Chicago is a pizza lover’s paradise. From the famous deep-dish pies to thin and crispy tavern-style slices, the city offers an endless variety of flavors and styles. On my recent trip, I made it my mission to try both the classic institutions and the creative newcomers that are changing the pizza game. After several food comas and countless slices, I narrowed it down to three must-visit pizza joints in Chicago—each offering something unique.
1. Lou Malnati’s – The Deep-Dish Legend
If you’re visiting Chicago, you can’t leave without trying deep-dish pizza, and Lou Malnati’s is one of the most iconic places to get it. I visited their original location in Lincolnwood, excited to finally experience the legendary pie I’d heard so much about.
The moment my classic deep-dish pizza arrived, I knew I was in for something special. The crust was buttery and crispy, yet sturdy enough to hold the layers of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and perfectly seasoned sausage. I took my first bite, and it was everything I hoped for—rich, cheesy, and full of bold flavors.
One thing I loved about Lou Malnati’s was their “butter crust” option. It added an extra level of flakiness that made the deep-dish even more indulgent. Be warned—one slice is incredibly filling, but that didn’t stop me from having two!
📍 Location: Multiple locations, but I visited 6649 N Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood
2. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria – New Haven-Style with a Chicago Twist
After indulging in deep-dish, I wanted to try something different, and that led me to Piece Brewery & Pizzeria in Wicker Park. This place is known for serving New Haven-style pizza, which means thin crust, charred edges, and a chewy center—a refreshing contrast to Chicago’s heavier styles.
I ordered their red pizza with pepperoni and banana peppers, and it was love at first bite. The crust was perfectly crisp and slightly smoky, thanks to their high-heat ovens. What made the experience even better was their in-house craft beer selection. I paired my pizza with their award-winning Golden Arm Kolsch, a light, refreshing beer that balanced out the spice from the banana peppers.
If you’re looking for something other than deep-dish but still want an outstanding pizza experience, Piece is a must-visit. Plus, the lively atmosphere and communal seating make it a great spot to hang out with friends.
📍 Location: 1927 W North Ave, Chicago
3. Bonci – Roman-Style Pizza by the Slice
For something truly different, I stopped by Bonci, a small but famous pizzeria specializing in Roman-style pizza al taglio. Unlike traditional Chicago pizzas, Bonci serves thick, airy slices cut with scissors—just like you’d find in Italy.
The display case was packed with creative topping combinations, and I had a hard time choosing. I finally settled on the mortadella and pistachio slice and a classic Margherita.
The crust was incredible—light, crispy, and full of air pockets, almost like focaccia. The toppings were incredibly fresh, and I loved how they balanced the flavors without overwhelming the bread. The mortadella and pistachio combo was something I had never tried before, but the salty, nutty flavors worked perfectly together.
Bonci is the kind of place where you can try multiple flavors in one visit, and that’s exactly what I did. If you’re a fan of high-quality ingredients and unique flavor profiles, this spot is a must.
📍 Location: 161 N Sangamon St, Chicago