Chicago is known for its towering skyscrapers, rich history, and, of course, its iconic food: the Chicago deep-dish pizza. This beloved dish has become synonymous with the Windy City, with its thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, and a hearty, savory tomato sauce.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing authentic Chicago pizza is a must. If you’re staying near downtown Chicago and looking for the best spots to try Chicago-style pizza, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 places you won’t want to miss.
1. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago institution renowned for serving one of the best deep-dish pizzas in the city. Its signature crust is buttery and flaky, and the mozzarella cheese is sourced from Wisconsin, ensuring the perfect melt. The sauce mixes sweet and savory tomatoes, creating a perfect balance. The Malnati Chicago-style pizza with sausage is a crowd favorite and a great introduction to the authentic deep-dish experience.
2. Giordano’s
Known for its stuffed deep-dish pizza, Giordano’s offers a heartier version of the Chicago-style pizza with a thick, pie-like crust. Each slice is packed with layers of cheese and ingredients, making it a perfect indulgence for pizza lovers. Their original location on State Street is easily accessible and a must-visit if you’re craving an authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza experience.
3. Art of Pizza
If you’re looking for a more casual setting but still want the full deep-dish experience, Art of Pizza is the place to go. This neighborhood gem offers a variety of deep-dish options, including their signature sausage, pepperoni, and veggie pies. The crust is buttery and crispy, and the ingredients are fresh, giving each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Art of Pizza also offers delivery, making it a convenient choice for a cozy night in after a day of exploring.
4. Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza stands out in the Chicago pizza scene for its unique caramelized crust, which results from cheese being placed on the edges of the pizza during baking. This creates a crispy, cheesy border that’s unlike any other. The deep-dish pizza here is loaded with cheese and toppings, and their signature pan pizza is perfect for those who like their crust with a bit of extra crunch.
5. Bartoli’s Pizzeria
Located in the heart of Little Italy, Bartoli’s Pizzeria serves a classic Chicago deep-dish pizza that’s beloved by locals. The crust is thick and buttery, the cheese is gooey, and the sauce has the perfect tang. Bartoli’s may not be as flashy as some of the more famous pizzerias, but its deep-dish pizza is consistently ranked among the best in the city.
6. The Original Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.
For a unique take on Chicago pizza, The Original Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. offers what they call a “pizza pot pie.” This deep-dish pizza features a crust that lines a small bowl filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce, which is then baked to perfection. It’s a quirky yet delicious variation of the traditional deep-dish, offering a more compact but equally satisfying slice of Chicago-style pizza.
7. My Pi Pizza
For something a little different but equally satisfying, My Pi Pizza combines a modern twist with traditional deep-dish techniques. Their deep-dish pizzas have a crisp, thin crust and are topped with fresh ingredients like sweet Italian sausage and mozzarella. My Pi Pizza takes an artisanal approach, using locally sourced ingredients that give their deep-dish pizzas a unique flavor.
8. Labriola Chicago
Labriola Chicago offers a contemporary take on Chicago-style pizza with its deep-dish offerings that feature high-quality ingredients and a refined crust. The restaurant’s setting is sleek and modern, making it a great spot for both casual diners and special occasions. Their deep-dish pizza is rich and hearty, with generous portions of cheese and sauce. The pizza here is consistently praised for its balance of flavors, and the atmosphere makes it perfect for enjoying a slice after exploring the city.
9. Bartolini’s Pizzeria
Bartolini’s Pizzeria, located in the suburb of Midlothian, is worth the short drive if you’re craving a true Chicago deep-dish experience. The restaurant is known for its exceptional deep-dish pizza, which is generously filled with layers of cheese, sauce, and fresh ingredients. The dough is soft yet hearty, and the crust has a buttery richness that perfectly complements the toppings. It’s one of the local favorites, offering a more suburban pizza experience with the same quality as the city’s best.
10. Brooklyn Pizza in Kedzie
For a slice of deep-dish pizza with a touch of Brooklyn flair, Brooklyn Pizza combines New York pizza styles with the Chicago deep-dish tradition. While the deep dish may be slightly different from traditional offerings, it’s packed with flavor and made with fresh ingredients. The crust is thick and buttery, and the layers of cheese and sauce are rich and satisfying.
After the Pizza…
After indulging in the Windy City’s deep-dish delights, staying at the Arlo Chicago is a perfect choice to further explore Chicago’s many other wonders. Located in a prime area, you’ll be just moments away from these top pizza spots and other iconic attractions. Come stay with us!
