As far as styles of pizza go, Chicago is parent to one of the most ubiquitous and well known: deep-dish. According to Wikipedia, “true Chicago-style pizza features a buttery crust, generous amounts of cheese and chunky tomato sauce,” and I would have to agree. But not all the ‘za coming out of the Windy City is “stuffed.” Each pizza is different and delicious in it’s own right. Many of the thin crust style pizzas served here are also unique to Chicago. Chicago and pizza have a pretty saucy (sorry) history.

The first deep-dish came out of Uno’s kitchen in 1943–so they say. Other sources quote that the first of its kind actually showed up a few years later, but by the hands a Malnati cook working in the Uno’s kitchen. I think the bottom line is that we are all grateful for yet another menu option. Chicago’s thing crust is also unique due to a crispy, crunchy crust instead of a soft floppy one; and it’s also served in squares instead of the triangle pie shape. Chicago will always love it’s pizza’s; and here is a list of the best-loved versions.

1. Home Run Inn Pizzeria
4254 W 31st St, Chicago, IL
South Side, low-key, and some of the best damn sausage. A great style of crust, too. A thinner crust, but with real substance.

2. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL
Well-known and well-loved deep-dish.

3. Pat’s Pizzeria & Ristorante
2679 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
My all time favorite thin crust. Roger Ebert’s too.

4. Pequod’s Pizzeria
2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL
Lincoln Park hangout offers big, flavorful pies and a devoted following.

5. Piece Restaurant
1927 W North Ave, Chicago, IL
Spacious and complete with brewpub, this place is delicious and cool.

6. Pizzeria Uno
29 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL
The one and only. You will leave as stuffed as the pizza.

7. Giordano’s
730 N Rush St, Chicago, IL
As stuffed as they come; and loved by visitors and residents.

8. Gino’s East
633 N Wells St, Chicago, IL
It’s a little touristy, but graffiti for reading material is always fun–like the pizza.

9. Art Of Pizza Inc
3033 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL
This locals favorite for Chicago-style and thin-crust pies on the city’s North Side could be easily overlooked. Don’t make that mistake!