Chicago's Iconic Deep-Dish Pizza Joints in the US
3 min read
26 Jul 2024
When it comes to pizza in the United States, Chicago has carved out a unique place for itself with its legendary deep-dish pizza. This Windy City classic is known for its thick, buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and a hearty tomato sauce that sits proudly on top. Join us on a mouthwatering journey as we explore the world of Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizza and uncover the pizza joints that have made this style of pizza a national treasure.
1. The Birth of Deep-Dish: The story of deep-dish pizza begins in the 1940s when the original Pizzeria Uno, located in Chicago's River North neighborhood, crafted the first deep-dish pie. It was a culinary revelation, and the city quickly embraced this new pizza style. Today, Pizzeria Uno remains a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the original deep-dish experience.
2. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: Lou Malnati's is another Chicago institution renowned for its deep-dish pizzas. What sets their pizzas apart is the buttery, flaky crust that forms the perfect foundation for layers of cheese, fresh toppings, and tangy tomato sauce. The Malnati Chicago Classic, featuring lean sausage and extra cheese, is a fan favorite.
3. Giordano's: Giordano's is synonymous with stuffed deep-dish pizza. This style takes the concept of deep-dish to new heights by sandwiching the ingredients between two layers of buttery crust. The result is a pizza that's as much a pie as it is a pizza. Giordano's offers a range of fillings, from classic pepperoni to spinach and mushroom.
4. Art of Pizza: For those who appreciate variety, Art of Pizza is a treasure trove. This pizzeria offers not only classic deep-dish but also a wide range of creative toppings and even a stuffed spinach and feta pizza that's a vegetarian delight. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a dedicated following.
5. Pequod's Pizza: Pequod's has carved out its own niche in the deep-dish pizza scene with its unique caramelized crust. The cheese is pressed against the edge of the pan, creating a crispy, cheesy perimeter that's irresistible. If you're a fan of the crispy edge of a pizza, Pequod's is a must-visit.
6. My Pi Pizza: My Pi Pizza brings an interesting twist to deep-dish by offering both Chicago and California styles. Their California-inspired pizzas are lighter with a whole wheat and honey crust, making it a healthier option for pizza enthusiasts. It's proof that deep-dish can evolve to cater to diverse tastes.
7. Labriola Chicago: Labriola Chicago combines the craftsmanship of a bakery with the artistry of pizza-making. They pride themselves on using the finest ingredients to create deep-dish pizzas that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The Napa Valley deep-dish, with roasted chicken and sun-dried tomatoes, is a standout choice.
8. Bartoli's Pizzeria: Bartoli's is a hidden gem in the world of Chicago deep-dish pizza. What sets them apart is their dedication to using fresh ingredients and their commitment to the slow fermentation of dough, resulting in a delightful, airy crust. The Bartoli's Special, with sausage, mushroom, green pepper, and onion, is a crowd-pleaser.
9. Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.: This unique establishment offers a pizza pot pie that's a delightful departure from the traditional deep-dish. The pizza ingredients are encased in a bowl of dough and topped with their signature sauce. It's a savory, comforting, and utterly delicious twist on deep-dish pizza.
10. Pequod's Pizza: Pequod's has carved out its own niche in the deep-dish pizza scene with its unique caramelized crust. The cheese is pressed against the edge of the pan, creating a crispy, cheesy perimeter that's irresistible. If you're a fan of the crispy edge of a pizza, Pequod's is a must-visit.
In conclusion, Chicago's deep-dish pizza is a culinary marvel that has captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza lovers across the nation. Whether you're savoring the classics at Pizzeria Uno, indulging in the stuffed delights of Giordano's, or exploring the creative offerings at Art of Pizza, each bite is a testament to the delicious ingenuity of Chicago's iconic pizza scene. So, the next time you're in the Windy City, don't miss the opportunity to sink your teeth into a slice of deep-dish heaven.
