Food critic and Eating Las Vegas co-author Al Mancini writes:
It’s actually been a little while since I’ve eaten there, so thanks for reminding me that I’m overdue for a visit. Chicago Joe’s is one of those truly unique restaurants I always recommend to people who ask for a "true Vegas" off-the-Strip experience – you know, a hidden gem the locals love. And I’ve never had a complaint.
But be aware, this is a gritty little restaurant. As you probably saw, it’s in a small converted house downtown. And when I say converted, I’m using the term loosely: When you eat here, you will feel like you’re eating in someone’s living room (or at a kiddie table in the kitchen) during a traditional Italian family dinner.
Depending on where you’re seated, you may be able to watch the cooks working in the next room. Heck, I’ve seen them walk through one of the dining areas with a bag of garbage they were taking out back, and on my first visit my waiter sat down at my table to chat before he took our order. (I can’t remember whether he shared a beer with us or not.)
Obviously, this isn’t a place for snobs. But fans of down-home Italian cooking like grandma used to make have been raving about this joint for decades. Their red sauce can’t be beat. And the massive stuffed artichoke is legendary. Click here for their website.
