Finding the Perfect Slice in Chicago

Chicago has it all - world-renown architectural heritage, jazz music, theatres and plenty of Chicago hostels and cheap hotels for backpackers. One of the best things about Chicago is its unique pizza. Don’t be mistaken by the title, HostelBookers have researched (yes it means we tried lots of pizza, it was tough but we did it for you) the best Chicago-style deep dish pizza in the city. Never heard of Chicago-style pizza? Well, it’s only for the bravest of eaters, as instead of a thin crust topped with cheese and pepperoni, it’s a crust stacked extremely high with cheese and pepperoni (or anything else). Here’s a quick overview of the best places to find this Chicago wonder.

Uno

Special note needs to be given to this Chicago establishment, because it was Uno that first invented the Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Once you sample one of their pizzas, you’ll realize that their experience, which has been fine-tuned since the 1940s, is obvious. You can find locations all over the country, but the original is along the Magnificent Mile. It makes for a great lunchtime spot during a day shopping around. If it’s too packed, head around the corner to another location, that one called Due.

Lou Malnati’s

This reviewer grew up in Chicago’s northern suburbs, and my high school teacher was Rick Malnati himself, son to the late Lou. We had free pizza all the time, and it was excellent. Although Lou Malnati’s was established well after a few other Chicago deep-dish restaurants, Lou knew the business well, and when the first location opened, it opened to great reviews. Today, you can find dozens of locations all over the city.

Giordano’s Pizzeria

One of the most famous and indeed one of the best-publicized deep-dish restaurants in Chicago is Giordano’s. They live up to their fame with their quintessential deep dish pizzas and ridiculously varied toppings options. Like the other restaurants listed, there are plenty of other things on the menu, from sandwiches to salads, so you won’t have to worry about taking along family members who aren’t keen on pizza. Although, there’s nothing quite like watching the mozzarella trying to cling to its pie as a slice is being lifted away.

Gino’s East

Gino’s is another Chicago landmark pizzeria. You can find locations all over the place, including in other states. This pizza is excellent, and the toppings are so thick that a single slice might be sufficient. Gino’s is particularly popular for the kids, as graffiti on the wall is allowed—that is, to write about how your visit went.

Pizano’s Pizza and Pasta

A lesser-known restaurant with one location along State Street might interest you more, and this one for good reason. They make a quality pizza for a good price. Pizano’s is an up-and-coming pizza restaurant that, for those not taken by pizza, can go for pasta!

Mangia Roma

Located on Halsted Avenue, Mangia Roma is an Italian restaurant that serves up all of that country’s typical dishes. The deep-dish pizza is excellent, and you should find the courage to tackle it. If you can’t however, this place also offers thin-crust, just don’t let anyone see you!