Chicago’s pizza scene is not just a local preference; it is a deep-seated cultural identity that sparks passionate debate among residents and visitors alike. From the iconic deep-dish that requires a knife and fork to the cracker-thin tavern-style squares cut into party-friendly portions, the city offers a stunning diversity of dough, sauce, and cheese. Navigating this culinary landscape can be overwhelming, as the sheer volume of legendary pizzerias and hidden neighborhood gems is staggering.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise and deliver a curated list of the most essential pizza experiences in the Windy City. We have analyzed decades of culinary history, local reputation, ingredient quality, and consistency to bring you a selection that honors both the old-school institutions and the modern innovators. Whether you are a first-time tourist seeking the quintessential Chicago pie or a local looking to expand your rotation, this list provides a definitive starting point.
Understanding the difference between the major styles is crucial to appreciating what makes Chicago pizza unique. Deep-dish is a high-edged pie with a buttery, biscuit-like crust, inverted layers of cheese and toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce on top. Tavern-style, conversely, is thin, crispy, and cut into squares, designed for sharing over a cold beer at a neighborhood bar.
Beyond the crust, the quality of ingredients sets the best apart from the average. The finest pizzerias in Chicago source specific Wisconsin mozzarella, use proprietary sausage blends, and simmer tomato sauces for hours to achieve the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. The ovens matter too, with many of the oldest establishments still relying on decades-old deck ovens that impart a character impossible to replicate with modern equipment.
In compiling this ranking, we prioritized flavor, texture, and the overall dining experience. We considered the legacy of the establishments, the mastery of their specific style, and the loyalty they command from their neighborhoods. While personal preference plays a role in any food ranking, the spots featured here have earned their reputations through years of consistent excellence and culinary mastery.
The following list represents the gold standard of Chicago pizza, ranging from the bustling lines of the Magnificent Mile to unassuming corner taverns in residential neighborhoods. Each entry offers a distinct take on what makes this city’s pizza scene the best in the United States. Prepare to be hungry, and prepare to argue with your friends about which one truly deserves the number one spot.
Below, you will find our definitive ranking of the establishments that define the Chicago pizza landscape, complete with the details you need to plan your visit.
Giordano's
| Address | 130 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 616-1200 |
Giordano’s is definitely worth trying if you’re visiting Chicago and want an authentic deep-dish pizza experience. It’s a large, busy restaurant, so be prepared for a wait. We waited about 50 minutes for our deep-dish pizza, but that’s pretty standard since they’re made fresh to order.
The classic Chicago deep-dish pizza was excellent—rich, cheesy, and exactly what you’d expect from one of the city’s iconic pizza spots. It was the highlight of the meal.
The drinks and cocktails, however, were fairly average and nothing particularly memorable. On the positive side, the service was friendly, attentive, and efficient despite how busy the restaurant was.
Overall, if you’re craving authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza, Giordano’s is a great choice. Just plan for the wait and enjoy the experience.
You need a reservation. Luckily we had no where to go, as the Pizza took an hour to bake, they were able to bring kids meal first so that helped us avoid a meltdown. Waiter was too busy to keep up with drinks or if we needed anything. We were seated by the door so half the time people waiting for their tables were 2 ft away staring at you eat which was a little uncomfortable. Pizza was fine and filling. $5 a slice was about what it came out to be. The salad was good. I would not order the breadsticks again.
In terms of atmosphere I was hoping for more a homemade vibe but was met with a Applebees look and feel.
Food was spectacular. We had the French dip chicken Alfredo, chicken parm, with a aparizer we for calamari.
The French dip was perfect. The prim rib they used was flavor full and tender with a crispy bun.
The chicken Alfredo was very cream and the sauce was made in house and the chicken was suppwr tender.
The chicken parm was perfectly crispy as well as perfectly cooked.
Ceaser salad was delicious as well
Over all worth the wait and price.
If you’re visiting Chicago, you definitely have to try Giordano’s deep-dish pizza. We went to the location near The Bean, and it was a great experience. The pizza is delicious, but be prepared to wait at least 45 minutes because deep-dish takes time to bake. It’s also very filling — for six people, we ordered two small pizzas and could barely finish them! Near the entrance, there’s a window where you can watch the pizzas being prepared, which was really fun to see. The pizza tastes especially amazing when it’s fresh and hot. We also took some to go, but after reheating it later, it just wasn’t the same. The kids loved it too. Highly recommended if you want to try a real Chicago-style deep-dish pizza!
Deep dish the way it is supposed to be. Thick, cheesey, and so very filling. We really liked the sausage topping. Order ahead and skip the 45min pizza cook time. A regular size pizza is enough food for 4 people.
Service was cordial. The atmosphere was cozy.
Gino's East
| Address | 162 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 266-3337 |
We waited in the rain for 40 minutes to get into the door. Which we 100% expected. Can’t fix Mother Nature. We finally got seated and ordered our food before ordering our drinks because we were told that a deep dish pizza can take up to an hour to come out. We got cheese stix and a sausage deep dish pizza. The cheese stix came out really fast and were delicious. The pizza came out quite a bit later and was a supreme pizza with everything instead of a sausage only pizza that we ordered. I am 52 years old and have been dreaming of a Chicago deep dish pizza for years. Unfortunately with the amount of time it takes to remake a pizza if it’s wrong you’re stuck with it. We politely paid for our dinner (aprox $100) and didn’t eat any of it accept the cheese stix. I will say if we got the pizza we ordered I’m sure it would have been delicious. I hate to say I would probably not return if I ever come back to Chicago again.
Marco made our visit to Gino's East an unforgettable experience! From the moment we sat down, he was friendly, attentive, and made us feel right at home. He had great recommendations and checked in just the right amount to make sure everything was perfect.
The food was absolutely incredible. Every dish we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and exceeded our expectations. The pizza was everything you'd hope for from a classic Chicago deep-dish spot—crispy crust, perfectly melted cheese, and amazing sauce. Honestly, everything we tried was fantastic.
If you're visiting Gino's East, ask for Marco if you can. Great service combined with outstanding food made this one of the best dining experiences we've had in Chicago. We'll definitely be back!
Gino's East on Superior completely delivered on an incredible meal! We started with the sticks and dips appetizer, which was the perfect way to kick off the night—the dips were flavorful and pair perfectly with the crispy mozz sticks and spinach rolls.
For the main event, we tried both styles of pizza and both were absolutely stellar. The Cheesy Legend deep dish pizza is a masterpiece of gooey, rich cheese and perfect crust. But don't sleep on their thin crust either; the thin crust Meaty Legend was amazing, packed with high-quality meats and a fantastic crunch. Whether you are a deep dish devotee or a thin crust fan, this place is a must-visit. Excellent food all around!
When in Chicago, how can you miss out on deep-dish pizza? We found this old restaurant that opened in 1966, and everyone was very satisfied. I personally would give it an 8/10, but everyone else gave it a 10.
Chicago Fire: The ultimate pizza with lots of cheese and tomato toppings, the first bite was incredibly satisfying. The entire pizza 🍕 had only one Jalapeño pepper, the slight spiciness adding layers of flavor that was very pleasant. The only thing I wasn't used to was the thick crust; the layers were delicately flaky, but not crispy, instead powdery like a soft cookie. Besides the butter, it had no other flavor, and it felt cloying even at first bite.
Legendary Hand-rolled Spinach Mozzarella Sticks: The crust was crispy, the filling was stringy, and the salsa was refreshing and helped cut through the richness. However, the spinach flavor was barely noticeable.
The ambiance was interesting; everyone could scribble on the walls, sofas, tables… anywhere you looked. A sixty-year-old historical memory and public space.
Got to my hotel late, wanted to try Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza and so off I went!
I got the small Chicago Fire deep dish for takeout and it was everything I hoped it would be. I don’t know if I can return home to just regular pizza now…
There is a 45-60min bake time for deep dish pizzas which I was clearly unaware of, so went back to my hotel to workout and work off the pending calorie intake 😂 I got a text message, picked up my pizza and promptly devoured it.
Would come again next time I’m in town.
Pequod's Pizza
| Address | 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (773) 327-1512 |
If you want to lose your Chicago deep dish or thick crust virginity, this is the place to do it! I've tried thick crust pizza in other countries and was never really impressed, but this completely changed my mind. The pizza was incredible, the portions were satisfying, and the prices were still reasonable. The service was also friendly and much better than expected. Easily one of the best pizza experiences I've had!
After reading a bunch of reviews using AI, the pizza to try came down to Lou Malnati's or Pequod. Had the deep dish half pepperoni and half meatballs. Came out caramelized / burnt around the top edge. The crust / pizza was crispy from top to the middle of the pizza. It was not oily at all. The crust inside the pizza was fluffy with the tomato sauce and slightly crusted cheese and toppings were really tasty. Every bite very enjoyable.
Made reservations through google reservations. Came at reservations and immediately sat our group of 4. Heard people without reservations had to wait 1 hr. We ate at 1pm on a Tuesday.
Bar / pizza atmosphere with big screens for watching sports. We were able to catch Portugal vs Uzbekistan soccer / football while we ate. Overall a great experience with good food.
If you’re looking for an authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza, this place is an absolute must-visit! It’s a bit outside the main tourist areas, but that’s exactly what makes it feel like a hidden gem. Several locals told us it’s the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago, and after trying it, I can definitely understand why.
The restaurant has a cozy, authentic atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a true neighborhood favorite. The deep-dish pizza was simply outstanding—rich, flavorful, perfectly baked, and easily one of the best I’ve ever had. The prices are very reasonable for the quality and portion sizes. I would happily come back and highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Chicago!
Pequod’s Pizza was my first true Chicago pizza experience, and it honestly lived up to everything I had hoped for. From the first bite, it was clear why this place has such a legendary reputation—the caramelized, crispy cheese around the edge of the deep-dish crust is unbelievable, with a perfect balance of crunch, richness, and flavor.
The pizza was hearty without feeling overdone: buttery crust, great sauce, plenty of cheese, and toppings that made every slice feel like the full Chicago experience. It was exactly the kind of meal you want when you come to the city looking for something iconic—comforting, indulgent, and completely memorable.
If you are trying Chicago-style pizza for the first time, Pequod’s is everything you would wish for and then some. It set the bar incredibly high for every pizza I’ll try here after this.
I want to take this opportunity to leave a review for Pequod’s Pizza.
My server, Zach (John Connor), was welcoming from the moment I walked in until the time I left. His friendly attitude and excellent service made the experience even better.
I originally planned on ordering the thin-crust pizza, but Zach recommended that I try the famous deep-dish instead. He also highly recommended the wings, which were perfectly crispy and delicious.
During my visit, I also had the pleasure of meeting his wife, Samantha. The entire team created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home.
I visited around midnight, and it was a great time to stop by without a long wait. From what I understand, though, if you visit during the daytime or peak hours, you should expect to wait for a table, either inside the restaurant or upstairs. It’s easy to see why this place is so popular.
Thank you to Zach, Samantha, and the entire team at Pequod’s Pizza on North Clybourn Avenue in Chicago for providing such outstanding hospitality and a memorable dining experience. I’ll definitely be back!
Pizzeria Portofino
| Address | 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 900-9018 |
We had been dying to try this restaurant for months and it did not disappoint! We had the pepperoni pizza with hot honey, garlic bread, Parmesan fries, and the Portofino Purse drink! All of our selections tasted amazing and were reasonably priced. This is definitely a must if you are out in Chicago. Our server was so sweet and attentive which made our experience even better.
Yep, gotta go! It’s not just a pizzeria but rather, it’s a great place to hang out, well rounded place with all walks of life! You can sit inside or outside right by the river! What a place!
Service, 5 star, all did amazing! Julia H was amazing!
You can watch all the tourism boats drive by, the best part is the group on board is waving to you like a bunch of wackos! Good times! Just wave back, no one will remember, many can’t swim. There are many yachts, nice ones - most rented for sure with strippers and pimps, and redneck pontoon rentals go by with, some of the best one piece bathing suits you’ll see, just wave!
Ok onto the food, amazing place to eat. The food is really good. All the pizzas were amazing, the appetizers that we got were just perfect. You couldn’t ask for a better meal on the river. Just remember to wave to the Chicago water taxi!
Reservation will save you time!
5 stars!
Easily the best pizza I’ve ever had!! We loved this place so much we went there two days in a row lol. The first time we had reservations and the second time we ordered to go and it was just as good. Drinks were tasty & strong. Super nice staff.
If you are looking for the perfect view of the Chicago river and a perfect patio come here. The views are outstanding. The service is top notch. And the food is even better. The staff was so friendly and helpful and they even helped set up a birthday brunch for my friend. They made the day extra special. We ordered lots of different options from the menu and they were all delicious. Jacob was WONDERFUL!
Pizzeria Portofino absolutely delivered from start to finish. I kicked things off with an espresso martini—fabulous and perfectly balanced. For appetizers, the prosciutto San Daniele was outstanding, and the Parmesan fries came out hot, fresh, and perfectly crispy.
For my main, I had the classic cacio e pepe, and it was everything you want it to be—simple, rich, and executed flawlessly. Dessert was the lemon tiramisu, and wow… I didn’t know I needed that in my life, but it completely hit the spot.
Jose was our server and did a fantastic job. Even with how busy the restaurant was, we never felt rushed, which made the experience even better.
Pro tip: reservations fill up fast, so book well in advance. We sat on the heated patio, and the views of the Chicago River were iconic—such a great touch that really elevated the whole evening.
Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
| Address | 531 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 470-0250 |
Worth the trip. The food was served with portions intended to share. Lots of leftovers for sure. A limited menu allowed them to focus on doing the items they do have well.
Most people may not get excited about a salad but you will here. The drinks were too expensive for what we ordered. A drink with no fresh fruit and Titos should not cost $19.
The meatballs were a yummy appetizer. We did get the toasted bread to dip in the extra sauce. The pizza was crispy and pub style cut. Great cheese combo on it.
The soft serve ice cream with apples and browned butter was the perfect ending. Thank you to our server, Ashley. She was spot on keeping the table cleared and food flowing. She gave great recommendations.
The host wasn't the friendliest, but that was our only complaint. The waitress was so kind! The place is beautiful and has a super cool vibe. The menu is small but perfect. Highlights include the cheese appetizer, the best focaccia I’ve had in a long time, and a divine gnocchi! The artichoke pizza was also perfect. And for dessert, we loved the peanut butter ice cream—I’ve never tasted anything like it. Amazing! Everything was a 10/10.
So good!!! The fried zuchinni was sooo good and the pizzas were executed very well. The strawberry rhubarb dessert was a great way to end the meal! Super yummy soft serve made in house with crunchy pieces and real pieces of rhubarb! Will be back!
From the moment you walk in the door, Zarella feels like the proper Italian night out and well worth the 30 day wait to get a prime time reservation. The decor has beautiful art and dark wood all around, making it a cozy experience that's not too crowded or loud. Service is excellent and our server was attentive, making the birthday celebration of the evening extra special. The food....out of this world. One of the best tavern pizzas in the city.
Food reviews:
Truffle and mushroom tavern--light and well balanced. Delicate sweet notes from the red onion balance out the earthiness of the mushroom, truffle and charred crust. Cheese doesn't overwhelm the pie and compliments all ingredients with a salty bite
Spicy vodka and sausage--so different than the first pie but equally as delicious! Vodka sauce has a deep flavor with only subtle heat. Sausage packs a ton of flavor. Heavier of the two pies since it had more cheese on it but my husband enjoyed
Chocolate peanut butter sundae--birthday celebration treat brought by our server! Wow it's a must order. The puppy chow was an insanely smart ingredient to add for texture and bit of chocolate.
Can't wait to return to try another specialty pie!
What a great find. We stumbled upon this place by accident, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our day. The food was absolutely delicious, and everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and well prepared.
The staff were incredibly welcoming from the moment we walked in. They were knowledgeable about the menu, happy to answer questions, and made excellent recommendations. The atmosphere felt warm and homey, with music that added to the ambiance without being too loud or distracting. Between the outstanding food, friendly service, and comfortable setting, this is definitely a place I would come back to again.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
| Address | 805 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 786-1000 |
My daughter and I were visiting Chicago for the first time and wanted to try some deep dish pizza! We stopped by for lunch and had a great meal. We started with the Ceasar Salad. The individual salad was large enough for us to share! We then had the deep dish cheese pizza and a thin crust Marguerite pizza. Both pizzas tasted great. The crust is a bit hard but we really enjoyed our meal and would return again if we were in the area.
Really good food. Was crowded with good reason. Had the Chicken Louie which was okay I just didnt like the seasoning on the chicken but the pasta and sauce was good. My kids ordered 2 personal chicago deep dishes to try. They loved them. Softy delicious crust, melty cheese and the gravy/sauce is flavorful. We also had the mozzarella bites. Those were my favorite. And their ranch is very delicious. Along with their Tiramisu! Definitely that! Great service by Katie. Even though it was super busy, she was all over it! Also we recommend a res because again, very busy! Highly recommend!
It was super crowded (35 minute wait for a table) but I was able to get a seat at the bar with no wait. I ordered a personal-sized deep dish. Definitely worth the wait. I would skip the chocolate cake next time because it was mostly mousse, which isn't my favorite. I liked the white sangria more than the red sangria.
The bartenders were friendly, despite being incredibly busy. One bartender noticed a table hadn't been served and went out of his way to make sure the table was covered.
A must-visit for anyone wanting to try authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza.
Be prepared to wait—the restaurant was absolutely packed, so reservations are highly recommended.
The deep-dish pizza was fantastic. It's loaded with cheese and looks incredibly heavy, but the tomato sauce is fresh and the flavors are surprisingly light and natural, making it much easier to eat than expected. We also enjoyed the salad and garlic bread, which paired perfectly with the pizza.
Definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Chicago.
Unreal Deep Dish—Completely Worth the Wait!
If you want the most delicious deep dish in Chicago, this is definitely the spot. The food was absolutely excellent, and the service was great from start to finish.
Just be prepared for a wait! It took about 45 minutes for our pizza to hit the table (which is pretty standard for authentic deep dish, but feels like an eternity when you're hungry), plus another long stretch just to get seated.
That being said, every single bite was so worth it. Highly recommend if you have the time to spare!
Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company
| Address | 2121 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 248-2570 |
This place was recommended to us by a local, and we’re incredibly grateful for that recommendation.
I’ve had plenty of deep dish pizza before, but nothing quite like this. It was absolutely delicious, and I highly recommend giving it a try.
Come hungry, and don’t skip the salads, they’re freshly prepared by dedicated salad chefs and are just as impressive as the pizza.
There’s no outdoor seating, but the indoor atmosphere feels authentic and adds to the overall experience. The staff was attentive, our order was handled perfectly, and we had a fantastic meal from start to finish.
A restaurant that comes recommended and has great reviews for a reason. From start to finish an absolute master class in operations. We came in with a big group in which I’m always nervous about but the staff was immediately accommodating and worked as a team to help us out.
Our server was phenomenal and recommended the favorites. I had high expectations and they were absolutely met, the Mediterranean bread was top tier as was the pot pie.
Such an awesome place with a good history topped off with excellent people and amazing food!
The wait was long, but trust me, the food was so worth it. Best Greek salad I've ever had, and the Mediterranean bread was love at first bite. I went in looking to try the pizza pot pie, but I'm leaving obsessed with the bread and salad. Shoutout to Juan for keeping it classy despite a rude guest, and Amber, our server, was absolute perfection - warm, friendly, and attentive. If you're looking for a great dining experience, look no further.
I’ve tried various pizza for a long time… but this place is absolutely unprecedented in my experience.
Let’s talk about the appetizer first. You seriously consider to order it because the pot pie takes a while to make it (30~40 minutes in our case). We ordered Mediterranean bread and it has so much good flavors - starts with the plush of the dough, with good touch of garlic, and continues to fresh parsley and oregano. It is a simple bread but it has all good taste inside. It is large (we are party of 3 men but not able to finish it all) so keep in mind of that - to go box is available and the bread still tasted good on the next day.
Now for the pot pie - per person you should consider ordering half pound because it was enough for us (again, we are men with age of 20s). We ordered three combinations: sausage with mushroom, sausage without mushroom, and no sausage but with mushroom. The sausage has really strong fennel seed taste with rich juice from the meat which completes the taste, but you exclude if you don’t prefer those. For the mushroom - I think this should be included. This mushroom carries the part of the essence inside the sauce, and it tastes really good as having a big bite.
Overall, is it worth a +2 hrs wait? Definitely!
A classic Chicago pizza spot with a cozy & old-school cabin feel. We visited on a weekday and still had about a 30-minute wait. The Mediterranean bread was a flavorful start, and the house salad was surprisingly good with its house dressing. The famous pizza pot pie was the clear highlight, with a rich and cheesy texture and an upside down bake. A very hearty & quintessential experience for the Chicago pizza scene.
Milly's Pizza In The Pan- West Town
| Address | 925 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (224) 809-7192 |
Staying in Wicker Park for the 4th of July week, so I thought I'd try Milly's - and oh my goodness, it was good. Their pan pizza is thicker than tavern style but thinner than deep dish, and you need to go online to order after 8 a.m.
Very good pan style pizza, the star is the sauce which has a slight spice to it (red pepper flakes?) and the crust, which has the amazing crunchy butteriness. Reminded me of a grown up version of 80’s Pizza Hut pan pizzas but with a solid base and just enough cheese. You have to pre order the pizza as they only make a certain amount per day, there’s one booth for eating in and a 4 stool window bar. No ac so if you wanna eat in come prepared for a very basic eating experience out of the box. It’s all about the pizza!
What is there to say about Milly’s at this point that hasn’t been said? We have been regulars since the west town location opened and it is easily the highest quality, most consistent, and most reliable pizza available. And likely the goat of this type of pizza overall.
New customers: order in advance, it is ready the minute you schedule it for, it travels well and reheats beautifully if there is any left.
Advanced customers: Get the Leandoer while it’s available. S tier, our new favorite. The shiitake and cremini mushrooms are amazing in flavor and texture, and pair so great with the pistachio, garlic and cream fraiche.
Well worth the hype. Best pizza im chicago hands down!! Not as thick and rich as deep dish but similar to it. Dough is high quality, crust is great, sauce is super fresh, and high quality ingredients. I ordered at 8a sharp on Sunday and when I checked back an hr later it was sold out. They also do not cut the pizza and are really good about pickup times lol. Got there like 15 mins early and had to wait but def well worth it!! Highly recommend. Will be back soon!
Finally, I got a pizza from Milly's Pizza in the pan. First, the ingredients are top tier, fresh sauce and unique combo pizzas. Now my personal thoughts, it is a very thick breaded crust. I ordered it with sausage and mushrooms. The sausage was quite spicy but the mushrooms were fresh, not canned. Ingredients were sparse, so I mostly tasted the bready crust. Not my favorite but you should try it if you are a fan of thick crusts. Thanks for reading. Gotta go, I'm hungry!
Giordano's
| Address | 223 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60606 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 583-9400 |
I had to work trip to (chicago) and a colleague has never been before. Definitely needed to try some Giordano’s pizza before we left.
The NBA finals was on TV in a room body was really into that so it made for a little bit louder atmosphere than normal, but it was a great time.
He’s definitely more of a pepperoni fan so he got the double pepperoni deep dish and I opted for the (chicago) classic which is always my go to.
We did start with the the calamari appetizer I love the fried lemons to go along with the fried calamari which was tender and soft and perfectly fried and it always great with the marinara dipping sauce.
As you can see in the pictures in the video, the cheese pool was outstanding. The pizza was delicious. The cheese was crispy. The ingredients were soft and tender 10 out of 10 would recommend.
Parking is as you would expect downtown Chicago parking garages and paid parking further down. You will have to walk to get to the location arrive early and pre-order any deep dish that you want to get they also have thin crust and the famous Chicago Tavern style, but deep dish is always my favorite. Just can’t get it from where I live in Oklahoma.
You have many options whenever it comes to (chicago) deep dish trial all figure out which ones for you I like Giordano’s but use your own best judgment give it a shot. Definitely would recommend trying any of the locations especially this one right here in Jackson the atmosphere was fantastic
They have three different styles of crust, all amazing and delicious. I had the Chicago style, wow, a delight! The place was clean, I was close to the bar, and my waiter was super friendly and attentive the whole time. It's no lie, it's a really delicious pizza 🫰🏼
We got a heads up beforehand that the deep dish pizza would take 40 minutes, but the wait was so worth it.
We got half margherita half meat & more meat. I loved how the tomato sauce of the margherita pizza balanced out its cheesiness. The meat & more meat flavor was a bit salty in my opinion.
We also got a house salad, which also tasted great. The server also often checked up on us and was very friendly.
If you come here, definitely stick to the deep dish and fries—both were great! However, the thin crust chicken pizza left a lot to be desired. Service and wait times were average—though it took close to 35 minutes for them to make the thin crust pizza, even though the restaurant wasn't very crowded. They gave us a heads-up that it would take time, but 35 minutes is a stretch. Still, it was a scorching hot day, so we didn't mind hanging out inside to cool off for a bit!
I had the caesar salad, personal deep dish with pepperoni and bacon, and a sangria.
Salad was okay, I'd prefer if they grated the cheese. The pizza was really good, a bit too much cheese for my liking personally but for others this would be perfect. The sangria was pretty standard and tasted nice.
Papa Romeo's Pizza Chicago Lincoln Park
| Address | 341 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 6:00 AM Friday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 AM |
| Phone | (773) 770-3444 |
Seems like a brand new restaurant. Very very clean. Even more polite and friendly staff. Food looks and smells amazing and can’t wait to try it! (Will update review when I do.) This is absolutely a place worth checking out!
Owner was very friendly and polite while hubby and I figured out what we wanted and again when we totally started to order the wrong thing. 🤦♀️🤣
Food was done pretty quickly (20-30mins) and was reasonably priced.
We ordered a large deep dish meat lovers and a 14”hand tossed whatever their “supreme” is (junior combo maybe?)
Got garlic bread to go with it too!
Barebones place with two small tables if you want to eat in. This place does not sell pizza by the slice despite what some other reviews say. It was decent noting to come back for unfortunately. Medium margarita pizza is $23 for carry out.
We found the pizza to be sweet and not memorable. Wanted to get wings as well but the wait would have been 25 minutes and we did not realize that it would have ordered ahead of time.
Really pleasant owners! The pizza was done so fast and it held its ground against Chicago standards. And they’re open all night! Happy we finally gave them a shot. Will definitely be getting more pizza from here soon.
Honestly, this is the best pizza I’ve ever had. 🍕
I’ve tried pizza in many cities and even different countries, but nothing compares to Papa Romeo’s. You can truly taste the difference. They use top-quality ingredients and a special recipe that makes every slice stand out. The flavor is rich, the crust is perfect, and everything tastes fresh.
If you love real, high-quality pizza, you need to try this place. One bite and you’ll understand.
My group found this restaurant while we were in Chicago for an event, the service was excellent abd the flavor of the pizzas was anazing. For a good price a party of 5 eat confortable.
Giordano's
| Address | 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 288-8783 |
Had lunch at Giordano’s today and, honestly, their famous Chicago Classic deep-dish pizza was just okay. I could taste the dough/crust more than the actual fillings, and the tomato sauce and meat filling weren’t particularly impressive. I’ve tried Chicago deep-dish pizzas at other places and really enjoyed them, so I was expecting much more from Giordano’s, especially given its reputation. Unfortunately, this didn’t feel like an authentic Chicago deep-dish experience to me. It felt more like an average pizza with a deep-dish style.
I was also surprised by the pricing. The stuffed pizza was listed at one price, but the individual stuffed ingredients were charged separately. I didn’t really understand that, since the fillings are essentially part of what makes it a stuffed pizza. It was also disappointing to discover the additional charges when I got the bill.
Overall, I wasn’t impressed with the pizza or the value. Maybe it’s a matter of personal preference, but compared to other deep-dish pizzas I’ve had in Chicago, this one didn’t meet my expectations.
Our first visit to Giordano’s at Navy Pier was such a memorable experience! Even though the restaurant was extremely busy, we were still accommodated, and we didn’t mind sitting outdoors at all. The weather was beautiful, with a cool breeze, and since it was still light outside, it made for the perfect setting to enjoy the evening.
A special thank you to Manager Jaime, who personally took care of us while the servers in our section were occupied. Since it was our first time dining at Giordano’s, he patiently answered all of our questions and gave excellent recommendations. He suggested ordering two different flavors on one of their famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas, which was a fantastic idea. We ordered a medium so we could enjoy some leftovers and share them with our cousins—and we’re glad we did!
We knew authentic deep-dish pizza takes time to prepare, and although the wait was longer than a typical pizza, it was absolutely worth it. Jaime checked on us several times, kept us updated on our order, and made sure we were well taken care of. My husband and I actually enjoyed the extra time together, talking and taking in the beautiful atmosphere at Navy Pier while we waited.
Once Megan, who is spending the summer in the U.S. from Ireland, became available, she promptly brought our drinks and checked on us whenever she could. When our pizza arrived, Jessica served it with a warm smile and made sure we had everything we needed. We were also impressed that another server, even though our table wasn’t in her section, stopped by to check on us. Every member of the team seemed genuinely happy to help despite the busy dinner rush, and their positive attitudes made our visit even more enjoyable.
And the pizza? Incredible! Giordano’s famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizza definitely lived up to its reputation. It was rich, flavorful, loaded with toppings, and well worth the wait.
If you’re visiting Chicago, we highly recommend stopping by Giordano’s at Navy Pier. While you’re there, be sure to spend time exploring Navy Pier itself. There’s so much to see and do, whether you’re enjoying the attractions or simply taking a relaxing walk along the waterfront. The views are beautiful, especially in the evening. The only downside is that parking can be a bit expensive, but for us, the overall experience made it worthwhile.
Great food, exceptional hospitality, and a wonderful atmosphere—we’ll definitely be back!
Friendly staff, amazing pizza, and a great atmosphere. Be prepared to wait, but the wait is absolutely worth it!
If we lived in Chicago, my family would eat here every week. It’s 100% worth the hype and an absolute must-visit.
Classic Chicago Deep Dish
Giordano’s is a great place to experience authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. The pizza was loaded with cheese and toppings and had that rich, hearty flavor that Chicago deep dish is famous for.
It’s definitely not a quick slice-and-go kind of meal—the pizza takes some time to bake, but it’s worth the wait. The portions are generous, and it’s the kind of meal that will definitely leave you full.
If you’re visiting Chicago and want to try one of the city’s famous deep-dish pizza spots, Giordano’s is definitely worth checking out. Come hungry!
Alex was our server at the bar and he did a great job, friendly, efficient, approachable. Our deep dish pizza came out great and full of pepperoni. And more pepperoni 😋 it was worth the 45-minute wait. My out-of-towner guest enjoyed his time here.
Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
| Address | 1769 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (773) 878-2420 |
Went in for dinner this evening and the food and experience were wonderful. We sat on that patio and it was quite busy. It was very relaxing to sit out there and enjoy a nice meal. We had the arancini and it was delicious with a very nice cheese pull. The pistachio pizza was really unique. Great recommendation from our server. Overall we enjoyed everything we ordered. A nice Sunday night out with great food.
Amazing Napoli style pizza, the best in the city. The Enzo pizza was very tasty and fresh, and the Conciato was amazing. The first time I’ve tried conciato romano and I’d highly recommend. The staff are all super friendly and are happy to answer all your questions. Definitely coming back.
Authentic Italian pizza and a cozy atmosphere that feels like Italy. I enjoyed the Margherita last time, but this visit wasn't quite as good for my taste. Friendly service. If you're unsure, the Margherita is a safe choice.
We shared a couple of pies and a fantastic dessert. The pizzas were built on a soft, tender and chewy crust. A great crust like this is an excellent canvas for highlighting bright, fresh ingredients! The kitchen did not disappoint. We had a fennel pizza with fennel salami and hot honey. This option truly impressed. The braised fennel chunks provided a great texture to each bite. This pizza is a must try. We also had a tomato, anchovy and caper pizza. This pizza also impressed! Balanced and bright! Truly something to behold considering such polarizing toppings. We finished with an egg free custard with apricot preserves, blackberries and sweet balsamic drizz. It was lite, balanced and fresh. What a great lunch! We know a thing about pizza. Put this place on your list!
The only thing holding back this restaurant is its popularity. All of the food is simple, in the best way possible. The ingredients are fresh and the preparation is straightforward. When it comes to authentic Italian food in Chicago, this is the place to go. The classic neopolitan pizza is a must. The dough is flavorful and the cheese tasted high quality. The bread and lasagna were also very tasty.
On the downside, getting a table at this place is a nightmare and there is a guaranteed wait, even if you have a reservation. The servers also seem to be overwhelmed so service was not the best.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
| Address | 439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 828-9800 |
Amazing first experience with deep dish pizza. The crust was truly worth the trip from Toronto all on its own! The ravioli were heavenly. So much so that we ordered seconds. Sam our server was delightful. She was helpful with our questions about the city and was warm and welcoming. Thanks Sam!!!!!!
Lou Malnati’s served one of the best pizzas I’ve had! We ordered the BBQ chicken pizza for takeout, and it was incredibly cheesy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Every bite was delicious, and I still can’t get over how good it was.
The service at this location was fast, efficient, and right on time. I’ve visited other Lou Malnati’s locations where the service wasn’t as great, but this location got everything perfect.
Highly recommend this location if you’re looking for amazing pizza and reliable service. We’ll definitely be ordering from here again!
I guess we made the mistake of ordering individual-sized pizzas instead of one large pizza, but everyone wanted different toppings, and we were staying in a hotel, so we didn't want a bunch of leftovers.
Unfortunately, the pizza was incredibly disappointing. The sauce had no flavor, the cheese was bland, and even the crust tasted like plain bread. There was nothing that stood out or made it feel like authentic Chicago pizza.
Our waitress, Denise, didn't write any of our order down, so I initially thought she just had an amazing memory. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. We ordered a pizza to go, but she forgot to add it to the bill. In the end, it worked out because the pizza wasn't good anyway, and we didn't have time to wait another 30 minutes for another small, mediocre pizza.
I'm genuinely surprised this place has so many great reviews. Based on our experience, I wouldn't visit again.
I'm told there are several types of deep dish in Chicago. Maybe this just wasn't mine, as it was the only Chicago pizza I tried while in the area.
The service was relatively quick, but refills really didn't happen. We sat near the door, and the wind would gust over our food and drinks with every entering guest. This is why I knocked down the atmosphere, as it was fine otherwise.
I did get something hard in my pizza. It was like a black hard grain of rice, but too hard to chew. We never figured out what it was, but I knocked a star off for that.
Our wonderful server was Blake. He was attentive and did a great job. I got the margarita pizza, and it was fabulous! The Sangria is really good too! For dessert, we ordered their famous chocolate chip skillet cookie, and it lived up to its name. The atmosphere was a 10 out of 10, with famous signed jerseys on the walls and cute decor! I will definitely be coming back next time I’m in Chicago! Thank you for a wonderful meal!
Giordano's
| Address | 730 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 951-0747 |
Great food for the most part, but a few confusing letdowns
This was a bit of a mixed bag for our visit, though there were definitely some standout highlights!
The Good:
Boneless Chicken Nuggets: Hands down the best part of the meal! They were big, juicy, and the sauce was absolutely delicious.
Italian Beef: It was our first time trying an Italian beef sandwich, and it was great. We’d definitely order it again. The parmesan fries were so good, never had them like that.
Deep Dish Pizza: Delicious, as expected from Giordano’s. Glad the server recommend we get the small instead of the medium. It was plenty for 2 people.
Drinks: My drink tasted good, even if it didn't look like the picture on the menu.
The Not-So-Good:
Calamari: As an appetizer, this was pretty disappointing—it was really bland and lacked flavor.
Pricing & Mystery Fees: Paying $4 for a soda felt a bit steep, and I noticed a mysterious "restaurant fee" added to the bill that wasn't clearly explained.
Overall, the main dishes and chicken were fantastic, but between the bland calamari and the surprise fee, it lands right in the middle at 3 stars.
Be prepared to pay for parking as well, scan code in restaurant for a discount.
It was my first time trying Giordano’s, and I really enjoyed the experience! The pizza was delicious and arrived nice and hot. I really liked the deep-dish style, and the cheese and crust were both good. The portion size was worth the price, and the service was excellent as well. Overall, I’d give it an 8/10.
Visited Giordano’s during our trip to Chicago and had a great experience. We tried their famous deep-dish pizza, which was incredibly cheesy and delicious. While I felt it could have used a little more seasoning or flavor, the overall taste was still wonderful and definitely worth trying.
We also ordered the chicken nuggets with spicy buffalo sauce, which were very enjoyable and made a great appetizer.
The atmosphere was fantastic, especially with the sports bar view that added to the experience. Overall, we had a great time, enjoyed the food, and would recommend stopping by if you’re looking to try Chicago-style deep-dish pizza.
Experience/Environment: I wasn’t able to get a view of the entire space but it’s spacious to say the least. There are 2 big dinning areas with tons a seating for various size parties, one with the bar in it, the other without, TVs throughout the restaurant. Entire upstairs floor is held for private parties from what I can tell and that’s where the restrooms are as well. Other than that, there’s a small nook for retail merch and a ToGo country that you can order and wait too.
Food: We’re not huge deep dish pizza people (lol I know I know), they are very good to tell you it’ll take 45 mins to cook if you want it too so we ordered the classic thin crust — which still took 25. It was good — only thing I’m not a huge fan of is the hint of sweetness in the sauce. The wings were perfect, both in size and taste. The buffalo sauce was great. The cheese pull on the mozzarella sticks says it all. So so so good. The batter was thick but it was seasoned well too.
Service: Our waitress was super nice. We just couldn’t find her a lot of the time. The guys bussing the tables are record speed. As soon as someone would leave, they were right there to clean it all up. It was impressive.
NTT [[Next Time Try]]: Definitely getting the mozzarella sticks and wings again — Hands down the best.
We always have a great time here. Drink favorites are Spicy Mango Margarita. Michigan Ave Margarita. Modelo.
Giordano’s on Rush Street is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza in the heart of the city. Conveniently located near top attractions, luxury hotels, Loyola University, Northwestern Hospital, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the John Hancock Center, it’s the perfect place to relax after exploring Chicago. The welcoming atmosphere, full-service bar, and extensive menu offer something for everyone. Start your meal with favorites like the tomato bruschetta, mozzarella triangles, wings, or the Giordano’s sampler. Beyond their famous stuffed deep-dish pizza, the restaurant serves delicious Italian classics including lasagna, chicken parmesan, fettuccine alfredo, and spaghetti with meat sauce, with gluten-free and vegetarian options available. Sandwich lovers will enjoy selections like the Italian beef, meatball sub, and chicken parmesan sandwich. Since 1974, Giordano’s has maintained its reputation for handcrafted pizza made with quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Whether dining in, ordering takeout, or enjoying delivery at home, Giordano’s consistently delivers a memorable Chicago dining experience.
Five Squared Pizza
| Address | 1332 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60642 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (224) 595-5781 |
I met Jenn, one half of the pizza business at Midwest Coast Brewing. They have a thriving business that offers pizza at 2 different breweries and at another location for take home. I actually found them through a Google search months ago, and made plans to sample their pizza while we were in the area. Needless to say, the pizza lived up to the hype.
We had the best experience using this team to cater my mom’s birthday at Midwest Coast Brewing! We ordered salad and four different kinds of pizza, and everything was fantastic. They were prompt, professional, and I truly didn’t have to lift a finger the whole time. The pizzas came out warm and fresh, and every guest was raving about how good everything tasted. It made the celebration so easy and enjoyable highly recommend! Thank you Jenn!
We had Five Squared Pizza cater our baby shower at Midwest Coast Brewery last weekend. They are currently doing a pop-up at the brewery on Saturdays, so the logistics were simple and easy. The pizza was absolutely delicious, and Jenn was kind enough to arrange them beautifully on our serving tables.
Everyone talked about how delicious the pizza was. The soft spongey bread with the caramelized crusty edges were the best pan-style pizzas that I've ever eaten. It even reheats really well in the oven or air fryer. Highly recommend them for your next catering event or just to try!
Awesome Detroit style pizza! Best I’ve gotten in Chicago. The crust has the perfect amount of crunch and great flavor. We got the Upside Down, Tie Dye, and Spinach Artichoke. All phenomenal, our favorite was the spinach one! Also, homemade ranch side dipping sauce is very tasty.
Have you ever tried Detroit-style pizza? We tried it for the first time last year, but Five Squared is beyond comparison! Five Squared = Five Stars!
Square-shaped slices. Thick, buttery crust. Soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Cheesy with creative, unique toppings. Fresh, high-quality ingredients.
If any of this sounds satisfying, get this pizza ASAP! Ordering begins on Monday for delivery/pickup on Friday. Check out their Instagram profile on how to order and their weekly menu!
🍕Slices we ordered:
-PBnJ: pepperonis, bacon, pickled jalapeños, red sauce (yes yes yes and yes)
-Cheeseburger: ground beef, caramelized onions, American cheese, homemade classic burger sauce (I would buy a bottle of the sauce!)
-Nashville Hot Chicken: Nashville hot breaded chicken tenders, comeback sauce (spicy and delicious)
-Spinach & Artichoke: creamy spinach & artichoke mix (sooo creamy and dreamy)
-White Pie: ricotta-based white sauce, mozzarella, pecorino, ricotta dollops (another fave)
-Grandma: mozzarella, parmesan, fresh tomato sauce, fresh basil
-Sausage: homemade italian sausage, red sauce
-Pesto: basil, pesto, red sauce
Hard to pick a top flavor here, there’s really a slice for everyone! Aside from the delicious pizzas, the House Salad came fresh and was the perfect accompaniment to the pizza. For dessert, we tried the Salted Chocolate Chip Cookie Bar and the Pecan Bar, the perfect ending to an awesome meal!
Ranalli's Pizza Bar - West Loop, Chicago
| Address | 1326 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (312) 981-7100 |
We ordered a veggie pizza and my friend found a piece of chicken on it which was really disappointing! Taste was okayish. We had to wait for 10-15 mins to get a table. Our server was really nice and suggested good drinks. Might not consider visiting again.
All I can say is WOW! We came here for a Bears game and the atmosphere was iconic. We had so much fun. Everyone gets very lively and involved if there is a game on. There are 2 bars and TVs everywhere. If you want to watch the game, you should get there early as it got packed very quickly. Even though there was lots of people the wait time for food was not long, and the service didn’t disappoint. They are known for their pizza and wings, but other great options as well like the 4C smashburger which was cooked perfectly.
We visited Ranalli's just before a concert at United Center. The vibe was perfect, with a great mix of concert goers and World Cup finals watchers. Between these two groups, the energy here was incredible and fun. Was it loud and busy? Yes. If you are looking for a chill vibe for lunch or dinner, look elsewhere. But if you want a Chicago pub vibe with friendly staff, lots of TVs, nice dining spaces (and decent bathrooms), you'd be hard-pressed to find better. The food is typical bar food done very well, and the drinks are reasonably-priced for the area.
Ranalli's is a popular sports bar in the heart of West Loop. It's a go-to spot for locals especially during game days. They also have a complimentary shuttle service to and from United Center which is about ten minutes down the street - perfect for pregaming Bulls and Blackhawks games! We decided to catch the Lions vs. Bucs divisional round game and try their renowned pizza.
We immediately felt the excitement in the air. The place was packed and there were TVs broadcasting the game from every angle.
Starting off with appetizers, we ordered the fried cheese curds and bruschetta. The cheese curds were everything you'd expect - crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and served with marinara and ranch for dipping. They were a hit - 5 out of 5, would get again. The bruschetta, topped with fresh vine tomatoes, provided a nice contrast to the cheesy indulgence of the curds, though I wouldn't necessarily get it again - 4 out of 5.
For our mains, we went with the Hot Honey Soppressata Pizza. It was a flavor explosion - the spicy soppressata paired perfectly with the sweetness of the hot honey, and the dollops of whipped ricotta added a creamy finish. It was so good, we gave it a 5 out of 5. The only downside was that our leftovers didn't heat up well. I'm an expert at reheating leftover pizzas, so I was disappointed when I tried to eat my leftovers, but it was too dry.
The staff at Ranalli's were attentive and friendly, ensuring our glasses were always full. It's definitely a hotspot during game days, so making a reservation in advance is a smart move. We will be returning to watch more games and indulge in cheese curds, beer, and pizza!
Ranalli’s is a fantastic neighborhood sports bar with TVs everywhere—definitely seems like a great spot to catch a game, grab a few drinks, and enjoy some solid pizza. I would definitely come back!
Espresso Martinis: Really good and well-made.
Hot Honey Pizza: Seems like one of their staple pies, and for good reason—it was delicious.
Spicy Pizza: Definitely brought some heat, but pairing it with their house-made ranch was phenomenal!
Garlic Knots: The only real miss of the night. I personally didn't care for them and would avoid them next time.
The service was totally fine. It’s a classic sports bar environment, so the servers come around just enough to keep you taken care of while you're watching the game.
Overall, a great casual spot for drinks, sports, and good pizza.
Essential Tips for Navigating the Chicago Pizza Scene
Before you set out on your culinary journey, there are a few insider secrets that will dramatically improve your experience. Knowing how to order, when to arrive, and what to expect regarding wait times can mean the difference between a frustrating meal and a transcendent one. These practical tips will help you eat like a local and avoid the common tourist pitfalls.
1. Understand the "Wait Time" Reality of Deep-Dish
Authentic deep-dish pizza is not fast food. Because of the density of the dough and the volume of ingredients, a proper deep-dish pie takes between 30 to 45 minutes to bake. Many first-time visitors are caught off guard by this. The best strategy is to order your pizza immediately upon being seated, or better yet, call ahead to put your pie in the oven before you arrive if the restaurant allows it.
2. Consider the "Half-Baked" or Par-Bake Option
If you want to take a legendary deep-dish or stuffed pizza home with you, many of the top spots offer a "half-baked" or "par-baked" option. This allows you to transport the pizza frozen or partially cooked, finishing it in your own oven at home. This method preserves the integrity of the crust far better than reheating a fully cooked pie, giving you a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience in another city.
3. Don’t Sleep on the Tavern-Style Square Cut
While tourists flock to deep-dish, Chicagoans often default to thin crust. If you are dining with a group or want a lighter meal that allows you to sample multiple appetizers, order a tavern-style pizza. It is characterized by a crispy, almost cracker-like crust, a slightly sweet sauce, and a generous amount of cheese that caramelizes to the edge. It is the true "everyday" pizza of Chicago.
4. Go Beyond the Cheese and Pepperoni
While a plain cheese or pepperoni pizza is a great baseline for judging quality, the best Chicago pizzerias excel at specific house specialties. Look for pies featuring the classic Italian beef topping, hot giardiniera, or house-made fennel sausage. These local ingredients interact with the cheese and sauce in a way that standard toppings do not, offering a uniquely Chicago flavor profile.
5. Check for Cash-Only Policies and Reservations
Many of the most historic and beloved pizzerias in Chicago are old-school establishments that operate on a cash-only basis. While some have adapted to accept cards, it is always wise to check their payment policies before dining to avoid a frantic search for an ATM. Similarly, while many taverns are walk-in only, some of the larger deep-dish institutions accept reservations or offer online waitlists, which can save you hours during peak dinner rushes.
The beauty of Chicago’s pizza culture lies in its refusal to be defined by a single style. It is a city where a four-inch-tall buttery masterpiece and a paper-thin crispy square can coexist as equals, each representing a different facet of the city’s working-class roots and culinary ambition. Exploring these establishments is not just about eating; it is about participating in a tradition that has been baked into the city’s identity for over a century.
Whether you are grabbing a quick slice at a corner joint or settling in for a long, leisurely dinner with a stuffed pie, the experience is a fundamental part of visiting or living in Chicago. Use this guide as your roadmap, but do not be afraid to wander off the beaten path and try the corner spot in the neighborhood you are staying in. That is where the next great Chicago pizza legend is often born.
