Massa Cafe Italiano - Elmwood Park, Illinois

Mimi

their sandwiches are SO GOOD. we’ve come back time and time again to try some new sandwiches. the gelato is a lovely experience as well and the case always looks so colorful and decadent. we’ve gotten the frozen pizza that you can take home as well and totally loved it. the crust is crispy and perfect, it’s a great value. coffee orders usually take a while but we’ve gotten coffee several times as well. we will continue to come back for the sandwiches.

Michael A.

Chicken Parm Vodka Burrata Sandwich. That’s it. That’s the review. Go get it and come back here and thank me.

I used to come here when I was a kid with my cousins or friends and this was the original spot for gelato and it was authentic and always on point. And their affogatos are *chef’s kiss*.

We always came at night for gelato and not the food. Turns out the food is fantastic. It’s like when you skip a song on the album and finally listen to it and realize it’s fire. They have a number of great pastas, entrees, soups and rotating specials that are all really good. But that Chicken Parm Vodka sandwich is one of my favorite things on earth. And they don’t skimp either. It’s a massive amount of chicken. I always end up taking it home. Just save some room for gelato, especially if they have Nutella that day. I love the staff here too, they work really hard but they’re always friendly and helpful.

Chicago B. R.

Massa cafe is on a different level of Italian food! It does not look very assuming but, once we get in and try the food it will blow you away! I got the baked gnocchi and loved every bite. I did wish I had more bread as it was great with the red sauce! My friend said his bow tie cream pasta was amazing as well! The under the radar item was the sausage slice! You can’t go wrong going to massa as it is a one stop shop for all your food desires!

WHITE K.

After returning from a recent trip to Italy, I found myself longing for the authentic flavors I experienced overseas. That’s when I decided to visit Massa Café, hoping to satisfy my craving for genuine Italian cuisine. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance felt inviting, reminiscent of the cozy cafés I visited in Italy.

What caught my eye immediately was the gelato counter. I’ve tried many gelato spots since coming back, but Massa Café’s gelato truly stands out. The texture was creamy, and the flavors were vibrant and true to what I remember from Italy. In fact, it was so good that I’d say it even surpassed some of the gelato I had abroad.

For the main course, I opted for the pasta with meat sauce. I was pleasantly surprised by how authentic it tasted. The pasta was cooked to perfection—al dente, just like in Italy—and the sauce had that rich, homemade quality that you rarely find outside of a true Italian kitchen. Every bite transported me back to the meals I enjoyed during my trip.

I’ve explored numerous Italian eateries in Chicago, but Massa Café is in a league of its own. The authenticity of the food is remarkable; it’s like having a little slice of Italy right here in the city. Whether you’re in the mood for gelato or a hearty pasta dish, Massa Café delivers an experience that’s as close to dining in Italy as you can get. It’s officially my new favorite spot for Italian food and gelato in Chicago, and I can’t wait to return.

Camila C.

The best Italian place, pizza, gelato and paninis are delicious, we love it !!

Leah K.

This place has some delicious pizza! I would highly recommend checking it out if you want a light lunch. I always go for their prosciutto and arugula pizza, but I hear their sandwiches are good too. Wait times are short and they give out free water. Bathrooms are also kept unlocked which is nice because I hate asking for a key.

Lou M.

My fiancee suggested I visit this place. We were in the area and decided today was the day. I had a Primo panini and she had the vivo. The sandwiches were absolutely delicious, followed by a 2 scoop serving of cappuccino Gelato. I loved everything about this fine establishment from the menu to the friendly staff, I only wish I lived closer..

Yes!! ❤️

efrain Q.

It was a nice day to eat outside but there is alot of noise. You go in and make your order and they bring it to your table. The food wasn't that bad but I would have to go to try more. The chicken parm sandwich was pretty good.