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Pizzas Every Chicagoan Should Try

Posted on August 22, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

A Chicago-style deep-dish at a Lou Malnati's

A Chicago-style deep-dish at a Lou Malnati's in 2022. (Scott Olson / Getty)

Whether you’re chowing down at Pizza City Fest this weekend at the Salt Shed in Goose Island or always shopping for a good slice, we’ve rounded up some spots that make our mouths water and stomachs grumble.

Bring cash to the 100-year-old family-owned pizzeria known for its iconic thin crust. Wash it down with an Old Style.

Chef Nella Grassano’s South Side pizzeria is on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list. She was trained at the beloved North Side spot.

Best Detroit-Style: Paulie Gee’s in Logan Square

Try the pie that won Paulie Gee’s the U.S. Pizza Cup: a pizza with three types of cheese, cupping pepperoni, bacon jam, and hot honey.

Grab a big floppy slice of cheese, sausage, or pepperoni for under $5.

Grab plant-based pizzas made with soy or cashew cheeses from the South Side spot, or head north for vegan margherita and BBQ pies.

Best for Lots of Leftovers: J.B. Alberto’s in Rogers Park

The Far North Side spot's 24-inch thin crust pie could easily feed a whole party — or you for a few days.

The 7-inch personal pan is great for single diners, especially that $7.95 lunch special.

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