DeNuccis Opens in Lincoln Park, Ballyhoo Hospitality’s 2nd Italian Restaurant

LINCOLN PARK — Ballyhoo Hospitality has opened its newest restaurant, DeNuccis, in Lincoln Park across the street from its flagship business, Gemini.

DeNuccis, 503 W. Dickens Ave., is inspired by classic Italian-American red-sauce joints, Ballyhoo leaders said in a press release.

“When you’re in the mood for an exceptional Italian meal or want a seat at the bar to enjoy a cocktail, DeNuccis, our second neighborhood gem, provides the hospitality our guests know and love,” said Ryan O’Donnell, founder and CEO of Ballyhoo.

Credit: Provided/Ballyhoo Hospitality

O’Donnell said fans of the restaurant group have long requested another spot to eat in Lincoln Park. When the space across from Gemini became available — for decades, it was Four Farthings Tavern and Grill — O’Donnell said he knew they had to open something there.

“We saw a great opportunity to extend Ballyhoo’s warm hospitality and continue to create memorable dining experiences within our community,” O’Donnell said.

DeNuccis seats 140 guests and features reclaimed elements from the now-closed Four Farthings, including the original bar, millwork, chandeliers and a 110-year-old revolving door.

The restaurant also has outdoor patio seating for nearly 100 people, according to Ballyhoo.

Credit: Provided/Ballyhoo Hospitality

The menu features classics like artichoke vesuvio, mozzarella al forno and veal marsala, as well as nightly specials like chicken scarpariello and lasagna bolognese.

Chef Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio of Pizza by Sal and Coda di Volpe brings his pizza recipes to the restaurant, including a gluten-free, Sicilian-style pie.

The wine list has seasonal selections that pair well with each dish, according to Ballyhoo. DeNuccis also serves classic and original cocktails, a curated selection of Italian beers, zero-proof beverages, coffee and aperitivo.

DeNuccis is Ballyhoo’s second Italian restaurant, following Coda di Volpe on the Southport Corridor.

Subscribe to Block Club Chicago, an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom. Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods.

Click here to support Block Club with a tax-deductible donation. 

Thanks for subscribing to Block Club Chicago, an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom. Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods. Click here to support Block Club with a tax-deductible donation.

Watch our “On The Block” TV show on The U, CW26 and MeTV.

Listen to “It’s All Good: A Block Club Chicago Podcast”: