So, who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza? I mean, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to hit the spot. But have you ever tried deep-dish pizza? If you’re a true pizza lover, then you definitely don’t want to miss out on this incredibly delicious and indulgent style of pizza. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best deep-dish pizza joints in the United States, because let’s face it, when it comes to finding the perfect slice, location matters.
Now, when we talk about deep-dish pizza, we’re not just talking about your regular thin crust or New York-style pizza. We’re talking about a thick, buttery, and flaky crust that’s filled with an abundance of cheese, sauce, and toppings. It’s a pizza that’s meant to be enjoyed slowly, savoring every bite. And lucky for us, the United States is home to some of the best deep-dish pizza joints in the world. From the iconic Giordano’s in Chicago to the lesser-known but equally delicious Zachary’s in Oakland, California, there’s a deep-dish pizza joint for every pizza lover out there. In this article, we’ll be diving into the details of what makes these pizza places so special and why they should be on every pizza enthusiast’s bucket list.
So, whether you’re planning a trip across the country or just looking for a new pizza joint in your own backyard, get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey as we uncover the best deep-dish pizza joints in the United States. Trust me, by the end of this article, you’ll be craving a slice of cheesy, saucy goodness like never before. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite pizza place along the way. So, let’s dig in and get ready to satisfy those pizza cravings in the most delicious way possible!
Exploring the Best Deep-Dish Pizza Joints in the United States
As a lover of pizza, one of my favorite culinary adventures is to explore different pizzerias around the United States. From coast to coast, this country is filled with amazing pizza joints that offer unique and delicious deep-dish pizzas. In this article, I will take you on a journey to discover the best deep-dish pizza joints in some of the country’s most iconic cities.
1. New York
When it comes to pizza, New York is often hailed as the pizza capital of the United States. Its thin crust, foldable slices have become iconic. However, there are also some fantastic deep-dish pizza options in the Big Apple.
1.1 John’s of Bleecker Street
John’s of Bleecker Street is a legendary pizza joint that has been serving New Yorkers since 1929. Their deep-dish pizza is a beloved classic, with a fluffy crust that is slightly charred on the outside and a rich tomato sauce that is perfectly seasoned. Topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings, the pizza at John’s of Bleecker Street is a true New York experience.
1.2 Lombardi’s Pizza
Lombardi’s Pizza claims to be America’s first pizzeria, opening its doors in 1905. This historic spot in Little Italy is known for its coal-fired brick oven pizzas, including their famous deep-dish pie. Lombardi’s deep-dish pizza is hearty and bursting with flavor. The crust is thick and chewy, and the toppings are always fresh and abundant. A visit to Lombardi’s is like stepping back in time and enjoying pizza the way it was meant to be.
1.3 Juliana’s Pizza
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Juliana’s Pizza is a relative newcomer compared to the other historic pizzerias on this list. However, it has quickly gained a reputation for serving some of the best deep-dish pizza in New York City. The crust at Juliana’s is perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the cheese is melted to perfection. A visit to Juliana’s is a must for any pizza lover in New York.
2. Chicago
When it comes to deep-dish pizza, Chicago is the city that immediately comes to mind. Known for its thick, buttery crust and generous toppings, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a true indulgence.
2.1 Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago institution when it comes to deep-dish pizza. Their signature buttery crust is to die for, and their toppings are always fresh and high-quality. Whether you prefer a classic sausage and pepperoni combo or a vegetarian delight with mushrooms and spinach, Lou Malnati’s has a pizza for everyone.
2.2 Giordano’s
Another beloved deep-dish pizza joint in Chicago is Giordano’s. Known for their stuffed deep-dish pizzas, Giordano’s takes indulgence to a whole new level. Each pizza is filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce, creating a gooey and delicious masterpiece. It’s no wonder why Giordano’s has become a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
2.3 Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza is a hidden gem in Chicago, but it’s well worth seeking out. Their deep-dish pizza is unique because they caramelize the cheese on the crust, creating a deliciously crispy and cheesy edge. The toppings are perfectly balanced, and the crust is thick and doughy. If you’re looking for a truly indulgent and flavorful deep-dish pizza experience, Pequod’s is the place to go.
3. San Francisco
San Francisco may be more famous for its sourdough bread and seafood, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish pizza options.
3.1 Little Star Pizza
Little Star Pizza is a local favorite in San Francisco, known for their deep-dish Chicago-style pizzas. Their crust is light and flaky, and their sauce is both tangy and sweet. The combination of fresh ingredients and perfectly melted cheese makes every bite a delight. Whether you choose their Classic Little Star or opt for their creative topping combinations, Little Star Pizza is a must-visit for any pizza lover in San Francisco.
3.2 Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
Zachary’s Chicago Pizza has been serving deep-dish pizza in the Bay Area since 1983. Their unique twist on Chicago-style pizza includes a stuffed crust filled with cheese and toppings. The crust is buttery and flaky, and the filling is rich and flavorful. With several locations in the Bay Area, Zachary’s is a convenient and delicious option for deep-dish pizza lovers.
3.3 Pizzeria Delfina
Pizzeria Delfina is known for its Neapolitan-style thin-crust pizza, but they also offer a fantastic deep-dish option. Their deep-dish pizza is thick and doughy, with a deliciously crispy exterior. The sauce is vibrant and bursting with flavor, and the toppings are always fresh and high-quality. If you’re in San Francisco craving deep-dish pizza, Pizzeria Delfina is the place to go.
4. Boston
Boston may be more famous for its seafood and clam chowder, but it also has some hidden gems when it comes to deep-dish pizza.
4.1 Regina Pizzeria
Regina Pizzeria is a Boston institution, serving delicious pizza since 1926. While they are known for their thin-crust pizza, they also offer a fantastic deep-dish option. The crust is thick and doughy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The sauce is tangy and well-seasoned, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. A visit to Regina Pizzeria is a must for any pizza lover in Boston.
4.2 Santarpio’s Pizza
Another beloved pizza joint in Boston is Santarpio’s Pizza. While they are famous for their grilled lamb and sausage pizzas, their deep-dish option is equally delicious. The crust is chewy and slightly charred, with the perfect amount of sauce and cheese. If you’re in want of a unique and flavorful deep-dish pizza experience in Boston, Santarpio’s is the place to go.
4.3 Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto may be more of a bakery than a traditional pizzeria, but they offer some incredible deep-dish pizza that should not be missed. Known for their Sicilian-style pizza, Galleria Umberto’s deep-dish option is thick, fluffy, and full of flavor. The crust is light and airy, and the toppings are always fresh and abundant. A visit to Galleria Umberto is like stepping into a hidden gem of Boston’s culinary scene.
5. Detroit
When it comes to deep-dish pizza, Detroit has its own unique style that is unlike anything else.
5.1 Buddy’s Pizza
Buddy’s Pizza is a Detroit institution, known for its Detroit-style deep-dish pizza. Their square-shaped pies are baked in blue steel pans, resulting in a crispy and caramelized crust. The toppings are spread all the way to the edges, creating a deliciously cheesy and flavorful experience. Buddy’s Pizza is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Detroit.
5.2 Loui’s Pizza
Loui’s Pizza is another beloved Detroit pizzeria that specializes in deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and crispy, with a unique blend of spices that sets it apart from the competition. The toppings are always fresh and generously portioned, making each slice a delight. For a taste of authentic Detroit-style deep-dish pizza, Loui’s is the place to go.
5.3 Niki’s Pizza
Niki’s Pizza is a local favorite in Detroit, known for their flavorful deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a hint of sweetness that complements their savory toppings perfectly. The sauce is tangy and well-seasoned, and the cheese is always melted to perfection. If you’re looking for a deep-dish pizza experience that is both delicious and unique, Niki’s is the place to go.
6. Los Angeles
Los Angeles may be more famous for its healthy and trendy food scene, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish pizza options.
6.1 Hollywood Pies
Hollywood Pies is a hidden gem in Los Angeles, known for their delicious deep-dish Chicago-style pizzas. Their crust is thick and buttery, with the perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the cheese is always melted to perfection. Hollywood Pies offers several unique topping combinations, making each visit a new and delicious experience.
6.2 Masa of Echo Park
Masa of Echo Park is a local favorite in Los Angeles, known for their deep-dish cornmeal crust pizzas. Their crust is thick and crunchy, with a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from other deep-dish options. The sauce is vibrant and tangy, and the toppings are always fresh and plentiful. Masa of Echo Park is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Los Angeles.
6.3 Pizzeria Mozza
Pizzeria Mozza is a trendy and upscale pizzeria in Los Angeles that offers a delicious deep-dish pizza option. Their crust is thick and chewy, with a slightly charred exterior and a fluffy interior. The toppings are always fresh and high-quality, and the cheese is rich and gooey. A visit to Pizzeria Mozza is like treating yourself to a gourmet deep-dish pizza experience.
7. St. Louis
St. Louis may not be the first city that comes to mind when it comes to deep-dish pizza, but it has its own unique style that is worth trying.
7.1 Pi Pizzeria
Pi Pizzeria is a beloved St. Louis institution, known for its deep-dish pizza with a twist. Their crust is thin and crispy, more like a cracker than a traditional deep-dish pizza. The cheese is provolone instead of mozzarella, and the sauce is sweet and slightly spicy. These unique flavor combinations make Pi Pizzeria a must-visit for any pizza lover in St. Louis.
7.2 Imo’s Pizza
Imo’s Pizza is another St. Louis favorite when it comes to deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thin and crispy, with a distinctively unique flavor. The toppings are always fresh and generous, and the cheese is melted to perfection. Imo’s Pizza has been serving delicious deep-dish pies since 1964, and it has become a St. Louis tradition that should not be missed.
7.3 Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria
Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria may not be as well-known as some of the other deep-dish pizza joints on this list, but it is a hidden gem in St. Louis. Their deep-dish pizza is thick and doughy, with a deliciously crispy crust. The toppings are always fresh and flavorful, and the cheese is melted to perfection. A visit to Cecil Whittaker’s is like discovering a delicious secret in the heart of St. Louis.
8. Philadelphia
Philadelphia may be more famous for its cheesesteaks, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish pizza options.
8.1 Pizzeria Vetri
Pizzeria Vetri is a Philadelphia favorite known for its Neapolitan-style thin-crust pizzas. However, they also offer a fantastic deep-dish pizza that is worth trying. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The sauce is vibrant and well-seasoned, and the cheese is always melted to perfection. Pizzeria Vetri offers several unique topping combinations, making each visit a delicious adventure.
8.2 Santucci’s Original Square Pizza
Santucci’s Original Square Pizza has been serving delicious deep-dish pizza in Philadelphia since 1959. Their square-shaped pies are known for their thick, crispy crust and generous toppings. The sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the cheese is perfectly melted. A visit to Santucci’s is like stepping into a delicious piece of Philadelphia pizza history.
8.3 Nomad Pizza
Nomad Pizza is a trendy and artisanal pizzeria in Philadelphia that offers a unique twist on deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and fluffy, with a deliciously crispy exterior. The toppings are always fresh and high-quality, and the cheese is melted to perfection. Nomad Pizza offers several creative topping combinations, making each visit a delicious and memorable experience.
9. Seattle
Seattle may be more famous for its coffee and seafood, but it also has some delicious deep-dish pizza options.
9.1 Serious Pie
Serious Pie is a Seattle favorite known for its unique thin-crust pizzas. While they don’t offer a traditional deep-dish option, their cast-iron baked pies are thick and hearty, making them a worthy inclusion on this list. The crust is chewy and flavorful, and the toppings are always fresh and innovative. Serious Pie is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Seattle.
9.2 Windy City Pie
Windy City Pie is a hidden gem in Seattle, known for its delicious deep-dish Chicago-style pizzas. Their crust is thick and buttery, with a perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The sauce is vibrant and tangy, and the cheese is always melted to perfection. Windy City Pie offers several unique topping combinations, making each visit a delicious adventure.
9.3 Rocco’s
Rocco’s is another beloved pizzeria in Seattle that offers delicious deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the toppings are always fresh and abundant. Rocco’s offers several creative topping combinations, making each visit a delicious and memorable experience.
10. Atlanta
Atlanta may not be the first city that comes to mind when it comes to pizza, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish options.
10.1 Nancy’s Chicago Pizza
Nancy’s Chicago Pizza is an Atlanta favorite known for its delicious deep-dish pies. Their crust is thick and buttery, with a perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The sauce is tangy and well-seasoned, and the cheese is always melted to perfection. Nancy’s offers several unique topping combinations, making each visit a flavorful and memorable experience.
10.2 Varasano’s Pizzeria
Varasano’s Pizzeria is a trendy and upscale pizzeria in Atlanta that offers a delicious deep-dish pizza option. Their crust is thick and chewy, with a slightly charred exterior and a fluffy interior. The toppings are always fresh and high-quality, and the cheese is rich and gooey. Varasano’s is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Atlanta.
10.3 Antico Pizza
Antico Pizza is a rustic and authentic pizzeria in Atlanta that offers delicious deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The sauce is vibrant and well-seasoned, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. A visit to Antico Pizza is like stepping into a piece of Italian pizza heaven in the heart of Atlanta.
11. Portland
Portland may be more famous for its food carts and hipster food scene, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish pizza options.
11.1 Apizza Scholls
Apizza Scholls is a local favorite in Portland, known for its delicious deep-dish pizzas. Their crust is thin and crispy, more like a traditional New York-style pizza than a deep-dish option. However, their flavors and toppings are so delicious and unique that they deserve a spot on this list. A visit to Apizza Scholls is a must for any pizza lover in Portland.
11.2 Oven and Shaker
Oven and Shaker is a trendy and modern pizzeria in Portland that offers a unique twist on deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a slightly charred exterior and a fluffy interior. The sauce is vibrant and tangy, and the toppings are always fresh and high-quality. Oven and Shaker offers several creative topping combinations, making each visit a delicious and memorable experience.
11.3 Pyro Pizza
Pyro Pizza is a food cart in Portland that specializes in wood-fired deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and chewy, with a deliciously charred exterior. The toppings are always fresh and abundant, and the cheese is melted to perfection. Pyro Pizza offers several unique topping combinations, making each visit a delicious adventure.
12. New Orleans
New Orleans may be more famous for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, but it also has some fantastic deep-dish pizza options.
12.1 Domenica
Domenica is a trendy and upscale pizzeria in New Orleans that offers a delicious deep-dish pizza option. Their crust is thick and chewy, with a slightly charred exterior and a fluffy interior. The sauce is vibrant and well-seasoned, and the toppings are always fresh and high-quality. Domenica is a must-visit for any pizza lover in New Orleans.
12.2 Reginelli’s Pizzeria
Reginelli’s Pizzeria is a local favorite in New Orleans, known for its delicious deep-dish pizzas. Their crust is thin and crispy, more like a traditional New York-style pizza than a deep-dish option. However, their flavor combinations and unique toppings make them a worthy inclusion on this list. A visit to Reginelli’s is a must for any pizza lover in New Orleans.
12.3 Pizza Delicious
Pizza Delicious is a hidden gem in New Orleans, known for its delicious New York-style and deep-dish pizzas. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a deliciously crispy exterior. The sauce is tangy and well-seasoned, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. A visit to Pizza Delicious is like stepping into a slice of New York in the heart of New Orleans.
13. Denver
Denver may be more famous for its mountain scenery and outdoor activities, but it also has some delicious deep-dish pizza options.
13.1 Blue Pan Pizza
Blue Pan Pizza is a beloved Denver pizzeria known for its Detroit-style deep-dish pizzas. Their square-shaped pies are baked in blue steel pans, resulting in a crispy and caramelized crust. The toppings are spread all the way to the edges, creating a deliciously cheesy and flavorful experience. Blue Pan Pizza is a must-visit for any pizza lover in Denver.
13.2 Sexy Pizza
Sexy Pizza is a local favorite in Denver, known for its delicious deep-dish pies. Their crust is thick and doughy, with a perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The sauce is tangy and well-seasoned, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. A visit to Sexy Pizza is a must for any pizza lover in Denver.
13.3 Fat Sully’s Pizza
Fat Sully’s Pizza is a Denver institution when it comes to deep-dish pizza. Their crust is thick and chewy, with a slightly crispy exterior. The cheese is melted to perfection, and the toppings are always fresh and generous. A visit to Fat Sully’s is like indulging in a delicious slice of pizza heaven in the heart of Denver.
In conclusion, the United States is a treasure trove of delicious deep-dish pizza joints. From the classic flavors of New York and Chicago to the unique styles in cities like San Francisco, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, St. Louis, Philadelphia, Seattle, Atlanta, Portland, New Orleans, and Denver, there is no shortage of options to satisfy your deep-dish pizza cravings. So, the next time you find yourself traveling around the United States, be sure to check out these fantastic pizza joints and experience the mouthwatering flavors that each city has to offer. Safe travels and happy eating!
