Chicago’s 2025 Eater Award Winners | Eater Chicago

"Cecily and Billy Federighi, along with friend Bradley Shorten, laid the foundation for Pizz’amici in 2018 with Eat Free Pizza, a grassroots way to test and refine their pies by giving them away to followers. That experiment eventually led to the openings of Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream and Kim’s Uncle Pizza in Westmont. In late-2024, the Federighis returned to Chicago with what became one of 2025’s hottest reservations. At Pizz’amici, diners book weeks in advance for a taste of the new standard in tavern‑style pizza. The cracker‑thin crust emerges with a beautifully charred bottom and just enough chew to support toppings like fennel‑laced sausage, hot giardiniera, and tender Italian beef. The rest of the menu honors Italian American tradition with dishes such as beef-and-pork meatballs in sausage ragu and snappy sausage and peppers. The small but lively dining room buzzes with energy, making each visit feel like a celebration — especially once you’ve managed to snag a coveted table." - Jeffy Mai