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Best Pizza in Chicago Downtown (Updated Fall 2023)

Edward Brock

02/08/2024

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Dining my way through twelve of the city’s best eateries, I’ve tried a wide range of pies from traditional to experimental, thick crust to thin.

Sure, New York and Rome are known for their pizza – but I’m here to tell you Chicago really has something special when it comes to the ‘za! With every bite, I’m reminded of why this charming city is one of my favorite places to zigzag around for good eats.

Come along with me while we explore together all the deliciousness that downtown Chicago has to offer in terms of pizza!

If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Illinois

#1 Milly’s Pizza In The Pan

The first time I visited Milly’s, the wonderful aroma of freshly baked pizza wafted through the air and welcomed me with open arms. As soon as I tasted their signature slice, I knew why people raved about it so much. The crust was perfectly crispy and chewy, topped off with fresh mozzarella cheese and a hearty helping of flavorful sauce.

The service is always friendly and attentive. They are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the menu or ingredients. They even offer a selection of craft beers to help round out your meal!

But what really sets Milly’s Pizza In The Pan apart from other pizza places is its unique toppings. From house-smoked bacon to grilled zucchini, there is something for everyone here! And don’t forget the signature pan pizza option – it’s not just square-shaped, but also stuffed with deliciousness!

To sum it up: If you’re looking for the best pizza in Chicago Downtown, Milly’s Pizza In The Pan should feature prominently on your list!

If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Chicago!

#2 Bonci Pizzeria

I was blown away by the crust! It was crispy, yet light and airy, with just the right amount of charring. The sauce was flavor-packed, and generously spread over every slice. I’m not usually one for surprises, but the toppings were a pleasant change from your typical pepperoni and mushroom – they included everything from roasted tomatoes to anchovies.

But what really stood out to me were the thoughtful ingredient combinations — you’d be hard pressed to find tastier combos anywhere else. My favorite was a prosciutto and olive combination that gave it a nutty, salty taste that I can still remember days later.

The atmosphere at Bonci Pizzeria is also top-notch — it’s cozy enough for a romantic dinner but still has an air of sophistication about it. And the service? Impeccable! They never let my glass go empty or my plate stay empty for too long!

It might sound like I’m gushing a bit here but honestly, Bonci Pizzeria really is one of the best pizza places in Chicago Downtown. If you’re looking for great pizza with delicious ingredients, then this is definitely worth checking out… even if it means traveling around the world for it!

#3 George’s Deep Dish

I’ve had my fair share of deep dish pizza, but George’s is truly a unique experience. The crust was thin and crispy, yet still maintained its signature bite. The sauce was light and tasty with just the right amount of seasoning. And the cheese – oh, the cheese – it was delightful. It’s no wonder they are the local favorite!

I also tried some of their specialty slices and they were equally as delicious. From the bacon ranch to the BBQ chicken, each slice packed a flavorful punch that I hadn’t experienced before.

The atmosphere at George’s was also quite vibrant and inviting. Everyone from families to couples to bachelors were all sharing conversations over tasty slices of pizza at nearby tables or countertops.

Overall, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown, you need look no further than George’s Deep Dish – an experience you won’t soon forget!

#4 Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

When I stepped foot in the restaurant, I was already impressed by its chic and traditional décor. From the hanging salamis to the walls adorned with famous Italian landmarks, it felt like a true authentic Italian pizzeria. But more importantly, their pizza was incredible!

The Napoli pizza, in particular, was top-notch. Topped with an array of fresh ingredients from tomato sauce to olives and even capers, every bite was more delicious than the last. They also made sure that their dough was cooked just right – perfect for folding yet still soft like a pillow.

I’m usually not one for compliments but I have to say…the staff at Spacca Napoli really knew how to make me feel welcome. They were nice enough to bring out samples of some of their dishes so I could try them before committing to a full order. This kind of care and attention has been hard to find in my travels but it’s definitely something that sets them apart!

Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Chicago downtown, then look no further. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria is the place you want to check out!

#5 Coalfire

I’ve been to Naples, Rome, and New York City – all with great pizza – but nothing compares to the quality I experienced at Coalfire. The crust was light, yet still had a satisfying crunch when you bit into it. The sauce was flavorful and mildly spiced, and there was just the perfect amount of cheese.

The atmosphere was also pleasant; I especially loved the exposed brick walls inside this cozy restaurant. They also have an open kitchen, so you can watch your pizza being made in front of your eyes – definitely a plus! The staff were knowledgeable and friendly as well.

The only downside is that Coalfire can be quite pricey, but given the quality of their goods it’s well worth it! At the end of my meal I was stuffed to the brim but still couldn’t stop reaching for one last slice. So if you want to experience some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then look no further than Coalfire; it’s certainly worth a visit!

#6 My Pi Pizza

I’m not easily impressed but from the moment I stepped in, I could tell this place was special. The inviting and cozy atmosphere added to the experience and made me feel like I was in a classic Italian pizzeria.

The pizza itself was amazing – the perfect crust with just the right amount of crispiness and gooeyness. The sauce was flavorful and the toppings were high quality. It definitely lived up to it’s reputation of being one of the best pizzas in Chicago Downtown.

But what really sets My Pi Pizza apart is their customer service – they take great pride in their work and it shows. They are friendly and accommodating, which makes every visit a pleasure.

If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then My Pi Pizza should be at the top of your list!

#7 Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria

The atmosphere at this place is amazing. As soon as I walked in, I was immediately taken by the authentic Italian décor and the warm hospitality of the staff. From the waitresses to the pizza masters, it was clear that everyone associated with Bongiorno’s takes great pride in their work.

The menu is huge – there are over forty different kinds of pizza! Everything from a traditional Margherita to artisanal pies with unique toppings like figs, caramelized onions and gorgonzola cheese. There truly is something for everyone here.

As for the pizza itself, it’s simply divine! The crust is super crispy yet still chewy in all the right places. And as expected from an Italian pizzeria, Bongiorno’s doesn’t skimp on quality ingredients – each topping tastes incredibly fresh and hearty.

I can confidently say that Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria has the best pizza I’ve tasted in Chicago – downtown or otherwise! If you’re looking for authentically delicious Italian-style pizza, this is definitely the spot to go!

#8 South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

I had the pleasure of trying their signature special deep dish for lunch today, and what an experience! The crust was thin yet crunchy, with a delicious buttery flavor that made it unforgettable. The toppings melted in my mouth and were perfectly seasoned—it was like I hadn’t tasted anything so good before.

The staff here was incredibly friendly and accommodating, even slicing up pieces of my pizza so that I could share it with friends at my table. And the atmosphere? With its classic decor, brick walls, and dark wood floors, you’d think you were actually in a pizzeria back in Italy.

I highly recommend a visit to South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria if you’re ever looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown. Believe me when I say it won’t disappoint!

If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 22 more pizza places in Chicago!

#9 Giordano’s

The pizza is simply delicious. From the perfectly-baked crust to the savory sauce and cheesy, gooey topping creations, every bite is a delight! Plus, their specialties like stuffed pizza take this deliciousness to a whole new level – the combination of crunchy and fluffy textures and cheesy goodness make it irresistible.

Not only is the food great, but the atmosphere at Giordano’s Pizza is welcoming and fun. The staff are warm and friendly, often stopping by to chat with me about my travels while I’m enjoying my food.

They also host amazing events like Chicago Pizza Festivals here every year. It’s always a great time with plenty of samples from different pizzeria vendors so you can get your fill of all sorts of different recipes.

Finally, Giordano’s offers excellent value for money. Their lunch specials make it easier than ever to enjoy some great pizza even if you’re on a budget!

All in all, I’m thrilled that I was able to experience Giordano’s Pizza while traveling in Chicago Downtown – they definitely have some of the best pizza around!

#10 Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

The first time I tried their food was a real treat. The thin crust was golden-brown and crispy on the outside, while being soft and chewy in the middle. And the flavorful tomato sauce was really something special – the perfect mix of sweet and savory.

But it doesn’t end there. The pizzas are topped with a generous portion of cheese that melts just right, giving you that classic Chicago pizza experience. And if you’re looking for something even more special, their specialty pizzas can’t be beat!

I had a chance to sample some of the deep dish options as well, and they were just as good as the other pizzas. The flaky buttery crust was absolutely delicious! It held up perfectly against all the toppings and created a unique flavor that blended together nicely.

If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is where it’s at! No matter what kind of pizza you’re looking for I’m sure you’ll find something incredible here – trust me, I know great pizza when I taste it!

#11 Pequod’s Pizza

My first reaction when I entered the restaurant was one of amazement. The pizza smells were so tantalizing that I knew immediately this was going to be a great experience.

The staff at Pequod’s Pizza are beyond friendly and welcoming, so much so that it made me instantly comfortable. I knew I was in good hands.

I ordered their signature deep dish pizza, and it did not disappoint! It had just the right amount of crunch on the outside and rich flavor throughout, even towards the middle where most pizzas tend to lack seasoning. And their cheese blend was spot-on – just enough to bring out all of those delicious flavors in perfect harmony.

No detail was left untouched either – from the fresh herbs sprinkled on top to the hand-crafted crust, all the way down to the homemade sauces for dipping. Every bite melted in my mouth like butter!

Overall, Pequod’s Pizza is simply heavenly and definitely worth every penny – no wonder it’s known as the best pizza in Chicago Downtown!

#12 Piece Brewery

The place is pretty cool, with a great atmosphere and excellent staff. And the pizza? All I can say is wow! The crust is perfectly thin and crunchy, while the toppings are fresh and flavorful. They’ve also got some awesome signature pizzas with really creative toppings that make for an interesting flavor experience.

The service at Piece Brewery is top notch too. Everyone was friendly and accommodating, which is always nice to see from a restaurant. Plus, they’ve got some tasty sides like garlic bread and salads to make your meal even more satisfying.

Overall, if you’re looking for great pizza in Chicago Downtown then you need to check out Piece Brewery! It’s definitely one of the best in the city.

Best Deep Dish Pizza – Chicago’s Pizza

From the moment I walked into the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of bubbling cheese and perfectly baked crust filled the air, making my taste buds do a little happy dance. The decor was delightfully kitschy, with Chicago-themed memorabilia adorning the walls and even the waitstaff dressed as mini Chicagoan landmarks. I half expected to see a little pizza version of the Bean serving me my pie!

Now, let’s talk about the pizza itself. When they say deep dish, they really mean it. This thing was a monster! It’s like they took a normal pizza and pumped it full of cheesy steroids. And oh boy, the cheese! It was so melty and gooey, I felt like I should have brought a snorkel to dive into it. The crust was thick and buttery, with just the right amount of chewiness. It was like biting into a warm, fluffy cloud that happened to have a pizza on top.

The toppings were abundant and fresh. I tried their classic sausage and pepperoni combo, and each bite was a flavor explosion in my mouth. The sauce was tangy and zesty, and it paired perfectly with the rich, savory toppings. I couldn’t help but laugh with pleasure after every bite.

So, if you find yourself in Lakeview and craving a pizza experience that will make you belly laugh with delight, head on over to Chicago’s Pizza. You won’t be disappointed. Plus, where else can you have a slice of pizza and feel like you’re in the middle of the Windy City?

Best Thin Crust Pizza – La Crosta Woodfire Pizzeria Italiana

From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat. The rustic ambiance and the smell of smoky woodfire instantly transported me to pizza paradise. I practically floated to my seat, eager to sink my teeth into some cheesy goodness.

As I perused the menu, my taste buds danced in anticipation. The options were endless – from classic margherita to gourmet toppings like truffle oil and prosciutto. I felt like a kid in a candy store, but instead of candy, it was pizza. My excitement was palpable.

When the pizza finally arrived, I couldn’t help but gasp. The thin crust, perfectly cooked and oozing with cheese and toppings, was a work of art. It was like Michelangelo himself had sculpted it with his pizza-making hands.

I took my first bite and it was love at first chew. The crust was crispy, yet chewy, with just the right amount of char from the woodfire oven. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each ingredient complementing the other in perfect harmony. I couldn’t help but moan in delight, much to the amusement of the diners around me.

The staff at La Crosta were friendly and attentive, ensuring my pizza experience was nothing short of magnificent. They even accommodated my bizarre request for extra pineapple, which earned them extra points in my book.

So, if you find yourself in lincoln park and craving the best thin crust pizza around, look no further than La Crosta Woodfire Pizzeria Italiana. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. And hey, even if they don’t, you’ll still leave with a satisfied stomach and a smile on your face.

Best Wood Fired Pizza – Stix n Brix Pizza

As soon as I stepped into Stix n Brix Pizza, the tantalizing aroma of wood-fired dough hit me like a cheesy slap in the face. My taste buds were salivating like a pack of dogs at a butcher shop. I knew I was in for a treat.

The restaurant itself was a rustic paradise, with wooden beams and vintage pizza posters adorning the walls. It felt like I had stepped into a time machine and been transported to an era when pizza was a sacred art form.

Now, let’s talk about the pizza. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The crust was perfectly crisp on the outside, with just the right amount of chewiness on the inside. It was like biting into a cloud, if clouds were made of dough and cheese and dreams.

The toppings were a work of art. From the classic margherita to the inventive truffle mushroom and goat cheese, each pizza was bursting with flavor. I couldn’t resist but to close my eyes in pure bliss after each bite. It was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds, making me want to do a little jig right there in the restaurant.

The service was just as delightful as the pizza. The staff were friendly, attentive, and just as passionate about pizza as I am. They even recommended their homemade chili oil for an extra kick. Let me tell you, that stuff is like liquid gold. I drizzled it on every slice and felt like a true pizza connoisseur.

If you’re in Chicago and craving some of the best wood-fired pizza in the city, look no further than Stix n Brix Pizza. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.