21 Best Pizza in Downtown Chicago today

This article is about the Best Pizza in Downtown Chicago today. In downtown Chicago, pizza isn’t merely sustenance; it’s an artisanal masterpiece, a cultural heirloom, and a gustatory odyssey awaiting your indulgence. Here, amid the iconic deep-dish triumphs and imaginative gourmet opuses, international gastronomic inspirations entwine to offer a multifaceted medley of flavors and encounters. Each slice unfolds a beguiling tale of Chicago’s profound pizza heritage, where tradition converges with audacious innovation, ensuring that every pizzeria carves out its distinctive fragment of the city’s culinary allure.

top Pizza in Downtown Chicago

In no particular order, these are the top Pizzas in downtown Chicago.

1. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

Why It’s the Best:

• Buttery Crust Perfection: Lou Malnati’s is celebrated for its famous “Buttercrust” pizza, known for its delectably buttery, flaky crust that’s a sheer delight to the taste buds.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The pizzeria uses only the finest ingredients, from fresh mozzarella to tangy tomato sauce, resulting in a pizza that’s rich in flavor and quality.
• Chicago-Style Tradition: Located in the heart of Chicago, Lou Malnati’s embodies the city’s classic deep-dish pizza tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Windy City pizza experience.

2. Pizano’s Pizza and Pasta

Why It’s the Best:

• Variety of Pizza Styles: Pizano’s offers a diverse menu, catering to both deep-dish and thin-crust pizza enthusiasts. This versatility ensures that every pizza lover can find their perfect slice.
• Family Legacy: The Pizano family’s pizza-making legacy dates back to the 1940s, and their commitment to tradition and quality shines through in every pizza they serve.
• Homemade Flavors: The pizzeria is renowned for its homemade tomato sauce and sausage, infusing their pizzas with authentic, homemade tastes that capture the essence of Chicago’s pizza heritage.

3. Artango Bar and Steakhouse

Why It’s the Best:

• Artisanal Fusion: Artango Bar and Steakhouse takes a unique approach by blending Argentine and Italian flavors in their wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas. The result is a captivating fusion of two rich culinary traditions.
• Premium Ingredients: The pizzeria prides itself on using top-tier ingredients, ensuring that each pizza reflects the highest quality and taste.
• Elegant Atmosphere: Artango’s charming ambiance, reminiscent of a Buenos Aires bistro, creates a perfect setting for savoring their exceptional pizzas while enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere.

4. Labriola Chicago

Why It’s the Best:

• Gourmet Creations: Labriola Chicago elevates pizza to gourmet heights with creative and mouthwatering combinations of ingredients. From truffle-infused options to indulgent toppings, it’s a pizza paradise for those seeking a touch of luxury.
• Handcrafted Perfection: Each pizza is meticulously handcrafted with attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is a flavorful masterpiece.
• Spectacular Views: Located in the heart of downtown, Labriola Chicago offers stunning views of the city, creating an unforgettable dining experience that complements their exceptional pizzas.

5. Flo & Santos

Why It’s the Best:

• Authentic Polish Pizza: Flo & Santos brings a distinctive twist to the pizza scene by offering Polish-inspired pizzas, including the famous “Pierogi Pizza.” It’s a delightful fusion of two beloved culinary traditions.
• Craft Beer Selection: The pizzeria boasts an impressive craft beer selection, making it an ideal spot for pairing your pizza with a diverse range of beers.
• Cozy and Eclectic Atmosphere: Flo & Santos’ cozy and eclectic interior, complete with vintage arcade games, adds to the overall experience, making it a charming downtown pizza destination.

6. Bartoli’s Pizzeria

Why It’s the Best:

• Local Favorite: Bartoli’s Pizzeria is a cherished local gem, known for its excellent thin-crust pizza. The sense of community and personal touch make it a welcoming and delightful place to enjoy a classic Chicago pizza.
• Thin-Crust Tradition: The pizzeria keeps the thin-crust tradition alive with an array of toppings, allowing you to savor the authentic taste of Chicago’s thin-crust heritage.
• Consistent Excellence: Bartoli’s commitment to quality and tradition ensures that every pizza consistently meets the high standards expected by its patrons.

7. 312 Chicago

Why It’s the Best:

• Homage to the Area Code: As its name suggests, 312 Chicago celebrates the Windy City with deep-dish and tavern-style pizza options. Their deep-dish pies are a testament to Chicago’s pizza legacy, featuring a rich, flaky crust and generous layers of ingredients.
• Local Pride: 312 Chicago is not just a pizzeria; it’s a celebration of the city’s cultural heritage and culinary tradition, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
• Culinary Innovation: While they pay homage to tradition, 312 Chicago also ventures into culinary innovation with unique toppings and creative combinations, offering a fresh perspective on classic pizza.

8. Labriola Chicago: The Loop Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Gourmet Excellence: The Loop location of Labriola Chicago upholds the pizzeria’s gourmet reputation with meticulously crafted pizzas that redefine the pizza experience. Whether you’re indulging in truffle-infused delights or savoring artisanal combinations, the flavors are unparalleled.
• Urban Chic: Nestled in the bustling Loop district, this Labriola location offers an urban chic ambiance that perfectly complements their exceptional pizzas. It’s a slice of luxury in the heart of the city.
• Convenient Accessibility: For those exploring downtown Chicago, the Loop location of Labriola is conveniently situated, making it an accessible and luxurious pizza stop.

9. The Art of Pizza: Loop Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Variety Beyond Compare: The Art of Pizza’s Loop location stands out for its extensive menu, offering diverse pizza styles, including deep-dish, thin-crust, and stuffed pies. It’s a pizza haven catering to every preference.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Offerings: This location is celebrated for its inclusive menu, featuring vegan and gluten-free options that ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious pizza experience.
• Downtown Convenience: The Loop location is perfectly situated for those exploring downtown Chicago, making it a convenient and inclusive choice for a slice of pizza perfection.

10. Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

Why It’s the Best:

• Historical Significance: Exchequer Restaurant & Pub has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. It’s a true Chicago icon known for its classic Chicago-style thin-crust pizza.
• Authentic Chicago Vibe: The establishment exudes a warm and authentic Chicago atmosphere, making it an ideal place to enjoy a traditional Chicago pizza.
• Award-Winning Recipe: The secret recipe for Exchequer’s sauce, combined with high-quality ingredients, has won numerous awards and continues to captivate pizza lovers from all walks of life.

11. Coda Di Volpe

Why It’s the Best:

• Authentic Neapolitan Pizza: Coda Di Volpe brings the spirit of Naples to Chicago with its Neapolitan-style pizza. The wood-burning oven, imported ingredients, and traditional preparation methods offer a genuine Italian pizza experience.
• Savory Simplicity: The focus on simplicity and the finest ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine, resulting in a pizza that’s a delightful tribute to Neapolitan tradition.
• Cozy Elegance: The pizzeria’s warm and cozy ambiance adds to the overall experience, creating a setting that perfectly complements the authenticity of their Neapolitan pizza.

12. Stella Barra Pizzeria

Why It’s the Best:

• Creative Pizza Flair: Stella Barra Pizzeria takes a creative approach to pizza, offering a range of artisanal, thin-crust pizzas with unique combinations of toppings. It’s a place for those who appreciate a twist on traditional favorites.
• Quality Ingredients: The pizzeria is committed to using high-quality and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each pizza is a masterpiece of flavor.
• Lively Atmosphere: The lively and welcoming atmosphere at Stella Barra enhances the dining experience, making it an inviting destination for those seeking imaginative and delicious pizzas.

13. Bonci Pizzeria

Why It’s the Best:

• Roman-Style Pizza: Bonci Pizzeria brings a taste of Rome to downtown Chicago with its Roman-style pizzas. These rectangular slices boast a focaccia-like crust and are topped with a wide array of fresh ingredients.
• Artisanal Craftsmanship: The pizzeria’s dedication to artisanal craftsmanship is evident in the quality of their crust and their commitment to using seasonal and locally sourced toppings.
• Slice Variety: Bonci offers a selection of unique and ever-changing pizza slices, making it a place where you can savor a different pizza experience with every visit.

14. Bartoli’s Pizzeria – Loop Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Thin-Crust Tradition: Bartoli’s Pizzeria’s Loop location continues the tradition of offering fantastic thin-crust pizza, allowing you to relish the classic taste of Chicago’s thin-crust heritage in the heart of downtown.
• Diverse Toppings: The pizzeria’s wide array of toppings and combinations ensures that you can create your perfect pizza, from traditional favorites to unique variations.
• Efficient Downtown Stop: For those navigating the bustling downtown area, Bartoli’s Loop location provides an efficient and tasty stop for a classic Chicago pizza.

15. Labriola Chicago – Wabash Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Upscale Elegance: The Wabash location of Labriola Chicago offers an upscale pizza experience, with an emphasis on gourmet creations. It’s a destination for those seeking an elegant slice.
• Meticulous Culinary Artistry: Each pizza is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, ensuring a premium culinary experience. The combinations and quality of ingredients are truly exceptional.
• Convenient Access: Situated on Wabash Avenue, this Labriola location is easily accessible for those exploring downtown Chicago, making it a prime choice for a luxurious pizza experience.

16. Patxi’s Pizza

Why It’s the Best:

• Chicago and San Francisco Fusion: Patxi’s Pizza brings together the best of Chicago and San Francisco styles. Their deep-dish and stuffed pizzas are a flavorful combination that caters to a wide range of pizza preferences.
• Quality Ingredients: Patxi’s is committed to using high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each pizza is a premium delight. Their dough is made fresh daily and their house-made sauces are a testament to their dedication to taste.
• Cozy Atmosphere: The pizzeria’s cozy and welcoming atmosphere creates a warm and inviting space to enjoy a slice of pizza heaven, right in the heart of downtown Chicago.

17. The Florentine

Why It’s the Best:

• Artisanal Pizza Elegance: The Florentine blends artisanal pizza craftsmanship with an elegant dining experience. Their wood-fired pizzas boast a thin, crispy crust and exquisite combinations of ingredients.
• Tuscan Inspirations: Drawing inspiration from Tuscany, The Florentine’s pizzas celebrate the simplicity and elegance of Tuscan cuisine, offering a taste of Italy in downtown Chicago.
• Sophisticated Setting: The pizzeria’s sophisticated setting, complete with an open kitchen and stylish décor, provides a refined backdrop for savoring their exceptional pizzas.

18. Sono Wood Fired

Why It’s the Best:

• Wood-Fired Excellence: Sono Wood Fired specializes in wood-fired pizzas that capture the essence of Italian tradition. The intense heat of the wood-fired oven imparts a unique smoky flavor to each pizza.
• Fresh and Seasonal: Sono Wood Fired is committed to using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each pizza reflects the flavors of the season.
• Cozy and Contemporary: The pizzeria’s cozy yet contemporary ambiance creates a delightful setting for indulging in their wood-fired masterpieces, making it an excellent choice for those exploring downtown Chicago.

19. The Art of Pizza – Ontario Street Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Inclusive Menu: The Ontario Street location of The Art of Pizza offers an inclusive menu with a wide variety of pizza styles, making it a go-to place for diverse pizza preferences.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: Just like its other locations, this branch prides itself on offering vegan and gluten-free pizza options, ensuring that everyone can indulge in delicious pizza.
• Downtown Convenience: Situated in downtown Chicago, The Art of Pizza’s Ontario Street location is conveniently located for those exploring the city, making it an accessible and inclusive choice for a pizza feast.

20. Labriola Chicago – Rush Street Location

Why It’s the Best:

• Gourmet Pizza Mastery: The Rush Street location of Labriola Chicago continues the pizzeria’s tradition of gourmet excellence, offering meticulously crafted pizzas that redefine the pizza experience.
• Chic Atmosphere: The upscale and chic ambiance of this Labriola location complements the gourmet quality of their pizzas. It’s a place where you can savor a slice of luxury in the heart of downtown Chicago.
• Strategic Location: Nestled on Rush Street, this Labriola branch is strategically situated for those navigating the bustling downtown area, making it a prime choice for an elegant and delicious pizza experience.

21. The Gage

Why It’s the Best:

• Upscale Dining: The Gage provides an upscale dining experience that combines elegance with artisanal pizza craftsmanship. Their wood-fired pizzas boast a thin, crispy crust and exquisite ingredient combinations.
• Culinary Creativity: The Gage embraces culinary innovation, offering unique and creative toppings and combinations that cater to those seeking a twist on traditional pizza.
• Historic Charm: The pizzeria’s historic and charming setting, located in a 19th-century building, creates a unique atmosphere for enjoying their exceptional pizzas while being part of Chicago’s rich history.

faqs about best pizza in downtown chicago

1. What Defines the Best Pizza in Downtown Chicago?

The best pizza in downtown Chicago often encompasses a balance of rich, buttery crust, high-quality ingredients, a harmonious blend of flavors, and a culinary experience that resonates with the city’s pizza tradition.

2. What Are the Iconic Styles of Pizza in Downtown Chicago?

Downtown Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish and stuffed pizza varieties. However, you can also find classic thin-crust, Neapolitan, Roman-style, and artisanal pizza options, each with its unique characteristics.

3. Where Can I Find the Best Deep-Dish Pizza in Downtown Chicago?

Downtown Chicago boasts several establishments known for their exceptional deep-dish pizza, including Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and The Art of Pizza.

4. Are There Gluten-Free and Vegan Pizza Options Available?

Yes, many pizzerias in downtown Chicago, such as The Art of Pizza and Patxi’s Pizza, offer gluten-free and vegan pizza options to accommodate various dietary preferences.

5. Do I Need Reservations at These Pizzerias?

While some pizzerias in downtown Chicago accept reservations, many operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s advisable to check the specific policies of each establishment or call ahead for larger groups.

6. What Is the Best Time to Avoid Crowds at Popular Pizzerias?

Arriving early or during off-peak hours, typically during lunch or weekdays, can help you avoid long wait times at popular pizzerias in downtown Chicago.

7. Are Credit Cards Accepted at All Pizzerias?

Most pizzerias in downtown Chicago accept credit cards, but it’s recommended to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller or older establishments, as payment methods may vary.

8. Can I Find Pizzerias That Offer International Pizza Styles?

Yes, downtown Chicago features pizzerias that offer a variety of international pizza styles, such as Italian Neapolitan, Roman, and Argentine-Italian fusion.

9. Where Can I Enjoy Wood-Fired Pizza in Downtown Chicago?

You can savor wood-fired pizza at various pizzerias like Spacca Napoli, The Florentine, and Sono Wood Fired, each offering a distinct culinary experience.

10. Which Pizzerias Offer Unique Fusion Pizzas?

Several pizzerias in downtown Chicago, like Artango Bar and Steakhouse, blend different culinary influences to create fusion pizzas that offer an extraordinary taste experience.

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