Illinois is famous for its “Chicago-style” deep dish pizza. But you may be surprised that, while Chicago might have a lot of pizza joints making it, some of the very best deep dish is located in towns NOT named Chicago. Here are our 10 favorite places to get deep dish pizza.
1. Pequod's
Some pizza joints might advertise cheesy crust but Pequod's crust is caramelized cheesy goodness. Even if you aren't generally a crust fan, Pequod's will make you one. 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614.
2. Papa Del's
One of the best deep dish places in the state is located in Champaign. It's hot and bubbling over with cheese. The only problem is that you might not be able to do jumping jacks right after eating here. I'm okay with that. 1201 S Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820.
3. Pizano's
Pizano's has ties to Lou Malnati's. But guess what? I think Pizano's is way better than its more famous sibling. Pure slices of mozzarella cheese and fresh tomato sauce make a huge difference. 864 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610 (multiple locations).
4. Bartoli's Pizzeria
A deep dish that won't make you feel like you weigh 100 pounds more after? The evil geniuses at Bartoli's found a way. While the crust holds up to the toppings, it still manages to be light and flaky. But don't worry. There is more than enough cheese in this pizza. 1955 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613.
5. Louisa's Pizza and Pasta
It's old school, nothing fancy, and most people don't know about this place, so shhhhhhh. The sauce tastes super fresh and the crust is nice and bread-like. And buttery. 14025 S Cicero Ave, Crestwood, IL 60445.
6. Tortorice's Pizza
For any authentic Italian food, you can't go wrong with Tortorice's. The pizza? No exception. This pizza is piled high with toppings, but don't worry, the crust is sturdy enough to support it. 1746 W Grand Ave Chicago, IL 60622 (multiple locations).
7. Chicago Grill of Peoria
Chicago transplants won't even miss the windy city with Chicago Grill. The sauce is incredibly delicious and the crust is super thick. 814 W Pioneer Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61615.
8. Quatro's
Don't let the southern Illinois address fool you, because these folks take Chicago-style incredibly seriously. It's hot, cheesy, and the prices won't give you a heart attack (which is good, because your arteries will be plenty clogged after this meal, anyway). 218 W Freeman St, Carbondale, IL 62901.
9. The Greathouse of Pizza
Who knew that such a small town would have such big pizza? Yes, you can get some of the best deep dish you'll ever have at The Greathouse of Pizza. It's homemade and freshly made. Do note that Chicago style is offered on Wednesday and Thursday only. 902 IL-49, Casey, IL 62420.
10. Exchequer
You may think of Exchequer when you want some ribs or a burger. But you might be surprised to learn that Exchequer has award winning pizza. Their deep dish was rated 4 stars by Roger Ebert. And it was rated #1 deep dish by the Chicago Tribune. 226 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60604.
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