Chicago Pizza Showdown: Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust

Let me start by saying: I love pizza. Like, I love it. And living in Chicago, I’m spoiled by some of the best pizza in the world. But here’s the thing—Chicago is a city divided, not by sports teams or weather preferences (okay, maybe those too), but by pizza. The battle between deep dish and thin crust is real, and I’ve had my fair share of debates with friends about which is the true king of Chicago pizza. So, I decided to do my own “Chicago Pizza Showdown,” testing out two iconic spots representing each style’s best. Here’s what I discovered.

1. The Deep Dish Experience: Lou Malnati’s

I’ll admit it, Deep dish was my first love when I moved to Chicago. There’s just something so satisfying about sinking your fork into a slice that’s more like a pizza pie. And if you want to experience deep dish in all its glory, Lou Malnati’s is the place to go.

Walking into Lou’s, you can feel the Chicago pride. The rich, buttery crust is what sets it apart, and as someone who lives for that crunch combined with a soft interior, it hits all the right notes. The first time I bit into their classic “Malnati Chicago Classic,” with its layers of gooey mozzarella, chunky tomato sauce, and perfectly spiced sausage, I was hooked. What’s different about Lou’s deep dish is the balance—it’s not just a mound of cheese and sauce (which can be overwhelming at some places), but a perfect ratio that lets you savor every ingredient.

The best part? That butter crust. I mean, they’ve cracked the code. It’s crispy on the outside but soft and slightly chewy on the inside, and it soaks up just enough sauce without getting soggy. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

Pro Tip: If you’re trying Lou’s for the first time, go with a classic sausage or pepperoni deep dish. You’ll want to start with the basics before diving into more adventurous combos!

2. Thin Crust Masterpiece: Home Run Inn

Now, let’s head to the opposite end of the pizza spectrum—Home Run Inn. If you’re all about that perfect crunch, you’ll love their thin crust. What sets Home Run Inn apart is how they get that delicate balance between a crispy crust and chewy center. Each bite is satisfying without being too heavy, and the crust has a distinct buttery flavor that’s so addictive. It’s a totally different experience from deep dish, but just as crave-worthy.

What I really appreciate about Home Run Inn is how their toppings and sauce shine through. They don’t pile on the cheese the way you would with deep dish, so the fresh flavors of the sauce, veggies, and meats get their time to shine. It’s lighter but still super flavorful, and I love that it doesn’t leave you feeling like you need a nap afterward (unless you eat the whole pizza, which… no judgment here).

Pro Tip: I always go for their sausage and pepperoni combo, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any toppings at Home Run Inn. Pair it with one of their craft beers, and you’ve got a perfect night.

The Verdict: Who Wins?

So, deep dish or thin crust? It’s tough to pick a winner because they’re two different pizza experiences. If you’re looking for something indulgent and hearty, Lou Malnati’s deep dish is going to hit the spot every time. It’s a full-on comfort food experience, and there’s nothing quite like it when you’re in the mood for a rich, cheesy, tomato-y masterpiece.

But if you’re after something lighter (yet still incredibly satisfying), Home Run Inn’s thin crust is where it’s at. It’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for when you want pizza but don’t want to feel weighed down after.

Honestly, in a city like Chicago, you really can’t lose with either one. So, why choose? My personal strategy: mix it up! Deep dish one week, thin crust the next—it’s the best of both worlds, and that way you never have to pick a side in the pizza showdown.


So, which one are you craving right now—deep dish or thin crust? Let’s hit up Lou’s or Home Run Inn soon and make this a regular pizza night tradition! 🍕

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