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When people think of Chicago, a few iconic images come to mind – towering skyscrapers, the Cubs, and, of course, deep-dish pizza. With its buttery crust, layers of cheese, and rich tomato sauce piled high, this pizza isn’t just food – it’s a full-on experience.
But where did this cheesy masterpiece come from? Why does it look so different from the thin slices you find in New York? And where can you find the absolute best version of it in the city that made it famous? Let’s dig into the delicious story of deep-dish pizza.
Where did deep-dish pizza come from?
Deep-dish pizza was born in Chicago, and it’s proud of it. The most widely accepted origin story begins in 1943 at a restaurant called Pizzeria Uno, founded by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo. Their twist on the traditional pizza was simple but bold: a thick, buttery crust, baked in a deep pan and loaded with layers of cheese, meat, and a chunky tomato sauce on top.
Some food historians argue that it was actually Rudy Malnati, Uno’s original pizza chef, who developed the recipe. His family went on to establish several deep-dish hotspots of their own – like Lou Malnati’s, now one of the city’s most famous pizzerias.
Regardless of who gets the credit, one thing is clear: deep-dish pizza was a game-changer, and it forever reshaped the way people think about what pizza could be.
How do I explain deep-dish pizza to my kid?
Think of deep-dish pizza like a pizza casserole in a pie crust. Unlike regular pizza, where the dough is flat and the toppings go on top, deep-dish flips the script:
- Crust: It’s like a golden, buttery bowl that holds all the fillings.
- Cheese first: Yep—cheese goes directly on the crust, not the sauce.
- Then toppings: Sausage, pepperoni, veggies—whatever your kid loves!
- Sauce on top: A thick, flavorful tomato sauce is spread over everything.
So you can tell your kid: “It’s like a cheesy lasagna and pizza had a delicious baby!”
Where are the most famous slices in the city?
Chicago is full of legendary spots to grab a slice. Here are the must-visit places:
- Pizzeria Uno: Adored for their sauce and crust recipe.
- Lou Malnati’s: A household name in Chicago, known for its flaky, buttery crust and family-recipe sausage.
- Giordano’s: Famous for its stuffed deep-dish style, which adds another layer of crust over the cheese.
- Gino’s East: Loved for its cornmeal crust and graffiti-covered walls.
- Pequod’s Pizza: Cult favorite with a caramelized cheese crust that fans swear by.
- Art of Pizza: Often ranked #1 in blind taste tests, it’s a hidden gem for deep-dish lovers.
Pro tip: Bring your appetite. Deep-dish is no quick snack—it’s a full-on meal experience.
Fun facts about deep-dish pizza
- It’s not actually that old. Deep-dish is younger than some grandparents, having originated just over 80 years ago.
- It takes time. Baking a deep-dish pizza can take 30–45 minutes, so be patient!
- It’s eaten with a knife and fork. True Chicagoans know that hand-holding deep-dish is a rookie move.
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