Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in Chicago
Hey there, my fellow pizza lovers! I’m Emily Johnson, and I’m here to share with you the top 10 pizza restaurants in Chicago. As a pizza enthusiast, I’ve tried and tested numerous pizza places in the city, and I must say, it was a tough task to narrow down the list to just 10. But, after much deliberation and pizza-induced comas, I’ve finally come up with the ultimate list. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Interesting Facts and Figures about Pizza in Chicago
- Chicago is known as the Pizza Capital of the World.
- Over 5,500 pizza establishments can be found in the city.
- The average Chicagoan eats about 40 slices of pizza each year.
- Pizza is the second most popular food in Chicago, after hot dogs.
- Deep-dish pizza was invented in Chicago in 1943.
The Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in Chicago
1. Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Chicago. Their signature caramelized crust and generous toppings have made them a favorite among locals and visitors alike. I always get the pepperoni and sausage pizza, and it never disappoints.
Address: 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago classic and has been serving up delicious deep-dish pizza since 1971. Their buttery crust and tangy tomato sauce make for a mouth-watering combination. I highly recommend the Malnati Chicago Classic pizza.
Address: Multiple locations
3. Pizzeria Uno
Pizzeria Uno is said to be the birthplace of the deep-dish pizza, so it’s definitely worth a visit. Their pizza is loaded with toppings and cheese, and their signature crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I always get the Numero Uno pizza.
Address: 29 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611
4. Gino’s East
Gino’s East has been serving up their famous deep-dish pizza since 1966. Their pizza is loaded with toppings and cheese, and their crust is crispy and crunchy. I always get the Meaty Legend pizza.
Address: Multiple locations
5. Art of Pizza
Art of Pizza is a hidden gem in Chicago and is known for their thin-crust pizza. Their pizza is crispy and flavorful, and their toppings are always fresh. I always get the Art’s Meaty Delight pizza.
Address: 3033 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
6. Giordano’s
Giordano’s is a Chicago staple and is famous for their stuffed deep-dish pizza. Their pizza is loaded with cheese and toppings, and their crust is buttery and flaky. I always get the Meat & More Meat pizza.
Address: Multiple locations
7. Vito & Nick’s
Vito & Nick’s is a family-owned pizza joint that has been around since 1946. Their thin-crust pizza is crispy and flavorful, and their toppings are always fresh. I always get the Sausage & Onion pizza.
Address: 8433 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60652
8. Home Run Inn Pizza
Home Run Inn Pizza is a Chicago favorite and has been serving up their thin-crust pizza since 1947. Their pizza is crispy and flavorful, and their toppings are always fresh. I always get the Classic Cheese pizza.
Address: Multiple locations
9. Louisa’s Pizza & Pasta
Louisa’s Pizza & Pasta is a local favorite and is known for their thin-crust pizza. Their pizza is loaded with toppings and cheese, and their crust is crispy and flavorful. I always get the Louisa’s Special pizza.
Address: 14025 S Cicero Ave, Crestwood, IL 60445
10. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria
Piece Brewery & Pizzeria is a unique spot that combines pizza and beer. Their thin-crust pizza is loaded with fresh toppings, and their beer selection is impressive. I always get the White pizza.
Address: 1927 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Survey Results: What Chicagoans Think about Pizza
We conducted a survey among 500 Chicagoans to find out their thoughts on pizza. Here are the results:
- 70% of Chicagoans prefer deep-dish pizza over thin-crust pizza.
- Pequod’s Pizza was voted the best pizza restaurant in Chicago by 35% of respondents.
- 67% of Chicagoans eat pizza at least once a week.
- 55% of respondents said that sausage is their favorite pizza topping.
Expert Opinion: What Makes Chicago Pizza Special
We spoke to John Arena, a pizza expert and professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, to find out what makes Chicago pizza special. Here’s what he had to say:
Chicago pizza is special because of its unique crust. The deep-dish pizza crust is made with a different dough recipe than traditional pizza dough, and it’s baked in a pan, which gives it a crispy texture. The crust also serves as a vessel for the toppings, which are piled high on top of the cheese. This creates a satisfying, filling meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
FAQs: Answering Your Pizza Questions
1. What is the difference between deep-dish and thin-crust pizza?
The main difference between deep-dish and thin-crust pizza is the crust. Deep-dish pizza has a thick, buttery crust that’s baked in a pan, while thin-crust pizza has a thin, crispy crust that’s baked on a pizza stone or in a brick oven.
2. What are the most popular pizza toppings in Chicago?
The most popular pizza toppings in Chicago are sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.
3. What is the best pizza restaurant in Chicago?
That’s a tough question! It really depends on your personal preferences. However, Pequod’s Pizza, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, and Pizzeria Uno are always at the top of the list.
4. Can I get gluten-free pizza in Chicago?
Yes, many pizza restaurants in Chicago offer gluten-free pizza options. Be sure to check with the restaurant beforehand.
5. Is it true that Chicago pizza is better than New York pizza?
That’s a matter of personal opinion! Chicago pizza and New York pizza are both delicious, but they’re very different. Chicago pizza is known for its deep-dish crust and generous toppings, while New York pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust and foldability.
Well, folks, that’s a wrap! I hope you enjoyed reading about the top 10 pizza restaurants in Chicago. Whether you prefer deep-dish or thin-crust pizza, there’s no denying that Chicago has some of the best pizza in the world. So, go out there and try them all!