Finding a great pizza place near O'Hare International Airport can be a challenge, especially when you're short on time. This guide navigates the diverse culinary landscape around Chicago's busiest airport, offering a curated list of the top 15 pizza spots, categorized for your convenience. Whether you're looking for a quick slice before your flight or a sit-down meal after landing, we've got you covered. We'll explore various styles, price points, and locations to help you find the perfect pizza experience near O'Hare.
Deep Dish Delights Near O'Hare
Deep dish is synonymous with Chicago pizza, and thankfully, several excellent options exist near O'Hare.
1. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria (Multiple Locations): A Chicago institution, Lou Malnati's is renowned for its buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and generous cheese. Their deep dish is a must-try for any Chicago pizza aficionado. Expect a wait, especially during peak hours, but it's worth it!
2. Giordano's (Multiple Locations): Another Chicago deep-dish legend, Giordano's offers a slightly different take with a thicker crust and more emphasis on the cheese. Their stuffed pizza is incredibly rich and satisfying, perfect for sharing.
3. Pequod's Pizza (Lincoln Park Location - slightly further but worth it): While not directly near O'Hare, Pequod's is worth the short drive or taxi ride. Their caramelized deep-dish crust is unique and unforgettable. It's a slightly different, more upscale experience.
Thin Crust Treasures & Other Styles
Beyond deep dish, O'Hare's surroundings offer diverse pizza styles to satisfy various tastes.
4. Pequod's Pizza (Lincoln Park Location - slightly further but worth it): Their thin crust pizza is equally as delicious as their famous deep dish offering a satisfying thin and crispy option.
5. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria (Rosemont): For an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience, Spacca Napoli is the place to go. They use high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques.
6. Piece Brewery & Pizzeria (Wicker Park Location - further away but highly recommended): If you're willing to travel a bit further, Piece Brewery and Pizzeria offers a unique blend of craft beer and delicious, creative pizza. Their menu includes interesting and unusual toppings.
7. Rosebud on Taylor Street (Near West Side - further away but well-regarded): Known for its classic Italian-American cuisine, Rosebud's pizza is a solid choice for those who want a more traditional experience. It offers a range of thin and thick crusts and classic toppings.
Casual & Convenient Pizza Near O'Hare
For those looking for a quick and easy pizza option before or after their flight, these spots offer convenience without sacrificing taste.
8. Airport Restaurants: O'Hare itself has several restaurants offering pizza slices or pizzas. These vary in quality, so checking online reviews before ordering is highly recommended.
9. Local Pizza Chains: Numerous local pizza chains exist in the areas surrounding O'Hare. These chains often offer delivery or takeout and are good options for a budget-friendly meal.
Hidden Gems & Unique Pizza Experiences
These lesser-known places offer unique pizza experiences, often with a local flair.
10-15. Independent Pizza Shops: The areas surrounding O'Hare are home to many small, independent pizza shops. These are often the best places to find unique and creative pizza options, but they may require some searching. Using online review sites such as Yelp or Google Maps can be beneficial for discovering these hidden culinary gems. Look for places with high ratings and positive customer feedback.
Tips for Choosing Your O'Hare Pizza
- Consider your time: If you're short on time, stick to airport restaurants or places offering quick takeout.
- Read online reviews: Check review sites like Yelp and Google Maps to get an idea of the quality and service.
- Check the menu online: Many restaurants post their menus online, allowing you to plan your order ahead of time.
- Consider your budget: Pizza prices can vary greatly, so factor in your budget before making a choice.
- Think about the style of pizza: Deep dish, thin crust, Neapolitan – there's a pizza for everyone!
Finding the perfect pizza near O'Hare depends on your preferences and priorities. Using this guide as a starting point, you can easily find a delicious pizza to satisfy your cravings before or after your flight. Remember to check opening hours and consider travel time to ensure a smooth pizza-filled experience.
