Illinois’s Most Talked-About Deep Dish Pizza Isn’t Found In Chicago
When I think of deep dish, I immediately picture downtown Chicago and those iconic, red-brick pizzerias.
But what if I told you the best deep dish in all of Illinois-the one generating the loudest buzz among lifelong residents—is actually outside city limits? For years, the pizza debate has centered around Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s.
Now, there’s a quiet legend called Barone’s that has been stealing the spotlight, proving that world-class crust and cheese don’t require a Chicago zip code. Forget your assumptions, we are driving outside the city to uncover the state’s most talked-about, cheesy phenomenon.
A Slice Of History Since 1962
Barone’s first opened its doors in 1962, making it one of the oldest pizzerias in the Glen Ellyn area. For over six decades, this family-owned restaurant has been serving generations of pizza lovers who keep coming back for more.
The original recipes have been carefully preserved and passed down through the years. Walking into Barone’s feels like stepping back in time to when pizza places were true neighborhood gathering spots.
The walls are decorated with vintage photos and memorabilia that tell the story of the restaurant’s long history. This commitment to tradition has made Barone’s a beloved institution that locals proudly share with visitors from near and far.
The Buttery Crust That Makes All The Difference
What sets Barone’s deep dish apart from the competition is its incredibly buttery and flaky crust that practically melts in your mouth. Unlike some deep dish pizzas that have thick, doughy crusts that sit heavy in your stomach, Barone’s version is light yet satisfying.
The golden-brown edges get perfectly crispy while the bottom stays tender and flavorful. Each crust is made fresh daily using a secret recipe that has been refined over decades of pizza making.
The butter content gives it a rich taste that complements rather than overpowers the toppings. When you bite into a slice, the crust crumbles just right, creating the perfect texture combination with the gooey cheese and tangy sauce.
The Stuffed Pizza That Steals The Show
Barone’s stuffed pizza takes deep dish to a whole new level with an extra layer of dough on top that seals in all the delicious fillings. This pizza variety has become the restaurant’s most requested item, especially among first-time visitors who want the full experience.
The top crust gets brushed with butter and sprinkled with parmesan before baking to golden perfection. Inside, you’ll find generous portions of sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, or whatever toppings you choose, all swimming in that signature tomato sauce.
My family ordered one during our first visit, and we were amazed at how the double crust held everything together without becoming soggy. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the biggest appetites while still leaving room for maybe one more slice.
Fresh Ingredients Make Every Bite Count
Quality ingredients are the foundation of every pizza that comes out of Barone’s kitchen, and you can taste the difference immediately. The restaurant sources fresh vegetables from local suppliers whenever possible and uses premium cheeses that melt into creamy perfection.
Even the tomatoes for the sauce are carefully selected for their sweetness and acidity balance. The sausage is made according to a traditional Italian recipe with just the right blend of spices and seasonings.
Nothing comes from a can or a freezer bag, which explains why each pizza tastes so vibrant and full of flavor. This dedication to using only the best ingredients means you’re getting authentic Chicago-style pizza that honors the tradition while delivering exceptional taste in every single bite.
Skip The Chicago Crowds Without Sacrificing Authenticity
Getting authentic deep dish pizza in downtown Chicago often means dealing with long wait times, expensive parking, and crowded restaurants full of tourists. Barone’s offers the same quality experience in the peaceful suburb of Glen Ellyn where parking is easy and the atmosphere is relaxed.
You can actually have a conversation without shouting over dozens of other diners. The restaurant maintains all the authentic Chicago-style preparation methods without the downtown markup or hassle.
Locals know this is where you go when you want the real deal without fighting traffic or waiting two hours for a table. Plus, the friendly service and welcoming vibe make it feel like you’re visiting family rather than just another restaurant trying to rush you out the door.
Glen Ellyn Makes The Perfect Pizza Day Trip
Planning a visit to Barone’s gives you the perfect excuse to explore the charming town of Glen Ellyn with its tree-lined streets and welcoming downtown area. The restaurant sits right in the heart of town, making it easy to walk around and discover local shops and cafes before or after your meal.
You can even visit the nearby Morton Arboretum if you want to make a full day of it. The town hosts various festivals and community events throughout the year that bring neighbors together for music, art, and food.
Main Street features boutique stores and galleries worth browsing while you work up an appetite. After stuffing yourself with deep dish pizza, a leisurely stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods helps with digestion and gives you beautiful scenery to enjoy.
Open Daily And Ready To Serve You
Barone’s keeps convenient hours, opening daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, which means you can satisfy your deep dish craving for lunch or dinner any day of the week. The restaurant accepts both walk-ins and reservations, though calling ahead on weekends is smart since word has gotten out about this hidden gem.
They also offer carryout if you want to enjoy their pizza at home or in a nearby park. Located at 123 Main Street in Glen Ellyn, the restaurant is easy to find and accessible from major highways serving the western suburbs.
Whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite pizza spot or a visitor exploring Illinois beyond Chicago, Barone’s delivers an unforgettable deep dish experience worth the trip every single time you visit.