Chicago is a city that's renowned for its deep-dish pizza. However, if you're a fan of crispy, thin crust pizza, don't worry – Chicago has plenty of options for you.
In fact, the city is home to some of the best thin crust pizza places in the country.
Thin crust pizza is a favorite among many pizza lovers because of its crispy, paper-thin crust and light, delicate texture.
It's a pizza style that originated in Italy and spread throughout the world, gaining popularity in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s.
But what makes a great thin crust pizza? It's all about the crust, of course. A good thin crust pizza should be crispy and crunchy on the outside, but tender and chewy on the inside.
It should be made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection in a hot oven.
In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the best places for thin crust pizza in Chicago. From classic Italian-style pizzas to innovative, modern creations, we'll explore the city's diverse pizza scene and help you find the perfect slice.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, you won't want to miss out on these delicious thin crust pizzas.
1. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria
Spacca Napoli Pizzeria delivers mouth-watering thin-crust pizzas in a casual setting.
The menu features a variety of Neapolitan-style pizzas with fresh ingredients and gluten-free crust options. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a slice on a sunny day.
The burrata is a must-try appetizer and the wine and beer selection is impressive. The service is friendly and efficient.
For anyone looking for authentic Italian pizza, Spacca Napoli Pizzeria is a must-visit spot.
2. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria – South Loop
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria – South Loop is a must-visit place for thin crust pizza lovers. This family-owned local chain is known for its buttery crust and authentic Italian flavors.
The made-to-order garden vegetarian thin crust pizza and bruschetta are highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the environment is clean and welcoming. The wait time can be long, but it's worth it for the exceptional taste.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria – South Loop is a perfect place to enjoy some original Chicago-style thin crust pizza.
3. Michael's Original Pizzeria & Tavern
Michael's Original Pizzeria & Tavern is a must-visit for thin crust pizza lovers. The quality of the pizza and wings is exceptional, and the service is top-notch.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or family.
The pricing is reasonable, and there are often specials on offer. With over 30 HDTVs, it's also a great place to catch your favorite sports games.
You won't be disappointed with a visit to Michael's Original Pizzeria & Tavern.
4. Piece Brewery
Piece Brewery offers New Haven-style thin crust pizza and a range of house brews in a lively sports-bar setting.
The large pizzas are generous and can easily feed a group of adults or kids.
The variety of toppings and signature flavors like the Honey Butter Chicken white pizza make for an enjoyable dining experience.
The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is fun for groups or solo diners. With fresh ingredients and a great beer selection, Piece Brewery is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
5. Coalfire
Coalfire is a must-visit for those craving a delicious thin crust pizza in the city. The limited menu is compensated by fantastic food, with the Stracciatella & Sausage pizza being a highlight.
The unique presentation adds to the experience, and the attentive service is top-notch.
The pizzas are cooked to perfection in a coal-fired oven, resulting in a crispy yet light crust.
Coalfire is great for takeout and is perfect for those looking for a low-key pizzeria with premium toppings and beer and wine.
6. Jimmy's Pizza Cafe
Jimmy's Pizza Cafe is a must-visit place for thin crust pizza lovers. Their New York-style pizza is some of the best in town, with a crispy crust that's soft in the middle and perfectly balanced toppings.
The pizza is a bit pricey, but definitely worth it. The cafe offers a wide variety of flavors, from creamy and subtle to more strong truffle or BBQ.
They also serve garlic knots with marinara sauce, which are a nice change of texture. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, making it a great spot to hang out with friends.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the new building is impressive. If you're in town, don't miss out on this gem.
7. Homeslice Pizza + Patio
Homeslice Pizza + Patio is a rustic-style lodge room that serves imaginative thin-crust pizzas and beer.
The menu is vast, and the types of pizzas they offer are not gimmicky but pulled off to a T. The crust is crisp, yet still has the flour-y dust and softness that not many other places can accomplish.
The atmosphere is unique and cozy, with tree-trunk tables and TVs. They have a patio area that is equally good, giving you a breezy vibe and view while you enjoy your meals.
The customer service is exceptional, and the staff are all super friendly. If you're looking for some of the best and most unique pizza in the area, Homeslice Pizza + Patio is a must-try.
8. Giordano's
Giordano's is a go-to spot for thin crust pizza lovers. The buttery and salty layers of crust are perfectly crispy and the sauce is well-flavored.
The hot and gooey cheese adds the perfect finishing touch to the pizza.
The restaurant offers a variety of toppings to choose from, making it perfect for both vegetarians and meat-lovers.
Giordano's is a great option for a group dinner or a night out with friends. The professional staff provides fast and friendly service, making the dining experience enjoyable.
9. Craft Pizza
Craft Pizza is a go-to spot for thin crust pizza in Chicago. Their quality ingredients and unique combinations set them apart from other pizzerias.
The red sauce is a standout, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The patio is a great spot to enjoy a slice and a BYOB drink.
Craft Pizza offers specialty pizzas or the option to build your own, with pies available in 14 or 18 inch sizes.
The crust is light and airy with a slight chew, reminiscent of the pizzas found in Italy. This casual, neighborhood spot is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
10. My Pi Pizza
My Pi Pizza is a hidden gem that offers delicious thin crust pies with fresh toppings, crispy crusts, and mouthwatering sauce.
Their light, crackly crust is a standout, and the sausage with roasted peppers is a must-try.
While the location may not offer much in terms of seating, the quick service and friendly staff make it a great option for a quick bite on the go.
11. La Crosta Woodfire Pizzeria Italiana
La Crosta Woodfire Pizzeria Italiana is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Italian thin-crust pizza.
The restaurant boasts a cozy, warm dining room that perfectly complements their delicious pies, which are cooked in a wood fire grill. The ingredients used are fresh and imported from Italy, making every bite a true delight.
The service is outstanding, with a friendly and attentive staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience.
Don't miss out on their Caprese Salad and Piccante pizza, which are customer favorites. With its inviting atmosphere and outstanding cuisine, La Crosta Woodfire Pizzeria Italiana is the perfect spot for pizza lovers.
12. Bartoli's Pizzeria & Catering
Bartoli's Pizzeria & Catering is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
Their thin crust pizza is simply amazing and highly recommended. The pizza always arrives hot, even for delivery.
The staff is great, and the prices are reasonable.
Bartoli's Pizzeria & Catering also offers catering services and pizza delivery. Don't miss out on this gem of a pizza place.
13. Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza is a trendy counter-serve pizzeria that serves up crispy, thin-crust pies with creative toppings and sauces.
Their build-your-own pizza concept allows customers to customize their orders with an unlimited number of toppings.
They also offer a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the ordering process easy and quick.
Whether you're a regular thin crust pizza lover or looking for a unique pizza experience, Blaze Pizza is definitely worth checking out.
14. Pat's Pizza and Ristorante
Pat's Pizza and Ristorante is a family-owned restaurant that serves delicious thin-crust pizza.
The crust is crispy and the toppings are fresh, making it some of the best pizza in the city.
The menu also includes Italian and American entrees, as well as sandwiches and pasta dishes. The staff is friendly and provides quick service.
If you're in the mood for some amazing thin-crust pizza, Pat's Pizza and Ristorante is definitely worth a visit.
15. The Art of Pizza
If you're in the mood for some delicious thin crust pizza, look no further than The Art of Pizza.
This hidden gem serves up some of the best thin crust pizza in town. The crust is perfectly crispy and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful.
The prices are reasonable and the service is quick and friendly.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic cheese pizza or something a little more adventurous, The Art of Pizza has got you covered. Don't miss out on this amazing pizza joint!
16. Pat's Pizza
Pat's Pizza is a long-standing family-owned pizza joint that serves up delicious thin crust pizza.
Their pies are crispy and well-made, and they offer a variety of toppings to choose from.
In addition to pizza, they also serve pasta and sandwiches in a casual setting.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Pat's Pizza is a great option for anyone looking for a tasty thin crust pizza.
17. Bacino's of Lincoln Park
Bacino's of Lincoln Park is a local chain that serves delicious thin-crust pizza. The crust is crispy and buttery, and the sauce is chunky and flavorful.
The classic spinach and mushroom pie is filled with fresh greens, and the salads and appetizers are tasty as well.
The service is excellent, and there is always a nice selection of craft beers on tap. The dining room and bathrooms could use an update, but the food is well worth overlooking the decor.
Bacino's of Lincoln Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for great thin-crust pizza in the area.
18. Tortorice's Pizza & Catering
Looking for a delicious thin crust pizza in the city that won't disappoint your taste buds and wallet alike, then Tortorice's Pizza & Catering is the place to be.
This veteran Italian canteen offers a range of pizzas, including thin crust, Chicago-style, and stuffed, all at fair prices. The crust is perfectly baked, and the toppings are flavorful, making every bite a delight.
The menu is full of other hot and cold options, including desserts, salads, and sandwiches. The staff is friendly and helpful, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
With quick service and delicious food, Tortorice's Pizza & Catering is a must-try for pizza lovers in the city.
19. Art of Pizza on State Street
Art of Pizza on State Street is a small neighborhood spot that serves some of the best thin-crust pizza in town.
The pizza slices are super delicious and come in three options – thin crust, pan, and stuffed. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better.
Although the space is small, it's more convenient for pickup and delivery. The pizza is not only mouth-watering but also affordable.
Art of Pizza on State Street is a must-visit for pizza lovers who crave a delicious slice of thin-crust pizza.
20. Max & Leo's Artisan Pizza – Chicago
Looking for a spot to grab some amazing thin crust pizza in Chicago, look no further than Max & Leo's Artisan Pizza.
This family-owned eatery serves up some of the best coal-fired artisan pies in the city. If you're looking for something to go with your pizza, try the charred wings, they're to die for!
With a chill atmosphere and plenty of beers to choose from, this is the perfect spot for a casual lunch.
Whether you're looking for pizza delivery or takeout, Max & Leo's has got you covered. Don't miss out on this hidden gem of a pizza joint.
