Chicago, the city of deep-dish pizza, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that extends far beyond its iconic pies. Among the hidden gems and well-loved classics are some truly exceptional calzones. This guide dives deep into the best 18 calzones Chicago has to offer, exploring a range of styles, fillings, and locations to satisfy every craving. We’ll cover everything from classic cheese calzones to more adventurous gourmet options, ensuring you find your perfect Chicago calzone experience.
A Calzone Connoisseur's Guide: Choosing Your Chicago Adventure
Before we unveil our top 18 picks, let's understand what makes a great Chicago calzone. While the fundamental structure—folded dough enclosing a flavorful filling—remains consistent, Chicago’s calzone scene offers diverse interpretations. Some places focus on the dough, boasting a perfectly crisp exterior and soft interior. Others prioritize the filling, using high-quality cheeses, meats, and vegetables sourced locally.
Finding the Perfect Dough: The Foundation of a Great Calzone
The dough is the cornerstone of any good calzone. Look for places that use fresh, high-quality ingredients. A good calzone dough should have a pleasant chewiness, a slight tang, and a golden-brown crust. Avoid overly greasy or doughy calzones. Many Chicago establishments use a similar dough to their pizza, resulting in a familiar yet distinct experience.
The Filling Factor: Taste and Texture
The filling is where things get exciting. Classic options feature ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and various herbs. However, more adventurous options are increasingly common. Consider your preferences: Do you crave the savory richness of pepperoni and sausage, or the vibrant freshness of vegetables? The best Chicago calzones offer a balance of flavors and textures, preventing a one-note experience.
The Top 18 Calzones in Chicago: A Culinary Journey
This list is compiled based on extensive research, reviews, and personal experience, ensuring a diverse range of options to satisfy any preference. We've categorized our picks to help you navigate this delicious landscape.
Classic Chicago Calzones: The Tried and True
- Lou Malnati's: While famous for their deep-dish, their calzones are surprisingly excellent, showcasing their signature dough. Expect a hearty, cheese-filled experience.
- Pequod's Pizza: Known for their caramelized crust, Pequod's calzones carry that same unique character. The slightly sweet crust complements the savory filling perfectly.
- Giordano's: Another deep-dish giant, Giordano's calzones offer a similar experience to their pizzas: generous portions and satisfying flavors.
Gourmet Calzones: Beyond the Basics
- Spacca Napoli Pizzeria: This spot offers more creative calzone options, including unique gourmet combinations that incorporate seasonal ingredients.
- RPM Italian: Upscale and stylish, RPM's calzones are a luxurious take on the classic, with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail.
- Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant occasionally features exquisite calzones on their menu, often showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
- Andros Taverna: This Greek restaurant might surprise you with their delicious calzone offering, often featuring a unique spin on the classic.
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: While known for its pizza, Piece also offers a solid calzone selection with interesting topping combinations.
- Dimo's Pizza: Dimo’s has become a well-loved spot for excellent pizza and delicious calzones made with traditional methods.
Calzones with a Twist: Unique Offerings
- The Art of Pizza: The Art of Pizza offers a variety of specialty calzones, venturing beyond traditional toppings and exploring unique flavor profiles.
- Rosebud Restaurants: With multiple locations, Rosebud offers a consistently good calzone experience, often incorporating Italian sausage or other regional specialties.
- Pizzeria Uno: A Chicago institution, Uno's offers a classic calzone that delivers a solid, dependable experience.
Beyond the City Center: Suburban Delights
- Pizzeria Stella: (Suburban Location) This acclaimed pizzeria offers a high-quality calzone experience in a more relaxed setting outside the city center.
- La Piazza Ristorante: (Suburban Location) A popular suburban spot for authentic Italian food, including a well-received calzone.
- Franco's Ristorante: (Suburban Location) Another excellent suburban option for a tasty calzone.
Vegetarian & Vegan Calzones: Delicious and Inclusive
- Handlebar: While primarily a bar, Handlebar offers creative and surprisingly delicious vegan calzones.
- Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder Company: Although not explicitly vegetarian, their calzones can easily be modified to accommodate vegetarian preferences.
- Modern Well: (Vegan option) This vegan restaurant offers creative calzone options showcasing plant-based ingredients.
Finding Your Perfect Calzone: A Personal Journey
This comprehensive guide offers a starting point for your Chicago calzone adventure. The best calzone for you depends on your personal preferences, whether you crave a classic experience or something more adventurous. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Dough: Do you prefer a thin and crispy crust or a thicker, more substantial dough?
- Filling: What kind of cheeses, meats, and vegetables do you enjoy?
- Location: Are you looking for a casual spot or a fine-dining experience?
- Price: How much are you willing to spend on your calzone?
Remember to explore and experiment—the world of Chicago calzones is vast and delicious. Happy eating!
