Chicago New York Style Pizza: The Ultimate Showdown Of Two Pizza Giants

When it comes to pizza, Chicago and New York are like Batman and Superman—two titans with their own unique styles, fiercely loyal fan bases, and a rivalry that never gets old. If you’re a pizza lover, you’ve probably heard about Chicago deep dish and New York thin crust. But what’s the real deal? Which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into the world of Chicago New York style pizza and settle this debate once and for all. Grab your slice and let’s get started!

Now, before we jump into the thick (or thin) of it, let’s address the elephant in the room. Both styles have their own charm, but they cater to different tastes. Whether you’re into a hearty, cheesy slice or a crispy, foldable masterpiece, there’s something for everyone. But what makes Chicago New York style pizza so special? It’s not just about the toppings or the crust—it’s about the experience, the culture, and the love for pizza that unites us all.

So, whether you’re a die-hard Chicagoan who swears by deep dish or a New Yorker who thinks anything thicker than a millimeter is blasphemy, this article is for you. We’re going to break down the differences, explore the history, and even share some insider tips on where to find the best slices in both cities. Let’s make this a pizza party!

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Table of Contents

• The History of Chicago New York Style Pizza
• Crust Comparison: Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust
• Toppings: What Makes Them Unique?
• Famous Pizzerias: Where to Get Your Slice
• Nutritional Breakdown: Which One’s Healthier?
• Price Comparison: How Much Are You Paying?
• Delivery Wars: Who Does It Better?
• Cultural Impact: Pizza as an Icon
• Busting Myths About Chicago New York Style Pizza
• Conclusion: Which One Wins?

The History of Chicago New York Style Pizza

Let’s rewind the clock and take a trip down memory lane. Pizza, as we know it, didn’t just pop up overnight. The story of Chicago New York style pizza is a tale of two cities with very different culinary heritages. New York’s pizza roots trace back to Italian immigrants who brought their recipes across the Atlantic in the early 1900s. Lombardi’s, the first pizzeria in the U.S., opened its doors in 1905 and set the stage for the iconic thin crust we know today.

On the other hand, Chicago’s deep dish pizza wasn’t born until the 1940s. Ike Sewell, a businessman with a knack for innovation, teamed up with chef Ric Riccardo to create a pizza that was more like a meal. They flipped the traditional pizza structure, putting the cheese under the sauce and creating a crust that could hold its own. And just like that, Chicago deep dish was born.

Both styles have evolved over the years, but one thing remains constant—the love for pizza. Whether you’re in Chicago or New York, pizza is more than just food; it’s a way of life.

Crust Comparison: Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust

Chicago Deep Dish

Let’s talk about the star of the show—Chicago deep dish. This pizza is all about the crust. It’s thick, buttery, and has a slight crunch on the outside. The crust is baked in a deep pan, which gives it that signature height. Think of it as a pizza casserole. It’s not just a slice; it’s an experience.

But here’s the thing—deep dish isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, this might not be your go-to. It’s a sit-down kind of pizza that requires a fork and knife. And let’s be real, it’s not exactly diet-friendly. But hey, sometimes you just need to indulge.

New York Thin Crust

Now, let’s flip the script and talk about New York thin crust. This pizza is all about simplicity and elegance. The crust is thin, crispy, and perfectly foldable. You can eat it on the go, and it’s a great option if you’re watching your waistline. Plus, it’s usually cheaper than deep dish, which is always a plus.

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But what really sets New York thin crust apart is the way it’s made. The dough is stretched by hand, and the pies are cooked in coal-fired ovens, giving them that unique charred flavor. It’s a slice that’s as iconic as the Statue of Liberty itself.

Toppings: What Makes Them Unique?

When it comes to toppings, both Chicago and New York have their own signature styles. In Chicago, you’ll find a wide variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni to gourmet options like goat cheese and arugula. But the real magic happens with the layering. In deep dish, the cheese goes on first, followed by the toppings, and then the sauce. It’s a method that ensures every bite is a burst of flavor.

In New York, the toppings are all about simplicity. A classic slice might have just cheese and tomato sauce, but don’t let that fool you. The quality of the ingredients is what makes it stand out. Plus, you can always customize your slice with extra toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or even hot sauce.

And let’s not forget about the pineapple debate. Whether you’re in Chicago or New York, pineapple on pizza is a topic that sparks heated discussions. Some love it, some hate it, but one thing’s for sure—it’s definitely a conversation starter.

Famous Pizzerias: Where to Get Your Slice

Chicago

• Pizano’s: A must-visit for deep dish lovers. The crust is buttery and flaky, and the sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes.
• Gino’s East: Another iconic spot that’s been serving deep dish since 1966. Their pizza is a Chicago classic.
• Pequod’s: Known for their caramelized crust and hearty slices, Pequod’s is a hidden gem in Lincoln Park.

New York

• Di Fara Pizza: A Brooklyn institution that’s been serving some of the best pizza in the city since 1965.
• Lombardi’s: The birthplace of New York pizza. You can’t visit New York without trying a slice from Lombardi’s.
• Joe’s Pizza: A no-frills spot that’s been serving perfect slices for over 40 years.

Nutritional Breakdown: Which One’s Healthier?

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—calories. If you’re watching your weight, you might be wondering which pizza is the healthier option. Spoiler alert: neither is exactly a diet food. But if you’re looking for the lesser of two evils, New York thin crust is usually the way to go.

A typical slice of New York pizza has around 250-300 calories, depending on the toppings. On the other hand, a slice of Chicago deep dish can easily clock in at 500-600 calories. That’s because deep dish is loaded with cheese, sauce, and toppings, making it a calorie-dense meal.

But here’s the thing—sometimes you just need to treat yourself. Life’s too short for boring food, and pizza is one of those things that makes life a little sweeter. So, whether you choose Chicago or New York, just remember to enjoy it in moderation.

Price Comparison: How Much Are You Paying?

When it comes to price, New York definitely has the upper hand. A slice of New York pizza usually costs around $3-$5, making it an affordable option for lunch or a quick snack. In contrast, a slice of Chicago deep dish can cost upwards of $10, depending on the toppings and the restaurant.

But price isn’t the only factor to consider. In Chicago, you’re paying for more than just a slice—you’re paying for an experience. Deep dish is meant to be shared, and it’s often served as a full meal. So, while it might seem more expensive upfront, it can actually be a better value if you’re feeding a group of people.

Delivery Wars: Who Does It Better?

In the age of food delivery apps, convenience is king. Both Chicago and New York have embraced the delivery trend, but who does it better? Well, it depends on the pizza. New York thin crust is perfect for delivery because it’s sturdy and holds up well in transit. You can order a slice and have it delivered to your door without it losing its crispy texture.

Chicago deep dish, on the other hand, is a bit trickier. The thick crust and gooey cheese can make it a challenge to deliver without compromising the quality. That’s why many Chicago pizzerias recommend picking up your order in person. But if you’re lucky enough to live near a great delivery spot, you might just get the best of both worlds.

Cultural Impact: Pizza as an Icon

Pizza isn’t just food—it’s a cultural icon. In both Chicago and New York, pizza has become a symbol of identity and pride. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite sports team or debating which pizza is better, pizza brings people together. It’s a universal language that everyone can understand.

In Chicago, deep dish pizza is a point of pride. It’s a reminder of the city’s innovation and creativity. And in New York, thin crust pizza is a symbol of simplicity and authenticity. It’s a slice of life that captures the essence of the city.

So, whether you’re in Chicago or New York, pizza is more than just food. It’s a way of life, a tradition, and a passion that unites us all.

Busting Myths About Chicago New York Style Pizza

There are a lot of myths floating around about Chicago New York style pizza. Let’s clear the air and set the record straight.

• Myth #1: Deep dish pizza is only for tourists. Wrong! Locals love deep dish just as much as visitors. It’s a Chicago classic that everyone can enjoy.
• Myth #2: New York pizza is always better. Not true! While New York pizza has its own charm, deep dish has a loyal following for a reason. It’s all about personal preference.
• Myth #3: You can’t have a good pizza outside of Chicago or New York. False! While these cities are pizza meccas, there are great pizzerias all over the world that serve delicious slices.

Conclusion: Which One Wins?

So, after all this talk about Chicago New York style pizza, which one comes out on top? The truth is, there’s no clear winner. Both styles have their own unique qualities that make them special. Whether you prefer the hearty indulgence of deep dish or the simple elegance of thin crust, there’s a pizza out there for everyone.

So, the next time someone asks you which pizza is better, tell them it’s not about choosing sides. It’s about embracing the diversity of pizza culture and enjoying every slice. And remember, life’s too short for bad pizza. So, go out there and find your perfect slice!

Now, it’s your turn. Which style do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your pizza-loving friends. Until next time, keep the pizza party going!