Chicago is synonymous with deep dish pizza, a culinary masterpiece characterized by its thick crust, hearty fillings, and rich flavors. The origins of this iconic dish date back to the mid-20th century, and it has since become a must-try for visitors and a beloved staple for locals. This analysis delves into the best places to find deep dish pizza in Chicago, highlighting the unique attributes of each establishment, their historical significance, and what sets them apart.
## Giordano’s
### History and Background
Giordano’s traces its roots back to the 1970s when founders Efren and Joseph Boglio brought their mother’s Italian Easter pie recipe to Chicago. The result was a stuffed pizza that quickly gained popularity.
### Signature Features
Giordano’s is known for its stuffed deep dish pizza, which features two layers of crust with a generous filling of cheese and toppings in between. The top layer of dough is then covered with a rich tomato sauce. The combination of gooey cheese, flavorful toppings, and buttery crust makes for a decadent dining experience.
### Popular Choices
– **The Special**: Packed with sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions.
– **Spinach**: A vegetarian favorite with a rich spinach filling.
### Ambiance and Experience
Giordano’s offers a family-friendly atmosphere with locations across the city. The wait for their deep dish can be long, but it’s part of the experience, allowing time to soak in the bustling, welcoming environment.
## Lou Malnati’s
### History and Background
Founded in 1971 by Lou Malnati, this pizzeria is a Chicago institution. Lou’s experience in the pizza industry dates back to his time working at Pizzeria Uno, another legendary Chicago pizza spot.
### Signature Features
Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizza is renowned for its flaky, buttery crust and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cheese is sourced from Wisconsin, and the tomatoes are hand-selected from California.
### Popular Choices
– **The Malnati Chicago Classic**: A crowd-pleaser with lean sausage, extra cheese, and vine-ripened tomato sauce.
– **The Lou**: A vegetarian option with spinach, mushrooms, and sliced tomatoes.
### Ambiance and Experience
With multiple locations, Lou Malnati’s provides a cozy, casual dining experience. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is often buzzing with the chatter of satisfied customers.
## Pequod’s Pizza
### History and Background
Pequod’s opened in 1970 in Morton Grove, a suburb of Chicago, and later expanded to Lincoln Park in the city. It’s known for its unique take on deep dish pizza.
### Signature Features
Pequod’s deep dish pizza is distinguished by its caramelized crust. The edges of the dough are pressed against the sides of a cast-iron pan, creating a crispy, cheesy crust that is both unique and delicious.
### Popular Choices
– **Sausage and Pepperoni**: A classic combination with a robust flavor.
– **Pan Pizza**: Known for its caramelized cheese edge and ample toppings.
### Ambiance and Experience
Pequod’s offers a more laid-back, neighborhood vibe. The Lincoln Park location, in particular, has a cozy, pub-like atmosphere that invites patrons to relax and enjoy their meal.
## Pizzeria Uno and Pizzeria Due
### History and Background
Pizzeria Uno, established in 1943 by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, is credited with inventing the deep dish pizza. Pizzeria Due opened a year later to accommodate the growing popularity.
### Signature Features
The deep dish at Pizzeria Uno and Due features a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and a chunky tomato sauce. It’s the original deep dish that set the standard for others to follow.
### Popular Choices
– **Numero Uno**: A hearty combination of sausage, pepperoni, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and chunky tomato sauce.
– **Spinoccoli**: A blend of spinach, broccoli, and tomato with cheese.
### Ambiance and Experience
Both Pizzeria Uno and Due exude a classic, old-school charm. The interior decor reflects their long history, with wood-paneled walls and checkered tablecloths adding to the nostalgic dining experience.
## Gino’s East
### History and Background
Gino’s East was founded in 1966 by two cab drivers and their friend. Located near the Magnificent Mile, it quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
### Signature Features
Gino’s East is known for its golden, cornmeal crust and the graffiti-covered walls where patrons leave their mark. The deep dish here is hearty and satisfying, with a thick layer of cheese and ample toppings.
### Popular Choices
– **Gino’s Supreme**: Loaded with sausage, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms.
– **Meaty Legend**: A meat lover’s dream with pepperoni, Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, and bacon.
### Ambiance and Experience
The ambiance at Gino’s East is unique, with graffiti covering every inch of the walls, giving it a fun and rebellious feel. The lively atmosphere is perfect for groups and families.
## Art of Pizza
### History and Background
Art of Pizza, established in 1987, may not have the long history of some of the other pizzerias, but it has quickly made a name for itself with award-winning deep dish pizza.
### Signature Features
Art of Pizza offers both stuffed and pan-style deep dish pizzas. The crust is crispy and buttery, and the toppings are generously applied. Their pizza has been consistently ranked among the best in Chicago.
### Popular Choices
– **Art’s Special**: A combination of sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions.
– **Spinach and Ricotta**: A creamy, savory option for vegetarians.
### Ambiance and Experience
Art of Pizza has a no-frills, straightforward approach. The focus here is on the food, with a simple dining area that allows the pizza to take center stage.
## Conclusion
Choosing the best deep dish pizza in Chicago is a delightful challenge, as each establishment offers its unique spin on this classic dish. From the original Pizzeria Uno to the innovative Pequod’s, each pizzeria brings something special to the table. Whether you prefer the stuffed pies at Giordano’s, the caramelized crust at Pequod’s, or the buttery, flaky crust at Lou Malnati’s, Chicago’s deep dish pizza scene has something to satisfy every palate. For pizza aficionados and casual diners alike, exploring these iconic pizzerias is an essential part of the Chicago experience, promising a culinary journey rich in flavor, history, and tradition.