Giada brings gourmet to gaming at new Chicagoland Hollywood Casino locations

Giada De Laurentiis is teaming up with Penn Entertainment to open two Italian restaurants at Hollywood Casino properties in Illinois. The new eateries, Sorellina in Joliet and Sorella in Aurora, will offer her signature blend of classic Italian flavors with a modern twist. This partnership marks Giada’s exciting debut in the state’s dining and entertainment scene, promising guests a unique and elevated experience.

De Laurentiis, known for her innovative Italian cuisine, owns two restaurants in Las Vegas and one in Scottsdale, Ariz. She has written 11 cookbooks and is a familiar face on The Food Network and NBC’s “Today” show. She now expands her brand through a partnership with Hollywood Casino. This collaboration enhances dining options at the Joliet and Aurora locations, offering elevated experiences for casino guests and food lovers.

“The two spaces are complementary, but ultimately offer different aesthetics,” De Laurentiis said in a press release. “Joliet’s Sorellina, meaning ‘little sister’ in Italian, will be light, young, and casual. Aurora’s Sorella, meaning ‘sister’ in Italian, is more formal and refined.”

Each restaurant’s menu will haveunique pizzas, pastas,and more.“Both focus on using high-quality Italian ingredients to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience,” said the statement from De Laurentiis. 

Sorella by Giada at Hollywood Casino in Aurora

The menu at Sorella by Giada in Aurora will showcase Giada De Laurentiis' signature Italian dishes. The menu will feature fresh pasta, pizzas, seafood and meat offerings, seasonal dishes, and a curated wine list, offering a sophisticated yet inviting dining experience. 

Sorella will also feature outdoor seating and private rooms. The indoor portion of the restaurant is expected to seat approximately 170 guests.

Hollywood Casino in Aurora is expected to open in early 2026. It will offer a 200-room four-star hotel and spa. Upscale accommodations and plenty of gaming options, with over 1,000 slot machines and 43 live table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, will make for an exciting and fun experience. A sports betting lounge and baccarat room will provide seasoned gamblers or casual players with more gaming options.

The casino campus, conveniently located at the southwest corner of Farnsworth Avenue at the I-88 interchange, will replace the downtown riverboat location. The newly expanded Chicago Premium Outlets is ideally situated just across the street, offering convenient access to premium shopping experiences.

Sorellina by Giada at Hollywood Casino Joliet

Compared to its sister location Sorella, Sorellina (meaning little sister) in Joliet will have a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. Sorellina will offer similar menu offerings of fresh California takes on traditional Italian dishes that Giada is known for, and a unique selection of fresh pasta and crafted pizzas will accompany a selected wine list and a custom cocktail menu.

The restaurant will feature an open kitchen, allowing guests to enjoy watching their dishes being expertly crafted. The dining room’schic decor and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal spot for casual dining and special celebrations.

The new Hollywood Casino in Joliet will replace the current riverboat in the downtown area. It will be strategically positioned in the Rock Run Collection development, offering easy access for guests traveling via the I-80 and I-55 interchange. The casino’s modern design, expanded gaming options, and various dining and entertainment offerings promise a dynamic experience for all. It’s expected to open in late 2026.