Lauretta's Italian Bake Shop & Cafe

Lauretta's Italian Bake Shop & Cafe is a catering and dining destination in Grayslake, IL, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients. The business offers a diverse menu featuring homemade pastas, panini, subs, soups, salads, entrees, and a wide selection of fresh-baked desserts including cannoli, tiramisu, cookies, and cakes. Serving both lunch and dinner, it caters to families and individuals seeking hearty, flavorful meals rooted in generations-old family recipes. The shop has been serving the Grayslake community since 2009, originally opening in Mundelein before relocating to its current location on US-45.

Founded by Lori Jozwiak, whose father owned a well-known Italian restaurant in Highwood, Lauretta’s carries on a family tradition of quality and authenticity. What began as a small lunch menu and catering service has grown into a full-service cafe offering over 30 entrees, wood-fired pizza, and a bustling pastry case filled with daily-baked treats. The menu emphasizes fresh, house-made sauces, homemade meatballs, and delicate desserts like tiramisu, all prepared to order. The restaurant features a brick patio for outdoor dining and serves fresh-roasted coffee alongside its meals.

Located on US-45 in Grayslake, the shop sits within a commercial corridor but maintains a distinct, intimate atmosphere. Its presence on a major highway makes it accessible to locals and visitors alike, with easy access from surrounding neighborhoods and commuter routes.

Though no review count is available, the business is recognized for its authentic Italian fare, generous portions, and warm, family-run service. Customers consistently praise the quality of dishes such as seafood linguini, chicken piccata, butternut ravioli, and homemade gelato, as well as the inviting atmosphere and attentive staff.

Lauretta’s Italian Bake Shop & Cafe stands as a trusted culinary destination in Grayslake, offering a taste of Italy that feels both familiar and freshly made every day.