Zachary's Chicago Pizza

Berkeley, United States

Zachary's Chicago Pizza Berkeley: A Deep-Dish Delight in the Berkeley Hills District of California USA at 1853 Solano Avenue 94707 Alameda County

Nestled in the vibrant Berkeley Hills neighborhood, Zachary's Chicago Pizza at 1853 Solano Avenue offers a truly memorable dining experience for pizza lovers craving authentic Chicago-style deep-dish and thin-crust pies. Known for its generous portions, fresh, high-quality ingredients, and a cozy atmosphere adorned with local customer artwork, this establishment has garnered loyal fans among Berkeley residents and visitors alike. Whether you're a foodie, a digital nomad seeking comforting meals, or a trend-conscious traveler exploring California, Zachary's promises a satisfying culinary adventure.

Exceptional Menu Highlights and Dining Experience

Zachary's is celebrated for its stuffed cheese and spinach pizzas, with each slice oozing with a fantastic cheese pull and a perfectly crispy crust that excites your taste buds. Their signature Zachary special pie arrives piping hot, layered with fresh sauce, plentiful cheese, and a hearty filling that satisfies even the most ravenous appetites. Apart from pizza, the menu features fresh salads with generous portions to complement your meal.
Sustainability and inclusivity are core to Zachary's ethos, reflected in their friendly service, wheelchair accessibility, and gender-neutral restrooms. Families with children and groups are warmly welcomed, making it an ideal spot for local gatherings or casual dining.

Community sentiment and vibe

Patrons consistently praise Zachary's for its welcoming environment and the attentive, kind staff who make you feel right at home. The restaurant boasts a relaxed vibe with about five outdoor tables perfect for enjoying California's mild climate. Despite the typical 20-40 minute wait for their iconic deep-dish pizzas, guests find the wait worthwhile given the delicious, fresh food and generous portions.

FAQs about Zachary's Chicago Pizza

  • What are the restaurant's operating hours? Zachary's operates from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, and from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.
  • Do they offer gluten-free options? Yes, gluten-free thin-crust pizzas are available to cater to dietary needs.
  • Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, Zachary's features wheelchair access and gender-neutral restrooms for inclusivity.
  • Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations are accepted to secure your table.
  • Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, there are several outdoor tables perfect for enjoying your meal alfresco.
Come savor the iconic deep-dish flavors of Zachary's Chicago Pizza and experience the warm charm of Berkeley's food scene for yourself.

Zachary's Chicago Pizza history overview in Berkeley California

Since opening its doors in 1980, Zachary's Chicago Pizza has cemented itself as a beloved Berkeley institution, renowned for its authentic Chicago-style deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas. Located at 1853 Solano Avenue in the vibrant Berkeley Hills neighborhood, this pizzeria has delighted locals and visitors alike with its rich, cheesy, and hearty creations for over four decades.

Pioneering employee ownership and award-winning pizzas

A notable milestone came in 1990 when Zachary's became 100% employee-owned — a testament to its commitment to quality, teamwork, and community values. This unique ownership model has contributed to the restaurant's consistent excellence and friendly atmosphere.
The year 2000 marked the first of their many accolades, as Zachary's received its inaugural 'Best Pizza' award, sparking a tradition of culinary recognition. Over the years, the pizzeria has amassed over 225 such awards, affirming its status as a top choice for pizza enthusiasts across the Bay Area.

Growth and legacy in the Bay Area

Celebrating 30 years of success in 2010, Zachary's expanded its reach to multiple locations throughout the Bay Area, allowing more pizza lovers to enjoy their signature deep-dish and thin-crust pies. Despite growth, the restaurant has maintained its warm, local-friendly vibe and dedication to fresh, quality ingredients.
In 2020, Zachary's proudly celebrated 40 years of serving the Berkeley community and beyond, a milestone that reflects decades of passion, innovation, and customer devotion.

Why visitors keep coming back

Zachary's reputation for delivering consistently delicious deep-dish pizzas with generous layers of cheese, sauce, and fillings has made it a must-visit spot. Reviews highlight the distinctive crispy crust, fresh ingredients, and the attentive, friendly service — all contributing to a memorable dining experience.
  • Authentic Chicago deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas made to order.
  • Warm, welcoming atmosphere with walls adorned by customer artwork.
  • Employee-owned ethos that prioritizes quality and service.
  • Generous portion sizes and a menu that caters to vegetarians as well.

Zachary's Chicago Pizza at a glance

Located at 1853 Solano Ave in Berkeley, California, Zachary's Chicago Pizza is a beloved establishment known for its authentic Chicago-style deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas. This family-friendly restaurant has garnered a loyal following, thanks to its commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional service. With a cozy atmosphere adorned with customer artwork, it’s a perfect spot for pizza enthusiasts and families alike.

Pros

  • Authentic Chicago-style deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas
  • Friendly and attentive service
  • Commitment to sustainability and inclusivity
  • Variety of fresh salads and starters
  • Gluten-free and vegan options available
  • Take-and-bake option for home cooking
  • Employee-owned business with over 225 'Best Pizza' awards

Cons

  • Potential wait times during peak hours
  • Higher price point compared to some competitors
  • Limited parking availability

Ideal for

Zachary's Chicago Pizza is perfect for families, casual gatherings, and pizza lovers looking for a hearty meal. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or enjoying a night out with friends, the inviting atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a great choice.

Things to know before visiting

  • Expect a wait time of 30-40 minutes for deep-dish pizzas.
  • Parking can be limited, so consider carpooling or arriving early.
  • Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for potential wait times.

Overall impression

Zachary's Chicago Pizza stands out as a premier destination for pizza lovers in Berkeley. With its dedication to quality, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere, it promises a delightful dining experience. Despite the occasional wait and higher prices, the delicious offerings make it well worth the visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Zachary's is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Chicago-style pizza.

4.6

Closed - Opens 11:00 AM

Monday

11:00–20:30

Tuesday

11:00–20:30

Wednesday

11:00–20:30

Thursday

11:00–20:30

Friday

11:00–21:00

Saturday

11:00–21:00

Sunday

11:00–20:30

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