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Italian Cottage in California

Discover Italian Cottage in Chico, CA - family-owned Italian restaurant offering breakfast, brunch, lunch & dinner with great service and local favorites.

4.3 1,516 reviews $10–20 Italian Restaurant American · Southern

2234 Esplanade, Chico, CA 95926, United States

FoodPlacee Passport United States · California · 58809
Verified

Italian Cottage

Chico, California, USA

Roasted Garlic Chicken Parmesan Beef Dip Turkey
Rating★ 4.3 / 5
Price$10–20
CategoryItalian Restaurant
Today 07:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Overview

About This Food Place

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

Photos from Italian Cottage

Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.

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Local favorites

Why People Come Here

A beloved spot since 1965, serving authentic Italian comfort food alongside classic breakfast and brunch dishes in a cozy, family-friendly setting.

Fast, Friendly Service

Enjoy quick and attentive service that keeps diners coming back for breakfast, lunch, and dinner without long waits.

Excellent Drink Selection

From great coffee and cocktails to a well-curated wine list and local beers, there’s a drink for every taste.

Cozy & Historic Atmosphere

The casual, romantic, and quiet environment complements its rich history and makes it perfect for solo dining, families, and groups.

Family-Friendly & Accessible

Good for kids with a kids' menu and high chairs, plus wheelchair accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating.

Convenient Location & Parking

Located on Esplanade in Chico, with free parking in lot and on street for easy access.

Local Specialty Dishes

Signature dishes like Valley Famous Lasagna and Roasted Garlic highlight the menu’s authentic Italian roots.

Multiple Service Options

Offering outdoor seating, dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup for maximum convenience.

Experience

When & How to Enjoy This Place

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

Breakfast or Brunch Delight

Start the day with flavorful omelettes, Belgian waffles, or house specialties paired with great coffee or tea in a cozy morning setting.

Family-Friendly Dining

Bring the whole family to enjoy kid-friendly menus, high chairs, and a quiet yet casual atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Convenient Takeout & Delivery

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.

Reservation-Friendly Evenings

Ideal for group dinners and special occasions, the private dining room and attentive staff ensure a memorable Italian dining experience.

Easy Parking Access

With free parking lots and street parking options, visiting for a quick or extended meal is convenient and stress-free.

Solo Dining Comfort

The quiet, romantic, and historic ambiance provides a welcoming spot for dining alone, with a menu that caters to various tastes and preferences.

Best for

Breakfast Brunch Family-friendly Reservations accepted Takeout & Delivery Great wine list Outdoor seating Popular local spot

Guest sentiment

What People Feel

A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.

CC
Chris Cartwright 2 month ago

"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!!"

L“
Luke “Gooberfish” 2 month ago

"Excellent lasagna, very quick and friendly service, and feels pretty close to high end."

J
Jason 2 month ago

"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."

LA
Lily Agape 2 month ago

"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."

JM
Janet Munoz 3 month ago

"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"

DS
David Sullivan 3 month ago

"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."

JM
JASON Mauel 4 month ago

"We eat here every year, after getting our taxes done. This year was better than ever! Food was perfect! Service was excellent! Five stars!"

DGL
De Garcia LIGHTLE (DeLight) 4 month ago

"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

When to Visit

Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.

Today Closed
Weekly hours
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
Hours may change. Please confirm with the business before visiting.

Best time to visit

Open every day except Sunday, early breakfasts through dinner offers a flexible dining experience lasting around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Weekdays & Saturdays: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM Ideal for families, groups, and solo diners any time during open hours Visit duration typically 45 minutes to 1.5 hours Reservations accepted for hassle-free dining

On the map

Where This Food Place Lives

Find your way to Italian Cottage in California .

Address 2234 Esplanade, Chico, CA 95926, United States
Phone +1 530-343-7000
Area California
Call Address copied ✓

Questions answered

Food Place Questions

Find answers to common questions about Italian Cottage, including dining options, accessibility, menu highlights, and more.

Italian Cottage is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays. Hours may vary during holidays or special events.

Yes, outdoor seating is available along with takeout, curbside pickup, delivery, and no-contact delivery options to suit different dining preferences.

The restaurant welcomes families and provides a kids' menu and high chairs to accommodate younger guests comfortably.

Primarily an Italian restaurant, it also offers American and European influences. Popular dishes include Roasted Garlic, Chicken Parmesan, Valley Famous Lasagna, Beef Dip, and Lemonade.

Italian Cottage features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restroom facilities to ensure accessibility for all guests.

Reservations are accepted, which helps plan visits especially during busy times like breakfast, brunch, or dinner service.

Payments can be made using credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenient checkout options.

Free parking is offered both in a parking lot and on the street nearby, providing easy access for visitors.

For owners

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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.