From Deep Dish to Thin Crust: Ranking the Best Pizza in Chicago
A Personal Journey Through Chicago’s Pizza Scene
As you walk the bustling streets of Chicago, you can’t help but notice the mouth-watering smell of pizza in the air. From corner pizzerias to upscale restaurants, the city is home to a diverse range of pizza options. But with so many choices, how do you know where to find the best pizza in Chicago? As a self-proclaimed pizza enthusiast, I’ve embarked on a delicious journey to find the top-rated pizza in the Windy City. Join me as we explore the iconic deep dish and trendy thin crust options that make Chicago a pizza lover’s paradise.
The Iconic Deep Dish Pizza
When it comes to Chicago’s pizza scene, the deep dish reigns supreme. This thick, hearty pizza is known for its towering crust, chunky tomato sauce, and generous layers of cheese and toppings. The debate over the best deep dish pizza in Chicago is fierce, but there are a few standout favorites that are worth a try.
1. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is a household name in Chicago and for good reason. Their deep dish pizza is a crowd-pleaser, with a buttery, flaky crust and a perfect balance of sauce and cheese. The signature “buttercrust” is what sets this pizza apart and keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
2. Giordano’s
Another Chicago staple, Giordano’s is known for its famous stuffed deep dish pizza. The crust is stuffed with a layer of cheese and toppings, followed by a generous amount of sauce and another layer of crust. It’s a pizza lover’s dream come true and a must-try when in Chicago.
3. Pequod’s Pizza
For a unique twist on the classic deep dish, head to Pequod’s Pizza. Their caramelized crust, achieved by baking the pizza in a cast-iron pan, adds a delicious crunch to each bite. And with a variety of toppings to choose from, you can create your own perfect deep dish creation.
The Trendy Thin Crust Pizza
While deep dish may be the star of the show, Chicago’s thin crust options should not be overlooked. These pizzas are often lighter and more delicate, with a crispy crust and a more evenly distributed layer of toppings. Here are a few thin crust options that are sure to satisfy your pizza cravings.
1. Homeslice
Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Homeslice is a popular spot for thin crust pizza. Their wood-fired oven gives the crust a delicious smoky flavor, and their creative toppings like prosciutto and fig or pesto and artichoke keep customers coming back for more.
2. Coalfire Pizza
For a taste of New York-style pizza in the heart of Chicago, head to Coalfire Pizza. Their thin crust is cooked in a 900-degree coal-fired oven, resulting in a perfectly charred and crispy crust. And with fresh, high-quality ingredients, their pizzas are simply delicious.
3. Piece Pizzeria and Brewery
If you’re looking for a unique pizza experience, look no further than Piece Pizzeria and Brewery. Not only do they serve up mouth-watering thin crust pizza, but they also brew their own beer in-house. With a laid-back atmosphere and live music, it’s the perfect spot for a fun night out.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the iconic deep dish or the trendy thin crust, Chicago has something for every pizza lover. From classic favorites to unique twists, the city’s pizza scene is constantly evolving and offering new and delicious options. So next time you’re in Chicago, make sure to indulge in some of the best pizza the city has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you.
Final Thoughts
As we come to the end of our pizza journey, I hope you’ve been inspired to try some of the best pizza in Chicago. From Lou Malnati’s iconic deep dish to Coalfire’s delicious thin crust, each bite is a testament to the city’s love for pizza. So go ahead, grab a slice (or a whole pie) and satisfy your pizza cravings with the best of the best in Chicago. Happy eating!