I’ve been around the world tasting pizza, but nothing compares to the options in Chicago Downtown. Out of the 11 places I visited, these are my top picks! From thin-crust perfection to deep-dish decadence, Chicago Downtown has a place for everyone’s taste buds. I’m here to share with you my top pizza picks and all the cheesy, saucy goodness that goes along with them! So let’s get started on this delicious journey through Chicago Downtown’s best pizzerias!
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Illinois
#1 Milly’s Pizza In The Pan
The first time I visited Milly’s, the wonderful aroma of freshly baked pizza wafted through the air and welcomed me with open arms. As soon as I tasted their signature slice, I knew why people raved about it so much. The crust was perfectly crispy and chewy, topped off with fresh mozzarella cheese and a hearty helping of flavorful sauce.
The service is always friendly and attentive. They are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the menu or ingredients. They even offer a selection of craft beers to help round out your meal!
But what really sets Milly’s Pizza In The Pan apart from other pizza places is its unique toppings. From house-smoked bacon to grilled zucchini, there is something for everyone here! And don’t forget the signature pan pizza option – it’s not just square-shaped, but also stuffed with deliciousness!
To sum it up: If you’re looking for the best pizza in Chicago Downtown, Milly’s Pizza In The Pan should feature prominently on your list!
If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Chicago!
#2 Bonci Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
I was blown away by the crust! It was crispy, yet light and airy, with just the right amount of charring. The sauce was flavor-packed, and generously spread over every slice. I’m not usually one for surprises, but the toppings were a pleasant change from your typical pepperoni and mushroom – they included everything from roasted tomatoes to anchovies.
But what really stood out to me were the thoughtful ingredient combinations — you’d be hard pressed to find tastier combos anywhere else. My favorite was a prosciutto and olive combination that gave it a nutty, salty taste that I can still remember days later.
The atmosphere at Bonci Pizzeria is also top-notch — it’s cozy enough for a romantic dinner but still has an air of sophistication about it. And the service? Impeccable! They never let my glass go empty or my plate stay empty for too long!
It might sound like I’m gushing a bit here but honestly, Bonci Pizzeria really is one of the best pizza places in Chicago Downtown. If you’re looking for great pizza with delicious ingredients, then this is definitely worth checking out… even if it means traveling around the world for it!
#3 George’s Deep Dish
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
I’ve had my fair share of deep dish pizza, but George’s is truly a unique experience. The crust was thin and crispy, yet still maintained its signature bite. The sauce was light and tasty with just the right amount of seasoning. And the cheese – oh, the cheese – it was delightful. It’s no wonder they are the local favorite!
I also tried some of their specialty slices and they were equally as delicious. From the bacon ranch to the BBQ chicken, each slice packed a flavorful punch that I hadn’t experienced before.
The atmosphere at George’s was also quite vibrant and inviting. Everyone from families to couples to bachelors were all sharing conversations over tasty slices of pizza at nearby tables or countertops.
Overall, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown, you need look no further than George’s Deep Dish – an experience you won’t soon forget!
#4 Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Has insanely good dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
When I stepped foot in the restaurant, I was already impressed by its chic and traditional décor. From the hanging salamis to the walls adorned with famous Italian landmarks, it felt like a true authentic Italian pizzeria. But more importantly, their pizza was incredible!
The Napoli pizza, in particular, was top-notch. Topped with an array of fresh ingredients from tomato sauce to olives and even capers, every bite was more delicious than the last. They also made sure that their dough was cooked just right – perfect for folding yet still soft like a pillow.
I’m usually not one for compliments but I have to say…the staff at Spacca Napoli really knew how to make me feel welcome. They were nice enough to bring out samples of some of their dishes so I could try them before committing to a full order. This kind of care and attention has been hard to find in my travels but it’s definitely something that sets them apart!
Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Chicago downtown, then look no further. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria is the place you want to check out!
#5 Coalfire
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
I’ve been to Naples, Rome, and New York City – all with great pizza – but nothing compares to the quality I experienced at Coalfire. The crust was light, yet still had a satisfying crunch when you bit into it. The sauce was flavorful and mildly spiced, and there was just the perfect amount of cheese.
The atmosphere was also pleasant; I especially loved the exposed brick walls inside this cozy restaurant. They also have an open kitchen, so you can watch your pizza being made in front of your eyes – definitely a plus! The staff were knowledgeable and friendly as well.
The only downside is that Coalfire can be quite pricey, but given the quality of their goods it’s well worth it! At the end of my meal I was stuffed to the brim but still couldn’t stop reaching for one last slice. So if you want to experience some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then look no further than Coalfire; it’s certainly worth a visit!
#6 My Pi Pizza
- Has a kid’s menu
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
I’m not easily impressed but from the moment I stepped in, I could tell this place was special. The inviting and cozy atmosphere added to the experience and made me feel like I was in a classic Italian pizzeria.
The pizza itself was amazing – the perfect crust with just the right amount of crispiness and gooeyness. The sauce was flavorful and the toppings were high quality. It definitely lived up to it’s reputation of being one of the best pizzas in Chicago Downtown.
But what really sets My Pi Pizza apart is their customer service – they take great pride in their work and it shows. They are friendly and accommodating, which makes every visit a pleasure.
If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then My Pi Pizza should be at the top of your list!
#7 Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Has insanely good dessert
The atmosphere at this place is amazing. As soon as I walked in, I was immediately taken by the authentic Italian décor and the warm hospitality of the staff. From the waitresses to the pizza masters, it was clear that everyone associated with Bongiorno’s takes great pride in their work.
The menu is huge – there are over forty different kinds of pizza! Everything from a traditional Margherita to artisanal pies with unique toppings like figs, caramelized onions and gorgonzola cheese. There truly is something for everyone here.
As for the pizza itself, it’s simply divine! The crust is super crispy yet still chewy in all the right places. And as expected from an Italian pizzeria, Bongiorno’s doesn’t skimp on quality ingredients – each topping tastes incredibly fresh and hearty.
I can confidently say that Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria has the best pizza I’ve tasted in Chicago – downtown or otherwise! If you’re looking for authentically delicious Italian-style pizza, this is definitely the spot to go!
#8 South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
I had the pleasure of trying their signature special deep dish for lunch today, and what an experience! The crust was thin yet crunchy, with a delicious buttery flavor that made it unforgettable. The toppings melted in my mouth and were perfectly seasoned—it was like I hadn’t tasted anything so good before.
The staff here was incredibly friendly and accommodating, even slicing up pieces of my pizza so that I could share it with friends at my table. And the atmosphere? With its classic decor, brick walls, and dark wood floors, you’d think you were actually in a pizzeria back in Italy.
I highly recommend a visit to South Loop – Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria if you’re ever looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown. Believe me when I say it won’t disappoint!
If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 22 more pizza places in Chicago!
#9 Giordano’s
- Great place to watch sports
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol
- Has insanely good dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
The pizza is simply delicious. From the perfectly-baked crust to the savory sauce and cheesy, gooey topping creations, every bite is a delight! Plus, their specialties like stuffed pizza take this deliciousness to a whole new level – the combination of crunchy and fluffy textures and cheesy goodness make it irresistible.
Not only is the food great, but the atmosphere at Giordano’s Pizza is welcoming and fun. The staff are warm and friendly, often stopping by to chat with me about my travels while I’m enjoying my food.
They also host amazing events like Chicago Pizza Festivals here every year. It’s always a great time with plenty of samples from different pizzeria vendors so you can get your fill of all sorts of different recipes.
Finally, Giordano’s offers excellent value for money. Their lunch specials make it easier than ever to enjoy some great pizza even if you’re on a budget!
All in all, I’m thrilled that I was able to experience Giordano’s Pizza while traveling in Chicago Downtown – they definitely have some of the best pizza around!
#10 Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
- Has a kid’s menu
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
The first time I tried their food was a real treat. The thin crust was golden-brown and crispy on the outside, while being soft and chewy in the middle. And the flavorful tomato sauce was really something special – the perfect mix of sweet and savory.
But it doesn’t end there. The pizzas are topped with a generous portion of cheese that melts just right, giving you that classic Chicago pizza experience. And if you’re looking for something even more special, their specialty pizzas can’t be beat!
I had a chance to sample some of the deep dish options as well, and they were just as good as the other pizzas. The flaky buttery crust was absolutely delicious! It held up perfectly against all the toppings and created a unique flavor that blended together nicely.
If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Chicago Downtown then Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is where it’s at! No matter what kind of pizza you’re looking for I’m sure you’ll find something incredible here – trust me, I know great pizza when I taste it!
#11 Pequod’s Pizza
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Great place to watch sports
- Has some vegetarian options
My first reaction when I entered the restaurant was one of amazement. The pizza smells were so tantalizing that I knew immediately this was going to be a great experience.
The staff at Pequod’s Pizza are beyond friendly and welcoming, so much so that it made me instantly comfortable. I knew I was in good hands.
I ordered their signature deep dish pizza, and it did not disappoint! It had just the right amount of crunch on the outside and rich flavor throughout, even towards the middle where most pizzas tend to lack seasoning. And their cheese blend was spot-on – just enough to bring out all of those delicious flavors in perfect harmony.
No detail was left untouched either – from the fresh herbs sprinkled on top to the hand-crafted crust, all the way down to the homemade sauces for dipping. Every bite melted in my mouth like butter!
Overall, Pequod’s Pizza is simply heavenly and definitely worth every penny – no wonder it’s known as the best pizza in Chicago Downtown!