Italian Cottage
Chico, California, USA
Discover Italian Cottage in Chico, CA - family-owned Italian restaurant offering breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner with great service and local favorites.
2234 Esplanade, Chico, CA 95926, United States
Italian Cottage
Chico, California, USA
Overview
Italian Cottage is a cherished Italian restaurant located in Chico, CA, offering a blend of Italian comfort food and breakfast fare since 1965. This family-owned trattoria serves a diverse menu that also embraces American and European influences, perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
With a cozy and historic atmosphere, patrons can enjoy quality dishes such as classic lasagna, hearty sandwiches, and specialty omelettes, alongside a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Its welcoming vibe attracts families, college students, and tourists alike, making it a staple dining destination in the area.
Gallery
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
A beloved spot since 1965, serving authentic Italian comfort food alongside classic breakfast and brunch dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Enjoy quick and attentive service that keeps diners coming back for breakfast, lunch, and dinner without long waits.
From great coffee and cocktails to a well-curated wine list and local beers, there’s a drink for every taste.
The casual, romantic, and quiet environment complements its rich history and makes it perfect for solo dining, families, and groups.
Good for kids with a kids' menu and high chairs, plus wheelchair accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating.
Located on Esplanade in Chico, with free parking in lot and on street for easy access.
Signature dishes like Valley Famous Lasagna and Roasted Garlic highlight the menu’s authentic Italian roots.
Offering outdoor seating, dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup for maximum convenience.
Experience
Ideal for casual dining or a relaxed meal, Italian Cottage suits a variety of occasions from weekday mornings to weekend gatherings.
Visitors typically spend between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours here, enjoying attentive table service and a menu that shines in authentic Italian and American comfort food with touches of European flair. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Start the day with flavorful omelettes, Belgian waffles, or house specialties paired with great coffee or tea in a cozy morning setting.
Bring the whole family to enjoy kid-friendly menus, high chairs, and a quiet yet casual atmosphere suitable for all ages.
Choose from curbside pickup or no-contact delivery for a quick meal at home without compromising on the authentic flavors of Italian Cottage’s offerings.
Ideal for group dinners and special occasions, the private dining room and attentive staff ensure a memorable Italian dining experience.
With free parking lots and street parking options, visiting for a quick or extended meal is convenient and stress-free.
The quiet, romantic, and historic ambiance provides a welcoming spot for dining alone, with a menu that caters to various tastes and preferences.
Guest sentiment
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
"We have been coming here for over 30 years, always stop in when in the area. Stopped for lunch on the way home, traveling with our dog. Very hot day, couldn't leave the dog in the car, we were able to sit outside and eat, our dog loved it. And of course, food was great!! Gotta love the steamed clams!!"
"Excellent lasagna, very quick and friendly service, and feels pretty close to high end."
"Italian Cottage is a Chico staple for Italian food. My parents have been going there since high school and I had my first date with my wife at the one on Skyway 30 years ago. The food is good and is always consistent, you know what you are going to get every time. The staff is always great and attentive. I go there at least every couple of months and I am always satisfied."
"5 stars is nowhere NEAR enough to describe my experience here! Not only was the service and atmosphere wonderful, but the food! Oh my gosh. I've had a LOT of Italian food before, even when on vacation in Italy as a kid. The amount of flavor in their dishes begs the question - how is it possible? I've never had anywhere near the amount of flavor at ANY other restaurant, Italian or otherwise. I could tell it had a lot of Italian heart and soul put into it. Each bite was as delicious as the last and when things were all said and done, I left after having one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, meal I've ever had. I absolutely recommend, no doubt about it."
"Went for a bday party of around 20 people. The waitress was a champ. Didn't wait long for food and it was good. Had a good time. But most of all the bday girl was happy we were all taken care of and happy all together"
"Wonderful atmosphere, mouth watering food and drink, and a staff that is very friendly; it’s a true Italian experience. Affordable prices will have us returning."
"We eat here every year, after getting our taxes done. This year was better than ever! Food was perfect! Service was excellent! Five stars!"
"Took my mom with my husband and it was a really relaxing lunch while we were visiting our mother in Law in the hospital. Didn't take too long. Server helped explain - it have a new favorite now."
Visit info
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
| Monday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Thursday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Friday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Saturday | 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Open every day except Sunday, early breakfasts through dinner offers a flexible dining experience lasting around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
On the map
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Questions answered
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For owners
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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.