The Rise and Fall of Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza: Where to Find Authentic Restaurants in Chicagoland

Chicago style deep dish pizza, a culinary icon of the Windy City, has seen its popularity rise and fall over the years. This pizza, characterized by its thick, buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and generous cheese filling, was once the pride of Chicago. However, with the rise of other pizza styles and changing consumer preferences, the popularity of deep dish pizza has waned. Despite this, there are still places in Chicago and the surrounding area where you can enjoy this classic dish. Let’s explore the history of Chicago style deep dish pizza and where you can find it today.

The Rise of Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

The origins of Chicago style deep dish pizza can be traced back to 1943, when Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo opened Pizzeria Uno in Chicago. They wanted to create a pizza that was more filling and satisfying than the thin-crust pizzas that were popular at the time. The result was a pizza with a thick, buttery crust, filled with cheese and topped with a chunky tomato sauce. The pizza was an instant hit and soon other pizzerias in Chicago started offering their own versions of the deep dish pizza.

The Fall of Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

Despite its initial popularity, the appeal of Chicago style deep dish pizza began to wane in the late 20th century. The rise of other pizza styles, such as New York style thin crust and Neapolitan, coupled with changing consumer preferences towards healthier and lighter food options, led to a decline in the popularity of deep dish pizza. Additionally, some critics argued that deep dish pizza was too heavy and rich, more akin to a casserole than a traditional pizza.

Where to Find Authentic Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza Today

Despite the decline in popularity, there are still many places in Chicago and the surrounding area where you can enjoy an authentic Chicago style deep dish pizza. Here are a few recommendations:

• Pizzeria Uno: The original home of the deep dish pizza, Pizzeria Uno continues to serve up their classic recipe to this day.
• Lou Malnati’s: Known for their buttery, flaky crust and fresh ingredients, Lou Malnati’s is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Giordano’s: Famous for their stuffed deep dish pizza, Giordano’s is a must-visit for any pizza lover.
• Pequod’s Pizza: Pequod’s offers a unique take on the deep dish pizza, with a caramelized cheese crust that is a hit with customers.

In conclusion, while the popularity of Chicago style deep dish pizza may have waned, it remains a beloved dish in Chicago and beyond. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to try this classic Chicago culinary experience.