Where to Find the Best Deep Dish Pizza in Chicago

Where to Find the Best Deep Dish Pizza in Chicago

Chicago is a city known for its rich culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and, of course, its legendary deep-dish pizza. Whether you're a local or a visitor, finding the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago can be a delightful yet daunting task. This guide will take you through some of the top spots in the city to savor this iconic dish. We'll also introduce you to an unforgettable pizza tour that will take your taste buds on a journey through Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.

The History of Deep Dish Pizza

Before diving into our recommendations, it's essential to understand what makes Chicago's deep-dish pizza so special. Created in the 1940s, this pizza style features a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. Unlike traditional pizza, the cheese is placed directly on the crust, followed by toppings and sauce, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.

Top Places to Enjoy Deep Dish Pizza in Chicago

1. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Lou Malnati's is a household name in Chicago and is often considered the gold standard for deep-dish pizza. Established in 1971, this family-owned pizzeria uses a secret recipe for its flaky, buttery crust and fresh ingredients. The Malnati Chicago Classic is a must-try, featuring lean sausage, extra cheese, and vine-ripened tomato sauce.

2. Giordano's

Giordano's is another iconic spot.

3. Pequod's Pizza

Pequod's Pizza stands out with its caramelized crust, achieved by baking the pizza in a cast-iron pan. This technique results in a crispy, chewy crust that complements the gooey cheese and robust toppings. Their pepperoni and sausage deep-dish is a crowd favorite.

4. Gino's East

Gino's East has been serving deep-dish pizza since 1966 and is famous for its graffiti-covered walls and delicious pies. Their cornmeal crust sets them apart, offering a unique texture and flavor. The Meaty Legend is a popular choice, featuring pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, and Canadian bacon.

5. Art of Pizza

Art of Pizza may not have the same name recognition as some of the other spots, but it consistently ranks among the best for deep-dish pizza. Their Stuffed Pizza is a standout, with a generous amount of cheese and toppings encased in a thick, golden crust.

Discover Chicago's Best Pizza with Viator

While visiting these iconic pizzerias on your own can be a fun adventure, there's an even better way to experience the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago. The Chicago Pizza Tour offered by Viator is a guided bus tour that takes you off the beaten path to savor the finest pizza in various neighborhoods.

Why Choose the Chicago Pizza Tour?

• Local Expertise: Your knowledgeable guide will teach you the science behind ingredient selection and baking, providing insights you won't get anywhere else.
• Diverse Tasting Experience: You'll sample slices from historic pizzerias, enjoying different styles of pizza, from deep-dish to tavern-style and even coal-fired.
• Cultural Immersion: The tour offers historical commentary on the culture of pizza in Chicago, helping you understand why this dish is so important to the city's identity.
• Convenient Transportation: Travel in comfort with transportation by air-conditioned mini-coach to each stop, allowing you to focus on enjoying the pizza.
• Small Group Setting: The tour is conducted in a small-group setting, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

What's Included in the Tour?

• Four slices of pizza
• Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach
• Local guide
• Gratuities
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Book Your Chicago Pizza Tour

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Book your Chicago Pizza Tour with Viator today and discover the best deep-dish pizza in the city. This tour is perfect for foodies, pizza enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience Chicago's rich culinary heritage.

Conclusion

Chicago's deep-dish pizza is more than dish.

Don't miss out on the chance to taste the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago. Book your Chicago Pizza Tour with Viator and enjoy a memorable journey through the city's diverse neighborhoods and flavors.