Pizza By Sal Opens In Downtown Wilmette

WILMETTE, IL — A new neighborhood pizza joint has opened in downtown Wilmette.

Pizza By Sal, 1133 Greenleaf Ave., is inspired by New York City pizzerias. Connected to Buck Russell's Bakery and Sandwich Shop, it offers take-out and delivery hand-tossed pies, as well as pasta and salad.

It is the fifth location opened by Ballyhoo Hospitality on Chicago's North Shore in the past three years. In addition to Pizza by Sal and Buck Russell's, the group's other eateries include Gemini, Coda di Volpe, Old Pueblo Cantina, Sophia Steak and Pomeroy.

"We're excited to expand our offerings in the North Shore and provide our guests with this new concept," founder Ryan O'Donnell said in a statement. "Pizza by Sal is a place the community can feel good about and is a desired stop to grab a slice after school or a quick take-out dinner to feed the family."

The head chef and namesake of the new restaurant is Salvatore "Sal" Lo Cascio, who began his career studying traditional Sicilian cuisine in his native city of Palermo, Italy. According to the restaurant group, Lo Cascio is known for his Neapolitan and gluten-free Sicilian-style pizza at Coda di Volpe, and has since worked on perfecting pizza in the New York style.

All pizzas at Pizza by Sal are served uncut unless otherwise requested. Pizzas are made with King Arthur flour, California plum tomatoes, Grande East Coast Mozzarella and Sicilian extra virgin olive oil. Select slices are available in-house only.