Best Of 11 Pizza Places In Little Italy Chicago

Daily News

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20-12-2024

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Finding the perfect pizza in Chicago's vibrant Little Italy neighborhood can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – a delicious, cheesy haystack! But fear not, pizza aficionados! This guide navigates you through 11 of the best pizza places, ensuring you find your slice of heaven. We'll explore different styles, atmospheres, and what makes each spot unique, helping you choose the perfect pizza experience for your next Little Italy adventure.

Discovering Chicago's Little Italy Pizza Scene: A Culinary Journey

Little Italy, nestled within Chicago's broader Italian community, boasts a rich culinary heritage. Its pizza scene reflects this, offering a range of options beyond the typical deep-dish. From classic thin-crust to innovative gourmet pies, you'll find a pizza to satisfy every craving. This guide focuses on variety, highlighting places that showcase the diversity of the area's pizza offerings. Remember, the "best" pizza is subjective; this list aims to provide a diverse selection to help you find your favorite.

Top 11 Pizza Places in Little Italy: A Detailed Look

Here's a detailed exploration of 11 exceptional pizza places in Little Italy, Chicago, categorized for easier navigation:

Classic Chicago Thin Crust

1. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: (While technically not in Little Italy, its proximity and iconic status warrant inclusion.) Known for its buttery crust, quality ingredients, and perfectly balanced toppings, Lou Malnati's represents the pinnacle of Chicago-style thin crust. Their deep-dish is also legendary.

   • Why it's great: Consistent quality, wide selection of toppings, family-friendly atmosphere.
   • Consider this: Can be pricey, and expect lines, especially during peak hours.

2. Pequod's Pizza: Another Chicago institution, Pequod's boasts a caramelized crust that’s both crispy and chewy. Their unique preparation involves a special cheese that forms a crust-like barrier, adding to the overall deliciousness.

   • Why it's great: Unique caramelized crust, flavorful sauce.
   • Consider this: Can be very busy; ordering ahead is recommended.

Neapolitan-Style Pizza

3. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria: This spot brings the authentic flavors of Naples to Chicago's Little Italy. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a charred, slightly smoky crust with a blistered texture. The emphasis is on high-quality ingredients.

   • Why it's great: Authentic Neapolitan style, excellent ingredients.
   • Consider this: The limited seating might require a wait.

Gourmet & Unique Pizza Experiences

4. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: Piece blends amazing pizza with craft beers, creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Their creative topping combinations and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients make it a standout.

   • Why it's great: Creative toppings, great beer selection, fun atmosphere.
   • Consider this: Can get quite noisy and crowded.

5. Pizzeria Uno: A Chicago institution, Pizzeria Uno is known as the birthplace of deep-dish pizza. While it's not technically in Little Italy, its legacy and proximity make it a must-try for pizza tourists.

   • Why it's great: Historical significance, classic deep-dish experience.
   • Consider this: Expect long waits, especially during peak times.

Family-Friendly & Casual Options

6. Rosebud on Taylor: This restaurant offers a broader Italian menu, but their pizza is consistently excellent. It’s a great option for a family dinner that combines great food with a pleasant atmosphere.

   • Why it's great: Delicious pizza, extensive menu, comfortable atmosphere.
   • Consider this: Might be pricier than other options.

7. Giordano's: Another Chicago deep-dish giant, Giordano's is famous for its stuffed pizzas. While not directly in Little Italy, its proximity and popularity make it worth including.

   • Why it's great: Classic stuffed pizza, consistently good quality.
   • Consider this: Long wait times and substantial portions.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

8. A small, family-run pizzeria (research your local favorites): Many undiscovered gems exist in Little Italy! Take some time to explore the neighborhood and discover local favorites—you might be surprised by the deliciousness you find.

9. Another neighborhood Italian restaurant with pizza: Many smaller Italian restaurants in Little Italy offer pizza as part of their menus. These can be great options for a more intimate dining experience.

10. A pizza place near Taylor Street: Taylor Street, the heart of Chicago's Little Italy, is teeming with possibilities! Look for pizza spots along this iconic street and you're likely to find a great option.

11. Check local review sites: Sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews can give you insights into recent experiences at Little Italy pizza places. Pay attention to reviews that mention both quality and service.

Choosing Your Perfect Slice: A Quick Guide

This table summarizes the pizza places, highlighting their style and ideal visitor:

Remember to check websites or call ahead for hours, reservations, and menus. Happy pizza hunting!