Chicago-Style Pizza Isn’t Deep Dish, Here’s Where to Find the Real Thing
When most people think of Chicago-style pizza, the image that usually comes to mind is a deep-dish slice towering with layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings. But ask anyone who grew up in or around Chicago, and you’ll quickly learn that the real Chicago pizza isn’t deep dish. In fact, true Chicago-style pizza is often a thin, crispy, square-cut delight known as tavern-style pizza.
The Real Chicago Pizza: Tavern-Style
Tavern-style pizza is the unsung hero of Chicago’s pizza scene. It features a thin, crispy crust, cut into small, square pieces rather than traditional slices. This style of pizza is light yet full of flavor, with a perfect balance of toppings that don’t overwhelm the crust. Unlike deep dish, which is often seen as a meal in itself, tavern-style pizza is meant to be shared. The square-cut pieces are easy to grab and enjoy with friends, making it a popular choice at local pizzerias and neighborhood taverns.
For many Chicagoans, tavern-style pizza is a part of everyday life. It’s what families order on a Friday night, what friends eat while watching a game, and what’s served at countless backyard gatherings. The focus is on the quality of the crust and the freshness of the toppings, rather than just the size and heft of the pie. While deep dish has its place—typically for special occasions or when entertaining out-of-town visitors—tavern-style pizza is what most locals reach for when they want a taste of home.
This style of pizza has deep roots in Chicago’s history, dating back to the city’s working-class neighborhoods where it was served in bars and taverns. It was a practical choice: the thin crust allowed it to bake quickly, and the square cuts made it easy to share among a crowd. Over time, it became a beloved part of the city’s culinary landscape, even if it didn’t gain the same national fame as deep dish.
Where to Get the Best Tavern-Style Pizza in Chicago
If you’re in Chicago and want to experience authentic tavern-style pizza, these local spots are where Chicagoans go to enjoy their true pizza tradition—a crispy, thin-crust pie, cut into perfect, shareable squares.
Choosing the "best" tavern-style pizza in Chicago is a matter of personal preference, as the city has many outstanding options that are beloved for different reasons. However, there are a few standouts that consistently receive high praise from locals and pizza aficionados alike:
1. Vito & Nick’s - Often cited as the pinnacle of tavern-style pizza, Vito & Nick’s on the Southwest Side has been serving their ultra-thin, crispy pies since the 1940s. Their cracker-like crust, tangy sauce, and generous toppings, especially the Italian sausage, make it a top contender for the best in the city.
2. Marie’s Pizza & Liquors - *EDIT Check hours before you go. They are limited, A true Chicago institution, Marie’s offers a classic, no-frills tavern-style pizza experience. The thin, crispy crust with a slight char and the nostalgic, retro atmosphere make it a favorite for many who seek the quintessential Chicago pizza.
3. Pat’s Pizza - Located in Lincoln Park, Pat’s is known for its perfectly balanced thin crust that’s both crispy and chewy. The consistency and quality of their pizzas, along with a welcoming neighborhood vibe, have made it a go-to spot for those who love tavern-style pizza.
4. Aurelio’s Pizza - With its origins in Homewood and now a well-known chain, Aurelio’s delivers a slightly sweet sauce on a crisp, thin crust. Despite its expansion, it remains a top choice for many who grew up eating this style of pizza.
5. Barnaby’s - Known for its unique take on tavern-style pizza, Barnaby’s has a slightly thicker, buttery crust that still delivers on the essential crispiness. Its family-friendly atmosphere and consistent quality make it a favorite in the suburbs and beyond.
Honorable Mentions: Michael’s on Broadway, J.B. Alberto’s on Morse
If you’re looking for the best tavern-style pizza, you can’t go wrong with any of these spots. Vito & Nick’s is often considered the gold standard, but each of these pizzerias has its own loyal following and brings something special to Chicago’s pizza scene.
