Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s deep dish from Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s is polarizing, but the city’s tavern-style thin crust is an underrated masterpiece that is 40% lighter per slice than the average deep-dish option. This cracker-thin pie, cut into squares and topped generously, offers a crisp bite that rivals #3 Detroit’s pan pizza in flavor while cutting calories by 150 per serving. Despite deep dish’s fame, 55% of Chicago locals prefer tavern-style for its balanced chew and affordability—a typical tavern slice runs $3.50, compared to $6 for deep dish. With a 100-year history, this style proves that Chicago’s pizza mastery extends far beyond the stuffed crust stereotype.