Capo’s is a highly respected neighborhood Italian-American “pizza house” and bar from 13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani. Located on the historic Vallejo Street, the restaurant is a love letter to the Prohibition era and the gritty, glamorous spirit of Old Chicago. Stepping through the heavy front doors is like stepping back in time to 1930s North Beach, where the leather booths are deep, the lighting is dim, and the portions are legendary.

The Interior & Architectural Vibe

The interior features exposed brick walls, tufted red leather banquettes, and vintage memorabilia—including a meticulously restored 1937 cash register and a “secret” phone booth. The focal point of the dining room is the massive wood-fired oven and the polished bar stocked with over 100 whiskies. It feels intimate, clubby, and a little bit dangerous in the best way possible—as if Al Capone himself might be tucked into the corner booth at the back.

• Live Music Series: During the warmer months Capo’s features a live music program just outside the front door on Thursdays from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. The performances have rotating local bands that perfectly matches the “Old Vegas” energy of the dining room.

• The “Four Styles” of Pizza: Unlike most pizzerias, Capo’s specializes in four distinct Chicago-style crusts: Deep Dish, Stuffed, Cast Iron (Pan), and Cracker Thin. Their “The Dillinger” pizza is a multi-award winner, featuring a crown of smoked mozzarella, lemon, and horseradish.

• Whiskey & Rye: The bar program is centered on a robust selection of bourbon and rye, curated to pair with the heavy, savory flavors of the kitchen. Their cocktails are classic and “stiff,” served with the precision of a mid-century barkeep.

• A North Beach Mainstay: Despite its Chicago roots, Capo’s has become a quintessential North Beach anchor. Its location on the quieter Vallejo block makes it a favorite “hidden gem” for locals who want to escape the Columbus Avenue crowds without sacrificing the neighborhood’s historic charm.