River North, Chicago's vibrant heart, pulsates with energy, offering a dazzling array of culinary experiences. But amidst the steakhouses and Michelin-starred restaurants, a simpler pleasure reigns supreme: pizza. This guide dives deep into the best pizza places River North has to offer, ensuring you find your perfect slice of heaven. We've compiled a list based on quality of ingredients, unique styles, atmosphere, and overall customer satisfaction. This isn't just a list; it's a pizza pilgrimage through River North's best.
Deep Dish Delights: The Chicago Classic
Chicago-style deep dish is a religion, and River North has several temples dedicated to its glory.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Lou Malnati's is a Chicago institution. Their deep dish, with its buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and generous cheese, is a must-try for any visitor. The secret? Their carefully sourced ingredients and meticulous baking process. This consistency is a key reason for their long-standing popularity. Expect a wait, especially on weekends, a testament to their quality.
- What to order: The classic deep dish. Don't forget a side of their famous Malnati Salad!
Giordano's
Giordano's is another deep-dish heavyweight, known for its incredibly thick, stuffed crust. This isn't your average pizza; it's a culinary experience. The layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings create a symphony of flavors. Their location in River North is conveniently situated for both locals and tourists alike.
- What to order: The stuffed pizza, a true test of your deep dish mettle.
Pequod's Pizza
Pequod's takes a unique approach to deep dish, using a caramelized crust that adds a delightful sweetness to the savory toppings. This slightly sweet and savory combination makes it a unique entry in the deep dish realm. The caramelization is a visual spectacle as well, adding a gorgeous color to the pie.
- What to order: The classic deep dish – the caramelized crust is the star.
Thin Crust Triumphs: A Lighter Touch
Not everyone craves a deep-dish behemoth. River North also offers excellent thin-crust options for a lighter, quicker meal.
Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
Spacca Napoli boasts authentic Neapolitan pizza, cooked in a wood-fired oven. This results in a perfectly charred crust with a slightly chewy texture. Their simple yet flavorful toppings highlight the quality of the ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, flavorful, authentic Italian pizza.
- What to order: The Margherita pizza – a classic for a reason.
RPM Italian
RPM Italian offers a more upscale dining experience with their thin-crust pizzas. The ingredients are top-notch, and the ambiance is sophisticated. It's perfect for a celebratory meal or a special occasion. Their pizzas, while not their main draw, hold their own against dedicated pizzerias.
- What to order: Their seasonal pizza, showcasing fresh, local ingredients.
Beyond the Basics: Unique Pizza Experiences
River North’s pizza scene isn't just about deep dish and thin crust; it's also about creativity and innovation.
Formento's
Formento's isn't solely a pizza place, but their pizzas are worth a special trip. They offer unique flavor combinations and creative toppings that go beyond the traditional. This restaurant offers a more sophisticated take on classic pizzas.
- What to order: Whatever seasonal pizza they're featuring.
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
While primarily a steakhouse, Bavette's surprisingly offers excellent pizza. Their pizzas are a perfect complement to their extensive cocktail menu. It's a great option if you want a high-quality pizza in a sophisticated setting.
- What to order: The pizza with their signature steak-infused sauce.
A Quick Guide to Pizza Styles in River North
| Pizza Style | Characteristics | Example Restaurant |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Dish | Thick crust, high sides, layers of ingredients | Lou Malnati's, Giordano's |
| Thin Crust | Thin, crispy crust, simple or complex toppings | Spacca Napoli |
| Stuffed Pizza | Layers of cheese and toppings within a crust | Giordano's |
| Neapolitan | Wood-fired, charred crust, simple toppings | Spacca Napoli |
| Gourmet/Creative | Unique flavor combinations, inventive toppings | Formento's |
Finding Your Perfect Slice: A River North Pizza Adventure
Choosing the "best" pizza is subjective. What one person considers perfect, another might find lacking. This list is designed to be a starting point for your own pizza adventure in River North. Consider your preferences – deep dish, thin crust, gourmet, etc. – and explore the options. Each pizza place offers a unique experience, a distinct flavor profile, and a different atmosphere. So grab a friend, explore River North, and find your slice of paradise. Happy eating!
