Rosati’s Pizza & Sports Pub is located at 375 W. Stevenson Rd. Ottawa, Il 61350. They are open every day of the week, from 11 am to 10 pm. Connect with them online or on their official Facebook page.

We had the opportunity to speak with Rachel from your favorite local Rosati’s. She told us about some of Rosati’s history. The story behind this American favorite actually goes all the way back to 1895, with Italian immigrant Ferdinand Rosati. He traveled to Coney Island and opened a fine-dining pizzeria and Italian restaurant. He would later open another restaurant in Chicago. The family-business would later evolve and expand into over 200 locations throughout the US, with one right here in Ottawa!

Rachel was also able to tell us about a more recent success of our local Rosati’s. Just last year, WGN held their Chicago Pizza Madness Tournament, wherein pizza-lovers could vote for the best Chicago pizza. Rosati’s was the winner of the 2025 bracket!

With award-winning food, they are a great addition to Restaurant Weeks. Next, Rachel told us about the Chef’s Selection that has been prepared for the event, exclusive to the Ottawa Rosati’s location.

“I could probably eat it every day,” she said about the special selection. Pasta lovers are sure to enjoy this one!

“We’re featuring our Lemon Chicken Ricotta Pasta, tender chicken, ricotta cheese, and a fresh lemon finish, all tossed with pasta for the perfect balance of rich and bright flavors.”

Another item will also be a part of Rosati’s Restaurant Weeks specials. Rachel told us about this classic appetizer that will be included as well.

“Dough Nuggets are one of our hottest sellers. We’re trying to get money for the the Food Pantry, so why not do one of our best items too?” 

Rosati’s Dough Nuggets (Bite-sized pieces of crispy pizza dough tossed in garlic butter sauce and served with a side of marinara), are one of their most famous appetizers. They are certainly a comfort food to many!

After having discussed such delicious menu options, we asked Rachel if she has a favorite one. Maybe something we’ve discussed here today will inspire your next order!

“My favorite menu item is the Italian beef. Oh, and our Giardiniera, but the mozzarella too. The Giardiniera is Rosati’s-made, it’s got a little kick to it.” 

There are plenty of great choices to make when ordering at your local Rosati’s, especially during Ottawa’s Restaurant Weeks. To close out our interview, we asked Rachel about her favorite part of being involved in the local restaurant scene. She mentioned that she has enjoyed meeting new people and sharing Ottawa’s hospitality with them.

“We get people from hotels, in and out-of-towners, the Mendota area now… We’re the only dine-in one nearby,” she said.

Rachel also mentioned that the dining area has a comfortable atmosphere that curates a positive environment, nestled away in the strip mall.

“You don’t expect it to be here. You are not expecting to walk into this huge sports room because there are several big TVs in there, around 26,  all the autographs on the wall and pictures. The bar is beautiful, huge. It is family friendly as well, cozy.”

For those looking for a bit of a hidden gem, a comfortable atmosphere, and great food, Ottawa’s Rosati’s is just the place for you. Many thanks to Rachel for meeting with us!

Ottawa’s Restaurant Weeks continue through March 21st! Follow along with us, as we celebrate community, creativity, and cuisine in the Middle of Everywhere.