Sitting along the south bank of the Chicago River, the Riverwalk has transformed from a utilitarian docking area into one of the city’s most vibrant pedestrian promenades. Stretching from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street, this 1.25-mile path weaves through the architectural canyons of the Loop, offering a unique perspective on the city’s skyline. It has become a magnet for locals and tourists seeking fresh air, boat tours, and al fresco dining.
The culinary scene surrounding the Riverwalk is as diverse as the architecture that frames it. While the path itself features several seasonal kiosks and wine bars, the real gastronomic treasures often lie just steps away on the adjacent streets and plazas. Finding a great slice of deep dish or a wood-fired Neapolitan pie near the water is not difficult, but separating the tourist traps from the true neighborhood institutions requires a bit of local knowledge.
Pizza remains one of the most democratic and satisfying foods for a day spent walking the river. Whether you are looking for a quick slice to eat on a bench overlooking the water or a sit-down restaurant to rest your feet after a long architecture tour, the area delivers. From the cracker-thin crusts unique to the Midwest to the hearty, cheese-laden pans that made Chicago famous, the variety is staggering.
Understanding the geography is key to maximizing your meal. The Riverwalk is divided into distinct districts, from the Marina to the confluence and beyond to the Lakefront. A restaurant located on Upper Wacker Drive might be a five-minute walk from a restaurant technically on the Riverwalk level, but both offer distinct views and atmospheres. We have curated this list to include both the spots directly on the water and the legendary kitchens hidden just above the riverbanks.
For visitors, navigating the Loop can be overwhelming, especially during the summer tourist rush. You want a meal that matches the magic of the river views without sacrificing quality for convenience. For residents, you are likely looking for a reliable weekday lunch spot or a place to bring out-of-town guests that impresses without being a cliché. This guide serves both masters.
Below, we have compiled a list of the best pizza restaurants near the Chicago Riverwalk, balancing historic pizzerias with modern artisan spots. We have considered dough quality, sauce flavor, proximity to the water, and overall atmosphere to ensure you find exactly what you are craving.
Pizzeria Portofino
| Address | 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| 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.
Robert's Pizza and Dough Company
| Address | 465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 265-1328 |
Love this place! Nestled along an inlet of the lake in River East, Robert's is a fantastic spot for great pizza in a beautiful location. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, the experience is smooth and enjoyable. Ordering for pickup was quick and easy, making it a convenient option when you're craving a quality pizza.
The pizza itself is excellent. I especially liked the crust, which has a perfectly thick and crispy outer edge paired with a thinner base that gives each slice a great texture. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, making it an ideal place to gather with friends, spend time with family, or even meet new people. Between the delicious pizza, scenic setting, and inviting vibe, Robert's is definitely a place worth visiting again and again.
The food was incredible!!!! Their pizza was crunchy and flavorful and best of all, our kids were obsessed. It's hard to find a place where all 4 will happily eat so this was perfect! The wings were delicious as well. We ordered 6 plain and my kids thought they had great flavor with nothing on them. We also ordered 6 with the sweet and spicy sauce and it was fantastic. They weren't too spicy but absolutely full of flavor.
Dined here while visiting Chicago. I am an avid home pizza maker and will always prioritize a stop while traveling to enjoy someone else’s passion. This place is next-level. This is phenomenal dough, well-fermented and baked deeply. The pizza’s crumb was chewy and was encased by a lovely crackling crust. We enjoyed the Rita, the cup & char roni and the fennel pie. All were topped thoughtfully. I know this place gets worldwide acclaim, and I felt it is so well-deserved. Don’t skip!
Experience was great. It's on river east, not a well populated (dare I say hidden gem) ck park sandwich was amazing. The "Rita" and the "Carne" pizzas were fantastic. Adult drinks were solid. The mocktails looked so good I wanted to have them with alcohol. 😁
We sat inside during our time there due to rain but overall, we had a great experience. We had a large group of 7 and were served extremely well and fast. A personal favorite of mine that we ordered was the Brussel Sprout pizza. It was so unique and tasted amazing. I would totally recommend!
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.
Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
| Address | 531 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 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!
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.
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.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
| Address | 410 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 |
|---|---|
| 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) 858-5600 |
Heard that this restaurant was founded by the creator of Deep Dish pizza! Been there twice - as a group and just alone. Tried Malnati Chicago Classic and Chocolate Chip Pizza, both tasted delicious. But personal/individual portions were expensive for the quantity. Service was nice and friendly, food was served hot as well. Wait times are the only hard part, about 1.5 hrs or plus for a table and 30 mins more for the food on weekends. The place looked old but ambience was decent.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria absolutely lived up to the hype. I had their classic deep dish pizza with added pepperoni, and it was perfectly cooked, rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. The sauce was thick and flavorful with just a hint of spice that tied everything together beautifully.
The garlic bread was wonderful, simple, warm, and packed with flavor. On top of the great food, the service was excellent, quick, friendly, and attentive. They made helpful recommendations and checked in often without being overbearing. A classic Chicago experience done right. 🍕
A trip to Chicago wouldn’t have felt complete without trying the famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s. Every time I walked along the Riverwalk, I saw a huge crowd waiting outside, and I’d heard the wait could be up to two hours which is crazy!! To avoid the rush, I came on a weekday around 3:30 p.m. Even then, there was still about a 30-minute wait. Since I was dining solo, I was able to grab the last open seat at the bar, which worked out perfectly. The bartender was friendly, took my order right away, and gave me a heads-up that the deep-dish pizzas take at least 40 minutes to bake. I was expecting that, so I didn’t mind the wait. One thing that really stood out was how massive the restaurant is. Even at 4 p.m. on a weekday, it was packed and the staff was constantly on the move. I ordered the small Margherita Pesto deep-dish pizza because I wanted to have leftovers for my flight later that day. The pizza was definitely different from any pizza I’d had before, and it was incredibly filling. Since this was my first deep-dish pizza, I can’t really comment on how authentic it was, but I enjoyed it and was glad I had enough left over for another meal. Im happy I finally got to try one of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish spots.
When we got there, there was going to be an hour wait. We almost considered going somewhere else. But we decided to wait, and 15 minutes later, we got in. The wait for the food wasn't too long, either. It was delicious. We also got an order of meatballs and garlic bread. Both were good. They made you want what was coming next. We got one large pizza, thinking we would eat it all. We were wrong. All four of us had a slice and had to take home the rest. And 30$ for a large may seem like a lot, but once you divide 30 by four...
The service was amazing.
These guys also deliver to anywhere in the US!? Oh yes please!
I will leave you with one final thought: if you were to start stacking pizzas, would it become a pizza lasagna? Like a lasagna, but instead of pasta, it's dough.
As a first timer in Chicago, obviously I had to try deep dish pizza. I got the Chicago classic deep dish and I was so disappointed! It was very lackluster and had no flavor at all. The sauce was watery. The only good thing was the crust. Besides that, we started with a salad which was delicious. Service was fine. I would definitely recommend making reservations because they were busy!!
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 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 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.
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.
Parlor Pizza Bar River North
| Address | 405 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (312) 392-2356 |
If a restaurant welcomes my dog, it already has my heart — and 5 stars from me! 🐶⭐️
But Parlor didn’t stop there. The pizza, smash burger, and beers were all amazing. And the dessert was so good that even after all that food, we somehow managed to finish the whole thing! 😂🍕
Such a fun spot with great food and a dog-friendly vibe. Definitely coming back!
Mannn you wanna talk about service and execution of that service ….. this place is THE spot…. Our waiter was Carlos…. And the system the team they know what’s up from the JUMP!!!
Let me tell you they read your mind or they know a thing or two bc they seen a thing or two….. water in the table and kids water in kids cups sealed with a straw …. Didn’t even ask it just came to the table….. Carlos explained the menu and the game quick and easy and efficiently….. placed the order frozen Hugo and a cheese pie for the kids
….dropped my napkin on the floor went to pick it up …. Came back up HUGO there just waiting for me …… took a sip got brain freeze it was soo good … boom pizza on the table …. So fresh so hot so nice…. Boom they know already…..the essentials come on the side … Parmesan pepper flakes and the oregano in case you was to sprinkle a little
Well done well done well done!!!
Went solo and grabbed a seat at the bar. The service was honestly pretty rough, the staff seemed like they were being forced to be there, with zero enthusiasm or attentiveness. It took forever to even get a drink order in, and follow-ups were nonexistent.The pizza was decent, solid Neapolitan style with a good crust, nothing mind blowing but perfectly okay for what it is. The beer selection was a letdown though. No Samuel Adams, and zero imported German options. Stuck with what they had, which felt limited for a pizza bar. Wouldn't rush back, especially if going alone. Maybe better with a group during happy hour when the vibe might carry it.
Went here for the first time and loved it, would absolutely go again to try the rest of the menu. Simple yet delicious menu, creative iron fired pizza items. Like that you can go for a housemade creation or make your own. Excellent customer service (pur server was awesome) and spacious. Ice cream was simply heavenly, and we never have dessert
Only cons: High, hard seated barstools were uncomfortable, lemonade (while free refills so bonus points!) was very watered down and the water was luke warm (but again, kudos for leaving the pitcher at the table for easy refills).
Overall, great experience abs can't wait to go back!
We had the best time at Parlor. We ordered the super green salad and it was so good, we ordered an extra to go for lunch the next day. I even tried to find a recipe online to make it at home. Highly recommend! We did a build your own pizza and a Honey Boo Boo. Loved them both, the crust is unbeatable.
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!
Essential Tips for Enjoying Pizza by the Riverwalk
Navigating the dining scene around a major tourist hub like the Riverwalk can be tricky if you are not prepared. While the views are beautiful, the area is often crowded, and dining logistics can vary significantly from one block to the next. To ensure your pizza outing is as smooth as the river current, keep these strategic considerations in mind before you head out.
1. Understand "Tavern Style" vs. "Deep Dish"
If you are visiting from out of town, you might assume all Chicago pizza is deep dish. However, locals often prefer the "Tavern Style" or "Chicago Thin Crust." This pizza is rolled thin, very crispy, and cut into squares (a "party cut"). If you want to eat like a local near the Loop, look for restaurants offering this cracker-thin style; it is lighter, making it a better choice if you plan to continue walking the Riverwalk afterward.
2. Check for Riverwalk-Level vs. Street-Level Entrances
One of the most confusing aspects of dining near the river is the elevation change. Many restaurants have addresses on Upper Wacker Drive, which is actually one level above the Riverwalk. If you are standing on the river path, look for staircases or ramps leading up to the street level. Conversely, some seasonal cafes are only accessible from the Riverwalk path itself. Always check the restaurant’s specific access instructions to avoid walking in circles.
3. Time Your Visit to Avoid the Rush
The Riverwalk is busiest between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM on weekdays due to the office crowd in the Loop, and on weekends during the summer months. If you want a peaceful meal with a view, try an early lunch at 11:00 AM or a late lunch at 1:30 PM. For dinner, sunset is the most requested time, so expect waits at the restaurants with patios.
4. Consider Takeout for a Scenic Picnic
Not every great pizza spot has a view of the water, and those that do often charge a premium for the real estate. A local trick is to order takeout from a legendary pizzeria a block or two away and walk it down to one of the many public seating areas on the Riverwalk. You get the best of both worlds: a five-star pizza and a million-dollar view without the wait for a patio table.
5. Be Mindful of the Weather and Seasonality
Chicago weather is notoriously fickle. While the Riverwalk is technically open year-round, many of the smaller food vendors and kiosks close for the winter (roughly November through April). If you are visiting during the off-season, prioritize the brick-and-mortar restaurants on the street level, as they operate year-round. Additionally, if you are planning to eat outside, check the wind forecast; the canyon effect of the buildings can make it feel significantly cooler by the water.
Finding the perfect pizza near the Chicago Riverwalk is about more than just sating your hunger; it is about experiencing the city’s culinary heritage against the backdrop of its architectural soul. Whether you opt for a heavy pan pizza to fuel a long day of sightseeing or a crispy thin crust to enjoy with a local craft beer, the convergence of great food and great views is hard to beat.
As you finish your meal and watch the tour boats glide by, you will understand why this stretch of the city has become such a beloved gathering place. Take your time, explore the different districts of the path, and enjoy a slice of Chicago that perfectly blends the urban with the appetite.
