Lou Malnati's Pizzeria of Chicago is a Pizza Place in Chicago, IL. The restaurant serves Chicago-style Deep Dish and Thin Crust pizzas, along with salads, wings, and desserts. It operates as part of the Malnati family business, which has been perfecting the Chicago Deep Dish tradition for over 50 years. The pizzeria holds a rating of 4.50 based on customer reviews.
The history of the business dates back to 1971, when Luciano Malnati and his wife Jean opened the first location in Lincolnwood, Illinois. Luciano had previously worked in the 1940s at Chicago's first Deep Dish pizzeria, where he helped create the original recipe. After Luciano passed away in 1978, his sons Marc and Rick joined their mother to continue the family enterprise. The pizzeria is known for its signature Buttercrust, which features a flaky, buttery texture. The ingredients include Wisconsin mozzarella cheese and vine-ripened California plum tomatoes, which are blended and canned exclusively for the restaurant. The pizza is prepared by hand, with mozzarella placed directly on the dough, followed by toppings such as mushrooms, onions, and sausage, and finished with fresh tomato sauce and a sprinkling of cheese. The menu includes specific varieties such as the Deep Dish Malnati Chicago Classic, the Deep Dish The Lou, and the Deep Dish BBQ Chicken. The restaurant also offers catering packages for events and ships 9-inch Deep Dish pizzas frozen nationwide.
Located at 805 S State St, the pizzeria sits on South State Street. It is a short walk from the Harrison train station, which is about 0.1 miles away. Dearborn Park is also nearby, approximately 0.1 miles from the location. West Polk Street is another road in the immediate vicinity, just under 0.1 miles away.
The positive rating from customers reflects the reputation of the pizzeria for maintaining the quality and flavor of its Chicago-style pizza. The business stands as a long-standing institution in the city, driven by family pride and a commitment to the original Deep Dish recipe.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria of Chicago combines a deep-rooted family history with the specific culinary traditions of Chicago, offering a distinct dining experience in the heart of the city.