Making Italian delicacies for over 25 years

Philly G's

When Phil Gilardi was born, he was welcomed into the world by the smell of sautéing garlic. His great-grandmother Sophie, turned her love of Italian cuisine into a burgeoning business on the south side of Chicago during Phil's youth, and today, he continues to create her signature dishes and recipes at Philly G's in Vernon Hills.

Fresh Air. Fresh Ingredients.

Philly G's contemporary décor and relaxed atmosphere are housed in a converted farmhouse that dates back to the 1800's. Patrons come from far and wide to sip a glass of Chianti and dine on their unique all-weather veranda. Because when you spend winters in Illinois, an opportunity to dine outdoors is quite a treat. Also, Phil's wife, Tina, has compiled an extensive wine list with perfect pairings to make your dining experience exquisite. An educated staff is also available to make suggestions and offer any special ordering preference from guest like gluten- or salt-free.

Philly G's is also known for their hospitality and private parties with two separate dining rooms ideal for corporate or family events.

Making Sophie Proud

In addition to the meticulously prepared dishes, we think Great-grandma Sophie would be most proud of the service and generosity that is bestowed upon every guest. Not only will you feel right at home, you can count on eating some of the best Italian food available in any neighborhood.

From the South Side to Vernon Hills

A Feast for the Generations

Growing up, Phil Gilardi was in and around restaurants since as early as he can remember. His great-grandmother Sophie owned a deli on Rand Road in Chicago. Then, in 1985, Phil's dad opened Girardi's where Phil spent much of his young adult life learning the tricks of the trade. The recipes and famous dishes that are still prepared at Philly G's today were passed down and created by great-grandmother Sophie and grandmother Angie.

Coming Into His Own

In 2005, Phil decided he was ready to share his love and knowledge of real Italian food. He purchased the restaurant from his father and the rest is Gilardi family history.

Phil Gilardi, Jr. along with his uncle, Dan Sullivan, is proud to carry on the Gilardi tradition with Philly G's. The restaurant will be celebrating its five year anniversary come this August. Phil is the fourth generation of Gilardi's to continue the family recipes of his great-grandmother, Sophie and grandmother, Angie Gilardi along with regional favorites of his own.

They'll share the food, but not the recipes

A mouth-watering menu awaits you! Philly G's prides themselves on real Italian cooking made with the freshest ingredients available. The menu offers a wide selection of pastas, carne, pollo vitello and pesce. Notable dishes include Eight Finger Cavetelli, Prime Steak Sciliano, Chicken alla Gilardi and Shrimp De Jonghe.

One of the most popular dishes at Philly G's is Chicken Gilardi. It's a boneless breast of chicken sautéed in garlic, white wine and imported olive oil. It's served over a bed of peppers, mushrooms and peas, and accompanied by a hearty side of vesuvio potatoes. Try this at home, the recipe is on the next page!

And if you want a taste of Phil's personal favorite, try the Skirt Steak. It is marinated in a special marinade, char grilled and topped with Vidalia onions. It may become your favorite dish as well.

Centuries and Varieties of Italian Cuisine

Italian cuisine is often referenced as one of the most popular and premiere cuisines in the world. The many varieties of Italian cuisine come from centuries of influence from Italy and neighboring regions as well as available seasonal ingredients as this cuisine prides itself on fresh produce.

Italian cuisine boasts a large variety of ingredients. The most commonly used ingredients range from fruits, vegetables, sauces, meats, and pastas. Pastas include noodles in various lengths, widths and shapes, and varieties that are filled with other ingredients like meat and cheeses. Cheeses, wine, and espresso are also important parts of the cuisine. Experience Italian cuisine with the 'Chicken Gilardi' recipe below from Philly G's legacy of Italian dishes!

Chicken Gilardi

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 Servings

Ingredients:

1/3 cupflour
1-1/2 tsp.dried basil
1 tspsalt (or to taste)
¾ tspdried oregano
¼ tsp eadried thyme & freshly ground pepper
⅛ tsp eadried rosemary, rubbed sage
1broiler/fryer chicken
3Baking potatoes cut into lengthwise edges
1 pkgSliced mushrooms
1 eaRed and yellow pepper sliced lengthwise
3Cloves garlic, minced
3 Tfresh parsley
¾ cupdry white wine
1 cupchicken stock
½ cupExtra virgin olive oil
Green peas for garnish

Directions:

Mix flour, basil, 1tsp. salt, oregano, thyme, pepper, rosemary and sage in shallow dish. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, shake off excess. Heat oil in 12-in. oven-safe skillet over medium high heat until hot. Add chicken pieces in single layer. Fry, turning occasionally, until light brown on all sides, about 15 minutes. Remove to paper towels. Repeat until all pieces are fried. Heat oven to 375. Add peppers and mushrooms to skillet and saute until softened. Remove peppers and mushrooms. Add potato wedges to skillet (add more oil if necessary). Sprinkle with salt to taste. Fry, turning occasionally, until light brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Place chicken, peppers and mushrooms in skillet with potatoes and add wine. Simmer until wine is reduced. Sprinkle with garlic and parsley and pour chicken stock over all. Bake, uncovered, until potatoes are fork tender, thigh juices run clear and thermometer reads 165, 25-30 minutes. If chicken is done and potatoes are not, raise heat to 425. Remove chicken to plate and cover. Let chicken stand until potatoes are done. Sprinkle with cooked peas and serve with pan juices.