Discovering Chicago’s Best Pizza: A Culinary Adventure with Jeff Mauro
Pizza night is a cherished tradition across America, and few cities evoke more passion about this iconic dish than Chicago. From thin crust to deep dish, this city has options for every palate. When talking about the best pizza spots, award-winning chef and self-proclaimed Sandwich King, Jeff Mauro, shares his favorite places in his hometown, where the magic of pizza truly comes alive.
The Charm of Chicago Tavern-Style Pizza: Jimmy’s Place
For fans of Chicago’s tavern-style pizza, Jeff Mauro recommends Jimmy’s Place, located in Forest Park. This celebrated restaurant serves a thin crust that is rolled out to create a cracker-like texture, making it easy to pick up and enjoy. Mauro describes the experience of ordering and sharing pizza with family as magical. The energy of walking into a lively restaurant filled with the aroma of hot pizza is memorable.
Jimmy’s Place, open since 1998, offers more than just pizza; it boasts a robust menu featuring pasta dishes and classic Italian entrees. Mauro is particularly fond of their thin-crust sausage pizza, calling it "the best." This family-owned establishment has become a cornerstone of the local food scene, bringing people together over delicious food.
A Slice of Detroit: Pistores
When seeking a different pizza experience, Mauro suggests Pistores, a gem in River North known for its Detroit-style offerings. Unlike Chicago’s signature deep dish, Detroit-style pizza is square-shaped with a thicker crust that’s crispy and light—perfect for those who prefer a hearty bite. Chef Joel Reno, the mastermind behind Pistores, elevates this pizza with his background as a pastry chef, resulting in pies that are both appealing and flavorful.
Opened just two years ago, Pistores has quickly garnered a loyal following. The menu not only features fluffy, artisan pizzas but also an array of entrées, such as chicken parmesan. The craftsmanship behind Pistores’ unique pies, with caramelized edges and a focus on quality ingredients, keeps patrons coming back for more.
The Ultimate Stuffed Pizza Experience: Old World Pizza
In Chicago, stuffed pizza reigns supreme, and for Mauro, the go-to place is Old World Pizza in Elmwood Park. This establishment offers a delightful twist on pizza, layering cheese, meats, and vegetables between thick, doughy crusts, all smothered in rich tomato sauce. This dish has a heartwarming connection to family recipes passed down through generations, emphasizing tradition and quality.
Old World Pizza has been around since the 1960s, and its devoted clientele swears by its stuffed pizzas. Mauro praises this pizza as "unbelievable," showcasing the authenticity and care that goes into each artisan creation. For those with a penchant for hearty, cheesy goodness, this restaurant promises an indulgent experience.
The Classic Deep Dish: Pizano’s
When discussing deep dish, Mauro’s personal favorite is Pizano’s, a renowned establishment with four locations throughout Chicago. Known for its towering layers of cheese and toppings, this pizza is the quintessential representation of the Windy City’s pizza culture. Pizano’s has a rich history dating back to 1943 when Rudy Malnati Sr. founded Pizzeria Uno, which set the standard for Chicago-style pizza.
Rudy Malnati, Jr. carried on that legacy with Pizano’s, where the secret dough recipe created by "Mama" Malnati continues to delight locals and visitors alike. Mauro enjoys the depth of flavor and texture found in their deep dish but appreciates that the menu also provides tunnel-thin crust options for variety. At Pizano’s, diners can truly experience a piece of Chicago’s culinary history while enjoying a slice of pizza perfection.
Embracing Chicago’s Pizza Legacy
Chicago’s pizza landscape offers something for everyone, from thin crust to deep dish, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Jeff Mauro’s recommendations highlight not just the delicious offerings but also the vibrant stories behind each restaurant. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, exploring these establishments is sure to make your pizza experience in Chicago a memorable one. Celebrating pizza isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about sharing special moments with family and friends, all while indulging in some of the best culinary creations this city has to offer.
