We love Pesto’s but not quite five stars. We went on a midday Tuesday and they were still quite busy. Good for them. Thankful for the lunch portion of the famous vodka chicken. Our server was generous with the bread. The side salads could have been more generous. In total, about $109 for 5 people including tip. We didn’t get appetizers, special drinks, or dessert.
Overview Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso
Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso offers an exceptional dining experience right in the heart of Valparaiso, Indiana. Located at 3123 Calumet Ave, this cozy, family-friendly spot brings the authentic flavors of Italy to this Midwestern city. With its warm atmosphere and diverse menu, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
When you step inside, you're immediately greeted by a comforting ambiance that perfectly complements the hearty, flavorful dishes served here. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a special night out, Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso provides a welcoming environment for all occasions.
The menu at Pesto's Italian Restaurant is extensive, offering a wide array of traditional Italian dishes. From pasta classics like spaghetti Bolognese and lasagna to gourmet pizzas topped with fresh ingredients, there’s something to satisfy every craving. One standout feature is their wood-fired pizza, which combines a perfectly crispy crust with rich, savory toppings that transport you straight to the heart of Italy. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish is bursting with flavor.
For those seeking lighter fare, Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso also has a selection of vibrant salads, such as the Caprese salad, made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. And, if you're in the mood for something special, their seafood pasta is a must-try, offering the perfect balance of delicate seafood and rich, creamy sauce.
A visit to Pesto's wouldn’t be complete without trying one of their signature desserts. The tiramisu is a local favorite, light yet indulgent, with just the right amount of sweetness. For something more decadent, their cannoli is a treat not to be missed, filled with a smooth ricotta cream that leaves you craving more.
Pesto's Italian Restaurant also goes above and beyond with its customer service. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating an atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy your meal without worry. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just enjoying a night out, the team at Pesto’s makes every dining experience memorable.
Located in a convenient spot in Valparaiso, the restaurant also offers easy access for those in the surrounding areas, including Chesterton, Portage, and beyond. With its inviting atmosphere, exceptional service, and mouthwatering dishes, Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso is the perfect place to indulge in the flavors of Italy while enjoying a meal with loved ones or friends.
For anyone in the area looking to experience Italian cuisine done right, this charming restaurant is a top choice. You’ll find yourself coming back for more, whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great beer selection âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine list âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Private dining room âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPlanning
âś“ Brunch reservations recommended âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ Has changing table(s) âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPhotos Pesto's Italian Restaurant Valparaiso
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Reviews
- 2207 reviews
Stopped by to celebrate my mother’s birthday and the entire visit was amazing! Plenty of parking, including a good amount of handicapped spots, no long line on a Sunday evening, clean look with professional team. Our reservation was ready for us even though we’d shown up a touch early, our waitress was a sweet younger woman with black hair neatly tucked back- respectful, patient, and observant. She did a wonderful job keeping our drinks filled and making sure we enjoyed our experience. A model employee, everyone seemed well trained and guest forward. Our soup and salad orders arrived at the perfect time, then our meals were delivered in the same fashion- everything was delicious! My creamy pesto tortellini was absolutely divine and I adored the pine nuts mixed in, the serving size was great as well! Overall a good visit and for the level of service I would say well worth the price.
Delicious food that gives very generous portions. You will definitely have some for take home. Service was great and attentive. Atmosphere was cozy despite it being busy. It’s a nice quick place to come grab a bite!
My wife and I stopped in for lunch on 12/31/25. This was our first time being here. Leslie was our server, and she was terrific! Had a warm smile on her face when she greeted us and could not have been friendlier. We started with the sauteed Italian sausage, which was DELICIOUS!! I had the Cajun Tuna Steak (lunch portion), My wife had the Roasted Garlic Chicken. Both entrees were fantastic! We enjoyed every single bite, start to finish. We will definitely be returning to Pesto's and I hope we are lucky enough to have Leslie as our server. We truly could not have been happier!!
We had a great lunch. It's basically Italian food from the 80s. Think penne Alla vodka sauce, shrimp dejonge etc. And I mean that in the best of ways. It is not the old old school red sauce Italian spaghetti and meatballs and it's not modern-day contemporary Italian. Everything was super flavorful. The macadamia nut chicken had a flavorful sauce made with roasted red peppers and cream. I had the halibut that came with seared scallops. We had turtle cheesecake and creme brulee for dessert. Nice environment and our server was friendly, attentive and professional . I would go back 100 percent. Also the prices were not insane.
An honest review. The atmosphere, service and food was really good. My only recommendations would be to add a little more lightening in the small room off to the side, By the large windows with possibly a small heating unit bc the window leaves it very cold to sit comfortably next to. The other thing I’d recommend is to add more gluten free pasta options and deserts. Celiac disease is quite common and makes it difficult for people to choose restaurants. With this being such beautiful restaurant with its high demands of people who run through I think it would only be a benefit to the restaurant and the people who come. Thank you
It was very nice! Pork chop was delicious! The waitress was very nice. Christmas atmosphere was peak. Has a giant Christmas tree! I hate asparagus but it was so good there and I loved it + best mashed potatoes I have ever eaten! And mash potatoes are one of my favorite foods! I also got a salad with my pork chop and they serve us bread with a really good sauce.
I have had Pesto's Many times throught the years and have Always had an Amazing meal Everytime! I Ordered To Go this time. I had The Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp Skewers with Sautéed Asparagus and Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Tortellini Pasta Stuffed with Cheese with a light Lemon Sauce & Homemade Garlic Bread and it was Incredible!! I Highly Recommend Pesto's if your looking for an Authentic Italian Meal. It's Definitely worth the stop!!