Chicago's Lake View neighborhood is a pizza lover's paradise. With a vibrant culinary scene, it boasts an impressive array of pizzerias, each offering its own unique style and flavor. From classic deep-dish to thin-crust creations, there's a perfect pizza for every palate. This comprehensive guide explores the top 19 pizza places in Lake View, ensuring you find your next favorite slice. We'll delve into their specialties, atmospheres, and what makes them stand out in this competitive pizza landscape.
Finding Your Perfect Lake View Pizza: A Neighborhood Guide
Choosing the best pizza is subjective, depending on your preferred crust, toppings, and dining experience. This list caters to diverse tastes, highlighting various styles and price points.
Deep Dish Domination:
- Pequod's Pizza: Known for its caramelized crust, Pequod's is a Lake View institution. Their deep-dish is legendary, with a rich, cheesy interior and a satisfyingly crispy edge. Expect a wait, it's that popular!
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: A Chicago deep-dish staple with a location in Lake View. Their buttery crust and high-quality ingredients make it a classic choice. The price point reflects the quality.
- Giordano's: Another deep-dish giant, Giordano's offers a stuffed pizza experience unlike any other. Layers upon layers of cheese and toppings create a decadent treat. Perfect for sharing (or not!).
Thin Crust Treasures:
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: This popular spot combines craft beer with excellent thin-crust pizza. Their creative toppings and lively atmosphere make it a great place for a casual night out.
- Handlebar: While known for its bike-themed decor, Handlebar also serves up delicious thin-crust pizza. It's a great option for a relaxed meal with friends.
- Dimo's Pizza: Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, Dimo's delivers authentic flavors and a crispy, charred crust.
Unique & Unconventional:
- Spacca Napoli Pizzeria: Authentic Neapolitan pizza, made with high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The thin, bubbly crust is a highlight.
- Coalfire: Coal-fired pizza with a focus on high-quality ingredients. Expect a slightly charred and smoky flavor.
- The Purple Pig: While not solely a pizzeria, The Purple Pig serves up incredible pizzas as part of their larger Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Casual & Convenient:
- Domino's Pizza (Lake View Locations): A reliable option for a quick and affordable pizza. While not gourmet, it's a dependable choice for a casual meal.
- Papa John's Pizza (Lake View Locations): Similar to Domino's, Papa John's offers a convenient and budget-friendly alternative when you need a pizza fix in a hurry.
- Little Caesars Pizza (Lake View Locations): The home of the Hot-N-Ready pizza. A great option for a fast and cheap meal.
Beyond the Big Names: Hidden Gems
Lake View has numerous smaller, independent pizzerias often overlooked. These spots frequently offer unique flavors and a more intimate dining experience. Exploring these hidden gems is part of the Lake View pizza adventure! Research local reviews to uncover your next favorite.
What Makes a Great Lake View Pizza?
The ideal Lake View pizza isn’t just about the taste; it’s about the entire experience. Consider these factors when choosing your next slice:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Casual, family-friendly, romantic, lively, etc. |
| Price Point | Budget-friendly, mid-range, upscale |
| Crust Style | Deep dish, thin crust, Neapolitan, Sicilian, etc. |
| Toppings | Quality, variety, creativity |
| Service | Friendly, efficient, attentive |
The Verdict: Your Lake View Pizza Journey
This list offers a starting point for exploring Lake View's incredible pizza scene. Remember to check online reviews and explore beyond the well-known names to uncover your personal favorites. Happy eating!
Note: Restaurant menus and availability are subject to change. Always check the establishment's website or call ahead to confirm details.
