Forza Replaces 12 Handles Ale House In Crest Hill

CREST HILL, IL —You haven't seen many new restaurants and bars open in the Joliet area during the pandemic but a new place in Crest Hill is going against that trend. Forza Table & Tap launched its soft opening in the South Weber Road Plaza, replacing 12 Handles Ale House.

It's a modern Italian new American bar and restaurant, the new owner remarked.

Over the past few weeks, Day N Nite painting services in Wilmington has been busy painting the walls and trim throughout the bar and restaurant.

Forza's full menu is now available, the owner told Patch.

Entrees include: ribeye steak frites for $25: black angus ribeye, chimichurri, crispy fries; grilled shrimp risotto for $20: charred jumbo shrimp, pesto and classic risotto; crispy chicken for $15: homemade tenders, crispy fries with Kentucky bourbon, mild, BBQ or garlic parmesan sauces available.

The homemade pastas include: braised beef ragu pappardelle for $17, fettuccine alfredo for $17, shrimp scampi penne for $21, penne ala vodka for $17, lobster ravioli for $21 and spaghetti and meatballs for $17.

Forza features several burgers and homemade pizzas plus several craft beer products, domestics and imports.

Besides indoor dining, Forza was offering carryout, delivery and banquets.

Why the name Forza?

According to its definition, Forza literally means a force or power but also as Italian dictionary puts it, the ability to face the difficulties of life, the owner explained.

Forza plans to be open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

The building address is 1827 Knapp St. in Crest Hill.