For almost 70 years, Mama Louisa’s Italian Restaurant has held its place as the heart and soul of Italian-American cuisine on the east side, proudly crafting each dish from scratch with love and passion.

Classics like Joe’s Special have served as the favorite for both loyal regulars and chefs. This dish is the epitome of comfort, featuring Mama Louisa’s house-made linguini skillfully mingled with the kick of hot pepper seeds, the aroma of garlic oil, the irresistible allure of melted cheese, and all beautifully drenched in their cherished house sauce.

If that doesn’t have your tummy grumblin’… check your pulse (just kidding) or check out any of the other dishes on the menu that got its start in 1956.

Now, let’s talk about some of the newer meals found on the Guido-Q menu. Much like executive chef and owner Michael Elefante‘s mullet hairdo, the new menu is a total party in the back — a fun and unique addition to the restaurant’s already tasty collection.

Elefante debuted the Guido-Q food truck in 2021. During the pandemic, he started to play around with different recipes and techniques, creating an Italian-style barbecue that’s both tasty and represents him as a chef. Scouting out where the Guido-Q food truck is parked isn’t necessary, though, because the entire menu is currently available in the dining room at Mama Louisa’s.

Guido-Q Menu Highlights

Trash Can Waffle Fries

Layered seasoned waffle fries, Italian pico, alfredo cheese sauce, and your choice of brisket, pork, or chicken

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The Gold Standard

Slow-smoked pork, Guido Gold Sauce, kale slaw, tobacco onions, and a hoagie potato bun

The Ginzo Cowboy

Maplewood-smoked brisket, pepperoncini pickles, pickled onion, provolone, asiago, white cheddar, and sourdough

Holla at Chamoy

Hot dog ripper, bacon, pepperoncini pickle relish, white onion, chamoy, Tajín, and a poppy seed bun

Cannoli

Must-Try Dish on Mama Louisa’s “Third Generation” Menu

Calabrian Gnocchi

Gnocchi, Calabrian chili bacon jam, ricotta dollops, hazelnut brittle, Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, and grilled chicken

Mama Louisa’s Italian Restaurant is located at 2041 S. Craycroft Rd. For more information, visit mamalouisas.com and follow Mama Louisa’s on Facebook and Instagram. 

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