A Chicago pizza expert's guide to the city's best pies


 


Chicago. The mere mention of the name conjures images of towering skyscrapers, the roar of Lake Michigan, and, of course, the legendary Chicago-style deep dish pizza. But for those who have ventured beyond the tourist traps, Chicago's pizza scene offers a dazzling diversity that goes far beyond its iconic deep dish.

This guide, crafted by a seasoned Chicago pizza aficionado, will navigate you through the city's delectable pizza landscape. We'll delve into the hallmarks of each style, recommend must-try destinations, and equip you to order with confidence like a true Chicagoan.

Deep Dish: A Chicago Original

The crown jewel of Chicago's pizza scene, the deep dish is a masterpiece of doughy goodness. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust that rises majestically from the pan, cradling a rich layer of chunky tomato sauce, mountains of gooey cheese, and your choice of toppings. Each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, a symphony of savory indulgence.

Where to find the best deep dish:

Lou Malnati's: 

A Chicago institution, Lou Malnati's is a must-visit for deep dish purists. Their buttery crust and chunky tomato sauce have been satisfying Windy City appetites for generations.

Giordano's: 

Giordano's stands tall among Chicago's deep dish elite, renowned for its buttery, flaky crust that yields with each satisfying bite. Their portions are legendary, ensuring a feast for the eyes and the stomach. A local favorite is their stuffed spinach deep dish, where the leafy green takes center stage, enveloped in layers of gooey cheese and bathed in their signature tomato sauce – a testament to their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Tavern-Style: Chicago's Neighborhood Gem

Venture out of the tourist zones and discover the charm of Chicago's tavern-style pizza. This thinner crust pizza offers a delightful balance between a satisfying chew and a crisp bite. Toppings are typically sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and onions, creating a symphony of savory flavors.

Where to find the best tavern-style:

Pat's Pizza:

Stepping into Pat's Pizza in Chicago is like stepping back in time to a simpler era of pizza perfection. Forget the overwhelming menus and flashy decor of modern chains – here, the focus is singular and unwavering: crafting a pizza that lets the quality of its ingredients sing. 

The atmosphere is refreshingly no-frills, creating a comfortable space where conversation and community can thrive alongside the true star – the pizza itself. Pat's doesn't rely on trendy toppings or gimmicks; instead, they use generations of experience to perfect a tavern-style masterpiece. 

Each bite is a testament to this dedication, a symphony of flavors achieved through the simple elegance of high-quality ingredients and time-tested techniques. Whether you're a Chicago native or a curious visitor, Pat's Pizza offers an experience that's both nostalgic and utterly satisfying.



Emily's: 

This beloved neighborhood gem offers a classic tavern-style pizza with a slightly sweet tomato sauce that perfectly complements the tangy cheese.

Thin Crust: A Slice of Simplicity

For those who crave a lighter pizza experience, Chicago's thin-crust offerings won't disappoint. Imagine a paper-thin crust cooked to a delicate crisp, topped with a light layer of sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Each bite is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients.

Where to find the best thin crust:

Pizzeria Uno: 

Considered the birthplace of Chicago deep dish, Pizzeria Uno also offers a fantastic thin-crust option. Their simple yet flavorful thin crust is a testament to the art of letting good ingredients speak for themselves.

Spacca Napoli:

 This haven for Neapolitan-style pizza offers a thin crust cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a delightful char and a slightly smoky flavor.

Beyond the Classics: A Pizza Adventure Awaits

Chicago's pizza scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with more than just the classics. Explore the city and discover hidden gems offering unique pizza experiences.

Pequod's: 

For a truly decadent experience, Pequod's deep dish with its caramelized crust is a must-try.

Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.: 

This spot offers a unique square-shaped deep dish with a buttery crust that will leave you wanting more.

Art of Pizza:

Art of Pizza elevates the classic pizza experience to an art form, venturing beyond the realm of the ordinary. Craving something beyond the familiar repertoire of pepperoni and sausage? Their gourmet pies are a canvas for culinary exploration, featuring unexpected yet delightful flavor combinations. Imagine the sweet and savory tango of duck confit, its rich taste accentuated by the luxurious fig jam, all nestled on a bed of perfectly crisped crust.

 Art of Pizza isn't just about satisfying hunger; it's about surprising and tantalizing your taste buds with a symphony of textures and unexpected pairings.




Pro Tips for the Savvy Pizza Tourist

Cut it right:

Ditch the pretense of flimsy slices and foldable triangles – Chicago deep dish demands a whole new approach. Forget the greasy finger dance and awkward balancing act. Instead, delve into this hearty masterpiece with the elegance of a fork and knife. Each bite becomes a celebration of the deep dish experience.

 Savor the buttery, flaky crust that transcends mere bread, becoming a vessel for layers of rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings. Embrace the Chicago style – it's a culinary adventure best enjoyed with the proper tools for a truly satisfying journey.

The lingo:

 Familiarize yourself with terms like "well-done" (extra cheese) and "butter crust" (a Chicago classic).

Double dough (optional): 

Deep dish purists may recommend ordering "double dough" for an extra thick and satisfying crust.

Sharing is caring: 

Deep dish pizzas are legendary for their generous size, easily feeding multiple people. With its thick, buttery crust and layers upon layers of cheese and toppings, a single deep dish can be a delicious challenge to conquer. However, to fully savor the experience and avoid potential leftovers, consider sharing your deep dish with friends. This allows everyone to enjoy a satisfying portion without feeling overwhelmed, and it fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment over this iconic pizza.

 Alternatively, some restaurants offer smaller deep dish options, which might be a perfect choice for a solo diner or those with a lighter appetite. By considering portion size and sharing options, you can ensure your deep dish adventure is one of pure delicious satisfaction.

Conclusion

Chicago's pizza scene is a testament to the city's rich culinary tapestry. From the iconic deep dish to the humble tavern-style and the innovative gourmet creations, there's a pizza experience waiting to tantalize every taste bud. Whether you're a deep dish devotee or a thin crust traditionalist, Chicago has something to offer. So, next time you find yourself in the Windy City, ditch the diet and embark on a delicious exploration of Chicago's pizza landscape. You won't regret it!

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge and recommendations to navigate Chicago's pizza scene with confidence. Remember, pizza is a journey, not a destination. So, explore, experiment, and discover your own Windy City pizza favorites. After all, in Chicago, there's no wrong way to enjoy a slice 

Frequently asked questions

  1. Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust: What's the Chicago Style?

Chicago boasts two main pizza styles: deep dish and thin crust. Deep dish is iconic for its high, buttery crust, thick layer of tomato sauce, and generous amount of cheese. Thin crust offers a crispier base and a more balanced topping distribution. Both are delicious, so choose based on your preference for crust thickness and cheese overload.

  1. What are the Must-Try Toppings?

Chicago has some classic toppings. Italian sausage, with its fennel seed flavor, is a popular choice. For a spicy kick, giardiniera, a pickled vegetable relish, is a local favorite. Don't forget the Chicago staple: deep dish often comes loaded with a healthy amount of mozzarella cheese.

  1. Where Can I Find the Best Deep Dish?

There are many contenders for the "best" deep dish! Lou Malnati's, Gino's East, and Pizzeria Uno are all legendary spots known for their buttery crusts and signature flavors.

  1. Any Great Thin-Crust Options?

Absolutely! For a classic thin crust experience, check out Pequod's Pizza. They offer a caramelized crust with a hint of sweetness, perfect for those who love a crispy base. Pizzeria Portofino is another excellent choice, known for their high-quality ingredients and creative topping combinations.

  1. What's the Chicago Pizza Etiquette?

Chicagoans tend to use a fork and knife for deep dish pizza, due to its hefty size and generous fillings. Thin crust can be enjoyed with your hands, New York-style.

  1. How Big Are These Pizzas? Can I Finish One Alone?

Deep dish pizzas are known for being shareable. A small can easily feed two, while a large can be enough for a group. Thin crust pizzas come in more manageable sizes, typically suitable for one person.

  1. Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options?

Many Chicago pizzerias offer vegetarian toppings like roasted vegetables and mushrooms. Vegan cheese alternatives are becoming increasingly available, so inquire about vegan options when ordering.

  1. What are Some Unique Chicago Pizza Experiences?

For a historic ambiance, head to Lou Malnati's, a Chicago institution. Pequod's offers a caramelized crust unlike any other. Pizzeria Uno claims to be the birthplace of Chicago deep dish, making it a must-visit for pizza history buffs.

  1. Any Local Favorites Beyond Deep Dish and Thin Crust?

Chicago has a surprising variety of pizza styles. For a Roman-style thin crust, try Pizzeria Portofino. Interested in a square pie? Check out a Detroit-style deep dish at Pequod's.

  1. What Else Should I Know About Chicago Pizza?

Be prepared to wait! Deep dish pizzas take longer to bake due to their thickness. But the wait is worth it for a slice of Chicago's pizza perfection. Enjoy exploring the city's diverse pizza scene and savor the unique flavors each place offers.




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