Why Locals Say This Chicago Deep Dish Pizzeria Is The Best In Illinois

When it comes to deep dish pizza in Chicago, locals don’t mess around.

Everyone has their favorite spot, but there’s one pizzeria that keeps coming up in conversations across the Windy City.

Pequod’s Pizza has earned a special place in the hearts of Chicagoans, with lines often stretching down the block even on weeknights.

What makes this beloved pizza joint stand out in a city famous for its deep dish?

The Caramelized Crust That Changed Deep Dish Forever

I still remember my first bite of Pequod’s signature caramelized crust – it was a game-changer! Unlike other deep dish places, Pequod’s spreads a layer of cheese along the edge of the pan before baking, creating a blackened, crispy ring that adds a sweet-savory crunch you won’t find anywhere else.

The contrast between that dark, caramelized edge and the soft, chewy interior creates pizza magic. Some locals call it the “burnt cheese crust,” but that description doesn’t do justice to the complex flavor.

My Chicago-born friend Mike refuses to eat deep dish anywhere else, claiming that once you’ve had Pequod’s crust, everything else tastes incomplete. He’s not wrong – that crackling perimeter has become the pizzeria’s signature calling card.

A Neighborhood Joint Turned National Sensation

Tucked away on Clybourn Avenue, Pequod’s doesn’t scream for attention like the downtown tourist traps. The humble brick exterior belies the pizza greatness happening inside. What began as a neighborhood favorite has exploded into national fame, featured on countless food shows and best-of lists.

Last summer, I brought my cousins from California here, skipping the famous chains they’d heard about. The look on their faces after that first bite was priceless! “This isn’t just pizza,” my cousin Janet declared, “it’s an experience.”

Despite the fame, Pequod’s maintains its authentic Chicago vibe. The walls covered in local sports memorabilia, the no-nonsense servers, and the diverse crowd of regulars create an atmosphere that can’t be franchised.

Why Locals Swear Pequod’s Beats The Big Chains

“You can keep your tourist pizza!” That’s what my cab driver shouted when I mentioned visiting one of the famous chain deep dish spots. He then proceeded to make an illegal U-turn to show me Pequod’s instead – that’s Chicago pizza loyalty for you!

While the big-name chains excel at marketing, Pequod’s focuses on consistency and quality. Their sauce has a chunky, fresh-tomato character rather than the overly sweet concoction found elsewhere. The dough rises longer, developing complex flavors that make each bite more satisfying.

The cheese blend is another secret weapon – a proprietary mix that melts perfectly without becoming greasy. When locals bring out-of-towners for authentic Chicago pizza, Pequod’s is where they go when they want to impress.

Generous Toppings Piled High The Chicago Way

Holy moly, the first time I ordered a Pequod’s pizza with sausage, I couldn’t believe my eyes! Each pie comes loaded with hand-pinched chunks of Italian sausage the size of golf balls – not those sad little crumbles you get at chain restaurants.

The pepperoni isn’t just sprinkled – it’s layered generously throughout the pizza, creating pockets of spicy goodness in every bite. Vegetable toppings like green peppers and mushrooms are always fresh, never canned, and they’re piled on with that characteristic Chicago abundance.

My personal favorite? The spinach and garlic combo that somehow manages to feel hearty yet not overwhelming. The kitchen never skimps, following the unwritten Chicago rule that a pizza should be substantial enough to count as two meals.

Late-Night Slices And Lively Atmosphere

Stumbling into Pequod’s at 11 PM on a Thursday was one of my best Chicago decisions ever! While many pizza joints wind down for the night, this place buzzes with energy until 2 AM on weekends. The bar area fills with a mix of off-duty chefs, night shift workers, and pizza enthusiasts creating a vibe that’s uniquely Chicago.

The staff somehow maintains their cheerful demeanor even during the late rush. My server Tony has worked there for 15 years and still loves recommending his favorite combinations to first-timers.

What really makes the atmosphere special is the diverse crowd – college students, families, couples on dates, and solo diners all united by their love of great pizza. It’s this community feeling that keeps locals coming back year after year.