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Best Pizza in Downtown Chicago (Updated Fall 2023)

Edward Brock

02/08/2024

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The quest to try some of the best pizza in this downtown area has been a delicious journey! I recently had the pleasure of eating my way around 12 different pizza spots, so if you’re looking for an outstanding slice, you’ve come to the right place.

I’m no stranger to great pizza– from Italy to Chicago, and everywhere in between– and I’m here to tell you that Downtown Chicago’s options are nothing short of impressive.

Time to grab your favorite beverage and settle in – it’s time for a tasty review of the best pizza places in downtown Chicago!

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 stopped by, I was instantly impressed by the warm atmosphere that welcomed me. Immediately a server greeted me with a cheerful smile and an armful of menus. The menu had all sorts of specialty pizzas, but I decided to stick to my usual order — pepperoni and sausage.

As I took my seat, the aroma of freshly made pizza wafted through the air. After ordering, it didn’t take long before my pizza arrived at my table: an extra-large pie topped with delightful seasonings and delicious toppings. The crust was perfectly crisp, without being overcooked or burnt.

What’s more, Milly’s Pizza In The Pan offers custom-made pies for those looking for something special! Whether you’re looking for a vegan option or something packed with extra cheese and veggies, they’ve got your back!

Overall, Milly’s Pizza In The Pan is simply the best pizza in Downtown Chicago. Their artisanal preparation ensures that every bite transports you to Italy (in spirit of course!). And if that doesn’t have you sold already – their prices are incredibly affordable too!

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

#2 George’s Deep Dish

The pizza was so delicious that I couldn’t help but savor every bite. The crust was crisp and buttery, the sauce was perfectly spiced and the topping selection was out of this world!

From the classic Margherita to the special Grandma Pie with caramelized onions, each slice was packed with flavor. Not to mention, the servers were super friendly and knowledgeable about their menu.

I’m especially impressed with the creative use of ingredients – like kale pesto or Kobe beef for toppings! Deliciousness is an understatement for these pies.

All in all, George’s Deep Dish is worth a visit if you’re craving some of the best pizza in Downtown Chicago. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

#3 Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

The first thing that strikes you when you walk in the door is the smell of freshly-baked pizza. It’s a smell that just draws you in and makes your mouth water. The decor is cozy and inviting, which really sets the tone for your pizza experience.

When it comes to the menu, there’s something for everyone here. From classic margheritas to creative new combinations, there’s something for even the pickiest of pizza eaters. My personal favorite is their ‘Quattro Formaggi’ – four cheeses on a thin crust – it’s cheesy perfection!

The pricing at Spacca Napoli Pizzeria is super reasonable so you don’t have to break the bank for great pizza. Plus, if you order online, delivery is free!

I must say, I’ve tried some amazing pizzas from Naples to New York City but Spacca Napolie Pizzeria takes the cake as one of the best places for pizza in Downtown Chicago. If you’re craving delicious Italian-style pies then look no further than this place right here!

#4 Coalfire

The pizza itself was absolutely delicious. The crust was thin and crisp, the sauce was flavorful and hearty, and the toppings were perfect – not too much, not too little! The restaurant itself is also quite nice – it’s clean, has a good atmosphere, and friendly staff.

But my favorite part of Coalfire’s pizza is their coal-fired ovens! They bake the pizzas at a higher temperature than traditional ovens, which gives them that extra crunchy texture. Plus, the slight smokiness adds an extra layer of flavor to their pies – definitely something unique you won’t get anywhere else.

If I had to sum up my experience at Coalfire in one phrase it would be: “This pizza rocks!” It’s hands down the best pizza in downtown Chicago and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal paired with a great atmosphere.

#5 My Pi Pizza

The atmosphere of My Pi Pizza is great. Not only is the restaurant itself large and inviting, but the staff is always friendly and welcoming. The servers are seriously passionate about pizza, and it’s obvious from the moment you order.

The menu options are vast, ranging from classic Italian favorites to more eclectic offerings that change with each passing season. I was particularly impressed by their seasonal specials – I don’t think I’ve ever tasted anything as delicious as the garlic pepperoni mushroom pizza!

When it comes to toppings, My Pi Pizza definitely doesn’t disappoint. Everything from fresh vegetables to an array of cheeses and meats is available for your custom-created masterpiece. Plus, the quality of ingredients used in all of their pizzas has been incredible every time I’ve ordered here.

All in all, My Pi Pizza really knows how to make a pizza – they put love into every bite! If you’re looking for the perfect place in Downtown Chicago to enjoy a slice (or two!) of freshly made pizza, look no further than this amazing establishment!

#6 Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

The restaurant itself is located in a quaint corner of the city, making it an ideal spot to enjoy some delicious Chicago-style pizza. As soon as I stepped inside, I knew I was in for something special. The atmosphere was lively, with a bright and welcoming décor and friendly staff that made me feel like I belonged.

As for the pizza? Wow! Rich, flavorful sauce spread over tender crust with just the right amount of cheese… perfectly cooked to get that crispy, crunchy edge. Every bite melted in my mouth and left me wanting more!

To top it all off (literally), Lou Malnati’s offers an array of tasty toppings – from pepperoni to salami to roasted red peppers; you can create your own unique masterpiece pizzas here! In short, this place has something for everyone.

Overall, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria serves up some of the best pizza in downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for a delightful dining experience combined with delicious food, then this is definitely the place for you!

#7 South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I knew something special was cooking. The aromas of delicious dough, cheese, and tomatoes wafting through the air were simply heavenly!

My expectations were exceeded when my pizza arrived. From the handmade crust to the rich and savory sauce, this pizza was pure perfection. As I chowed down on my slice of Margherita pizza, every bite just melted in my mouth. But what really took me by surprise was the buttery crust – it was unlike any other pizza I’ve ever tasted before!

The atmosphere at South Loop was warm and welcoming, too. The staff treated me like family, which made my experience even more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for the best pizza in Downtown Chicago, look no further than South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria!

#8 Giordano’s

When I went in to try it out, I could immediately tell that the restaurant was passionate about providing a great experience. The atmosphere was inviting, and the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. As a food critic, I was impressed by their commitment to excellence!

The pizza itself? Well, nothing short of amazing. The crust was golden brown on the outside and perfectly cooked on the inside, while the sauce was flavorful and well-seasoned. On top of that, they use only quality ingredients – every topping tasted like it was carefully picked out just for me!

Even better than the taste of the pizza is how convenient Giordano’s makes getting it. You can order online or even through their app for pickup or delivery. Now that’s what I call service with a smile!

All in all, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Downtown Chicago, look no further than Giordano’s – you won’t regret it!

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

#9 Gino’s East

I have to say, the deliciousness of this pizza really surprised me. The crust was light and slightly crispy and the sauce was made with just the right amount of spices and herbs. And the cheese? Unbelievably good — perfectly melted and flavorful.

Their specialty pies are particularly delicious, like their deep dish spinach mushroom with garlic butter crust — it’s out of this world! The toppings were cooked to perfection and added a tremendous amount of flavor to create a truly unforgettable experience.

But that’s not all I loved about Gino’s. The service was fantastic — my server was knowledgeable, friendly, and prompt in getting my order to me. Plus the restaurant has a really great atmosphere; it’s upbeat, lively, and welcoming for families, friends, or solo foodies like myself!

My search for amazing pizza stops here. Gino’s East has earned my seal of approval — it’s definitely one of the best places to get pizza in Downtown Chicago!

#10 Giordano’s

I’ll never forget the first time I stepped into a Giordano’s restaurant. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, with a classic Italian vibe that really set the tone for a great meal.

The pies themselves were nothing short of amazing. From the fluffy crust to the tangy tomato sauce, each bite truly brought me back to my days in Italy. The toppings are fresh and flavorful too – everything from sausage and peppers to ricotta cheese and mushrooms.

Speaking of toppings, one of my favorite creations at Giordano’s is the stuffed spinach pizza, which is loaded with three types of cheese and garlicky creamed spinach. It’s honestly one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had!

Overall, I can confidently say that Giordano’s has some of the best pizza in downtown Chicago – one bite is all it takes to understand why they have such a loyal customer base!

#11 Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical when I first entered their establishment. The dining area was filled with laughter and chatter and the bar gave off an inviting atmosphere. But as soon as I took my first bite of the pizza, I knew they had something special.

The crust was thin and light but still had some crunchiness to it. Their signature sauce had a slight kick of spice that made it unique and memorable. The cheese was gooey and flavorful without being overly greasy – just how a good pizza should be!

And the toppings?! Wow! From the spicy Italian sausage chunks to the sweet bell peppers, every topping was cooked to perfection and added an interesting flavor profile to the overall pie.

To top it all off, their service staff were courteous and friendly during my visit, always making sure that my experience at Exchequer Restaurant & Pub was nothing short of perfect. For those looking for truly great pizza in Downtown Chicago, this is certainly the place to go!

#12 Art of Pizza on State Street

First off, they have an amazing selection of toppings. From traditional pepperoni to something a bit more adventurous like anchovies and olives, there’s something for everyone here. I was particularly impressed by their house special – a combination of roasted red peppers, fresh garlic, and feta cheese. Delicious!

The crust was also top notch. Hand-tossed and made with Italian herbs and spices, it had a perfect crunch to the bite while still maintaining its delicate consistency. The sauce was nicely balanced between sweet and savory with just enough garlic to add some kick.

But what really sets Art of Pizza apart from the rest is the atmosphere. The decor captures the feeling of an old-school Italian pizzeria with stained glass windows and wooden benches – definitely not your average find around town these days! Plus, the staff was so friendly and knowledgeable that they made dining there an absolute pleasure!

So if you’re ever looking for some of the best pizza in Downtown Chicago, head on over to Art of Pizza on State Street – you won’t regret it!

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.