Introduction to Chicago’s Pizza Scene

Few cities are as passionate about pizza as Chicago. The Windy City boasts an iconic pizza culture that spans generations, styles, and neighborhoods. Whether you’re a fan of thick, cheesy slices or crisp, cracker-thin crusts, Chicago offers something for every pizza lover.

Home to deep dish legends and inventive newcomers alike, Chicago’s pizza scene is a delicious journey through rich tomato sauces, buttery crusts, and plenty of melted mozzarella.

What Makes Chicago Pizza So Special?

Chicago pizza is more than just deep dish—though that’s a big part of it. It’s a culinary identity rooted in bold flavors, hearty portions, and a love for shared meals. The city is known for three standout styles:

• Deep Dish: Thick, layered pies baked in pans, with cheese on the bottom, toppings in the middle, and sauce on top.

• Stuffed Pizza: Similar to deep dish but even thicker, often topped with an extra layer of crust.

• Thin Crust Tavern Style: Square-cut pizza with a crispy base and tangy tomato sauce, often found in local taverns and family joints.

This diversity makes exploring pizza in Chicago an adventure worth savoring.

Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust: The Great Debate

Chicagoans are split on which reigns supreme—deep dish or thin crust. While tourists often gravitate toward the famous deep dish, locals have a soft spot for tavern-style thin crust. Each style offers its own kind of comfort, and there’s no better way to understand the debate than to try both.

Best Pizza Spots in Downtown Chicago

Giordano’s – The Classic Stuffed Deep Dish

A must-visit for newcomers, Giordano’s offers their signature stuffed pizza—thick, cheesy, and oozing with sauce. It’s the kind of pizza that takes 45 minutes to bake, but it’s worth every minute.

Lou Malnati’s – A Beloved Local Staple

With its buttery crust and rich tomato sauce, Lou Malnati’s is one of Chicago’s most iconic pizza spots. Their “Malnati Chicago Classic” is a go-to for anyone wanting the full deep dish experience.

Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta – Thin Crust Mastery

For those leaning toward thin crust, Pizano’s delivers crunchy, square-cut slices topped with high-quality ingredients. A favorite among locals and a refreshing contrast to deep dish giants.

Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites

Pequod’s Pizza – Caramelized Crust Heaven

Located in Lincoln Park, Pequod’s is famous for its pan pizza with a caramelized cheese crust. It's gooey, crispy, and utterly addictive.

Bartoli’s – Family-Owned and Flavorful

This Roscoe Village gem offers both deep dish and tavern-style thin crust in a cozy, neighborhood setting. Their house-made sausage is a must-try.

Art of Pizza – Big Portions, Big Taste

Voted best deep dish by locals multiple times, Art of Pizza serves up hearty slices at budget-friendly prices, with dine-in and delivery options available.

Trendy and Modern Pizza Places

Parlor Pizza Bar – Great for Groups

With multiple locations and a hip vibe, Parlor is great for casual meetups. Their Neapolitan-inspired pizzas and massive patios make it a crowd-pleaser.

Paulie Gee’s Logan Square – Inventive Toppings

From hot honey to vegan mozzarella, Paulie Gee’s is known for pushing boundaries. Their wood-fired crust adds a smoky, artisan touch.

Pizza Lobo – Late-Night Indulgence

This laid-back spot in Wicker Park is open late and serves creative pies like the “Buffalo Chicken” or “Elote” with corn and lime crema.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Pizza Options in Chicago

Kitchen 17 – Vegan Deep Dish Wonders

A rare gem offering entirely vegan deep dish pizzas. Their house-made seitan pepperoni and dairy-free cheeses impress even non-vegans.

Dimo’s Pizza – Creative and Inclusive

Dimo’s offers gluten-free crusts and inventive vegan options like Mac & Cheese pizza. With funky flavors and a community-driven spirit, it’s a standout for dietary-conscious diners.

Best Spots for Pizza and Beer Pairings

Piece Brewery and Pizzeria

A Chicago staple that combines award-winning craft beer with New Haven-style pizza. Perfect for a casual night out with friends.

Middle Brow Bungalow

This bakery-brewery hybrid serves sourdough pizza with fresh farm-to-table ingredients. Their beer menu is just as thoughtful and tasty.

Tips for Pizza Lovers Visiting Chicago

Peak Hours and Best Times to Go

Weekends from 6–8 pm are busiest. If you want to avoid long waits, try going for lunch or early dinner, especially at popular downtown spots.

How to Order Like a Local

Locals love sharing pizzas and trying multiple styles. Don’t be afraid to mix it up—grab deep dish for one meal and tavern-style for the next.

Delivery vs. Dine-In Experiences

While delivery is convenient, deep dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. If possible, dine in for the full crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside effect.

FAQs About Chicago Pizza Spots

What’s the difference between deep dish and stuffed pizza?
Stuffed pizza has an additional layer of dough on top and tends to be even thicker than traditional deep dish.

Which pizza spot is best for first-time visitors?
Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s are both iconic and perfect for a first-timer’s experience.

Are there good pizza options near the Magnificent Mile?
Yes! You’ll find a Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s close by, along with smaller spots like Labriola.

Can I get good pizza late at night in Chicago?
Absolutely—Pizza Lobo and Dimo’s stay open late and offer great quality.

Do Chicagoans really eat deep dish regularly?
Not every day! Most locals prefer tavern-style for everyday eating and save deep dish for special occasions.

What’s a good drink to pair with Chicago pizza?
Craft beer is a favorite, especially with deep dish. Red wine or sparkling water also pairs well.

Conclusion: Where to Start Your Pizza Tour

From buttery deep dish classics to sizzling thin crust gems, the pizza in Chicago is a love letter to bold flavors and big portions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, exploring the city’s pizza spots is a delicious and rewarding journey.

So grab a slice (or three), try a few different styles, and discover why Chicago remains one of the world’s great pizza capitals.

External Resources and Further Reading

• Chicago Tribune’s Pizza Rankings

• Eater Chicago – Best Pizza Guide