Calogero's — Restaurant in Naperville

This is a rewrite of a review I posted last night. I had broken my own rules of sticking to objective facts as I as experienced them, and the owner, rightfully so, called me out on it.

So let's do this properly.

I had ordered a pepperoni pizza for delivery with extra pepperoni. The pizza did arrive at what most people would consider a comfortable temperature. However, (and here's my issue): having ordered extra pepperoni, I would've expected more than a total of three-four slices of quarter-size pepperoni, per-slice. Perhaps my expectations were a bit high? At another establishment I visited in Fort Worth, a relative ordered extra pepperoni for our pizza at a comparable price for that extra pepperoni, and the pizza had significantly more than what I received. I realize every place is different but, the amount that was on the pizza would be what I would expect for a pepperoni pizza without having ordered extra pepperoni.

The dough in the middle was, what appeared to be undercooked. It was very soft compared to the outer edges of the pizza and crust, which in fairness, was perfectly cooked. This is personal taste as some people prefer their pizza this way but, when I held up a slice, most of the slice falls down, or it has a lot of "flop" so to say. For me to insinuate that the middle of the pizza was inedible was not fair of me. Slightly undercooked pizza dough is safe to eat, it just may not be your cup of tea.

The positive: The sauce isn't bad at all. I'd give the sauce a 7/10. The use of parmigiano reggiano on the pizza is a plus, and along with crushed red pepper flakes, added a kick that made offset my disappointment in the aforementioned shortcomings. Also, the delivery was relatively quick and the driver (I do not know if they were affiliated with Calogero's or not) was pleasant and courteous.

My initial, and unfair review gave an overall score of 2-stars. It's too difficult to give a review based off of delivery, so I am rating it 4-stars only in the food category/overall, and only subtracting for the two items that I felt were "missed" above. I have not been compensated, nor am I affiliated with Calogero's.

To the owner: I owe you an apology for my initial review. It was completely unfair to offer so many subjective opinions, and I own up to my mistakes. I plan to stop in, in the next day or so, and...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Calogero's is an absolute gem in the world of pizza, and it's no surprise that it's owned by the passionate and dedicated Sal. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to an old-world Italian pizzeria that exudes charm and authenticity.

The first thing that strikes you is the warm and inviting ambiance. The rustic décor and the aroma of freshly baked pizza crusts create an atmosphere that makes you feel like you've stepped into a trattoria in Italy.

Now, let's talk about the pizza – it's nothing short of spectacular. The crust is a perfect balance of crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside, with just the right amount of chewiness. The toppings are fresh and generous, and the sauce is a burst of rich tomato flavor that complements every bite. Whether you opt for a classic Margherita or a specialty pizza, you'll be blown away by the flavors.

Sal, the owner, is a true maestro when it comes to pizza-making. He's often seen behind the counter, ensuring that every pizza that leaves the kitchen is a masterpiece. His dedication to quality shines through in every slice, and he's always happy to chat with customers and share his passion for pizza.

The service at Calogero's is friendly and attentive, making you feel like part of the family. Whether you're dining in or taking out, you can expect quick and efficient service.

In a world where pizza chains dominate, Calogero's is a refreshing throwback to the authentic, old-world pizza experience. If you're a pizza aficionado or just someone looking for a memorable dining experience, Calogero's is a must-visit. Sal and his team have truly created a pizza paradise that deserves all five stars and more. Buon...

As many of you know, planning a wedding involves countless details. One of our top priorities was ensuring our guests enjoyed a truly memorable meal, and we're thrilled to share that Calogeros Catering absolutely exceeded all expectations!

As soon as we hit the buffet , the quality of the food was evident. The fresh, vibrant salad was a perfect start, its crispness and delicate flavor profile a delightful prelude to the main courses. The wood-fired pizzas were a particular highlight – the perfectly charred crust giving way to melted cheese and savory toppings. And the homemade pasta? Simply divine. Each dish was expertly crafted, showcasing the freshest ingredients and a clear passion for culinary excellence.

But the culinary journey didn't end there! The garlic knots were, without exaggeration, the most incredible we've ever tasted. They were light, airy, and infused with the perfect amount of garlic – a truly unforgettable experience. It's little touches like this that elevate a catering service from good to exceptional.

Choosing Calogeros was one of the best decisions we made during our wedding planning. Their dedication to quality ingredients and their exceptional culinary skills ensured that our guests were treated to a feast that was both delicious and memorable. We received so many compliments on the food, and it's a testament to their professionalism and expertise. Thank you,Calogeros, for making our wedding day even...