Aurelio's Pizza

Aurelio's Pizza is a pizza place in Chicago Heights, IL, serving classic Italian beef sandwiches, hand-closed crust pizzas, and a variety of specialty pies including the popular "Super Six"® and Calabrese™ creations. The restaurant has been crafting its signature recipes since 1959, beginning in Homewood, Illinois, and continues to emphasize fresh ingredients, family tradition, and community roots. Known for its consistent quality and longstanding presence in the region, Aurelio's Pizza offers a range of menu items including appetizers, salads, pasta, and desserts, with options available for dine-in, takeout, and online ordering through its app. The business serves the local community and surrounding areas with a focus on tradition and customer satisfaction.

The story of Aurelio's Pizza began on August 20, 1959, when Joe Aurelio opened the first location at 2041 Ridge Road in Homewood. Starting with a small kitchen and just enough space for a few tables, Joe built his business by hand, working seven days a week as cook, server, and delivery driver. He refined his dough and sauce recipes and introduced fresh, homemade Italian sausage, which helped boost sales. As demand grew, he expanded into two adjacent storefronts by 1962, creating a space that combined a dining area with a bar and a lively section for teens featuring a jukebox and red-and-white checker-top tables. This blend of family-style service and community atmosphere has remained central to the Aurelio’s experience.

Located on Western Ave in Chicago Heights, the restaurant sits within the city’s commercial corridor, accessible from major local roads. While no specific nearby landmarks are listed, the location is part of a well-established neighborhood hub serving residents and visitors alike. The business continues to uphold its founding principles of quality, consistency, and community engagement, maintaining a loyal customer base through decades of service. With a long-standing presence and a reputation for hearty, homemade meals, Aurelio's Pizza remains a trusted name in the Chicago Heights dining scene.