As small children growing up on the southwest side of Chicago, cousins Charles Marfoe and Dominick Buscemi had aspirations of opening and running a family-owned business together. Their idea was simple: replicate the traditional southern Italian dishes their relatives served at family gatherings, holidays and special occasions.

Decades later, in June of 2003, their dreams finally became a reality when they opened Sam Buca’s Restaurant and Bar in Palos Heights, IL. Paying homage to the small Sicilian town their parents were from, Sambuca di Sicilia, Charles and Dominick decided to name the establishment Sam Buca’s.

The menu at Sam Buca’s is derived from the family’s recipes based on authentic southern Italian ingredients and cooking customs. Included on the menu are some family favorites: baked clams, stuffed artichoke, homemade lasagna, and tiramisu.

Charles and Dominick remember their family gatherings and celebrations welcoming everyone in the neighborhood. Stories were shared and friendships were wrought over an abundance of delicious food and warm hospitality. The tradition continues as the cousins would like to invite you, their neighbors, to experience the tastes of Italy and become a part of the family at Sam Buca’s Restaurant and Bar.