Quick answer
Chicago's deep dish debate is legendary — but Reddit consistently puts Lou Malnati's and Pequod's at the top. Malnati's is the classic butter crust institution; Pequod's is loved for its unique caramelised cheese crust. For the best deep dish in the metro area, food critics point to Burt's Place in Morton Grove.
- Best overall
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria — 4.1★
- Runner-up
- Pequod's Pizza — 4.4★
- Best value
- Giordano's
- Last verified
- 2026-03
Top verdicts
- Lou Malnati's: The Chicago institution — butter crust, whole sausage patty, San Marzano tomatoes. The definitive deep dish since 1971.
- Pequod's Pizza: The caramelised cheese crust makes Pequod's a completely different experience. The most-mentioned name in Chicago pizza Reddit threads.
- Burt's Place: Food critics' pick for the best deep dish in the Chicago area — worth the 30-minute drive to Morton Grove.
Chicago deep dish pizza is one of America's great culinary inventions — a butter-crust, sauce-on-top, 45-minutes-to-cook masterpiece that's been dividing pizza opinions since 1943. We combed through r/AskChicago, r/chicago, r/Pizza, and food media to find the pizzerias locals actually recommend.
Map
How we built this list
We analyzed 200+ Reddit posts and 800+ comments across r/AskChicago, r/chicago, r/Pizza, r/food, and Chicago food media — spanning 2019 to 2026. Pizzerias were ranked by frequency of recommendation from independent users. We weighted Chicago residents' opinions more heavily than tourist reviews.
All 12 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Deep Dish | $15–30/person | 4.1★ | 439 N Wells St |
| #2 | Pequod's Pizza | Pan Pizza | $15–28/person | 4.4★ | 2207 N Clybourn Ave |
| #3 | Giordano's | Stuffed Pizza | $18–35/person | 4.2★ | 130 E Randolph St |
| #4 | My Pi Pizza | Deep Dish | $15–28/person | 4.5★ | 2010 N Damen Ave |
| #5 | Burt's Place | Deep Dish | $18–30/person | 4.6★ | 8541 Ferris Ave |
| #6 | Bartoli's Ristorante | Deep Dish | $15–28/person | 4.4★ | 1955 W Irving Park Rd |
| #7 | The Art of Pizza | Deep Dish | $12–25/person | 4.5★ | 3033 N Ashland Ave |
| #8 | Pizzeria Uno | Original Deep Dish | $18–35/person | 3.9★ | 29 E Ohio St |
| #9 | Labriola | Deep Dish | $18–32/person | 4.3★ | 535 N Michigan Ave |
| #10 | George's Deep Dish | Deep Dish | $16–30/person | 4.5★ | Chicago |
| #11 | Pizano's Pizza & Pasta | Deep Dish | $16–30/person | 4.2★ | 61 E Madison St |
| #12 | Uncle Jerry's Pizza Company | Deep Dish | $15–28/person | 4.6★ | Chicago |
Quick Picks by Budget
Best Picks by Occasion
Best for a Classic Chicago Experience
For a taste of Chicago history and an unforgettable deep dish meal, start with Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, the city's most beloved institution. Alternatively, visit Pizzeria Uno, where deep dish was first invented in 1943. Both offer an authentic dive into the city's culinary heritage.
Best for Families
Deep dish pizza is a perfect family meal, and Giordano's is renowned for its generous stuffed pizzas that can feed a crowd. For a more relaxed, neighborhood vibe, consider Bartoli's Ristorante, known for its friendly atmosphere and classic deep dish options. Both offer comfortable settings to enjoy a hearty meal with loved ones.
Best for a Distinctive Deep Dish Experience
If you're looking to explore beyond the classic deep dish, Pequod's Pizza is a must-try for its unique caramelized cheese crust, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. For an almost spiritual experience, Burt's Place in Morton Grove delivers a truly artisanal pie, often considered the pinnacle by food critics.
Best for Avoiding Tourist Crowds
Escape the bustling Loop and River North for a more local deep dish experience. My Pi Pizza in Bucktown offers an exceptionally flaky crust that locals adore, while Uncle Jerry's Pizza Company is a highly-rated neighborhood gem known for its devoted following and authentic taste.
Best for a Date Night
For a more intimate deep dish experience, Labriola on the Magnificent Mile offers a refined setting and excellent pizza quality. Another great option is George's Deep Dish, a newer, highly-regarded spot that's perfect for a cozy and memorable meal thanks to its artisanal approach.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Lou Malnati's vs Giordano's
This is the quintessential Chicago deep dish debate! Lou Malnati's is celebrated for its buttery, flaky crust and signature sausage patty, delivering a classic deep dish. Giordano's, on the other hand, specializes in stuffed pizza—a unique, two-crust pie overflowing with cheese and toppings. Lou Malnati's generally offers a slightly quicker, more accessible experience, while Giordano's is an indulgent, heavier meal often requiring a longer wait.
Pequod's vs Burt's Place
Both Pequod's and Burt's Place stand out for their distinctive pan pizza styles. Pequod's is famous for its caramelized cheese crust, creating a crispy, 'burnt' edge that is incredibly savory and unique. Burt's Place, while also featuring a caramelized crust, is known for its incredible crust texture, fresh ingredients, and a more curated, often pre-order only, dining experience that many consider the peak of Chicago deep dish artistry. Pequod's is more casual and walk-in friendly, while Burt's offers a refined, intentional pizza journey.
Pizzeria Uno vs The Art of Pizza
Pizzeria Uno holds the legendary title as the birthplace of deep dish, offering a historic dining experience and a traditional, robust pie. In contrast, The Art of Pizza has earned its reputation as a local favorite, known for its exceptional quality, generous portions, and more accessible price point in a bustling Lakeview setting. While Uno offers nostalgia and history, Art of Pizza provides a fantastic, highly-rated modern deep dish experience that's easier on the wallet.
1Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- The quintessential Chicago deep dish experience — butter crust, sausage patty, San Marzano tomatoes
- Strengths
- 4.1★ (7,800+ reviews) · Chicago institution since 1971 · Butter crust · Multiple locations · Ships nationwide
- Limitations
- Always busy — expect waits of 30–60 min for a table. Deep dish takes 45 min to cook.
- What to order
- The Malnati Chicago Classic — sausage, mozzarella, crushed tomatoes on the butter crust. Non-negotiable.
2Pequod's Pizza
Pan PizzaQuick comparison
- Best for
- The caramelised cheese crust — Pequod's invented it and nobody else does it like this
- Strengths
- 4.4★ · Unique caramelised crust · Strong Reddit consensus · Lincoln Park location · No delivery — go in person
- Limitations
- Long waits. No reservations. The caramelised crust is divisive — some love it, some don't.
- What to order
- Any pizza with the signature caramelised crust. The sausage and mushroom combination is the classic choice.
3Giordano's
Stuffed PizzaQuick comparison
- Best for
- Stuffed deep dish — the most indulgent, cheese-heavy version of Chicago pizza
- Strengths
- 4.2★ · Classic stuffed deep dish · Multiple Chicago locations · The Loop location · Tourist-friendly
- Limitations
- Very filling — plan accordingly. Takes 45–50 min to cook. Not everyone's style.
- What to order
- The Classic Stuffed with sausage, onions, and mushrooms. Don't go light on toppings — it's designed to be indulgent.
4My Pi Pizza
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Chicagoans who prefer a lighter, flakier deep dish crust over the dense Malnati style
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Flakier, lighter crust · Local favourite · Less touristy · Bucktown neighbourhood
- Limitations
- Less known to visitors. Bucktown location requires transit or rideshare.
- What to order
- The house sausage pizza or the spinach deep dish. The flaky crust is the star.
5Burt's Place
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- The best deep dish pizza in the Chicago area — worth the trip to Morton Grove
- Strengths
- 4.6★ · Considered by many food critics the best deep dish in Chicago · Legendary founder · Cult status
- Limitations
- Morton Grove — 30 min north of Downtown Chicago. Cash only. Limited hours.
- What to order
- The sausage deep dish. Burt's version is a perfect balance of crust, sausage, cheese, and sauce.
6Bartoli's Ristorante
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Authentic neighbourhood deep dish away from the tourist spots
- Strengths
- 4.4★ · Local favourite · Less busy than Downtown spots · Excellent quality · Northcenter neighbourhood
- Limitations
- Further from Downtown tourist areas. Basic setting.
- What to order
- The classic sausage deep dish. Simple, authentic, excellent.
7The Art of Pizza
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Value-conscious deep dish lovers — best quality-to-price ratio in Chicago
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Best value deep dish · Lakeview location · Consistent quality · Strong local following
- Limitations
- Primarily by-the-slice and takeout. Not fine dining.
- What to order
- The deep dish by the slice is excellent value. The sausage and pepperoni combination is the classic order.
8Pizzeria Uno
Original Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pizza history pilgrims — this is where Chicago deep dish was invented in 1943
- Strengths
- 3.9★ · Original deep dish birthplace · Historic significance · River North location · Tourist landmark
- Limitations
- Quality has declined from its peak. Overpriced given the competition. Tourist-trap reputation.
- What to order
- The original sausage deep dish — the pizza that started it all. Order it for the history as much as the taste.
9Labriola
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Visitors on the Magnificent Mile wanting quality deep dish without trekking across the city
- Strengths
- 4.3★ · Magnificent Mile location · Good quality for tourist area · Good bread and baked goods
- Limitations
- More expensive than neighbourhood spots. Better for convenience than for the best pizza.
- What to order
- The deep dish pizza and the housemade bread. The sausage option is the classic.
10George's Deep Dish
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Fresh take on Chicago deep dish from one of the city's newer, well-regarded spots
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Strong early reputation · Good quality ingredients · Building loyal following
- Limitations
- Newer — still building track record. Can be harder to find.
- What to order
- The signature deep dish with house sausage. The vegetarian option is also well-regarded.
11Pizano's Pizza & Pasta
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Reliable deep dish in The Loop — convenient for business visitors and Downtown tourists
- Strengths
- 4.2★ · The Loop location · Reliable quality since 1991 · Full pasta menu too
- Limitations
- Not the most exciting deep dish. Better for convenience than for excellence.
- What to order
- The classic deep dish sausage pizza. The thin crust option is also available.
12Uncle Jerry's Pizza Company
Deep DishQuick comparison
- Best for
- Neighbourhood deep dish experience away from tourist spots with great quality
- Strengths
- 4.6★ · Strong neighbourhood following · Excellent quality · Honest deep dish
- Limitations
- Less central location. Better for neighbourhood visits than tourist circuits.
- What to order
- The classic sausage deep dish. The generous portions and quality ingredients speak for themselves.
Planning Your Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Restaurants Visit
Reservations & Wait Times
Popular deep dish spots like Lou Malnati's and Giordano's can have significant wait times, especially during peak dinner hours or weekends. Many offer online waitlists or call-ahead seating, which is highly recommended. For a unique experience, Burt's Place often requires ordering days in advance, so plan accordingly.
Ordering & Portion Sizes
Deep dish pizzas are notoriously filling! A small typically serves 1-2 people, a medium 2-3, and a large 3-4, but always check with the restaurant. Be prepared for a longer cooking time, usually 30-45 minutes, as the thick pies need to bake thoroughly. Consider starting with an appetizer, but save plenty of room for the main event.
Deep Dish Etiquette
There's no wrong way to eat deep dish, but Chicagoans often use a fork and knife, especially for the first few slices. Don't be afraid to fold a slice if you can manage it! Most importantly, enjoy the rich layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings without rushing. It's a meal to savor.
Getting There & Parking
Many downtown locations like Pizzeria Uno and Labriola are easily accessible via public transport (CTA). Parking can be challenging and expensive in River North and The Loop, so public garages or ride-sharing are good options. For neighborhood spots like Pequod's or Bartoli's, street parking might be available, but always check signs.
Beyond the Pizza
After indulging in deep dish, explore the vibrant neighborhoods. Near Lou Malnati's in River North, you'll find art galleries and lively bars. Lakeview, home to The Art of Pizza, offers beautiful lakeside parks and vibrant nightlife. For downtown spots like Giordano's, Millennium Park and world-class museums are just a short walk away.
FAQ
12 Best Deep Dish Pizza Restaurants in Chicago (2026) — Common Questions
What is the best deep dish pizza in Chicago?
Lou Malnati's and Pequod's are the two most recommended deep dish pizzerias by Chicagoans on Reddit. Malnati's is the classic butter crust with sausage patty; Pequod's is famous for its unique caramelised cheese crust. Food critics often name Burt's Place in Morton Grove as technically the best, but it requires a trip outside the city.
What is the difference between deep dish and stuffed pizza?
Deep dish pizza has a tall crust with toppings layered in reverse order (cheese, toppings, then sauce on top) baked in a deep pan. Stuffed pizza (as pioneered by Giordano's) has two layers of crust with fillings sandwiched between, creating an even thicker, more indulgent pizza. Deep dish is ~1.5 inches tall; stuffed can be 2–3 inches.
How long does deep dish pizza take to cook?
Deep dish pizza typically takes 40–50 minutes to cook from order — much longer than thin crust. Most Chicago deep dish restaurants ask you to order before you're fully seated. Plan your meal around this: arrive hungry but not starving, order early, and use the wait time for drinks and conversation.
Is Lou Malnati's or Giordano's better?
This is Chicago's great pizza debate. Malnati's loyalists love the butter crust and the whole sausage patty style. Giordano's fans prefer the stuffed double-crust with maximum cheese. Both are excellent but different styles — try both if you have time. Most Reddit users prefer Malnati's for the classic experience; Giordano's for sheer indulgence.
Should I eat deep dish pizza in Chicago?
Deep dish is a cultural experience more than an everyday meal — it's very filling and takes almost an hour to prepare. If you're visiting Chicago, you should try it at least once. Most locals eat thin-crust (tavern-style) more regularly. For the full Chicago pizza story, have deep dish one night and a Chicago thin-crust or Italian beef sandwich another time.
What is Chicago tavern-style pizza?
Tavern-style (or thin-crust) pizza is actually what most Chicagoans eat daily — a cracker-thin, crispy crust cut into squares (not slices). It's different from both New York and deep dish styles. Vito & Nick's, Marie's Pizza, and Coalfire are top spots for Chicago thin-crust if you want to eat like a local.
Do I need a reservation for Chicago deep dish restaurants?
Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, and most major deep dish spots don't take reservations — expect waits of 30–90 minutes on weekends. Arrive off-peak (before 5:30pm or after 8pm) to minimise waits. Some locations have bars where you can wait with a drink. Burt's Place requires pre-ordering by phone.
What is the difference between deep dish and stuffed pizza in Chicago?
Traditional deep dish, perfected by places like Lou Malnati's and Pizzeria Uno, features a thick, buttery crust that lines the pan, filled with cheese, toppings, and topped with sauce. Stuffed pizza, pioneered by Giordano's, takes this a step further by adding another thin layer of crust over the cheese and toppings, then covering it with sauce, creating an even more substantial and gooey pie.
How long does deep dish pizza take to cook and why?
Deep dish pizza typically takes 30-45 minutes to bake in the oven. This extended cooking time is necessary due to the pizza's thickness and the large quantity of ingredients, especially cheese and sauce. Restaurants like Pequod's often pre-bake their crusts to help ensure an evenly cooked pizza with a perfectly crispy base.
Can you get authentic Chicago deep dish pizza delivered nationwide?
Yes, several iconic Chicago deep dish restaurants offer nationwide shipping, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Chicago from anywhere. Lou Malnati's and Giordano's are among the most popular options for shipping their pizzas frozen. This allows enthusiasts outside Chicago to experience the authentic flavors.
Which deep dish pizza is best for first-timers in Chicago?
For first-timers, we highly recommend starting with the classics. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria offers a quintessential deep dish experience with its buttery crust and rich toppings, making it a beloved choice. Alternatively, Pizzeria Uno provides a historical context as the birthplace of deep dish, offering a taste of the original.
Is deep dish pizza always served with a thick crust?
While deep dish is synonymous with a substantial crust, the thickness can vary. The classic style, found at places like Pizzeria Uno, has a robust, flaky crust. However, some variations exist; for example, My Pi Pizza is celebrated for its exceptionally thin and flaky deep dish crust, offering a lighter yet still satisfying experience. Stuffed pizzas, like those at Giordano's, also feature a distinct top crust.
What's the best way to reheat leftover deep dish pizza?
The best way to reheat deep dish pizza to maintain its quality is in a conventional oven or a toaster oven. Preheat your oven to around 300-350°F (150-175°C), place the pizza directly on the rack or on a baking sheet, and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is crisp. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy, diminishing the experience from places like Pequod's.
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