The Article below was published in Vol. 135, Issue 6 of the Lake Forest College Stentor on March 6, 2020.
By Ellerese Topacio ’21
Associate Editor
When the Caf fails to provide food that has flavor, or it just flat out fails to satiate our appetites, local restaurants can come to the rescue. Along Western Avenue, just past the train tracks, lies a fresh, savory pizzeria named Ferentino’s Pizzeria.
Originally opened in Highland Park in 1980, Ferentino’s relocated to Lake Forest in 1992. Founded by Italian immigrant Piero D’ascenzi, the Lake Forest restaurant remains a local favorite, especially among the lunchtime crowd. Ferentino’s offers a variety of pizza crusts—thin, pan, Roma (focaccia bread), and stuffed crust. Coupled with an array of delicious meat and vegetable toppings, ranging from classic pepperoni and sausage to unique offerings like meatballs and bacon, anyone can customize their pizza to their liking.
They also serve popular appetizers, including bruschetta, pizza bread, garlic bread, French fries, and chicken strips. For the salad-lovers out there, Ferentino’s is known for its fresh greens fused with flavorful dressings and multiple protein options. Some of these dishes include the chicken Caesar salad, the Greek salad, and the Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. A unique feature of the menu is the low-carb plates, which offer all of the flavor with none of the carbs. Offerings include the Italian beef plate, the sausage and meatball plate, and the chicken plate.
Students can find plenty of affordable options at Ferentino’s, especially between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., when deep dish and thin crust pizza-by-the-slice is sold for only $3. Is it lunchtime yet? Because Ferentino’s is waiting to take your order.
Ferentino’s is located at 842 N Western Ave, Lake Forest. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Call 847-295-8888.
