Our Story

About Pelago Cafe

325 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood, IL 60040

Welcome

Welcome to Pelago Cafe

Our story began with a shared dream and deep family roots that stretch across the mountains of Northern Italy. The name Pelago honors two neighboring towns — Sant’Anna Pelago and Pieve Pelago — where generations of family, food, and tradition shaped the values carried forward today. What started as recipes passed down through family gatherings has grown into a space that celebrates connection, comfort, and authenticity. Pelago is our love letter to family, food, and community — a place where every meal celebrates connection and the simple joy of slowing down. It was inspired by the kitchens and traditions of our Northern Italian roots, where recipes are shared, conversations linger, and every bite feels like coming home. Rooted in the heritage we grew up with and crafted with heart, Pelago Cafe is our way of inviting you to gather, savor, and experience the warmth of authentic Italian hospitality — right here in Highwood. - Mada & Ruthie

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Mada and Ruthie at a table in Pelago Cafe

Our Space

Photo Gallery

Pelago Cafe dining tables and Italian retail shelves

Pelago Cafe dining tables and Italian retail shelves

Wine and Italian pantry goods at Pelago Cafe

Wine and Italian pantry goods at Pelago Cafe

Margherita flattini with tomato, mozzarella and basil

Margherita flattini with tomato, mozzarella and basil

Prosciutto flattini topped with burrata and arugula

Prosciutto flattini topped with burrata and arugula

Antipasto board with cured meats, cheese and fruit

Antipasto board with cured meats, cheese and fruit

Filled croissants served at Pelago Cafe

Filled croissants served at Pelago Cafe

Fresh rustic bread at Pelago Cafe

Fresh rustic bread at Pelago Cafe

Biscotti with nuts and chocolate

Biscotti with nuts and chocolate

Cappuccino in a decorative cup at Pelago Cafe

Cappuccino in a decorative cup at Pelago Cafe

Espresso pouring into a white cup

Espresso pouring into a white cup

Croissant sandwiches at Pelago Cafe

Croissant sandwiches at Pelago Cafe

Family photograph of traditional Italian cooking

Family photograph of traditional Italian cooking

Mountain landscape celebrating Pelago’s Northern Italian roots

Mountain landscape celebrating Pelago’s Northern Italian roots

Large antipasto spread with meats, cheese, fruit and crackers

Large antipasto spread with meats, cheese, fruit and crackers

Our Hours

Come Dine With Us

We'd love to welcome you.

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