Celebrate Enrico's Return with Free Pie!

FRANKFORT, IL — Enrico’s Italian Dining is celebrating their return to the Frankfort restaurant scene with a ribbon cutting and Pie on La Piazza on Wednesday, October 5, at 4 p.m. After the ribbon cutting, free samples of pie will be served until supplies run out or the restaurant doors open at 4:30 p.m., whichever comes first.

Enrico’s will also select four patrons to help cut the ribbon through a contest that will run through October 1. Entrants must answer the question: What is a favorite Enrico’s experience past or present and why? A panel of non-staff reviewers will judge the entries, and staff will contact the four winners to invite each of them and a guest for the ribbon cutting and dinner on the house on October 5. Entries may be submitted in the restaurant, via email at info@enricositalian.com or by private messaging the Facebook page.

“We literally were overwhelmed by the response when we first re-opened carry out,” D’Ercole shared. “People were reporting calling 100 times or more just to get through to order. There was a lot of frustration—on both sides of the phone lines. But we’ve worked through it, and we are absolutely humbled and honored that our patrons are so loyal. That’s exactly why we reopened—it’s the people we serve. We wouldn’t be here without them and are so very thankful for their support, and that’s why our ribbon cutting will feature four patron guests of honor.”

However, in spite of the challenges, D’Ercole said there was never any doubt in his mind that he’d reopen, and he’s pleased with how things turned out.

“This is a good location for us in the Vineyards plaza,” D’Ercole shared. “It’s just half a mile north of our original location, and the size is very manageable. We also love the covered entryway and patio space. We’re settling in, and it’s really starting to feel like home.”

The patio, dubbed La Piazza, opened in August. D’Ercole worked with friend Dean Vaundry of Jabaay’s Outdoor Creations to create an outdoor Italian terrace ambiance.

“We’re very excited to host guests on the patio,” D’Ercole said. “Relaxing with friends over a great meal and bottle of wine while the sun sets and the breeze ruffles your hair…who doesn’t love that?”

Inside, D’Ercole chose to decorate in warm earth tones reminiscent of the cafes he visited in his father’s native Tuscany two summers ago. Vintage photos on the walls enhance the design, which manages to feel familiar yet sophisticated all at the same time. Long time patrons will smile upon seeing the antique buffet tucked inside just to the right of the entrance.

“My mom always used to make sure there were fresh flowers on that buffet to greet guests when they arrived. We’re keeping up that tradition,” D’Ercole said.

However, the blending of old and new presents a constant challenge, but one D’Ercole said they are conquering.

Menu staples that captured the hearts (and stomachs) of diners are on the current menu: baked mostaccioli, 3-cheese lasagna, beef sandwiches, dishes with Enrico’s house-made Italian sausage, minestrone soup, garlic dressing and, of course, banana cream pie. Pizza has made an appearance as well. However, only thin crust is available with small and large pizzas sold through carry out but only small pizzas in the dining rooms.

While both carry out and the dining room opened with a by-reservation-only system in order to manage the demand, carry out is on a normal phone in and pick up schedule. The dining room will take advance reservations, along with call ahead same night seating or walk in guests, as space is available. Walk-in guests also have the option to be seated immediately at the bar, as long as there is availability.

Enrico’s Italian Dining is open Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 4:30 p.m. Carry out is open until 9:30 p.m., as is the dining room Tuesday through Thursday. Typically, the dining room is open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday with the bar staying open later if there are guests. Sunday the restaurant is closed except for private parties.

For more information, visit enricositalian.com or call 815.469.4187.