About Us
Born from family pizzerias and reimagined through a lifetime in the kitchen, Lino & Lucia’s is the culinary journey of renowned Chef Pasquale “Lino” Di Diana and his wife Giovanna “Lucia.”
Raised in the Chicago pizza world, Pasquale began at just 14 in his family’s shops — the same roots that brought the Jumbo Slice the Schiller Park area has loved for over 20 years.
After studying with some of the best pizza instructors in the world, he’s elevated those traditions into something truly special — an artisan, soulful evolution of the classic neighborhood pizzeria.
A love letter to pizza, deli sandwiches, and handmade pastas, crafted with heart, heritage, and passion. ❤️
Reviews
Brandon T
The absolute best experience. They have very high integrity and intelligence of menu curration. I am proud to be a regular customer of a place where people take absolute pride in what they do. INSPIRED!!!!!
MrsHC2013
Gem. We visited for a date night away from our 9yr old son and now we can’t wait to bring him. This place is amazing. You enter and it looks like a low key NYC diner. A little bigger than a Jimmy John’s. You can watch them prepare all the delicious food. I highly recommend sitting at the bar. We were first greeted by one of the sweetest rays of sunshine I have ever met. I don’t know her name but whoever that bubbly brunette was working Saturday Feb 1st 2025- I hope they keep you always.
Gina S
I've been to Lucia's many times and I have to say it never disappoints! You may think that Effingham is a small rural town and you'd be correct, but that doesn't mean it lacks in great food options and in my humble opinion, Lucia's is at the top of the list. This small restaurant, unassuming in size offers the BEST pizza and pasta you'll ever dream of having. Chef Geno imports his flour from Italy and makes everything by hand. Meals are made fresh to order which means you may have to wait to enjoy but ohhh, it's so worth it! I'm Italian and originally was born and raised in Chicago and I have to say his food rivals my favorite Italian restaurants there. So if you are ever driving through don't miss an opportunity to try this place. You won't regret it.
V. Irwin
My husband and I had been driving in a RV going across the country. We had been craving Italian food. I started googling Italian restaurants near me and came across this little gem. Wow, the food was awesome. It was counter ordering but the young man at the counter was very patient and helpful. We had fresh garden salads and I had the Buccatini and my husband had the rigatoni. They brought the salad and then the entree. The food was delicious. Not a large menu but everything looked awesome. The cook came out and checked on us. It was clean, and an easy place for my husband to park the 38 ft RV. If you’re driving through Effingham, Illinois, give this place a try. You will be pleasantly surprised.
Tojofenton
Awesome food and service! You will love the pizza, watch it being made. We loved the appetizers as well. Great to see a family owned business.
Mike F
Handmade pasta that is the best you will find anywhere. And the byob policy is great if you want to enjoy your own wine with dinner.