Welcome to Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria
Welcome to Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria, a charming Italian eatery nestled in downtown Aurora, Illinois. Since opening its doors in November 2024, Giardino has captivated diners with its commitment to authentic flavors and a warm, inviting ambiance. Each dish, from homemade meatballs to wood-fired pizzas, showcases Chef Martin's culinary expertise and dedication to quality. Guests rave about the beautifully crafted meals and the attentive service, emphasizing the balance of flavors and the cozy atmosphere. Whether indulging in a hearty pasta or enjoying a refreshing salad, Giardino promises a delightful dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
- 12 N River St, Aurora, IL 60506, United States Hotline: +1 630-701-2819
Welcome to Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of downtown Aurora, Illinois. Located at 12 N River St, Aurora, IL 60506, this charming eatery brings authentic Italian flavors to life, set in a cozy atmosphere perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. You can easily reach them at +1 630-701-2819 for reservations or inquiries.
Since its opening in November 2024, Giardino has captivated locals and visitors alike with its exquisite menu. Their culinary repertoire ranges from woodfired pizzas to hearty pastas, all crafted with high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful touch. The brick oven pizzas, such as the Buffalo Margarita and Italian Sausage with Broccolini, showcase a delightful union of fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience.
- Lunch Sandwiches: Dive into the succulent Woodfired Roasted Vegetable or the classic Chicken Sandwich, both packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
- Salad/Soup Combos: Pair your meal with a refreshing Anti Pasto Salad or a creamy Caesar Salad, each offering a flavorful burst of ingredients.
- Customer Favorites: The gnocchi—described as having a "flaky crunch"—and the homemade meatballs have garnered enthusiastic praise from diners.
What truly sets Giardino apart is its dedicated staff and inviting ambiance. Patrons have remarked on the exemplary service, with attentive waitstaff ensuring that every visit is enjoyable. From the moment you step inside, you feel welcomed by the warm atmosphere and tasteful decor, making it a perfect spot for lunch after a day of exploring or a cozy evening out.
As one delighted customer noted, the flavors at Giardino exceed expectations, echoing the sentiments of many who have experienced this culinary delight. Whether you're indulging in a delectable pasta dish or savoring their delightful pizzas, Giardino is a destination where each meal becomes a memorable event. Truly, it’s a place to cherish, and we can’t wait to see what new culinary creations Chef Martin and his team will continue to bring to the table.
For a delightful dining experience that blends authentic Italian cuisine with a warm atmosphere, Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria is a must-visit. Come discover why diners are raving about this vibrant culinary destination!

I was very excited to try this new place in downtown Aurora, it did not disappoint! I went back in January, all the food I got was amazing and I am planning to go back soon! Every single dish was so good, I even ate my leftover (you know it’s good when you eat the leftovers). Our server was also very friendly and the mocktail options were flavorful. My only recommendation during these colder months is to ask to not be seated near the door. The cold air does get in, obviously if it is busy you don’t have a choice, but still worth it to dine!

Giardino Trattoria and Pizzaria is a class act! I worked with their chef, Martin, to create an incredible catered off-site meal for a party of 25. Martin’s expertise in accommodating a larger group in coordination with the menu made my ordering selections hit the bullseye. My guests were impressed by the flavors and textures that were made to order. The food was delicious and service excellent. I highly recommend this restaurant and their team, and I was so pleased to support this local Aurora business. (Photos taken off-site from restaurant. I look forward to eating at the restaurant soon to enjoy the beautiful ambiance.)

We went here for Easter Lunch and we weren’t disappointed. The place is close to the casino, plenty of street parking plus there’s a vacant lot next to the restaurant that you can also park. The restaurant is very cozy, I love that they have couch by the wall instead of a booth. The price is also good, not too expensive. We had calamari Fritto, prosciutto burrata, and papardelle alla bolognese, my daughter had pasta with meatballs. We didn’t get to try their dessert as we were so full. This restaurant is a hidden gem and hope they stay open for a long time.

This was by far one the best Italian restaurant I’ve been too. I have travelled Italy and Sicily and I’ve tried the “real” pizza. However, in my honest opinion this pizza has exceeded my expectations for a place middle of nowhere in Illinois. I travelled almost 1,000 miles this week and accidentally found this place. Staff, people and of course the food was beyond wonderful! Not sure what kinda of drugs they put in that pizza but it’s addicting

The entire meal was absolutely delicious. The flavors blended beautifully. I had the short rib which I cut with my fork. The vegetables with the gnocchi were cooked to perfection. I also tried the chicken parmesan which was also moist and tender and full of flavor. I would definitely come back here. The restaurant is clean and organized and visually pleasing. The service was prompt and courteous. I recommend eating here for Italian cuisine. The chefs know what they are doing in the kitchen. I was pleasantly pleased with the quality of food and the ambiance.

Great experience for lunch! Half sandwich and salad was the perfect portion. Meatball sub had homemade meatballs and plenty of melted cheese. Salad was very flavorful and had nice touch of grilled veggies. My husband’s wood fire pizza was also delicious. This is my new favorite place! Definitely give it a try!

Everything beyond Fantastic! I have had a curiosity about Girardinos since it opened & we came during Auroras Restaurant week! The vibe was very calm and relaxing with such kind service and great hospitality. Brent was our waiter who was extremely attentive and informative upon the menu as well how nearly everything is made in house daily. We had the three course meal and added on Bruschetta which was delicious and had us amazed! Everything here was super delectable! At the end around dessert Juan came to check up on us & explained to us upon the chefs/owners Ruben&Martin as we gave them compliments upon all the dishes! Definitely will be coming back here multiple times in the near future.

New restaurant in downtown Aurora, it's an Italian restaurant. Restaurant has been open since November 2024. The place looks nice, the inside is decorated very nicely. They also have a bar area as well. Ok, let's get to what everyone wants to know is the food good....drum roll......YES the food was awesome. I tried several dishes. The brushetta was good and tasty, you got four pieces. I always gotta have salad, so I ordered the green harvest, which was bursting with flavor for my entree. I ordered the bologna, which was scrumptious. I was very hungry so I made another order the gnocchi. The gnocchi in my option was the favorite. Don't ask me how, but it has a flaky crunch to it. UNBELIEVABLY GOOD! I definitely recommend this establishment kudos to the chef and the wait staff, shout out to Quincy, who was very professional and attentive to the needs of the customer. I will definitely be back.