, Illinois comes from a relatively new restaurant that has quickly caught the attention of hungry diners.

Fiore Pizzeria & Bakery, 7407 Madison Street, is located on an enchanting commercial strip of Forest Park that's lined with local shops and diners, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

The restaurant opened in 2022 and has since become a neighborhood favorite, attracting visitors from nearby towns (like me!) who crave a great meal in an elevated, yet unpretentious, atmosphere. With festive murals, exposed brick, natural lighting, and wide glass panes, Fiore is a relaxing and fun environment.

If you're in for a solo meal or a date night, a spot at the bar is a great choice.

And I 100 percent agree with this sentiment.

What I love most about Fiore is its pure freshness. The glass panels allow you to see straight into the kitchen where you can view your food being prepared as soon as it's ordered.

Though the restaurant has a rotating menu, its pizzas are a must-try. Wood-fired and crisped to perfection, they truly can't be beaten.

My personal fave is a well-done Margherita, and Fiore nails it every time.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on their social media for pizza-making classes! They're offered occasionally and give you the opportunity to make your own professional pie.

Another star of the menu is the pasta, made fresh daily.

The rigatoni and malfade are among the most popular, but you can never go wrong with a timeless spaghetti with meatballs.

And speaking of Fiore's meatballs, I highly suggest trying them either with the pasta, as an appetizer, or during the diner's happy hour. Served on a smear of whipped ricotta cheese with buttery grilled bread, it's a dish that goes straight to the soul.

Happy hour specials run Monday through Thursday from 3-6 p.m. and include discounts on pizza, cocktails, meatballs, and more. My husband and I love to take advantage of the deal and get a little of everything!

Fiore also specializes in a tight list of incredible cocktails, as well as offers beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages for all diners to enjoy. My go-to is the Venus de Milo, which includes reposado tequila, Licor 43, Giffard Pamplemousse, lemon, and bitters.

And make sure to leave room for dessert — not only does the eatery have its own after-dinner specials, it also has its own bakery and market where you can grab baked goods, as well as packaged ingredients, to take with you.

So, would you put this Italian food in Forest Park, Illinois on your date night list? Where's your favorite place in the state for a nice Italian meal? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your visit by checking out the Fiore Pizzeria & Bakery website and the Fiore Pizzeria & Bakery Facebook page. And while you're in town, why not make it a quick getaway? This adorable bungalow can fit the whole family, you're close to tons of nearby Frank Lloyd Wright properties for a cool tour, and Fiore is just a few steps down from this amazing local ice cream shop!