You’re about to embark on a culinary journey through the Windy City, where the debate over the best pizza style rages on. With a diverse range of pizza styles, from deep dish to thin crust, the city is a paradise for pizza lovers.
The city’s pizza scene is shaped by a mix of historic establishments and innovative newcomers, all pushing boundaries and impacting the local culinary landscape. As you explore the best places to enjoy a slice, you’ll discover why Chicago is considered one of America’s premier pizza destinations.
This comprehensive list will guide you through the top pizza experiences the city has to offer, highlighting what makes each spot unique.
The Rich History of Chicago Pizza
You might be surprised to learn that Chicago’s beloved pizza has a history as layered as its deep-dish pies. The story begins with Italian immigrants who brought their traditional pizza-making skills to the city in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
From Italian Immigrants to Iconic Dish
Initially, these immigrants prepared pizza in the traditional thin-crust manner, a far cry from the hearty deep dish Chicago is famous for today. As they settled, their culinary traditions influenced the local food scene, laying the groundwork for the evolution of Chicago pizza.
The cultural and economic factors of the time played a significant role in shaping the city’s pizza identity. You’ll discover how Chicago’s pizza story is deeply intertwined with the city’s history and the people who called it home.
The Birth of Deep Dish in 1943
The narrative takes a pivotal turn in 1943 when Ric Riccardo and Ike Sewell opened a pizza restaurant, introducing a new style of pie that would become synonymous with the city. According to most histories, Sewell proposed serving a deep dish pizza with a thick crust, chunky tomato sauce, and a thick layer of melted cheese, revolutionizing the local culinary landscape.
This innovation not only transformed Chicago’s food culture but also turned Chicago pizza into an iconic dish that attracts visitors from around the world.
Understanding Chicago’s Three Iconic Pizza Styles
From deep dish to tavern-style, Chicago’s pizza scene is a complex and fascinating world that’s worth exploring. As you navigate the city’s culinary landscape, you’ll discover that each style has its own unique characteristics, from the ingredients used to the preparation methods employed.
Deep Dish: Chicago’s Famous Export
Deep dish pizza is perhaps Chicago’s most famous culinary export. Characterized by its thick crust and thick layers of cheese, meats, and vegetables, this style is a hearty, filling meal. The crust is formed into a deep pan, and the ingredients are layered in reverse order, with the crust on top and the sauce on the bottom. This creates a rich, casserole-like pie that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Stuffed Pizza: The Layered Masterpiece
Stuffed pizza takes the deep dish concept to the next level by adding an extra layer of dough on top of the fillings, creating a truly substantial meal. This style is characterized by its generous portions and rich flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The additional layer of dough adds texture and complexity to the dish, setting it apart from its deep dish counterpart.
Tavern-Style: The Local Favorite
Tavern-style pizza, also known as thin crust or cracker crust, is a staple of Chicago’s culinary scene. This style is characterized by its thin, cracker-like crust and square-cut pieces, making it a favorite among locals. Unlike deep dish or stuffed pizza, tavern-style pizza is often served in bars and taverns, where it’s enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
As you explore Chicago’s pizza scene, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culinary heritage and the unique characteristics of each style. Whether you’re a fan of deep dish, stuffed, or tavern-style pizza, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse culinary landscape.
Legendary Deep Dish Destinations
The Windy City is home to some of the most revered deep dish pizza joints, each with its own unique story. You’ll take a journey through the founding stories of Chicago’s most iconic deep dish establishments, beginning with Pizzeria Uno where it all started in 1943.
Pizzeria Uno & Due: Where It All Began
Pizzeria Uno, opened by Riccardo and Sewell at Wabash Avenue and Ohio Street, is where deep dish was born. Though Uno’s is now a chain with locations around the country, its original location remains a must-visit for any deep dish enthusiast. The sausage and mozzarella used in their pies are still sourced with the same care, ensuring a delicious experience.
Lou Malnati’s: The Buttercrust Sensation
Lou Malnati, Sr.’s contribution to famous Chicago pizza places extends far beyond Pizzeria Uno. His son, Lou Malnati, managed Pizzeria Due in 1955, and later opened his own restaurant in Lincolnwood. The buttercrust and specially sourced Wisconsin mozzarella create a unique flavor profile that sets Lou Malnati’s apart. Their exclusive sausage blend is a key component of their signature pies.
Gino’s East: From Taxi Drivers to Pizza Icons
In 1966, a pair of cab drivers and their friend, stuck in rush hour traffic, decided to open a pizza place. The rest, as they say, is history. Gino’s East became one of the city’s most recognizable pizza brands, serving classic deep dish pies that have stood the test of time. The dough recipe and layering approach have remained unchanged, ensuring a consistent and delicious experience.
These historic establishments have maintained their quality and reputation for decades, and you’ll learn what keeps customers coming back generation after generation. From their specific dough recipes to their signature approaches to layering ingredients, each of these legendary pizza restaurants has its own unique charm.
Chicago, Illinois: Acclaimed Pizza Restaurants for Stuffed Pizza
If you’re on the hunt for the best stuffed pizza, look no further than Chicago, Illinois. Chicago’s culinary scene is renowned for its stuffed pizza, a dish that’s both rich in history and flavor. You’ll discover how this iconic dish differs from traditional deep dish, with its additional layer of dough creating a truly substantial eating experience.
Nancy’s: Birthplace of Stuffed Pizza
Nancy’s is often credited as the birthplace of stuffed pizza. The story goes that Rocco Palese, after taking over Guy’s Pizza in 1971, was inspired by his mother’s Italian Easter pie to create this distinctive style. He built a deep-dish pizza with a bottom crust, topped it with cheese and fillings, then placed another thin layer of dough over the pie, poked holes in it, and put tomato sauce on top.
Giordano’s: The Stuffed Pizza Empire
Giordano’s, founded by Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio in 1974, considers itself one of the inventors of the stuffed pizza. The brothers claimed their deep dish was derived from an “Italian Easter pie” their mother made. Giordano’s has since transformed into a nationwide chain, introducing millions to the concept of stuffed pizza and its layered masterpiece.
These acclaimed restaurants have made Chicago pizza a culinary experience like no other. The crust, cheese, and tomato sauce all come together to create a pie that’s a must-try for visitors to the city.
Best Tavern-Style Pizza Spots
Tavern-style pizza has been a Chicago favorite for decades, with its thin crust and flavorful toppings. You’re about to discover some of the best spots to try this local favorite.
Pat’s Pizzeria: Cracker-Thin Perfection
Pat’s Pizzeria, established in 1950, brought its unique spin on thin-crust pizza to Chicago’s North Side. The magic lies in their iconic dough, which is proofed overnight and then put through a dough sheeter to achieve a really thin crust. The “skins” are cured in a cooler for about three days, resulting in an exceptionally crisp base.
Vito & Nick’s: South Side Institution
This family business originated in 1923 as a tavern on the South Side of Chicago and became one of the city’s first thin-crust pizza makers in 1946. Vito & Nick’s has been serving thin-crust pies with virtually unchanged recipes since then, making it a beloved institution.
Phil’s: Tavern-Style Near Sox Park
Rarely does tavern-style pizza get put together with the care displayed at Phil’s, located near Sox Park in Bridgeport. For fans of sausage and Italian beef on their pie, Phil’s is unmatched. The pie keeps well, too, making it a great take-out option.
These tavern-style establishments represent Chicago’s authentic neighborhood pizza tradition, inspiring loyalty among locals. By visiting these spots, you’ll understand why tavern-style pizza is considered the “real” Chicago pizza by many.
Innovative Newcomers Changing Chicago’s Pizza Scene
A new generation of pizza innovators is changing the way Chicagoans experience pizza. These newcomers are not just replicating traditional styles but are instead pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be.
George’s Deep-Dish: Greek-Inspired Sourdough
At George’s Deep-Dish in Edgewater, chef-owner George Bumbaris is making waves with his unique take on the classic deep-dish pizza. By incorporating a sourdough crust with a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of Greek pastries, he’s created a distinctively flavored pizza. The crispy edges, covered in caramelized cheese, add a delightful textural element.
Pizza’amici: West Town’s Rising Star
Pizza’amici, a newcomer in West Town, has quickly become one of the city’s most sought-after pizzerias since its opening at the end of 2024. The super-thin pies, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, have garnered rave reviews. Originally tested at Bridgeport’s Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream and later at Westmont’s Kim’s Uncle Pizza, Pizza’amici’s pizzas are a testament to the city’s evolving pizza landscape.
Sharpies: Detroit-Style Excellence
Sharpies, a new Detroit-style pizzeria near the corner of Elston and North Avenue, is bringing a slice of the Motor City to Chicago. With its perfectly executed square pies featuring crispy cheese edges and light, airy dough, Sharpies is giving some of the best Detroit pizzerias a run for their money. The restaurant, owned by the same team behind the fine dining establishment Ada Street, showcases a clear understanding of technique and a passion for quality.
These innovative establishments demonstrate how Chicago’s pizza scene continues to evolve, respecting tradition while incorporating new techniques and global influences. Whether it’s the Greek-inspired sourdough of George’s Deep-Dish, the thin-crust perfection of Pizza’amici, or the Detroit-style excellence of Sharpies, there’s something new and exciting for pizza lovers to discover in Chicago.
Unique Pizza Experiences Beyond the Classics
Beyond the classic deep dish and tavern-style pizzas, Chicago’s culinary scene is home to a variety of unique pizza experiences. You’ll discover international influences and innovative cooking techniques that are redefining the city’s pizza landscape.
Bonci: Roman-Style Pizza al Taglio
Gabriele Bonci introduced his world-famous Roman-style pizza al taglio to Chicago in 2017. This style is characterized by a focaccia-like crust and creative topping combinations that change seasonally. You can enjoy cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and other fresh ingredients in a unique dining experience.
Milly’s Pizza in the Pan
Robert Maleski’s Milly’s Pizza in the Pan offers a pan pizza experience inspired by Chicago legend Burt Katz. The pizza features a caramelized mozzarella edge and a crunchy crust loaded with cheese, tomato sauce, and various toppings. You can try unique combinations like Que Suerte or Craigslist.org.
Pizza Matta
James Beard award-winning chef Jason Vincent brought his fine dining expertise to pizza with Pizza Matta. This chef-driven pizzeria offers refined pizza creations, showcasing Vincent’s culinary skill. You can expect high-quality ingredients and innovative topping combinations in a sophisticated setting.
These unique pizza experiences demonstrate Chicago’s status as a diverse and innovative pizza city. You’ll find that the city’s pizza scene is constantly evolving, offering something new and exciting for pizza enthusiasts.
Tips for the Ultimate Chicago Pizza Experience
To truly experience the best of Chicago’s pizza scene, you need to know the insider tips. Enjoying Chicago pizza like a local involves understanding the nuances of this beloved dish.
Best Toppings for Chicago Pizza
When it comes to toppings, less is often more on a Chicago pizza. Dolinsky recommends raw, bulk sausage and giardiniera (pickled vegetables) as the top choices. The crust is a crucial component, and toppings should complement it without overwhelming it.
Dining In vs. Taking Out
Dolinsky advises against taking Chicago pizza to-go, but if you must, keep it uncut to preserve the crust. Tavern-style pizza is always served as a whole pie, reflecting the communal way Midwesterners enjoy their pizza.
Conclusion
With its deep dish, stuffed, and tavern-style pizzas, Chicago offers a pizza experience like no other. You’ve now been equipped with the knowledge to navigate the city’s diverse pizza landscape, from historic institutions to innovative newcomers. The three distinct styles showcase Chicago’s culinary creativity, offering something for every pizza lover. Whether you prefer a hearty deep dish pie or a crispy tavern-style crust, Chicago’s pizza scene has it all. As you explore, you’ll find that the city’s pizza culture continues to evolve while honoring its traditions.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
Here are some Tours & Sightseeing suggestions that might pique your interests!