Marie's Pizza & Liquors

"Like turtles and Cher, Chicago’s tavern-style pizza spots are prone to longevity. Marie’s in Albany Park has been around since 1940, and is known for its thin crust pies and perpetually Christmas-themed dining room (which has been closed since 2020, but you can order takeout and sit on their large back patio).  What sets their pizza apart is its cheese blend, which has a complex, salty funk that balances nicely with sweet tomato sauce. The crust is kind of bland, but we don’t mind because it gives the toppings a chance to shine. " - Adrian Kane

"This pizza place is available for carryout and delivery. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation

"This Chicago institution is known for its retro interior — think red vinyl banquettes — as much as for the ultra thin-crust pizza. Lean into the old-school vibe and order a classic cocktail — something Frank Sinatra would approve of — to go with garlic bread and mozzarella sticks. Or pick up a bottle of Chianti from the attached liquor store. It also has live music with no cover on Thursdays and Sundays." - aimee.levitt, Eater Staff

"Marie’s Pizza and Liquors, an 80-year-old package-goods shop in Mayfair, Chicago, is struggling due to the pandemic. The dine-in side has been closed since March, and the business is surviving only on pizza and liquor carryout and delivery. The owner, Nadine Karavidas, has applied for governmental aid but didn't receive any. She had to use personal resources to keep the business afloat and has made adjustments like lining a section of the liquor store shelves with faux-brick wallpaper for carryout pizza pickup." - Maggie Hennessy

"Thin-crust expert Marie’s Pizza & Liquors on the Northwest Side is part of the 'cities by the slice' series." - Naomi Waxman