Whether you’re a deep dish lover or a thin crust purist, Chicago Northwest is pizza heaven. Take your taste buds on a tour of the region’s pizza scene with this guide to top-crust pizza spots.
Armand’s Pizzeria
An Arlington Heights staple since 1956, Armand’s Pizzeria is the place to go for some of the best thin-crust pizza in Chicago. Relax at the vintage-style bar with a glass of vino, or sit outside when the weather is nice and dig into a delicious pizza like the Capricciosa topped with fresh mozzarella, ham, mushrooms and artichokes. Don’t miss out on an appetizer of Grandma’s Meatballs and other classics like chicken parmigiana, sausage and peppers, and baked clams!
Coach’s Corner
Sports, pizza and a family-friendly good time are what you can expect at Coach’s Corner in Elk Grove Village. Part pizzeria and part sports grill, this popular hangout is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Check out the Blackhawks memorabilia on display, enjoy a pepperoni pizza in the shape of a football, or kick back with a cold brew and watch the game on one of the 27 HDTVs. Not in the mood for pizza? Order their famous Italian beef sandwich!
Marino’s Pizza
If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine, try Marino’s Pizza & Pasta in Elk Grove Village. Opened by Italian immigrants, this restaurant serves traditional dishes and wood-fired pizzas, from deep-dish to thin crust! Try the square-style pizza with plum tomatoes, fresh basil and mozzarella. Indulge in a variety of pasta, like the Bosco (a mix of peas, alfredo and mushrooms) or the rich and meaty Bolognese. And don’t forget to order a cannoli to go!
Tree-Guys Pizza Pub
Nothing beats a chilled beer and slice of pizza at Tree-Guys Pizza and Pub. Choose your vibe when you arrive: quiet and casual dining, a pub atmosphere with plenty of TVs to watch the game or a spot on the elevated deck outside. Sip on a cocktail and nosh on garlic parmesan beer nuggets, dig into a classic Margherita pizza, or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for an Italian panini loaded with mortadella, salami and capicola.
Italian Pizza Kitchen
Italian Pizza Kitchen is your go-to for delicious (and authentic) Italian cuisine! Start with fresh appetizers like arancini (deep-fried rice balls stuffed with meat and cheese) or whole-grilled octopus. Enjoy succulent Seafood Risotto, flavorful Gnocchi Florentine, or a fresh Arugula Prosciutto pizza with an extra-thin crust and gooey mozzarella. Craving something tropical? Try the Hawaiian BBQ pizza. After dinner, treat yourself to an espresso doppio and crispy biscotti.
Bella Napoli Wood Fired Pizza & Bar
Nothing beats the smoky taste of a wood-fired pizza from Bella Napoli. Known for its artisan-crafted Neapolitan pizzas and inventive cocktails, this spot is perfect for a night out. Start with a house-made Limoncello martini at the marble bar before indulging in pizza creations like the Fig N Pig – a blend of meats, figs and arugula drizzled in honey. Try a few antipasti like Nonna’s meatballs with grilled ciabatta or truffle fries. And don’t skip dessert – the tiramisu is a must!
Giordano’s
When it comes to Chicago deep-dish – Giordano’s in Schaumburg is where it’s at. Serving their famous stuffed pizza for over 50 years, this restaurant is a cheese lover’s dream (seriously, these pizzas are cheesy). Dig into the Chicago Classic with pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers and onions. Or, the Juicy Lucy, a tribute to the Minneapolis staple featuring hamburger and American cheese. Classic dishes on the menu include staples like lasagna and fettuccine alfredo.
Lou Malnati’s
Wisconsin cheese, vine-ripened plum tomatoes, and a flaky, buttery crust—when it comes to delicious pizza, Lou Malnati’s is elevating the pizza chain game. Family-owned and operated, this popular joint serves up Italian staples with a modern yet retro vibe. Bite into a Chicago-style deep dish or crispy thin crust. For low-carb folks, order a crustless pizza with Lou’s lean sausage as the base. And if you have a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with an Italian ice or slice of tiramisu.
The Pizza Kitchen
Craving unique deep-dish pizza in Wood Dale? The Pizza Kitchen has you covered! This family-friendly spot offers flavor options galore. Dare to try the Casey James pizza, inspired by jalapeño poppers, or the Bob and Jesse, loaded with Italian beef and hot giardiniera on a Da Vinci-style crust. Pair your pie with garlic bread and fried zucchini, or go DIY and build your own masterpiece.
