Nestled in the heart of Kewanee, Illinois, La Gondola has become more than just a restaurant—it’s a cherished gathering place where flavors, community, and tradition blend seamlessly. With its roots deep in Italian-American cuisine and a reputation for hearty, satisfying meals, La Gondola stands out as a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy family dinner, a quick lunch, or catering for a community event, the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces greets every guest at the door.
The menu at La Gondola is a testament to the power of comfort food done right. Each dish reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, generous portions, and recipes that have been lovingly passed down through generations.
Patrons return time and again for signature pasta dishes, classic sandwiches, and indulgent desserts, all served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s more than a place to eat—it’s a place to create memories, celebrate milestones, and indulge in the simple pleasures of life.
From the iconic Gondola sandwich to the crowd-pleasing pasta bowls, the menu is designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Every meal feels like coming home, whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor.
Come hungry, bring your friends, and prepare to discover why La Gondola’s menu is at the heart of Kewanee’s vibrant dining scene.
The Signature Gondola Sandwich: A Local Legend
Few menu items in Kewanee command as much loyalty as the legendary Gondola sandwich. This signature creation is more than just a meal; it’s a beloved tradition that has delighted generations.
The Gondola sandwich encapsulates La Gondola’s approach to food: simple, generous, and full of flavor.
Crafted with a blend of freshly baked bread, savory meats, and crisp vegetables, the Gondola sandwich is available in several variations to suit every appetite. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes, making it a staple for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack on the go.
What truly sets the Gondola sandwich apart is its unique combination of ingredients and the care that goes into its preparation. The bread is baked daily, ensuring that every sandwich offers a perfect, pillowy base for the robust fillings.
Whether you opt for the classic or a custom build, you’re in for a memorable meal.
Why Locals Love the Gondola
- Freshness: Each sandwich is made to order, ensuring optimal flavor.
- Customization: Choose your favorite meats, cheeses, and toppings for a personalized experience.
- Hearty Portions: Generous servings guarantee satisfaction for even the biggest appetites.
“The Gondola sandwich is the taste of home. It’s my go-to comfort food—always fresh, always delicious.” — Local patron
For those new to La Gondola, starting with their namesake sandwich is a rite of passage. It’s a meal that encompasses the spirit of the restaurant: welcoming, filling, and endlessly satisfying.
Pasta Perfection: Exploring Classic Italian Favorites
Pasta is at the heart of La Gondola’s menu, offering a delicious array of classic Italian dishes prepared with care and tradition. From rich, creamy sauces to vibrant tomato-based recipes, each bowl is a celebration of comfort and flavor.
The menu features a variety of pasta shapes and sauces, ensuring that every guest finds something to love. Options include baked mostaccioli, spaghetti with meat sauce, and fettuccine Alfredo, each prepared to order and served piping hot.
Every dish is designed to evoke the warmth of a family dinner, bringing people together over shared plates.
La Gondola takes pride in using high-quality ingredients, including imported pasta, fresh herbs, and slow-cooked sauces. The result is a selection of meals that feel both familiar and special, perfect for any occasion.
Pasta Options at La Gondola
- Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs
- Cheese Ravioli with Marinara
- Baked Mostaccioli
- Fettuccine Alfredo
| Dish | Sauce Options | Add-Ons |
| Spaghetti | Marinara, Meat Sauce | Meatballs, Italian Sausage |
| Fettuccine | Alfredo, Garlic Cream | Grilled Chicken, Broccoli |
| Mostaccioli | Baked Cheese, Meat Sauce | Extra Cheese, Mushrooms |
For those seeking a hearty, soul-warming meal, La Gondola’s pasta dishes never disappoint. Each plate is crafted with the intention of making guests feel at home and fully satisfied.
Salads and Lighter Fare for Every Taste
While known for its indulgent sandwiches and pastas, La Gondola also offers a refreshing array of salads and lighter options. These dishes provide a welcome balance to the menu, appealing to health-conscious diners and those seeking a lighter meal.
Freshness and variety define the salad offerings. From the classic Garden Salad to the signature Chef’s Salad, each bowl is made with crisp, vibrant vegetables and house-made dressings.
Guests can customize their salads with an assortment of proteins, cheeses, and toppings for added flavor and substance.
For those looking for something beyond traditional salads, La Gondola’s menu includes lighter sandwiches and seasonal soups. These options offer satisfying alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or quality.
Popular Salad Choices
- Garden Salad with House Italian Dressing
- Chef’s Salad with Turkey, Ham, and Swiss
- Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
The attention to detail in even the simplest dishes sets La Gondola apart. Every salad is prepared to order, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
“I appreciate that La Gondola offers options for every appetite. Their salads are always crisp and satisfying, making it easy to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.” — Regular customer
Whether you’re seeking a wholesome lunch or a complement to your pasta, the lighter fare at La Gondola is designed to please.
Homemade Sides and Appetizers: The Perfect Start
No meal at La Gondola is complete without sampling the tempting selection of homemade sides and appetizers. These dishes set the stage for the main event, providing a taste of the kitchen’s creativity and care.
Guests can choose from a variety of options, including garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, and the ever-popular breadsticks. Each item is crafted from scratch, offering a taste of comfort and tradition in every bite.
These appetizers are perfect for sharing, making them a popular choice for families and groups.
La Gondola’s breadsticks have achieved a near-legendary status in the community. Served hot and brushed with savory garlic butter, they are often the first item to disappear from the table.
Pair them with a house-made dipping sauce for an even richer experience.
Must-Try Appetizers
- Homemade Garlic Bread
- Cheesy Breadsticks with Marinara
- Crispy Mozzarella Sticks
- Italian-Style Meatballs
| Appetizer | Description | Recommended Pairing |
| Breadsticks | Soft, buttery, and freshly baked | Meat Sauce, Alfredo Dip |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted with garlic and herbs | Spaghetti, Salad |
| Mozzarella Sticks | Crispy outside, gooey inside | Marinara Sauce |
These appetizers set the tone for a memorable meal, encouraging conversation and anticipation for the courses to come.
Family Meals and Catering: Bringing People Together
La Gondola’s commitment to community shines through in its family meals and catering options. Designed for sharing, these offerings make it easy to feed a crowd with the same quality and care found in individual orders.
Family meal packages include generous servings of pasta, salad, breadsticks, and dessert, all freshly prepared and ready to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, office lunch, or community event, La Gondola takes the stress out of meal planning.
Catering services are available for groups of all sizes, with customizable menus and flexible delivery options. The staff works closely with customers to ensure that every detail is handled with professionalism and attention.
Family Meal Features
- Large portions designed to serve groups of four or more
- Choice of pastas, sauces, and proteins
- Freshly baked breadsticks and salad included
“We rely on La Gondola for every family gathering. Their catering is always on time, and the food is just as delicious as dining in.” — Satisfied catering client
Choosing La Gondola for your next event guarantees a crowd-pleasing menu and a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most: making memories with loved ones.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Delight
No meal is truly complete without a touch of sweetness, and La Gondola’s dessert offerings provide the perfect finale. The dessert menu features a selection of classic treats, each crafted with the same attention to quality as the savory courses.
Guests can indulge in traditional Italian desserts such as cannoli, tiramisu, and decadent chocolate cake. Each dessert is made in-house or sourced from trusted local bakeries, ensuring freshness and flavor in every bite.
Portions are designed to satisfy, making it easy to share with the table or savor as a personal treat. Pair your dessert with a freshly brewed coffee or espresso for a truly satisfying end to your meal.
Signature Dessert Choices
- Creamy Tiramisu
- Classic Cannoli
- Rich Chocolate Cake
- Seasonal Fruit Pies
Desserts at La Gondola are more than an afterthought—they’re a celebration of flavor and tradition. With each option, guests are invited to linger, savor, and create lasting memories.
“The tiramisu at La Gondola is the perfect ending to any meal. Light, creamy, and just sweet enough—it’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.” — Dessert enthusiast
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, La Gondola’s dessert menu is a delightful way to finish your dining experience.
Drinks and Beverage Selection: Satisfying Every Thirst
Complementing the extensive food menu, La Gondola offers a curated selection of beverages to suit every taste. From classic soft drinks to specialty coffees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy alongside their meal.
The drink menu includes a variety of sodas, iced teas, and lemonades, as well as a rotating list of local and imported beers. For those seeking something warm, freshly brewed coffee and espresso drinks provide comfort and energy.
Families will appreciate the kid-friendly options, while adults can relax with a glass of wine or a cold beer. The beverage selection is designed to enhance every meal, ensuring that each guest finds the perfect complement to their order.
Popular Beverage Options
- Fountain Soft Drinks
- Lemonade and Iced Tea
- Coffee and Espresso
- Domestic and Imported Beer
- Glass or Bottle Wine
| Beverage | Best Pairing |
| Espresso | Tiramisu, Cannoli |
| Lemonade | Chef’s Salad, Pasta |
| Beer | Gondola Sandwich, Mozzarella Sticks |
A thoughtful beverage selection enhances every meal, rounding out the dining experience with just the right note.
Dietary Accommodations and Menu Customization
La Gondola recognizes the importance of accommodating diverse dietary needs and preferences. The menu is designed with flexibility in mind, making it easy for guests to customize their meals and enjoy a worry-free dining experience.
Vegetarian options abound, from pasta dishes with meatless sauces to salads loaded with fresh veggies and cheese. Gluten-free guests can request alternatives or modifications to many menu items, ensuring that everyone can find something delicious.
The kitchen staff is well-versed in handling food allergies and special requests. By communicating your needs, you can enjoy your favorite dishes with confidence and peace of mind.
How La Gondola Supports Dietary Needs
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options clearly marked on the menu
- Customizable salads and pasta dishes
- Attentive staff ready to answer questions and suggest alternatives
“As someone with food allergies, I appreciate how accommodating La Gondola is. They always make sure my meal is safe and delicious.” — Grateful guest
With a focus on hospitality and inclusivity, La Gondola ensures that every guest feels welcomed and cared for, no matter their dietary needs.
Conclusion: The Heart and Soul of Kewanee Dining
La Gondola’s menu is more than a list of dishes—it’s a reflection of community, tradition, and the universal joy of good food. Each visit offers an opportunity to savor beloved classics, discover new favorites, and connect with friends and family in a welcoming setting.
From the iconic Gondola sandwich to the comforting bowls of pasta, every item is prepared with pride and a deep respect for the ingredients and recipes that have made the restaurant a local institution.
The commitment to quality, hospitality, and value is evident in every meal, making La Gondola a cornerstone of Kewanee’s vibrant dining scene.
Whether you’re craving a hearty family meal, looking for lighter fare, or planning a special event, La Gondola’s diverse menu has something for everyone. The dedication to customer satisfaction, dietary accommodation, and memorable flavors ensures that every guest leaves with a smile—and often, plans to return soon.
For those seeking more than just a meal, La Gondola offers a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. It’s no wonder that for so many in Kewanee, La Gondola’s menu is synonymous with home.
