In the Beginning




Our story begins with Anthony and Celeste Lizio who came to the United

States in the early 1930’s from Sant'Angelo all'Esca a small town an hour

outside of Naples, Italy. Celeste (Luise) grew up in her mother’s café learning the recipes she would eventually hand down to her children and grandchildren.  Once in the United States, Anthony and Celeste opened a small grocery store for Celeste to tend to while Anthony worked in a factory.  While Celeste made dinner in the stores back kitchen, the delicious smells drew the WPA workers. The store became known for Celeste’s food rather than the groceries.

Clara in front of Kedzie Beer Garden 

The popularity of Celeste’s recipes encouraged her and Anthony to open the Kedzie Beer Garden at Kedzie and Polk on the West Side of Chicago. As the business grew into a popular restaurant, the name was changed to Celeste's as a tribute to the chef.  And just as Celeste learned from her mother, their four children (Emmanuel (Willy), Pasquale, Anthony Jr. and Clara) learned from their parents working alongside while living above the restaurant.  

Clarasrestaurant.com

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