7 Out-of-Town Spots That Don’t Get It Right And 9 Places That Nail Chicago-Style Pizza

Chicago-style pizza is bold, cheesy, and unapologetically messy—in the best way. But once you leave the Windy City, that deep-dish magic doesn’t always travel well. Some restaurants try, but miss the mark on crust, sauce, or, let’s be honest, the whole vibe. Luckily, a few out-of-town spots have figured it out. Here are 7 places that don’t quite get it right, and 9 that absolutely do justice to Chicago’s pizza legacy.

1. Uno Pizzeria & Grill (National Chain)

Ironically, the chain that started it all doesn’t always live up to its original roots. Many locations serve versions that taste more like lasagna than pizza.

This national chain struggles with consistency, often failing to capture genuine Chicago flavors. The crust feels more doughy than flaky, and the cheese doesn’t quite have that gooey charm.

For fans of true Chicago-style, it’s a letdown. Despite its iconic name, Uno Pizzeria & Grill struggles outside its home city.

2. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (Various States)

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a “deep dish” that’s more of a thick-pan hybrid. Despite being tasty, it strays far from authentic Chicago-style.

With a bread-like crust and a cheese-sauce balance that misses the mark, it doesn’t capture the rich, indulgent essence of its Chicago counterparts.

This version leaves locals nostalgic for the real Windy City experience, as it lacks the buttery, crispy base that defines a true deep dish.

3. PizzaRev (Now mostly closed)

PizzaRev once attempted “deep-dish-inspired” pies, but their execution fell short. The crust lacked the buttery crispness and real structure a true Chicago pizza demands.

Instead of a hearty, layered masterpiece, customers found a weak imitation with neither the flavor depth nor the soulful punch expected.

This endeavor left many unimpressed, highlighting the difficulty of getting this iconic dish right. Unfortunately, their efforts couldn’t sustain a long-lasting appeal.

4. Louie’s Pizza (Random Takeout Spots, Various Cities)

Louie’s Pizza, found in various cities, tries to mimic Chicago-style by simply adding extra cheese. However, it lacks essential elements like the flaky crust and a robust, tangy sauce.

This attempt feels more like a regular pizza with increased toppings than a genuine deep-dish experience.

For those in search of authenticity, it’s a disappointment, as it fails to capture the taste and texture that makes Chicago-style unique.

5. Gino’s East Frozen Pizzas (Grocery Aisle)

The iconic name of Gino’s East is well-respected, but their frozen versions are pale imitations. These pizzas are often too dry, lacking the rich, flavorful sauce and gooey cheese.

Grocery shoppers might expect a taste of Chicago magic, but instead find a bland, uninspired product that misses the mark.

It’s a reminder that some things, like authentic deep-dish, don’t translate well to the frozen aisle. The experience is often underwhelming.

6. California-Style Chicago Pizza (Too Much Fusion)

On the West Coast, some pizzerias venture into fusion territory, adding goat cheese, kale, and pesto to deep-dish pizzas. While innovative, these aren’t true Chicago-style.

The adventurous approach lacks the traditional elements like a simple, rich tomato sauce and a buttery, flaky crust.

It’s an interesting culinary exploration, but for purists, this reinvention doesn’t deliver the classic deep-dish magic. Authenticity is sacrificed for experimentation.

7. Touristy “Chicago” Pizza in Vegas

In the bustling casinos of Vegas, they promise a slice of Chicago, but often deliver a doughy, under-sauced dish that lacks authenticity.

This tourist trap fails to capture the heartiness and flavor that defines a true Chicago pie. The structural integrity and bold taste are missing.

Visitors seeking a genuine experience will be left unfulfilled, realizing that not all claims of Chicago-style are created equal.

8. Emmett’s (New York, NY)

Emmett’s in Manhattan, founded by a Chicago native, is a haven for those craving true deep-dish. This spot nails the flaky crust, chunky tomato sauce, and that signature cheese pull.

It’s a place where Chicagoans can feel at home, even miles away from the Windy City.

The dedication to authenticity and detail is evident, making it a standout pizza destination in New York.

9. Windy City Pie (Seattle, WA)

Windy City Pie in Seattle doesn’t just copy; it reimagines Chicago-style deep-dish with care. Their caramelized cheese crust and rich sauce make for a delightful experience.

Each bite packs serious flavor, satisfying both locals and Chicago transplants.

The commitment to quality and creativity stands out, offering a unique twist while honoring the original style.

10. Gino’s East (Los Angeles, CA & Austin, TX)

Gino’s East, when done by the official team in Los Angeles and Austin, brings the authentic deep-dish experience to life. Their signature cornmeal crust is both distinct and delightful.

With rich tomato sauce and a perfect cheese blend, these outposts remain true to the Chicago legacy.

For those far from the Windy City, it’s a reassuring taste of home, preserving the essence of what makes Gino’s East beloved.

11. Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. (Pittsburgh, PA)

In Pittsburgh, Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. offers a twist: pizza pot pies loaded with sauce, cheese, and toppings.

While different in form, it captures the indulgent spirit of Chicago-style pizza.

This creative approach provides a satisfying experience, blending novelty with tradition in a delightful manner.

12. Bartoli’s Pizzeria (Miami, FL – pop-ups & delivery only)

Bartoli’s Pizzeria, operating through pop-ups in Miami, is a hidden gem for deep-dish enthusiasts. A Chicago transplant brings his pizza secrets south, crafting true-to-style pies.

With a robust crust and rich flavors, it’s a slice of authenticity.

Though under the radar, this venture delivers genuine Chicago magic, delighting Floridians and visitors alike.

13. Blue Pan Pizza (Denver, CO)

Blue Pan Pizza in Denver, known for Detroit-style, also excels in Chicago-style offerings. Their deep-dish pies boast a genuine thick crust and flavorful, hearty toppings.

It’s a place where authenticity meets innovation, drawing in pizza lovers from all around.

Both locals and transplants appreciate the care and detail put into each creation, maintaining the Chicago tradition.

14. Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria (San Diego, CA)

Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria in San Diego is a haven for those craving authentic deep-dish. Run by Chicago expats, they stay true with rich tomato sauce and a serious crust game.

The dedication to authenticity shines through, winning over both locals and transplants.

It’s a little taste of Chicago, far from home, that brings comfort and satisfaction.

15. My Pi Pizza (Phoenix, AZ – pop-up only)

My Pi Pizza in Phoenix, an offshoot of a Chicago original, brings the same family recipe to the desert. Available during select pop-ups, it’s a treat for deep-dish fans.

The thick crust and flavorful toppings make for a memorable experience.

This venture captures the essence of Chicago-style, offering a delightful taste to Arizonians.

16. The Art of Pizza (Shipped Nationwide)

For those unable to travel, The Art of Pizza offers a solution: shipping frozen deep-dish pizzas nationwide. Surprisingly close to fresh, these pies beat most local imitators.

It’s a convenient way to enjoy authentic Chicago flavors from home.

The quality and taste stand out, providing a delightful slice of the Windy City wherever you are.