If there’s one food Chicago is proud to call its own, it’s pizza—and not just any pizza. From deep-dish to thin-crust tavern-style pies, the Windy City serves up slices that are bold, hearty, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a local on a mission to try them all, Chicago’s pizza scene is an adventure that’s equal parts delicious and diverse.
Let’s get into what makes Chicago pizza special, its saucy history, and where to get the best slice.
Chicago Pizza 101
Mention Chicago-style pizza, and most people picture a deep, cheesy, tomato-topped pie served with a knife and fork. And while that’s part of the story, Chicago’s pizza scene is way more layered. From historic pizzerias serving pies as thick as a novel to thin-crust spots that cut their slices into squares, there’s a style and a slice for every kind of pizza lover here.
What makes Chicago pizza truly special is the passion. For locals, it’s not just dinner—it’s tradition, pride, and sometimes a hotly debated topic at the dinner table.
History of Chicago-Style Pizza
Chicago-style deep-dish was born in 1943 when Pizzeria Uno opened and changed the pizza game forever. The creators—Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo—wanted something heartier than New York’s foldable slices. What they delivered was a pie built like a casserole: a thick, buttery crust layered with mozzarella, meat or veggies, and chunky tomato sauce on top.
Over time, variations like stuffed pizza (even deeper and more decadent) and tavern-style pizza (thin, crispy, and cut into squares) emerged and found their own loyal followings. Chicago’s pizza culture has continued to evolve, blending old-school techniques with modern twists from the city’s rising wave of artisanal chefs.
Best Pizza Spots in Chicago
When it comes to the best of the best, these spots are the top:
- Lou Malnati’s – A deep-dish legend, known for its buttery crust and rich tomato sauce. A must-visit for first-timers.
- Giordano’s – Home of the stuffed pizza. Think deep-dish with even more cheese—perfect for indulgent cravings.
- Pequod’s – Famous for its caramelized crust edges, Pequod’s delivers a unique twist that locals swear by.
- Bartoli’s – A family-owned gem serving both deep-dish and thin crust with a perfect balance of sauce and crunch.
Each of these places offers a slightly different take on what “Chicago-style” means, but all deliver on flavor, comfort, and that unmistakable sense of satisfaction only pizza can bring.
Thin-Crust and Artisanal Options
Chicago is all deep-dish? Nope.
- Vito & Nick’s – Serving classic tavern-style thin crust since 1949. This is the real deal: crispy, square-cut, and loaded with personality.
- Paulie Gee’s Logan Square – A Brooklyn import that’s made a name for itself with wood-fired Neapolitan pies and creative toppings.
- Robert’s Pizza & Dough Company – Located on the Riverwalk, this spot crafts artisan pies with precision—perfectly chewy crusts, fresh ingredients, and gorgeous presentation.
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria – New Haven-style pies meet Chicago craft beer in this hip, bustling eatery that’s always buzzing.
These spots prove Chicago’s pizza game isn’t just about height—it’s about flavor, craftsmanship, and innovation.
An Explosion of Flavors
The beauty of eating pizza in Chicago is that every neighborhood has its own favorite joint. Head to Lincoln Park for a casual bite, the South Side for some of the city’s oldest pizzerias, or the West Loop for modern takes and gourmet toppings.
If you’re short on time but want a little taste of everything, consider a Chicago pizza tour—several companies offer curated experiences that include multiple pizzerias, behind-the-scenes kitchen access, and local insights.
And don’t forget dessert—many pizza spots also serve up classic Italian treats like tiramisu or cannoli. Because no perfect meal ends without a little sweetness.
The Last Bite
Chicago’s pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a history, a tradition, and a local obsession. Whether you’re stabbing your fork into a deep-dish or savoring the crispy edges of a tavern-cut thin crust, there’s no wrong way to eat a slice here.
First-timers:
- Try both deep-dish and thin-crust.
- Go to at least one old school spot and one new school pizzeria.
- Don’t hurry—pizza this good deserves to be savored.
So grab your napkins and your appetite—because in Chicago, every slice has a story. And it’s worth tasting.
