Chicago's Ultimate Pizza Guide: From Deep Dish to Thin Crust and Local Legends

Chicago is world-famous for its pizza, and for good reason. From the iconic deep-dish pies that put the city on the culinary map to the crispy thin-crust tavern-style pizzas beloved by locals, Chicago offers a slice for every taste. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong Chicagoan, exploring the city’s diverse pizza scene is a must. In this guide, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering tour of the best pizzerias in Chicago, from legendary spots like Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s to hidden gems like Pequod’s and Italian Fiesta Pizzeria. Get ready to discover where to find the perfect buttery crust, caramelized cheese edges, and authentic Neapolitan flavors. No matter your preference, these pizza places are sure to satisfy your cravings and show you why Chicago is truly a pizza lover’s paradise!

Deep Dish Legends

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Legendary Chicago Deep Dish
• Highlights: 50+ years of pizza-making experience, butter crust

Pizzeria Uno and Pizzeria Due

• Original locations in River North
• Known for: Inventing Chicago-style deep dish pizza
• Highlights: Historic atmosphere, thick cornmeal crust

Giordano's

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Stuffed deep-dish pizza
• Highlights: Derived from an "Italian Easter pie" recipe

Gino's East

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Deep dish with golden, flaky crust
• Highlights: Started by two cab drivers in 1966

Chicago Dough Company

Established: 1976
Locations: Multiple (including Bourbonnais and Richton Park)
Pizza Styles:

• Thin crust
• Deep dish
• Stuffed pizza
• Calabrese pizza

Signature Offerings:

• Unique pizza varieties like BBQ Chicken
• Gyro Pizza
• Chicken Basil Pizza
• Take-n-Bake options
• Pizza buffet available

Italian Fiesta Pizzeria

Established: Late 1940s
Notable Recognition: Barack Obama's favorite pizzeria
Locations:

• 8058 S. Halsted St
• 1306 E 47th St
• Multiple Chicago area locations

Highlights:

• Family-owned for over 60 years
• Traditional thin-crust pizza
• Homemade Italian dishes
• Pasta and sandwich options
• Catering services available

Pan Pizza Perfection

Pequod's Pizza

• Lincoln Park and Morton Grove locations
• Known for: Caramelized cheese crust
• Highlights: Dive bar atmosphere, gumball-sized sausage pieces

Thin Crust Favorites

Pat's Pizza

• 2679 N. Lincoln Avenue
• Known for: Thin-crust pizza
• Highlights: Family-owned since 1950s

Vito & Nick's Pizzeria

• 8433 S. Pulaski Road
• Known for: Thin-crust tavern-style pizza
• Highlights: Operating since 1946, South Side institution

Home Run Inn

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Thin crust pies made fresh daily
• Highlights: Family-owned since 1947

Gourmet and Artisanal Options

Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

• 1769 W Sunnyside Ave
• Known for: Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza
• Highlights: Wood-fired oven, imported ingredients

Robert's Pizza & Dough Co.

• 465 N McClurg Ct
• Known for: Artisanal pizza with unique toppings
• Highlights: Ranked #10 in the U.S. by 50 Top Pizza guide

Forno Rosso

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Neapolitan-style pizza
• Highlights: Wood-fired oven, San Marzano tomatoes

Hidden Gems

Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder

• 2121 N Clark St
• Known for: Pizza pot pie
• Highlights: Unique upside-down pizza, mob history

Bartoli's Pizzeria

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Both deep dish and thin crust options
• Highlights: Award-winning pizzas, fresh ingredients

Aurelio's Pizza

• Multiple locations
• Known for: Thin crust pizza
• Highlights: Chicago's oldest pizza chain, family-friendly

 

Pizza Style Comparison

Pizzeria	Deep Dish	Thin Crust	Unique Offerings
Lou Malnati's	✓	Limited	Butter crust
Uno/Due	✓	Limited	Original deep dish
Giordano's	✓	Limited	Stuffed pizza
Chicago Dough	✓	✓	Calabrese, Take-n-Bake
Italian Fiesta	Limited	✓	Obama-approved
Pequod's	✓	Limited	Caramelized crust
Pat's Pizza	Limited	✓	Family tradition
Bartoli's	✓	✓	Award-winning

 

Pro Tips for Pizza Lovers

• Call ahead for deep dish (45+ minute wait)
• Try multiple styles
• Don't skip the local, family-owned spots
• Explore beyond tourist favorites

Whether you're craving a classic deep dish or looking to explore Chicago's diverse pizza scene, these local favorites offer something for every pizza lover. Chicago's pizza isn't just food—it's a culinary tradition that tells the story of the city's rich, diverse culture.