Food was pretty good. It's rather loud in there, had a difficult time hearing my husband or even our waiter.

The chicken limone lunch special was simply fantastic. Two sizeable breasts with the fresh lemon that's accompanied with a side of fresh spinach. A perfect. filling lunch for $14.00. Not the cheapest deal for a nice Italian suburban venue, but certainly not the priciest either. Everyone's entrees looked delicious! read more

I need to preface this review by saying that the group of 5 of us who I visited this Francesca's with, including myself, have all waitressed and/or bartended in restaurants previously. So we're usually a server's dream table. Always very patient and happy to let things slide that some customers might get upset about. But because of our experience, we're also somewhat quick to judge a server who's rude for no reason. That's what we received the night we went. Last Friday we went for a friend's birthday, having all eaten and different Francesca's before we knew the food would be excellent. It started with me, I suppose, I was the first person to arrive at the table. I'm currently on a diet that is restrictive, and did my due-diligence to look up the menu before I came, but knew I wanted to let the waitress know in advance that I might have questions on a few items, but also clarify that this was *not* a food allergy, and merely just a dietary thing, so that there was no big worry when it came to my order. When the waitress first came to the table and I took the opportunity to tell her, all I got was a stare back and an, "...OK." To which I could only reply, "Um... OK..." Suffice to say I didn't bother to ask her any questions later and just did my best to order what I could eat, nor did she ever bring it up again. That pretty much set the tone for the meal. I didn't even mention it to my friends when they got there, but the service was rude throughout. Asked for some time to look over drink menus, and after 10 minutes of her walking past our table we got her attention and asked if we could order, and once again were just started at. Same with when we did the all-too-familiar "Who's ready to order first." "No you go first!" "Okay I know and we'll go clockwise." Everybody does it - but rather than a "Hey I can come back, it's no problem" or "Does anyone have questions or should I give you a few more minutes?" we just got stared at, with an annoyed look. We all commented to each other at the end that the service was a little "off". We did get a thank you after she picked up the signed bill (one of my personal pet peeves of a waiter who's rude throughout and then suddenly saying thank you, but whatever). Anyway, I don't know if this waitress was just having a rough day, and it didn't necessarily ruin our night because as always, the food was excellent. But I can safely say while I'll happily frequent a Francesca's again, I will personally avoid this one, and hope that the waitress was just having an off night for the sake of other diners. read more

Food was mediocre. Be ready to listen to the conversation at the table next to you... it's set up about 10" away. Overrated.

Came for the Easter buffet. Food was fresh, delicious and they had plenty of it and kept it refilled! I had saw people say its tight quarters but it isn't bad (I've seen far worse) mainly the walk ways are tight. Desserts are also scrumpious (we were lucky enough to sit neat that table). Mainly i give this a 4 star review for being $42 dollars a person. You do get your money's worth but for 5 adults is $200 + tip. But servers are great and keep your water topped off. read more

I come here often. The food is consistently awesome! Very flavorful and always tastes fresh. The pasta dishes are large portions and there is a good variety. The service is usually very good as well. The ambiance is that of a loud bustling restaurant which I enjoy, nothing worse than eating in a morgue. read more

We were a little disappointed. I remember eating at Francescas a few years ago and being impressed. This time, however, we found the menu to be pretty small. The food was fairly average. Pricey for average food. LA read more

After calling all week to confirm that we could order on Christmas Eve for a group of 6 people with a 5pm pickup - and after calling four hours earlier than they recommended, this place decided that our Christmas Party wasn't important enough to honor our order. This just confirms what we've seen when we eat there (constantly pulling half finished plates away, rushing us out the door, etc.) with plenty of other good options in the area, there's no reason to go here. read more

We came here for Mother's Day and the place was PACKED! After waiting for a bit, we ended up with Lisa as our waitress. She was, without a doubt, the greatest waitress we've ever had. She had our drinks and food out before we could blink. The food was excellent, but Lisa went above and beyond to make this a memorable Mother's Day for our group! read more

Walked in on a Thursday. We did not have a reservation. Wasn't even greeted with a hello. Was first asked if we had a reservation. We said, "No". They would no sit us. The manager at the host stand was an a complete asshole and rude. We will never eat here. read more

We love this place. A solid go to for family functions or a nice evening out. Always busy and for us always good. Ask for the back room if you want it to be slightly less noisy read more

I had high hopes for this place but unfortunately it fell really short! Very limited menu! Overly priced food for your portions. My had a total of 12 Diffrent menu items for main course. Needless to say I wouldn't return. Nor would I recommend this place to family or friends! read more

We just returned from a Tuesday evening dinner at Francesca''s (which was not by the river, incidently). I had low expecations coming to this place because our party was a size of 15 people. I expected the service to be so so, but I was actually surprised. The waiter took our order promptly, was pretty adept at remembering who ordered what, and water service was quite good--I think I had about five cups of water---a bit excessive, I know. In terms of appetizers, we ordered fried calamari, mushroom risotto, and garlic toast with fresh mozzarela and tomatos. The mushroom risotto was quite tasty, and the garlic toast was pretty good as well. This was my first time trying calamari, and it wasn't so bad!!! The options for entrees were limited., and thus the reason for the three stars. Everyone ordered a bunch of entrees; the most popular dish on the menu was the neopolitan pizza with goat cheese, arugula, and fresh tomatoes. I personally ordered the salmon. In particular, I enjoyed the salmon with avocado and onion salad with asparagus, but I do not think the quality of the taste justified the exorbitant price of the fish--especially in this recession. We had someone in our party order the linguini in alfredo sauce with clams, and another person order tilapia. I eagerly awaited desserts. I was surprised at the variety of choices. In particular, people in my party ate the apple tart, puff pastry with vanilla gelato, and creme brulee. I had the lava cake with mint chocolate chip gelato and berry sauce. Overall, I enjoyed the berry sauce and gelato, but the cake itself left a bit to be desired. My personal gripe with it was it was a bit too small and dense. I was expecting it to be similar to the warm chocolate melting cake you find on Carnival Cruises, but it was a bit doughy and different. I'm not sure if I will be back, but I would like to try the Francesca's restaurants in other locations. read more

First time at the St. Charles Francesca's. Have been to the Elmhurst location many times and to the Chicago - north side - location once. Both were measurably better than Francesca's by the River. Layout of restaurant was okay -- tables not crowded together. Service was very good. But food was just below average. I ordered rigatoni with vegetables and it was very difficult to find all the veggies listed on the menu. The pasta itself was quite chewy but maybe that's how they usually cook it. There were large globs of mozzarella on top of the pasta, not very appetizing, although I do enjoy mozzarella when properly used in a recipe. Ordered a beer and the waiter brought the bottle and a glass - didn't pour it for me, which I kind of expected since otherwise he was an attentive waiter. Wish I had seen these other reviews before going there, then maybe I could have ordered from the "secret menu." Had gelato for dessert - it was described as "salted caramel" but I failed to detect any caramel flavor or bits. It was a large serving, so much that I couldn't finish it and of course, could not take it home. In fact, all their desserts had ice cream or whipped cream so you couldn't really take any portion with you. where or where was the carrot cake mentioned in the reviews? And the waiter didn't really give me an opportunity to make my opinions known. Maybe it was because of my dinner partner who 1) ordered more expensive items and 2) asked tons of questions, so much that the waiter seemed to have no time for mine. All in all, very disappointing and I doubt that I'll be returning to any of the Francesca's. read more

We went during St Patrick's weekend so it was really busy but the service was still great. It's such a warm and cozy place, the food is solid Italian and reasonably priced. Our waiter was very friendly and gave good food tips. Definitely go hungry as the portions are large. read more

My husband and I love this place! We had dinner here on Friday night and my husband said he had the best filet mignon he has ever had! The waiter recommended the Farfalle alla Carrettiera and I have to say it was amazing!! read more

Note: there are TWO listings for this restaurant. Check the reviews at the other listing (address: 200 S. 2nd Street instead of 200 S. Second Street) too. I'm a fan of this chain so I finally made a res on savored.com and headed over to the St. Charles variation on a Saturday night. Verdict: good but room for improvement. As noted in other reviews, this place is NOT on the river so don't expect a view. Also, be careful not to park at Kevin's Auto Repair across the street or at the Blue Goose or you'll be towed. There's a big public 3-hour lot, you just need to make sure you're in it. The host staff was very friendly, and happily honored my request for the best table in the restaurant: table for two in front of the fireplace. Make sure you ask for it, especially if you tend to get chilly all the time like me. Nice atmosphere and volume. Our server Pablo was friendly and fast and attentive. Our waters were never empty and the plates came out quickly. HOWEVER, what's up the bar??? We ordered signature cocktails off the drink menu, only to be told the bartender could not (?) make anything listed except one random berry concoction. My date had intentionally ordered a drink with ginger to calm an upset stomach, so he asked that the bartender make something else with ginger, anything really. Response: We don't have ginger. Really? At all? Baffling. These vague, strange issues with the entire drink menu costs them a star. I had gnocchi, a personal fav, and thought it was done well, with an almost creamy consistency. My portion was a good size too. My date ordered fettuccine with scallops, which he liked but couldn't eat due to the upset stomach. Even with drinks and a cappuccino, our bill was a reasonable $56 before the savored.com discount. Speaking of, our check came without our discount. The whole point of savored is that you're not supposed to have to ask. Sigh. Our waiter had no idea what we were talking about but the manager fixed it. Minus 1 star for the hassle. I'd go back, but they have a bit of work to do before they get those fourth and fifth stars. read more

Awesome food & wine, although I miss the tiny glasses. They do good events, just be careful not to have too many people. They will accommodate you last minute, treat you well and I love that all the wait staff are guys. Very Italian! Go just for cappuccino & dessert even! read more

Excellent ever-changing menu and some of the best appetizers around. Good bread and dipping oil, healthy portions for the pasta dishes and excellent desserts. Wait service is generally good overall. Prices are about right for the quality and portions. Good location, good ambiance. read more

Always consistent. Francescas is great. First time at this location. Staff was excellent. Food awesome!

I got take out this evening. I found it tastey worth every bit of the 20 dollars I spent, but no more. I don't see myself eating inside this place, it is a bit too pretentious and suburban, but I enjoy my salad and pasta siciliana and would get it again! read more

Gluten-free full menu! Choices! Taking family members with gluten intolerance where they can order without having to ask for modifications for entrees tipped the scale to a 5. Wonderfully made pasta for everyone, appetizers we can share without analyzing, almost beyond belief for what we usually experience. Go, enjoy and be catered to. read more

Good food but the service and layout of the restaurant were not good - way too crowded and the number of tables our waiter was responsible for made it impossible to pay any attention to us. Very disappointing. I've eaten at three other Francesca's and the other's are far better all the way around. read more

Being one of the many Francesca's restaurants, you are almost guaranteed to have a terrific meal. The interior is typical for an Italian restaurant but the tables are a bit close and you may find yourself talking over the party next to you, after a few glasses of wine. The service wasn't as good at this location as I have praised some of the others for though. Overall, it is wonderful that I can go home to my parents' and still have a taste of the city...the food is always fresh and authentic. read more

Stopped in Saturday for the first time in years. Had a great meal, the pizza with prosciutto and egg. Really good. Try the profiterole with pistachio ice cream. read more

I probably come here once a year and that is enough for me. The food is wonderful, as well as the service. It's quite loud though, with open seating and high ceilings, like most places are now a days. The menu is small, one page, and I always struggle to decide what to get because I always want the fish on the bed of spinach but I struggle to think it's worth $24 even though it's delicious. This last time my in-laws took me here for my 30th birthday. We did not tell the waitress it was my birthday but she noticed a small present on a chair and brought out a dessert and candle for me. Our waitress was wonderful, friendly and made us feel like we were regulars, even though we're not. read more

I was there last sunday and the food was great and a big thanks to our server janell she was outstanding! She went above and beyond to make sure all of our needs were met! Also the restaurant had a great atmosphere. Will be returning for sure! read more

It's the river location that makes this place. Of course it delivers the usual Francesca's goodness. The photo someone posted here doesn't really look accurate. read more

Love Francesca's! Have had many great meals there and was never disappointed.

My wife and I have been here 2 times for anniversary celebrations, and have not been treated better anywhere over the last 11 years of wedded bliss. (Well maybe Smith & Wollensky downtown Chicago matched, but at much higher cost). We wondered why we don't go more often. Could not say enough positive about the service. Right level of attention, without being intrusive - and at the right times. This seems to be a lost art in some places. Food was great. I had a salmon dish, couldn't tell you what the wife had after a couple of comped glasses of champagne, nice bottle of italian red, and the gluttony of profiteroles to top off the night. Only slight beef was with parking, but we went early enough so we could snag a spot diagonally in a city lot (the on-site parking lot was completely full already). But that was quickly forgotten as as we sat down (which was immediate due to advance reservation, which is highly recommended). In the top 2 of St Chuck eateries in my book. read more

I always look forward to going to this place every time i go. I have been to a few of Francesca's and never had a bad experience. This place is truly one of my all time favorites. read more

This could have been 5 stars but the service was good, not excellent. The food on the other hand was phenomenal. The calamari was by far the best I've ever had where it just melted in your mouth. I had gnocchi and my wife had the half chicken, both were very good. I absolutely recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for some good Italian. read more

I came here during work travel and dined alone at a high top bar table. There was not seating available at the bar. The bartender wS doing everything she could to keep up with that area and drinks for the entire restaurant. It was busy on a Thursday night. Clearly a much loved spot by the locals. Tables were filled with date night, girls night, work dinners, no kids. Definitely a go-to we have a babysitter tonight spot. Food and service were zipping through with teams delivering, refilling and clearing. Service is not the fastest nor the most efficient, despite the speed of staff all around. But having been in the food and beverage industry, I did not fret over having to ask for a thing or two. They were all working very hard. I was glad my drive and pick a local non chain restaurant routine landed me here. Wonderful eatery where it felt like the staff are probably family to each other. Reservations should be made. read more

I had never been to St. Charles and when I got there I was impressed with the downtown ambience. What a cool old town style city on the river. This city has big time character! I ate at Francesca's and boy was it good! To start we had the sautéed calamari which was outstanding. The sauce was to die for. For the main course we had the veal medallions and the meal was excellent. I haven't seen medallions that large ever and they were cooked perfectly with another sauce to die for. I would definitely go back. read more

This was not only great food, but also a good atmosphere. The waiter was very polite and helpful. The prices were comparable to Olive Garden, and the food was of much better quality. read more

Still my go-to place for Italian in the the Fox Valley. Went there last night (tues) hoping to get a jump on the Valentine's Days crowd - not! Place was packed but luckily did not have to wait for a table. Our mushroom risotto appetizer was great - cooked perfectly. I had spinach raviolis - my wife had the Salmon - both were great. Service was splendid also - i'll be back! read more

Great food and drinks. Wife wanted one of the specialty drinks and the bar had run out of one of the ingredients near closing time so the bartender made her a custom drink. Was great. Waitress was friendly and appropriately attentive. read more

This place is great and consistent! It has been since I've been going for years. Try the 7' pizzas. Some of the best around!

I am out for the 1st time in years locally. I have traveled to many spots and had wonderful fare... I was very happy with the service (Brian) and the food was fab. Totally recommend. A must go! read more

Mio Modo - The salmon is wonderful! A most have. - Italian Near Me - St. Charles, Illinois

We went here for a date night, and I think I pretty much love it. The only reason it doesn't have 5 stars is a minor gaff by the server, and a fairly limited menu--but maybe I'm a tough critic. I had beef ravioli and my husband had penne pasta. The servings were HUGE and tasted delicious. Our server was excellent in my opinion, but forgot to bring my husband's soda (that irked him). However, they brought it when reminded and offered to comp the drink. In my book that makes us even. We were in and out in under 40 minutes (but were welcomed to stay as long as we liked). Everyone seemed busy, attentive and amiable. The food we ordered was very tasty. The prices were reasonable. I will be returning. Probably frequently. read more