Among other things, Chicago is known for its art, architecture, old-time gangsters, Wrigley Field, da Bears, da Bulls and of late President Barack Obama, but perhaps the greatest cultural contribution of the city is the Chicago-style pizza. Lou Malnati, using the family recipe dating from the '40s, opened his flagship restaurant in Lincolnwood in 1971. Now with more than 30 restaurants in the Chicago area, Lou Malnati's pizzerias serve their signature buttery, deep-dish crust (deep because the dough is stretched high to fit the pan, but not technically thick as is often assumed) filled with a California plum tomato sauce and copious amounts of vegetables. The thin-crust pizza deservedly draws rave reviews as well, as do the stuffed spinach bread and the chicken sandwiches.
Kids' menu. No alcohol available. Serving lunch daily, dinner Mon–Sat.
Zagat 2010: 24 food rating (very good to excellent)
"Though Mr. Malnati passed in 1978, his sons have continued the family tradition, creating the feeling of a 'family-run' restaurant at every chain."
—Centerstage Chicago