Hello, pizza pilgrims! Grab your cutlery and loosen your belts because today we're embarking on a deep-dive – no, a deep dish – into the heart of Chicago’s most iconic culinary claim to fame: the majestic, the magnificent, the monumentally mouthwatering...deep dish pizza.

Now, if you've ever met a Chicagoan, you'll know there are three things they're fiercely passionate about: their sports teams, their city's architecture, and their pizza. And when it comes to pizza, it's not about thin crust or fancy toppings – oh no, it's about a pie so deep, so laden with cheese, tomato sauce, and a medley of toppings that you’ll need a fork and knife to conquer it.

This isn't just pizza; this is a glorious gastronomic titan, standing tall and proud amidst its thinner, less cheese-filled counterparts from California,  Italy, or New York. In fact, this superior delight from the heart of Illinois is the sort of pizza that makes the Statue of Liberty look down at her thin New York-style slice and say, "I want to be deep like Chicago."

So, get ready, pizza pals, to explore, eat, and quite possibly enter a cheese-induced coma as we embark on this epicurean expedition through the deep, delicious world of Chicago's deep-dish pizza and the best pizza places to score a bite. Ready, darlings? Let's get saucy!

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Our cheesy pilgrimage kicks off at none other than Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, a stalwart institution in the deep-dish pizza scene. For more than 50 years, Lou's has been churning out these chunky pies with their signature flaky, buttery crust, creating a pizza experience that's as authentically Chicago as the Willis Tower.

When you step into any of Lou's locations (and there are plenty around the city), you're stepping into a slice of Chicago's history. Named after its founder, Lou Malnati, who learned the pizza craft from Rudy Malnati and Pizzeria Uno, the pizzeria carries a tradition and a secret recipe that is respected and loved citywide. Don’t forget to check out their smaller restaurant chain, Pizano’s, too!

Their classic Malnati Chicago Classic pizza is a must-try. Comprising lean sausage, extra cheese, and vine-ripened tomato sauce on a butter crust, it's the embodiment of the deep-dish dream. And don't forget to try The Lou, a vegetarian-friendly option packed with spinach, mushrooms, and Roma tomatoes, blanketed in a blend of mozzarella, romano, and cheddar cheese.

Lou's also offers a 'crustless' pizza for those watching their carbs. The 'crust' is made entirely out of sausage. Genius or madness? You decide. But remember, deep-dish pizza is all about excess, so don't feel guilty about indulging here.

Eating at Lou Malnati's is like receiving a warm, cheesy embrace from the city of Chicago. So, arm yourself with a sturdy fork and knife, and dig into a slice of deep-dish history!

Giordano's

Next on our deep-dish pizza adventure, we set our sights on Giordano's, a Chicago institution that has been dishing out their legendary stuffed pizzas since 1974. Prepare yourself for a pizza experience like no other, where layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings are encased within a buttery, flaky crust.

Giordano's is renowned for their stuffed pizza, a deep-dish creation that takes indulgence to a whole new level. The pizza starts with a thick layer of dough pressed into a deep pan, followed by generous portions of cheese and toppings, and finally topped with another layer of dough and a dollop of tangy tomato sauce. The result is a pizza with a thick, gooey center that oozes with flavor.

When you take your first bite into a Giordano's stuffed pizza, prepare for a cheese pull that could rival the best of them. The combination of the crispy crust, melty cheese, and hearty toppings creates a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for another slice.

While the stuffed pizza is the star of the show, Giordano's also offers thin-crust options for those seeking a lighter alternative. Their thin-crust pizzas still boast the same quality ingredients and flavorful combinations, showcasing Giordano's commitment to pizza perfection in any form.

With numerous locations across the city, finding Giordano's is never a problem. Step inside, soak in the bustling atmosphere and prepare yourself for a pizza experience that is nothing short of legendary.

Giordano's has become a symbol of Chicago's deep-dish pizza heritage, satisfying cravings and capturing the hearts of locals and tourists alike. So, grab your appetite and get ready to dive into the delicious depths of Giordano's pizza masterpiece.

Pequod's Pizza

For our next stop on the deep-dish pizza tour, we venture to North Clybourn Ave to indulge in the caramelized crust perfection of Pequod's Pizza. This beloved neighborhood joint has been delighting locals and pizza connoisseurs since 1971 with their unique take on deep-dish goodness.

What sets Pequods apart from the pack is their famous caramelized crust. As the pizza bakes in their specially seasoned pans, the cheese spreads to the edges, creating a beautiful golden crust that's both crispy and slightly sweet. This signature crust, coupled with rich tomato sauce and hearty toppings, makes for an unforgettable deep-dish experience.

Pequod's offers a range of mouthwatering pizza varieties, from classic cheese and sausage to specialty options like the "Meat Lovers" and "Vegetarian Delight." No matter which one you choose, you're in for a treat. The generous toppings and the perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and crust make each bite a little slice of heaven.

Beyond their exceptional deep-dish creations, Pequod's is also known for its cozy neighborhood vibe. The dimly lit interior, adorned with sports memorabilia and vintage signs, adds to the welcoming atmosphere. And the friendly staff will make you feel like part of the Pequod family from the moment you walk in the door.

Whether you're a deep-dish aficionado or a first-time explorer, Pequod's Pizza is a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts seeking an authentic Chicago experience. So, head on over, savor that caramelized crust, and discover why Pequod's has become a beloved institution in the city's deep-dish pizza pantheon.

Gino's East

Our deep-dish pizza odyssey wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of Chicago's most iconic pizzerias – Gino's East. Established in 1966, Gino's East has been serving up their legendary deep-dish pies for over five decades, earning them a well-deserved spot in the hearts and stomachs of pizza lovers everywhere.

When you think of Gino's East, you think of their legendary cornmeal crust. This signature crust is thick, slightly crunchy, and imparts a unique texture that sets their pizzas apart. Topped with a generous amount of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and your favorite toppings, each slice is a glorious combination of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing.

Beyond their classic deep-dish pizzas, Gino's East offers a range of specialty pies to satisfy every craving. From the indulgent Meaty Legend, loaded with Italian sausage, bacon, pepperoni, and ground beef, to the Garden Delight featuring fresh veggies and creamy mozzarella, there's something for everyone.

But Gino's East is more than just pizza. It's an experience. The walls of their locations are adorned with graffiti-style artwork, showcasing the history and personality of the restaurant. Visitors are invited to leave their mark by scribbling their names, messages, and doodles on the walls – a tradition that has become synonymous with Gino's East.

A visit to Gino's East is like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the rich history and tradition of Chicago's deep-dish pizza culture. So, grab a marker, order a pie, and leave your mark on the walls of this iconic pizzeria.

Burt's Place

Our final destination in the deep-dish pizza extravaganza takes us to Burt's Place, a hidden gem located in Morton Grove, just outside of Chicago. Burt's Place is a true testament to the passion and dedication of its founder, Burt Katz, who spent decades perfecting his deep-dish pizza craft.

What sets Burt's Place apart is their commitment to quality and attention to detail. Every pizza is made to order, ensuring that each bite is a revelation of flavor and texture. Burt's crust is a thing of beauty – buttery, crisp, and with just the right amount of chewiness. It's the perfect foundation for their generous layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings.

At Burt's Place, simplicity is key. The menu offers classic options like cheese, sausage, and pepperoni, allowing the quality of the ingredients and the mastery of the preparation to shine through. Each slice is a harmony of flavors, a symphony of cheese, sauce, and crust that will transport you to deep-dish bliss.

But here's the catch – Burt's Place is a cash-only establishment, and they only accept a limited number of customers per night. Reservations are a must, and the wait can be long. But trust me; it's worth every minute. The experience of biting into a Burt's Place pizza is one you won't soon forget.

Burt's Place is the epitome of a hidden gem, a place where the love and dedication of one man have created a pizza pilgrimage site for deep-dish enthusiasts. So, venture off the beaten path and discover the magic of Burt's Place for yourself. It's a pizza experience you'll cherish forever.

Honorable Mentions:

• My Pi Pizza - located in a Bucktown strip mall

• Bartoli’s Pizzeria - on W Addison

• Labriola - near the Magnificent Mile

• The Art of Pizza - located in Lakeview

The Best Pizza in Chi-Town

And there you have it, my fellow pizza aficionados - a journey through the hallowed halls of the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago. From classic Chicago-style toppings like parmesan, mozzarella cheese, green peppers, Wisconsin cheese, and meatballs to more refined tastes of giardiniera and Italian beef, there’s so much to taste.

From the legendary Lou Malnati's to the caramelized crust perfection of Pequod's, the iconic Gino's East, and the hidden gem that is Burt's Place, we've savored each slice, indulged in every cheesy bite, and explored the rich history and flavors of Chicago's deep-dish pizza scene. Get out there and get your hands dirty with a slice!