Luigi's Restaurant

We had an early dinner at Luigi's Restaurant a few days ago. The boss (my wife) had spaghetti with mushrooms and I had 1/2 rigatoni and 1/2 ravioli, and both our dishes were baked with extra cheese. I damn near scraped the melted cheese off the plate with my teeth. Service, food, and prices were all great. But be aware that they don't accept credit cards. There is an ATM towards the back, but we brought cash. The experience was worth going to the ATM.

Best pizza I ever had, and just love pizzarias. I was in town for a convention and heard folks talking about Luigi's so I had to try it. What I heard was that they had recently won the best pizza in Akron or something. I'm not sure but I think it is a pan fried pizza with is my favorite and while I always order extra cheese I could have ordered just cheese and pepperoni. They definitely don't skimp on the toppings. I go to Akron yearly and near the area a couple other times a year. This place became an instant tradition for me and can't wait to bring others. I had a great server , I know sometimes I can be difficult, but she was great. Thanks.

Luigi’s is hands down one of the best spots in Akron! The atmosphere is always fun and welcoming, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The food is consistently excellent—delicious, fresh, and served in generous portions—and the prices are just as impressive. I highly recommend the baked lasagna, it’s absolutely outstanding! It’s cash only, but they make it easy by having an ATM right inside. The service is always friendly and efficient, which makes the experience even better. Luigi’s is a true Akron original and a must-visit if you’re in the area. A classic that never disappoints!

Walking into Luigi’s feels like stepping back in time. The dim, dated atmosphere instantly conjures images of an old Sicilian restaurant—like the kind where mobsters might’ve once gathered to plot turf wars. But trust me, the food more than makes up for the décor and the paper menus. It’s just down-home, no-frills goodness. Take the zucchini fries, for example. The menu says they come with marinara sauce, but that description doesn’t do them justice. It’s more like a rich, stewed tomato topping—absolutely delicious. We inhaled every bite along with the complimentary Italian bread, which was crusty on the outside and soft and luscious on the inside. I ordered the cheese pizza (no judgment—I don’t eat pork), and while the menu is limited to just a few classic toppings, simplicity works in Luigi’s favor. The pizza looked like it might be doughy and heavy, but it wasn’t at all. The crust was light, airy, crispy—and totally addictive. The Italian Tossed Salad with cheese is another story. They don’t hold back on the mozzarella—it practically helmets the bowl. A bit overwhelming, but the house-made Italian dressing more than redeems it. Just remember: Luigi’s is unapologetically old school. It’s cash-only, but they do have an ATM inside. And if you want music, you’ll need to feed the jukebox. It’s all part of the charm.

This place is absolutely amazing!! The staff was on point for sure, and every dish we saw looked delicious!!! We had the #5 pizza ( pepperoni, sausage) and it was absolutely delicious!!! This place is a hidden gem 💎 and we highly recommend checking them out!!!

Luigi’s in Akron is hands-down one of the best spots for pizza in all of Ohio. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm, old-school charm that feels like stepping back in time—in the best way possible. Now let’s talk about the pizza. The crust is absolutely perfect—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy inside, with just the right amount of bite. The sauce is rich, slightly sweet, and full of flavor, clearly made with care and tradition. Toppings are always fresh and generously piled on, and don’t even get me started on the cheese… They don’t hold back! Every bite is gooey, melty, and satisfying in a way only true comfort food can be. If you’re anywhere near Akron and craving a classic, mouthwatering pizza that hits all the right notes, Luigi’s is the place to go. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience rooted in tradition and flavor. Highly recommended!

Loved the food, seated fairly quickly. Service is fast and good. Spumoni icecream was awesome. Will come again with cash (as this is a cash only place - ATM available) to try others . Pizza was great

I’ve always heard about Luigi’s on 88.1 WZIP growing up, and even in my adult era, I’ve never had it…until TONIGHT! I ordered the Pizza Bianco, a side salad, and a nice crisp Diet Coke! I throughly enjoyed the meal! The bread kept coming in too with butter! Our server was FANTASTIC! Knowledgeable of the menu, a joy to talk with, and a sweetheart! The experience was better than I expected and I’m thrilled leaving the dinner experience!! Well done Luigi’s!

I'm not really sure what to call Luigi's, ultimately. It's definitely an Italian restaurant, and it's been there for decades (I want to say close to 80 years, maybe more?). It's an icon, though. A legend. It's the type of place that is both a time capsule of a bygone era, as well as a landmark of Americana that I hope we never lose. I don't mean to wax poetic, but when I first saw the listing on Yelp (we're not from Akron, see...), I knew I had to try this place. The pictures promised a mix of kitsch, honesty, and a "diamond in the rough" location. So, how did it go? Perfection. FOOD: Number one, the food. It was good. Damn good. Like, you've had better Italian in your life, but it didn't matter because this was hitting a spot in your soul... type of good. We split a few things so we could try a lot on our first visit. Pizza, small cheese salad, half meatball-half sausage "splash," and half rigatoni-half ravioli bake with cheese. Everything was wonderful! The sauce is homemade and it's delicious. The bread is made in house as well and it was so good. The pizza had a very pillowy dough, but it was also quite tasty. If Akron has a pizza style, this is probably it. Last, but definitely not least, the famous (infamous?) Akron cheese salad was more flavorful than I expected and quite a tasty starter! SERVICE: I wish I could remember our server's name, but she was a gem. She was the type who, even upon learning this was your first visit to the place, would kneel down at your table, praise all the entrées and dishes, swear occasionally, and touch your shoulder like you were old friends from way back. YOU CANNOT PUT A PRICE TAG ON THAT LEVEL OF CUSTOMER SERVICE. DÉCOR: Please look at the pictures here on Yelp. Do you see the Budweiser lamp looking thing? And the "band box?" Again... you just don't find things like that in the wild. And this place is wild! I loved the adornments everywhere! It's practically what led me here in the first place! And yes... the Bud lamp works, and it was spinning that evening. You will tell me, "I've had way better Italian food, even around Akron!" And you might be right. Taste is a perspective, yes? But, you cannot tell me there is another Luigi's around, in Akron... in Ohio... maybe even in the entire contiguous forty-eight. I'll take fun decorations and honest people who clearly love their jobs over a fancy schmancy small plate any day of the week. Fancy dining has its place, don't misread me. I certainly have my own picks for the best Italian cuisine almost everywhere I go. But, if I'm ever in Akron again, you can bet Luigi's in on my "must-do" list. Fancy? No. Authentic? Completely. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Everyone's food was great Served piping hot in a timely manner The waitress was very efficient Will definitely go back again

I didn't get the hype We got a salad, one of their award winning pizzas, & pasta. The staff was really nice, place was cozy, to go order came out on time.

Luigi's is opened until midnight. Nine of us walked in at 11 p.m. after the Nickleback concert. Not being busy, and having been here many many times, we quickly ordered three pizzas and one of the best meatballs. Food came, and it was delicious. Cash only establishment. Good prices.

We love the throwback ambiance of this place! My go-to is the salad with cheese and the baked lasagna. I really want to try their lunch because they have soup and I love soups!

Came in for a late night bite Saturday at around 10pm. Was seated right away. Ordered a small cup of coffee to start. The coffee was with super fresh and delicious . I ordered a small pepperoni pizza. Cooked to perfection. The cheese was thick and pulled with each bite. I can see why folks love it! Beautiful stuff clean restaurant will definitely be coming back.

Food was great, and the service was even better! Thank you Lisa Marie for making our experience an enjoyable one!

After a cold night of watching the last home game of the Zips, we were cold and hungry. Opened Yelp to find a good lace open late that had comfort food along with possible vegan options and Luigi's popped up and I am very happy we decided to check this place out! There is plenty of parking all around. The place reminds me of of a strip store walk up diner with the neon lights in the window and the handing lights. Upon entering the bar along the walk way confirmed that it was a traditional mom and pop stop. We were greeted with kindness and support for the vegan in the family. Our server was amazing. Sorry can't recall her name. She provided us with plenty of opportunities to order and guided up to her favorites. She checked on us and said to take our time. Even though it was late in her shift she kept a friendly smile. Once we placed our food we noticed the jukebox. There was several tables of some older folks so we didn't want to disturb them so we asked if it was loud. Our server said it was the perfect volume and if you play it there is a few show, just look above the door. The curtain will open and a bunch of Barbie's and JI Joes will preform for you. This was awesome! We put a buck in and played 3 songs and for a show. The decor in this place is pretty sweet. Lastly, the reason for being in this neat place - the food! When they say they for cheese, well they for cheese! I order my side salad with no cheese but my daughter for all the cheese on hers. It was a lot. I recommend ordering it on the side if you don't like a ton of cheese on your salad. My husband got a veggie sandwich which was not on the menu but he asked if they could do something vegan and they oblige. The zucchini planks are a decent size for an appetizer. I ordered the baked pasta, ravioli and omg it was so freakin good! I ordered the small and couldn't eat it all so I have leftovers for tomorrow. The prices are very reasonable. This is a must if you are in Akron.

If you are thinking about going to Luigi's and have never gone.... Quit reading and just go. Its an old school italian restaurant and an Akron landmark. Its fun. Its good. You will not be disappointed. If you havent been to Luigi's in a long time and are just checking in to see what ppl are saying... its the surrounding area is a bit nicer. The block has a nice updated nighttime vibe. When we were there, a band played in the patio next to the nearby hotel... there is more parking and it's all well lit. Feels safe. The restaurant...exactly the same. Still three rooms with the beautiful murals and gorgeous ceiling. Staff still fun and helpful. Prices perfect. Food excellent. There is a reason this place has loyal customers that have been coming here for generations! The food is great. The pizza... it fills the entire take away box. Its topped generously and the cheese they use.... Mwah- chef's kiss. And they never skimp. Their pasta dishes have the right amount of sauce and are always hot and delicious. If you like salad -its none of that shredded lettuce taco like lettuce. Nope. The lettuce is bite sized but not tiny so it holds their delicious dressing and they top it with so much fresh cheese. Its like a mountain! (You can ask for it on the side if you are counting calories others at the table will gladly like to use what you don't want. Oh- you will love Luigi's. Get in the car and just drive there now.

We were visiting the area for the day and were heading to a nearby shopping spot when we saw this place. It was a little early to eat so we walked around but afterwards decided lets try this place since it is right here and we do not know anywhere else in the area (and its always overwhelming to search places in unknown area). You walk in and taken back to an old school spot (especially with the cash only). They have a takeout counter right in front, counter seating, and 3 dining areas. We were seated within 10-15 mins and it was busy. We were greeted by a bubbly inviting server, she was just amazing. We knew we had to try the pizza and then while standing in line for our table I saw a nearby table get these cheesy meatballs in casserole dish, yes we need those too! We made the right choice, I only regret not trying the cheesy salad, but there is always next time. We will be back it would be worth the 2 hour drive! We walked in at the perfect time because when we left the line was all the way to the parking lot.

Inexpensive and delicious, it was a short wait when I arrived on Sunday evening at 5:00 pm but when I left at 6:30, the queue was halfway down the block. And for sure, I know why these folks were waiting! I got the salad to start, yes topped with cheese. Tasty and filling, the small salad is more than enough for one. For main, I chose the half rigatoni and half ravioli which is covered and cheese, served like baked ziti. A nice rich sauce, be sure you're wearing the right clothes for this as it does get drippy. A bit of red pepper flakes brought out the flavor and it was delicious. Have some patience - everything is made fresh. My salad too 15 minutes and the main course took another 25. I wasn't rushed by my waitress at all but they definitely want to turn the tables over. [Review 1355 of 2024 - 274 in Ohio - 22378 overall]

Wonderful server and friendly staff Cute old school American Italian restaurant. Lots of fun pictures on the wall plus beautiful murals. Food is pretty good. Salad was fresh, bread was delicious (served with butter rather than oil and vinegar), spaghetti sauce (gravy) was pretty basic, I spiced it up with red peppers. Homemade sausage was good, had a softer juicier texture than I expected. Very reasonable prices. Wine was in a small old school glass, but nicely filled to the brim. I much prefer oversized crystal glasses. Overall a good place, I'd visit again

My parents took me and my sisters there frequently. When had a car it was a first choice for a date. I moved away from Akron 50 years ago, but return home frequently. Luigi's is a must stop for my wife and me. The pizza are without equal and the service is spot on. There must be a Luigi's in heaven or I am not going.

I have been here two times. Once for pizza which was just ok not great. I would rate it as the fourth best pizza in the area. The second time was for meat balls. They were also just ok not anything to go crazy over. The bottom line is that it's just ok not place to go but definitely try it if you are in the area.

Luigi's was recommended to be by an Akron native. When I arrived at 4:30 p.m. it was already busy and from where I sat I could see them constantly filling to-go orders. I had to try the salad with cheese..or is it cheese with salad? I ordered the tomato and cheese pie and salad. Warm bread and butter was delivered to my table prior to my dinner. It was very soft with a crunch crust. The salad was good although I should've asked for the dressing on the side as there was quite a bit and a little more than I like. My pizza was served nice and hot. The crust was think and soft with a little crunch on the crust which I really like. Service was pleasant and efficient. I watched all the servers hustle to The atmosphere is like going back in time to a small town where everyone knows each other. There are a lot of pictures on the wall of celebrities who have visited Luigi's. It is cash only, my meal was under $15 and I had half the pizza the next day, what a great value. There is a large parking lot. If you are in Akron I recommend having a meal at Luigi's

Visiting and this was close to my hotel. Had a small pizza and salad to go. Make sure you bring cash or a check because that's all they take. The pizza was a little bit thicker with a really crispy bottom that I loved. If you're looking for good takeout at a good price stop here.

I really like this restaurant. The pizza was delicious. Lasagna was really good too. And the beer, of course was really smooth.

Have heard great things about this place VERY disappointed Not sure where exactly they win awards for their pizza - but we weren't impressed Salad was good Service was ok Ambiance is busy and crowded - people seem to love this place One and done for us

This is a really cute spot with a charming decor and a great atmosphere. The parking around the area is convenient, but it fills up quickly due to the apartments nearby. I ordered takeout shortly after they opened one evening, and the food was overall good. The sauce was a bit too tomato-y for my taste, but I really enjoyed the baked cheese on top. The meatball wasn't my favorite, so I'd probably try something different next time. I'd love to come back and dine in to fully experience the ambiance. The service was good, and the staff was friendly. Worth giving another try!

I think you'll agree that Luigi's is kinda hard to get to. What if I told you that Luigi used to be right on N. Main St. before the high-level bridge. Then the Y bridge came along and Luigi's stayed in the same place but the roads got rerouted. So you could say Luigi's moved, but they didn't .

It doesn't matter that their pizza is amazing if you can't get anyone to answer the phone so that you can place a carry out order!! Signed: a 40 yr plus customer.

Terrible service. I don't think I've ever had such a rude encounter on the phone. I was just trying to place a pickup order and the lady was sighing and using a really unprofessional tone. Like it was bad enough that I straight up cancelled the order. I leave a lot of reviews in a lot of places and very few 1 star ones so I don't take this lightly. I wouldn't eat here if I was in the area and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone else either.

Went with Dad for dinner Sat by 4:30 and got right in and sat down. Big line when we left about an hour later. Each got a salad w/cheese, so good and a sm bakedlasagna which was great w/the bread. And we got a large pizza, pepp/shrooms to go. All was so good. Their sauce is so unique and I love it. Maybe cause I'm going there for decades on occasion ? This place is the BEST wish it wasn't cash only is all.....

We went on a Saturday, the opened at 3. We got there at 2:50 and there was already a line!We got seated probably by 3:10. Service was great. Tossed salad with cheese was amazing. We got a large pizza with peppers and onions. So good!

I ate lunch here before heading to Cleveland to catch a flight. Very family friendly/ neighborhood feel. Felt like I was back at home. Food was tasty and very reasonable. If ever back in Akron I will return for the pizza, I hear it's fantastic!

Don't be intimidated by the line out the door, but instead realize that you're getting something super delicious. This is an Akron classic if you were from the area and have never been here I wouldn't even understand that hands-down the best pizza anywhere in Ohio that I have found so far there cheese salad is pretty much should be called cheese, cheese, salad, and amazing. Always great service. Definitely a mom and Pop place. It's an icon that's been there forever. It'd be nice to have an updated bathroom but again it's been there forever so that comes with the nostalgia!!

Been coming to Luigi's for many years. Love their pizza. Very old ambiance but so cool. Service is good.

Darkness covered the land until a glowing neon moustache emerged from the foggy avenue. I shook off the coat my ex wife gave me (it's seen better days) and asked for a booth. I ordered fourteen pizzas. One for everyone on that hockey team she cheated on me with. Thank god there's not a lot of hockey in Ohio. I guess you could say I was feeling sorry for myself. Maybe this marked the beginning of a new life. Luigi and me. I bumped into a girl named Silvia at the ATM (it's cash only) and I made a joke about wishing I'd been named Benjamin so that when people sing that song it's all about the Benjamins I could say something like "hey that's me you're talking about!" or something like that. I think she thought I was pretty funny though she didn't laugh.

Great old school red joint pizza, pasta restaurant. The food was really good, pricing is incredible ! We enjoyed the poor boy sandwich, a lovely green salad with their homemade dressing and a lasagna with a link of sausage. Interior has some unusual mechanical artwork. Warning! The do not take credit cards!!

Love this place, excellent salad with cheese. Nice lasagna dish! Very pleasant staff.

Been going here for over 50 years. Love this place. Best lasagna ever. In all my travels, haven't found a place that comes close.

My husband took me to this restaurant he liked as a child. The baked spaghetti was excellent!

Hi I am Los jimmy. And every time I visit my Yiayia and Papou, I look forward to getting this pizza. Genuinely good pizza. All of it is awesome. The salad is too. And the spaghetti. A lot of good memories here, with my cousin,and my relatives. Good times. I hope this restaurant stays for centuries more because it holds a place In my heart.

Pizza and salad are the bsst in the Akron area.. The sausage and mushroom pizza is nade with s great tomato sayse, chunks Of italian sausage and plenty of fresh cheese..

Food is always wonderful and fresh! They have the best Italian salads with the freshest cheeses. The hot items are delicious; the sauces are rich and everything is fresh. It's not a huge resturaunt and there is almost always a long to get in so get there early or be willing to wait (no reservations)! They are also cash only, so come prepared. The service this time was just okay. Our server seemed preoccupied with other tables and wasn't around much which was frustrating but not to the point where we won't be back.

Tucked away just outside the main downtown area of Akron, Luigi's is the epitome of a dive Italian restaurant. You walk in the door to a cozy bar with the register. They are cash only so walk to the back for the ad hoc ATM. The machine has a simple (if non standard) instruction sheet. All in all it took about 30 seconds to read the sheet and make a withdraw. The vibe is somewhere between Olive Garden's classy Italian themed decor and a local Italian Social Club. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable while keeping up a low key banter that feels absolutely on brand for an Italian diner. The food arrives hot and delicious. The Pizza is on an understated fluffy Italian bed like crust. The fresh mozzarella is melty with a hint of smoky. The Sauce is a lovely Italian spices blend with rich tomato texture. Surprise! The Parmesan in the shakers is real shredded Parmesan not a powder! The Spaghetti has a distinctly different spice blend than the pizza sauce. Meaty without overpowering the marinara. I love the cute little pasta bake dish it's served in. For the price point, I'm hard pressed to think of a better Italian meal with this much authenticity! I feel like I walked into a New York Italian neighborhood diner in the 50's and 60's. Finally, absolutely recommend the welcoming accepting atmosphere!

I loved this place when I visited! We stopped in later (around 10 PM) for a lateee dinner. The place wasn't super busy so we were able to get a booth right away. We ordered the zucchini planks and a large tomato, cheese, and green pepper pizza. We ended up taking the pizza to go because we were tired. However, all of the food was delicious! The pizza was super cheesy when I loved. Our waitress was great as well. Walking in here felt like stepping into a Time Machine. This is a no frills spot and is cash only! I would definitely visit here again next time I'm in Akron!

Luigi's is an old school Italian restaurant w/really good food & ambiance. That said, I'm a new fan. I had the Homemade Italian Sausage Casserole. Very good w/mild Italian sausage, nice sauce & plenty of cheese. She had the Baked Rigatoni which she said was just as great as it was years ago. Fresh bread comes w/the meals & is very good! We also had side salads which were okay in size, but LOADED with cheese. They're a must have when you come here.Pretty tasty. Service was very nice & attentive. Very good waitress. Checked on us a couple of times. And, yes...THEY ONLY ACCEPT CASH. There's an ATM machine available however. Overall I thought this was a very solid restaurant that the locals love & is very good for dinner. It's worth a try.

Our server Jasmine was excellent. Seated right away on Friday at dinner damn the pizza is the bomb. Bought to half baked to take back to Cincinnati. And the salad with cheese so simple but served ice cold and delicious I can't explain why it's so good and the bread was hot and delicious

Luigis pizza & salad is our favorite! we have been coming here for 30 years. always fresh & delicious! great atmosphere. Great prices! Luigis is an Akron institution! yummy Pizza!

We had diner here last weekend. Food was great as always, staff is always friendly. Highly recommend!

This place was recommended by almost every person we met while in Akron for a work trip! It was reported to be the best authentic Italian place to eat at. This place did not disappoint at all!! The pizza was extremely flavorful and fresh and had great marinara sauce was also full of flavor and you could tell was made fresh! The garlic bread was cooked to perfection and had the perfect amount of cheese and seasoning! I also had their salad and it was simple yet fresh and full of flavor! The service while waiting was also very friendly and accommodating! The price of the food was also well in reasoning for the great quality of food!

I've been going here for at least 25 years now, and it never disappoints!!! The Tossed Salad (AKA - "The Cheese Salad") is definitely a staple here that people continue to talk about. I'm pretty lactose intolerant but will suffer the consequences for this delicious cheese salad any day of the week. Their pizza ... the best around. I don't know what it is, but it's just amazing, classic pizza. The cheese, the dough, the sauce ... ALL PERFECT!!! With so many "flatbread" places nowadays, it's really nice to have really good REAL PIZZA!!! This place is pretty old school ... from the ambiance and decorations to the service. They don't take reservations, so on busy nights, you'll definitely have a wait. Worth while ... but a wait nonetheless. Due to their business, the service is assertive and efficient. The downside of this place is ... you'll need CASH. They do not accept any other forms of payment, so going here requires a little thinking ahead. There is an ATM though ... in case you forget.

Great Pizza, good service and a classic Italian ambiance. Luigi's has stayed loyal to its roots and still remains a landmark in Akron.

Not terrible, not great. Tried it twice now that my kid goes to school at Akron. The ladies at the front were not very pleasant but our waitresses were friendly. Pizza is ok - reminds me of Pizza Hut pizza but the recipe from 30 years ago. So much cheese and scant sauce, so it's really greasy. I am sure lots like it, but just not for me. Baked lasagna was meh, salad has a ton of cheese if you like that. I'm sure my college kid will be there a lot the next few years - us not so much.

An old establishment with delicious food! Definitely recommend! Service was efficient.

Overall it was okay. We got a large pizza but it was very small. Tastes good though, fluffy style dough which was unique. Frozen French fries were meh.

Just recently moved back to hometown of Akron and live dangerously close to this old + forever favorite. First, the ambiance triggers so many good memories. I love the old school feel. The band box over the door kills me! Second, my favorite pizza. A little char on the crust, cup pepperoni, fabulous sauce, so much cheese. Speaking of cheese, get their antipasto + have your socks blown off. Lastly, the people who work there, some over decades, are the sh--. Oh and... open late!!! Love you, Luigi's fam! (People giving them negative marks need counselors IMO).

Food was great, server was stoned and hilarious! Love the vibe! Old school Italian and very chill. Reasonably priced and absolutely delicious!!