Chicago’s Deep-Dish Pizza: A Guide to Iconic Pizzas and Worth a Trip
Chicago is infamous for its unique and delicious deep-dish pizza. This style of pizza, with a crispy shell and a thick, buttery crust, is a must-try for any pizza lover. From iconic places to lesser-known gems, Chicago offers a wide variety of deep-dish pizza options. Here’s a guide to the best places to get this famous treat and the reasons why a trip to Chicago might just be worth it for it alone.
The Best Places to Get Deep-Dish Pizza in Chicago
Chicago is home to many renowned deep-dish pizza establishments, each with its own unique flavor and charm. Let’s explore the top spots:
1. Giordanos
Top Pick for Pizza Enthusiasts
Giordanos is famous for its stuffed deep-dish pizza, known for being loaded with cheese and toppings. This iconic spot has been serving up delicious deep-dish pizza since 1972. The pizza is not just delicious; it's a fan favorite among locals and tourists alike. The pizza is generously piled with toppings and has a rich, buttery crust that is a testament to the art of deep-dish pizza making. Go ahead and try their signature giant pizza slices—they’re a definite must!
2. Lou Malnati’s
Favorite Among Families
Lou Malnati’s is a beloved establishment in Chicago, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and buttery crust. This pizza place has been catering to locals for decades, serving up classic deep-dish pizza with fresh ingredients. The original location in the suburb of Lincolnwood is highly recommended, where you can enjoy more authentic and traditional flavors. However, their city location on Rogers Avenue is also great and offers a similar dining experience.
3. Pequods Pizza
Lovely and Unique
Pequods Pizza stands out with its caramelized crust and unique flavor profile. Their deep-dish pizza is a fan favorite among locals, known for its distinctive caramelized edges that add a delightful crunch to the typically thick and buttery crust. This locally beloved spot is a must-visit for any pizza connoisseur. While the original location in Morton Grove is highly recommended for its classic deep-dish flavor, their city location on Clybourn Avenue is also worth a visit and has its own unique charm.
4. Art of Pizza
Lovely Hidden Gem
Art of Pizza is a lesser-known gem, offering a variety of deep-dish and stuffed pizzas. This cozy and intimate spot is a hidden gem for those looking for a unique deep-dish dining experience. The creative and flavorful options are a hearty delight, and the atmosphere is inviting and relaxed. Whether you’re into classic deep-dish or something a bit more unconventional, Art of Pizza is definitely worth a stop.
5. Labriola Chicago
Modern Twist
Labriola Chicago combines tradition with modern flair, offering a more upscale dining experience. While it’s not strictly a deep-dish pizza spot, their menu features both traditional and modern interpretations of the Chicago-style pie. This spot is great for those looking to elevate their deep-dish experience with a bit of sophistication.
Is It Worth Going to Chicago Just for Deep-Dish Pizza?
While deep-dish pizza is undoubtedly the star of Chicago’s culinary scene, a trip to the Windy City is not just about the pizza. The city is rich in culture, architecture, and other culinary offerings that make it a memorable destination. However, if you love pizza, especially deep-dish pizza, a visit to Chicago is definitely worth it. The experience of enjoying authentic deep-dish pizza in its hometown, along with the vibrant culture, architecture, and other culinary offerings of the city, makes for a truly unforgettable trip.
For some, the deep-dish pizza might be the reason to go. If you can handle trying just one or two meals of deep-dish pizza, the answer is a resounding yes. The flavors are unbeatable, the varieties endless, and the memories priceless. Other visitors, however, should consider the broader range of attractions in Chicago. The city is brimming with museums, parks, music scenes, and more, making it a dynamic destination that caters to a broad spectrum of interests.
One thing to note is that the nomenclature of deep-dish pizza can be confusing. In Chicago, deep-dish pizza can be distinguished into two types: the traditional, thick, and buttery deep-dish style, and the stuffed style, which is loaded with toppings. Understanding the difference can help you make a more informed choice.
In conclusion, whether you choose to go to Chicago for its deep-dish pizza or for other reasons, this vibrant city offers a mix of flavors, culture, and experiences that are hard to beat. The deep-dish pizza lover in you will find a feast, while other aspects of the city will satisfy a range of other interests. So, the next time you plan a trip, consider Chicago for its deep-dish pizza and all the other wonders it has to offer.