The deep-dish pizza, an icon of the Windy City, is a pie so closely tied to the place after which it’s named that it’s basically a religion. Most commonly featuring a skyscraper, buttery crust and a casserole-like structure (sauce on top), it’s considered by many to be the penultimate pizza form. Still, some slices stand high above others, so we’ve assembled this list of the top pies to be had on the shores of Lake Michigan.
For most of this article, we’ll stick to the true classics of the deep-dish genre. Though many shops have made their name “interpreting” the form (see the last option), these are the absolute classics.
Pizzeria Uno
29 E. Ohio St., Chicago
Though many try and lay claim to being the originator of the form, Pizzeria Uno seems to have a stronger case than most. Featuring the classic, buttery short dough crust and the crushed tomato sauce on top, Pizzeria Uno has been perfecting pizza since 1943. Get it with a myriad of ingredients, but be warned: This is one seriously substantial pizza, so less is more.
Louisa’s Pizza and Pasta
14025 S. Cicero Ave., Crestwood
Though the history may not match Uno’s (this place started in 1981), it’s considered by many to be an ideal of the deep-dish form. A buttery, flaky crust is built to stratospheric heights, and when combined with a classic crushed tomato sauce and homemade Italian sausage … well, it’s a thing of beauty.
My Pi
2010 N. Damen Ave., Chicago
A pizza style that’s known for being over the top, My Pi’s version of the deep-dish is a welcome effort in restraint. A crust that’s crisp (not grease-soaked), fresh mozzarella and tomato sauce make this a very popular spot for those who are feeling the caloric pain of some of the weightier options available in the Chicago area.
Giordano’s
223 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago
Located downtown, this spot probably holds the crown as the most extreme version of deep-dish. With the highest crust and most ingredients, this is an unapologetic homage to a city that’s built as substantially as this pie. With a large weighing in at almost 3(!) pounds, be sure to bring your hungriest friends along when you hit up this local landmark.
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Lou Malnati’s Pizza
8515 Redtail Drive, Chicago
You’d have to be a fool not to stop at a deep-dish place that literally calls its signature dough “buttercrust.” At Lou Malnati’s, you’ll get a pretty classic deep-dish-style pie with housemade crushed tomato sauce and an ample topping of Italian sausage, ensuring each bite is as close to heaven as it gets.
Pequod’s Pizza
2207 N. Clybourne Ave., Chicago
Considered by many to be the best slice in the city, some say Pequod’s is technically a pan pizza and not a true deep-dish. Still, we’re not being picky, since that pan style means you get a caramelized, cheesy ridge that basically makes every slice taste like that coveted corner piece you fought for as a kid.
Notable Interpretation:
Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co.
2121 N. Clarke St., Chicago
Take a classic Chicago-style deep-dish, turn it upside down and you have this unique offering from Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. Baked with the crust on the top like a pot pie, this pizza is flipped upside-down at the table to reveal the molten, cheesy ingredients piled deep in a crusty bread bowl.
Ultimately, this list will not make everyone happy (and may make some people very, very mad). Chicago’s deep-dish pizza is an oft-debated cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene. Still, we’re confident that though our list won’t please all, you can’t go wrong with a slice from any of these notable Windy City spots.
Looking to branch out on your pizza hunt? Check out these Top 10 Pizzas Outside New York and Chicago. And if staying in Chicago sounds appetizing, check out this apartment locator to find a pad near the pizza!