Chicago, the Windy City, is not just famous for its stunning skyline and vibrant culture, but also for its iconic deep-dish pizza. However, the city’s pizza scene is much more diverse than just its famous thick-crust pies. From classic deep-dish to thin-crust and inventive gourmet options, here are the top 10 best pizza places in Chicago that you must try.
List Top 10 Best Pizza Places in Chicago
1. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is synonymous with Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Established in 1971, this pizzeria has become a cornerstone of the city’s pizza culture. The buttery, flaky crust, gooey mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce make it a must-visit for pizza aficionados. Their famous “Malnati Chicago Classic” with lean sausage, extra cheese, and vine-ripened tomato sauce is a crowd favorite.
2. Giordano’s
Another legend in the deep-dish world, Giordano’s is renowned for its stuffed pizzas. Founded in 1974, this pizzeria offers a unique take on deep-dish with an extra layer of dough stuffed with cheese and toppings. Their signature stuffed cheese pizza is a cheesy paradise that attracts both locals and tourists.
3. Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza is celebrated for its caramelized crust, which is achieved by baking the pizza in a cast-iron pan. This technique creates a crispy, slightly burnt cheese edge that adds a delightful crunch. Their deep-dish pizzas are generously topped with fresh ingredients, making each bite a savory delight.
4. Piece Brewery and Pizzeria
For those who prefer a different style, Piece Brewery and Pizzeria offers New Haven-style thin-crust pizzas. This lively spot combines great pizza with award-winning craft beers brewed on-site. The “Hot Doug’s Atomic Sausage” pizza, featuring spicy sausage and giardiniera, is a standout choice.
5. Bartoli’s Pizzeria
Bartoli’s Pizzeria brings a family tradition to the Chicago pizza scene. With roots tracing back to Gino’s East, Bartoli’s offers both deep-dish and thin-crust options. Their “Old Style Special” deep-dish pizza, with sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers, is a nostalgic favorite that never disappoints.
6. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
Spacca Napoli Pizzeria brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to Chicago. The owner, Jonathan Goldsmith, trained in Naples, Italy, to perfect his craft. The result is a thin, soft, and slightly charred crust topped with high-quality ingredients. Their “Margherita DOC” pizza, with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, and fresh basil, is a classic masterpiece.
7. Coalfire
Coalfire stands out with its coal-fired, thin-crust pizzas. The high heat from the coal oven creates a crispy, charred crust that pairs perfectly with their fresh, simple toppings. The “White Pizza,” topped with mozzarella, ricotta, Romano, and garlic, is a creamy, flavorful delight.
8. Dante’s Pizzeria
Dante’s Pizzeria offers a punk-rock atmosphere with a menu full of creative and hearty pizzas. Their oversized slices and whole pies are perfect for sharing. The “Hell Fire” pizza, featuring spicy capicola, fresh jalapeños, and hot giardiniera, brings a fiery kick that adventurous eaters will love.
9. Robert’s Pizza Company
Robert’s Pizza Company is known for its artisanal approach and perfect balance of crust, sauce, and toppings. The founder, Robert Garvey, spent years perfecting his dough recipe. The “Provençal” pizza, with garlic oil, mozzarella, Kalamata olives, goat cheese, and fresh rosemary, offers a delightful Mediterranean twist.
10. Vito and Nick’s Pizzeria
For a taste of classic Chicago tavern-style pizza, Vito and Nick’s Pizzeria is the place to go. This family-owned establishment has been serving thin, crispy pizzas since 1946. Their “Sausage Pizza” is a local favorite, with a perfectly crisp crust and a generous layer of flavorful sausage.
Conclusion
Chicago’s pizza scene is a rich tapestry of flavors and styles, offering something for every pizza lover. Whether you’re a deep-dish devotee or a thin-crust enthusiast, these top 10 pizza places in Chicago provide a diverse range of options that showcase the city’s culinary creativity and passion for pizza. So, next time you’re in the Windy City, make sure to embark on a pizza tour and savor the best slices Chicago has to offer.
