Chicago is famous for its pizza, from legendary deep-dish pies to crispy tavern-style thin-crust slices. This article highlights the best Chicago pizza places you need to try, each offering a unique taste of the city’s rich pizza culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, these pizzerias showcase why Chicago is a pizza lover’s paradise. And as you explore the city for the perfect slice, drive safely and stay protected – Call Insure on the Spot in Chicago at 773-202-5060.
Before diving into the top ten list, here’s a quick look at Chicago’s two most famous pizza styles and what makes them different:
| Aspect | Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza | Chicago Thin-Crust (Tavern Style) |
| Crust | Tall, thick buttery crust forming a deep “pie” | Ultra-thin, cracker-like crust (party-cut into squares) |
| Cheese | Usually, a lot of mozzarella is under the sauce | Moderate cheese on top of the auce |
| Sauce | Thick, chunky tomato sauce on top, rich & tangy | Zesty tomato sauce under the cheese |
| Baking Time | Longer bake (30-45 min) due to thickness | Quick bake (10-15 min) for crispiness |
| Portion | Very filling – one slice is a meal | Lighter – people eat multiple small squares |
| Iconic Spots | Pequod’s, Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s | Pizano’s, Vito & Nick’s, Pat’s Pizza |
Now, let’s count down the top 10 pizza places in Chicago and what makes each one special:
1. Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza is a Chicago icon and a must-visit for deep-dish lovers. Founded in the early 1970s by famed pizza maker Burt Katz, Pequod’s has earned legendary status thanks to its caramelized crust – a ring of cheese baked along the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, flavorful halo on every pie. This Lincoln Park pizzeria (with an original location in suburban Morton Grove) has even been ranked the #1 pizza spot in the country in recent years, proving that its reputation isn’t just local hype.
What sets Pequod’s apart is the rich, hearty experience of its pizza. The dough is slightly sweet and bakes up with a satisfying crunch at the edges, yet remains soft underneath the generous layers of mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce. Patrons often rave about the sausage deep dish, which features savory chunks of Italian sausage under that signature sauce. The atmosphere inside is casual and cozy, with Chicago sports memorabilia on the walls – perfect for enjoying a cold beer while waiting for your pizza (it takes about 30-40 minutes to bake a deep dish to perfection). Be prepared for a wait during peak hours, but most would agree the incredible flavor of a Pequod’s pan pizza is well worth it.
2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is a family-run Chicago pizza institution that has been serving up classic deep-dish since 1971. With numerous locations around Chicago and its suburbs, Lou Malnati’s is often the first place locals recommend for an authentic Chicago deep dish experience. Their signature pie features a buttery, flaky crust that cradles a flavorful blend of gooey mozzarella cheese and vine-ripened tomato sauce. Many Chicagoans swear by the “Lou’s Special” (sausage, cheese, and extra tomato sauce) or “The Lou” (a vegetarian favorite with spinach, mushrooms, and sliced tomatoes on garlic butter crust).
What makes Lou Malnati’s stand out – beyond the delicious pizza – is its attention to quality and community. The tomatoes for the sauce are harvested at peak ripeness from California and canned exclusively for the restaurant, ensuring a fresh taste year-round. The mozzarella cheese is high-quality and applied in just the right proportion, so each bite balances cheese, sauce, and crust. Lou Malnati’s also offers a notable house salad and friendly service, making it a great place for families and visitors to feel at home. Whether you dine in at their Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, or South Loop locations (among many others) or order a half-baked pie to finish in your oven, you’ll get a true taste of Chicago tradition with Lou’s.
3. Giordano’s
Giordano’s is synonymous with Chicago’s stuffed pizza, a variant of deep-dish that is almost like a savory pie filled with cheese. Founded in 1974 on the city’s south side by brothers who brought their mother’s Italian recipe to Chicago, Giordano’s quickly became famous for its cheese-stuffed deep dish. Each pizza has a bottom crust, loads of mozzarella and toppings in the middle, then a thin layer of dough on top sealed under a generous ladle of chunky tomato sauce. The result is a piping hot, melty-centered pizza that stretches with cheese in every bite.
Visitors from around the world flock to Giordano’s for its over-the-top indulgence – one slice is incredibly hearty. Popular orders include the classic stuffed cheese pizza or the “Chicago Classic” with pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions. Because of all that cheese and filling, the crust can be softer or “pie-like” rather than crispy, which some love and others find a bit heavy.
Still, Giordano’s remains one of the best Chicago pizza places for those craving a show-stopping, cheese-pull-filled experience. With many locations throughout downtown and the neighborhoods (and even out-of-state franchises), Giordano’s offers convenience and consistency – you’re never far from one in Chicago. It’s a great choice, especially for first-timers who want to see what the Chicago deep-dish legend is all about.
4. Gino’s East
Gino’s East has been a downtown Chicago pizza legend since 1966, known as much for its graffiti-covered walls as for its classic deep-dish pizza. When you step into the flagship Gino’s East location (originally opened just off Michigan Avenue), you’ll see decades of visitors’ names and messages scrawled on every inch of the interior – a true piece of Chicago nostalgia. The pizza itself at Gino’s East features a thick, golden crust that has a hint of cornmeal for texture, a slightly sweet tomato sauce, and a generous layer of cheese and toppings. One unique trait is their sauce’s flavor profile: a touch of sweetness in the tomato sauce balances nicely with the savory cheese and meats.
Local fans often debate how Gino’s East compares to its rivals. Some adore the hearty cornmeal crust and that sauce (which is more mildly seasoned and less chunky than others), while others prefer the butter crust of competitors. Signature pies include the Meaty Legend (loaded with sausage, pepperoni, bacon, and Canadian bacon) and the Chicago Fire (with hot giardiniera peppers for a spicy kick). Gino’s East is also a bit of a tourist pilgrimage site – it’s common to see out-of-towners snapping photos of their initials on the wall. For an authentic slice of Chicago pizza history and a flavorful deep-dish that’s stood the test of time, Gino’s East is a must-try.
5. Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta
Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta is a beloved Chicago pizzeria that often flies slightly under the radar compared to the big deep-dish chains, but many locals consider it a top contender. Founded in 1991 by Rudy Malnati Jr. (son of one of Pizzeria Uno’s founders and half-brother to Lou Malnati), Pizano’s carries on a proud family tradition of pizza-making. What’s special about Pizano’s is that it excels at both deep-dish and tavern-style thin crust – in fact, their thin crust pizza is frequently praised as one of the best in the city. The thin crust is buttery and flaky yet crisp, with a rich sauce and generous toppings, cut into the classic small squares that Chicagoans love.
At the same time, Pizano’s deep-dish holds its own against any competitor, with a recipe closely tied to the original that started it all in the 1940s. Ingredients are high quality, and the flavor reflects that extra care. Many regulars recommend the “Hey Hey Jack!” (a tribute pizza loaded with sausage, onions, and jalapeños) or a simple pepperoni and fresh mushroom on thin crust. With a cozy, old-school Italian restaurant vibe in its downtown and neighborhood locations, Pizano’s delivers a genuine Chicago pizza experience. It’s the kind of place where you might see a group of lifelong Chicago friends sharing pitchers of beer over thin crust one night, and a family from out of town digging into their first deep dish the next.
6. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
Shifting gears to thin-crust authenticity, Spacca Napoli brings a taste of Italy to Chicago. Tucked in the Ravenswood neighborhood on the city’s North Side, Spacca Napoli is all about Neapolitan-style pizza – the kind with a delicate, blistered crust that’s soft in the middle and slightly charred on the edges from a roaring wood-fired oven. Owner Jonathan Goldsmith trained in Naples and perfected the art of crafting pizza according to old-world traditions. The result: some of the most authentic and best pizza in Chicago if you prefer a thin, artisan-style pie.
At Spacca Napoli, simplicity and top-notch ingredients take center stage. Pizzas are made with Italian-imported 00 flour for the dough, San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, and creamy buffalo mozzarella or fior di latte cheese. Favorites include the classic Margherita (with fresh basil, tomato, and mozzarella) and the Filetti (topped with cherry tomatoes and garlic).
Each pizza is personal-sized and arrives unsliced, just as in Italy, encouraging you to cut it with a fork and savor each bite. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and rustic, often buzzing with conversation in both English and Italian, and in summertime, their patio is a delightful spot to enjoy your pizza al fresco. If you’re craving a break from deep dish, Spacca Napoli’s high-quality pies will transport you straight to Naples and show you that Chicago’s pizza prowess extends beyond its famous casserole-like creations.
7. Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company
For a gourmet take on pizza with a crispy, thin crust, Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company has quickly risen in Chicago’s pizza ranks. Located in the Streeterville neighborhood near the lakefront, Robert’s is known for its meticulous dough recipe – owner Robert Garvey spent years mastering a crust that’s thin and firm enough to hold toppings, yet has an airy, chewy bite. The result is an artisanal pizza that has drawn national and even international acclaim (it was listed among the 50 top pizzerias in the world by one publication). This is a place that truly celebrates the craft of pizza making.
The menu at Robert’s Pizza features creative, chef-driven topping combinations alongside perfected classics. You might try the Burrata Basilico (fresh burrata, basil, and tomatoes) or a spicy Diavola drizzled with hot honey. Even the classic pepperoni here can go slice-for-slice with any New York joint, and thanks to the brick oven baking, each pizza comes out with a slight char and satisfying crispness. Robert’s offers a sleek yet comfortable dining experience, complete with a craft beer and wine selection to pair with your pie. If you’re near Navy Pier or the Magnificent Mile, this spot is perfect for a dinner that highlights how innovative and refined Chicago’s pizza scene has become.
8. Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe
Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe brings New York flavor to Chicago with its highly acclaimed New York-style pizza. Located in the Lincoln Square area, Jimmy’s has made a name for itself by serving huge, foldable slices with the perfect balance of thin, chewy crust and flavorful toppings. Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe was recently recognized as having one of the 10 best pizza slices in the entire country – a testament to the quality and authenticity of its pies. If you’re looking for a break from deep dish and want a grab-and-go slice that tastes like you’re walking the streets of Brooklyn, Jimmy’s is the place.
The pizzeria offers classics like cheese, pepperoni, and sausage pizza by the slice, as well as specialty pies like a white pizza with ricotta or a spicy buffalo chicken slice. Regulars love the fresh ingredients and the foldability of the slices (a hallmark of true New York style – you can fold them in half to eat). Beyond pizza, Jimmy’s adds a unique touch by also serving New Orleans-style beignets for dessert and a selection of coffee, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or late-night bite (they’re open late, which is ideal after an evening out). The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly; you’ll often find a mix of families, college students, and late-night crowds all savoring their favorite slices. With its combination of stellar pizza and welcoming neighborhood vibe, Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe has earned its spot as one of Chicago’s best pizza places.
9. Piece Brewery and Pizzeria
Piece Brewery and Pizzeria offers something different in Chicago’s pizza landscape: a blend of award-winning craft beer and New Haven-style pizza. Situated in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood, Piece has been a local favorite since the early 2000s for its thin-crust pizzas and lively brewpub atmosphere. New Haven-style pizza (originating from New Haven, Connecticut) is similar to New York style but usually a bit crisper and oblong in shape. At Piece, you can expect a crunchy, medium-thin crust that serves as the foundation for a build-your-own topping approach or a range of clever specialty pies.
What truly elevates Piece is its commitment to quality and consistency – it’s been listed among the top pizzerias in various national rankings and even made Yelp’s Top 100 Pizza Spots. You can customize a red pie (with tomato sauce), a white pie (olive oil, no tomato sauce), or even a signature mashed potato pizza, which is a New Haven tradition. The ingredient options are plentiful, from crumbled sausage and roasted red peppers to clams (another nod to New Haven style). As a bonus, Piece brews its beers on-site, often winning medals at beer festivals.
This makes it an ideal hangout for groups: you can enjoy a fresh pint of ale or IPA that pairs perfectly with your pizza. With communal tables and a rock-and-roll vibe (one of the co-owners is a member of the band Cheap Trick), Piece Brewery and Pizzeria delivers a uniquely Chicago experience that still pays homage to East Coast pizza roots.
10. George’s Deep Dish
Rounding out our list is a newer entrant that’s quickly becoming a Chicago favorite: George’s Deep Dish. Located in the Edgewater neighborhood on the city’s north side, George’s is a small, family-run operation that has reimagined the classic Chicago deep-dish with an artisanal twist. Each pizza is baked in a cast-iron pan to achieve a crispy, caramelized cheese edge (similar to Pequod’s style) and features a sourdough-based crust with a bit of cornmeal for extra flavor and texture. George’s uses high-quality, often locally sourced toppings – think fennel sausage from an Illinois farm or fresh basil and hand-cut pepperoni.
The menu at George’s Deep Dish is concise, usually offering a handful of creatively named pizzas (often referencing Chicago or pop culture). Because of its popularity and the care put into each pie, you might need to order ahead or wait a bit longer, but customers enthusiastically attest that it’s worth it. The pizzas manage to be both indulgent and refined: rich with cheese and bold house-made sauce, yet the crust has a distinct artisanal bread quality and a pleasant tang from the sourdough. This spot may not have the decades of history that some others on this list boast, but it captures the current spirit of Chicago’s pizza scene – honoring tradition while also innovating. George’s Deep Dish proves that even in a city filled with legendary pizzerias, there’s always room for a new star to rise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What pizza is Chicago most famous for?
A: Chicago is most famous for its deep-dish pizza, which has a thick buttery crust and layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce. This hearty style was invented in Chicago in the 1940s and put the city’s pizza on the map.
Q: Do Chicago locals eat deep-dish pizza often?
A: Locals do enjoy deep dish on occasion (especially for special outings or when hosting visitors), but many Chicagoans more regularly eat thin-crust tavern-style pizza for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Both styles are loved in the city, just for different occasions.
Q: Where can I find the best thin-crust pizza in Chicago?
A: Some of the best thin-crust pizza in Chicago can be found at spots like Pizano’s (famous for its buttery thin crust), Vito & Nick’s (a classic on the South Side known for tavern-cut thin pizza), and Spacca Napoli (for authentic Neapolitan thin crust). These places offer a delicious alternative to deep dish.
Q: What’s the difference between Chicago deep-dish and stuffed pizza?
A: Stuffed pizza (like Giordano’s) is a type of Chicago deep-dish that has an extra layer of dough on top of the cheese, under the sauce. This makes it even taller and more packed with cheese. Traditional deep-dish (like Lou Malnati’s or Pequod’s) doesn’t have that extra dough layer and typically has a bit less cheese, so it’s slightly lighter than stuffed style (though still very hearty).
Q: Which Chicago pizza place should a first-time visitor try?
A: A first-time visitor can’t go wrong with Pequod’s Pizza for deep dish – it’s a quintessential Chicago experience with its caramelized crust and local vibe. If you prefer thin crust, try Spacca Napoli for an authentic Neapolitan pie. Both will give you a great introduction to Chicago’s pizza culture.
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