For generations in and around Chesterland, the name Guido’s Pizza Haven has been synonymous with exceptional square-cut pizza and heartwarming Italian-American cuisine. What began as Guido Panichni’s vision in Euclid in the early 1950s transitioned into a beloved Chesterland institution when Michael Albino Sr. and his wife Jenny took the reins and moved it to the “country” in 1962, establishing Guido’s Pizza Haven. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in Chesterland in August of 2012, Guido’s stands as a testament to family recipes, quality ingredients, and a commitment to satisfying every customer who walks through their doors.
A Taste of History: From Euclid Roots to Chesterland Haven
The story of Guido’s Pizza Chesterland begins with Guido Panichni in Euclid, where his square pizzas first captured local hearts. In 1958, Michael Albino Sr. recognized the gem that Guido had created and purchased the restaurant with his wife, Jenny. After four successful years, the Albinos sought a quieter, “country” setting, leading them to Chesterland and the birth of Guido’s Pizza Haven. This move proved to be more than just a change of scenery; it was the planting of deep roots in the Chesterland community. The legacy built by the Albino family is palpable, with family recipes forming the backbone of a menu that has delighted diners for half a century.
The Square Pizza Sensation: A Guido’s Signature
While Guido’s Pizza Chesterland boasts a diverse menu, their square pizza remains the star of the show. This isn’t your typical triangle-cut pizza; Guido’s offers a distinctive square cut that harkens back to its Euclid origins and sets it apart. The crust, light and airy, owes its perfection to Michael Albino Sr.’s experience at Russo’s Bakery in Little Italy, where he honed his dough-making skills for ten years. Each day, fresh dough is proofed and transformed into the foundation for their pizzas and equally praised crusty rolls. A small nine-cut pizza with three toppings is priced around $14, a testament to both quality and value. It’s this dedication to the foundation – the dough – that makes Guido’s square pizza a Chesterland classic.
Beyond Pizza: Exploring the Hearty Italian Menu
Guido’s Pizza Haven is far more than just pizza. Their menu is a rich tapestry of Italian-American comfort food, crafted from cherished family recipes. Don’t miss the Italian wedding soup, a comforting bowl featuring flavorful chicken meatballs instead of the traditional beef and pork. For a truly indulgent experience, the stuffed eggplant parmigiana is a must-try. Four delicate rolls of pan-fried eggplant are generously filled with creamy ricotta cheese, baked in a savory spaghetti sauce, and blanketed with melted mozzarella. It’s accompanied by a side of spaghettini and a refreshing garden salad with house-made herbed-oil and vinegar dressing.
Pasta lovers will find a range of options from classic spaghetti and rigatoni to shells and fettuccini, all customizable with meat sauce, meatballs, sausage, or mushrooms. House-made angel hair is a premium upgrade, while ravioli, cavatelli, and manicotti offer further satisfying choices. For meat enthusiasts, the veal cutlet Milanese is a standout. A generous portion of tender Provimi veal, breaded, pan-fried, and baked with a rich mushroom-marsala-and-lemon sauce, served alongside fettuccini and a house salad, makes for a truly memorable meal. For those with a hearty appetite, the combination veal cutlet and eggplant parmigiana allows you to savor the best of both worlds.
Guido’s also earns accolades for their lasagna, baked penne, and spaghetti aglio olio. Their sandwich selection features foot-long, house-made Italian buns, with popular choices like meatball and sausage with sauce, perfect for a satisfying lunch or lighter dinner.
A Family Affair and Local Favorite
Guido’s Pizza Chesterland is deeply rooted in family values and community spirit. The restaurant operates as a true family business, instilling a sense of warmth and personal touch in every aspect of the dining experience. This commitment to family recipes and customer satisfaction has cemented Guido’s as a beloved local favorite in Chesterland for 50 years and counting.
Visiting Guido’s Pizza Haven
Located at 12775 Chillicothe Road in Chesterland, Guido’s Pizza Haven welcomes guests from Monday to Saturday, 4-10 p.m. (with takeout available until 11 p.m.). To experience their freshly cooked meals, be prepared to “allow 30 minutes for all orders,” especially on busier nights – a small wait that’s well worth it for the quality and care put into each dish. Please note that Guido’s is a cash or checks only establishment. For inquiries or takeout orders, they can be reached at 440-729-9666. Guido’s Pizza Chesterland is more than just a restaurant; it’s a taste of tradition, a family legacy, and a cornerstone of the Chesterland community.
