Family-owned local chain for Italian classics & Chicago-style, deep-dish pizzas with buttery crusts.
"Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago classic and while there are locations all over the city, this is a fine choice for those who are dining with children or who just can’t tolerate another steak or seasonal tasting menu. Be sure to order the butter crust." - Eater Staff
"Chicago’s legendary deep-dish pizza chain has a location on Randolph, at the site where breakfast queen Ina’s used to stand. You know the drill: Some of the city’s best deep dish and a surprisingly good thin crust. The classic salad is notable, and don’t forget you can cut carbs by ordering sausage crust, but that won’t help your cholesterol. We’re in a zero-sum game here." - Ashok Selvam
"Chicago’s most ubiquitous pizza chain is also one of its finest. Opened in 1971, Lou Malnati’s has helped spread the popularity of deep dish across the city and country. The Malnati clan claims to have had a hand in the dish’s creation and its signature “Malnati Chicago Classic” — sausage, cheese, and tomato sauce on a special butter crust — still sets the standard for an excellent pie. Lou’s also has some newish menu items like a lower-carb sausage crust." - Ashok Selvam, Eater Staff
"Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, a well-known pizza place, is part of the Taste of Chicago 2023 lineup." - Ashok Selvam
"There's a reason Lou Malnati's is the standard-bearer for Chicago deep dish the world over: Originally founded in 1971, the pizzeria—now with more than 60 local shops—consistently turns out solid, cheesy pies. Lou Malnati's trademarked buttercrust is crispy on the bottom, and maintains its integrity even under the weight of toppings. The Lou, one of the signature deep-dish offerings, comes with spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and a triple blend of mozzarella, Romano, and cheddar cheeses." - Nicole Schnitzler