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Chicago

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria in River North, Chicago, is renowned for its deep-dish pizzas and has received positive feedback for its quality and service. Many patrons appreciate the crispy, buttery crust and generous toppings. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it suitable for both locals and tourists. Some reviewers have noted that the wait times can be longer during peak hours, but the food quality is considered worth the wait.

Discover Lou Malnati's Pizzeria in Chicago's River North District.

Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood at 439 N Wells St, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. This family-owned local chain is famous for its buttery crusts and hearty, Italian-inspired toppings that satisfy even the most discerning pizza lovers. Whether you're a local or visiting Chicago for the first time, this pizzeria offers a welcoming and casual atmosphere that makes every meal memorable.

What Makes Lou Malnati's a Must-Visit Spot

Lou Malnati's is renowned for its perfectly crisp yet tender deep-dish pizzas, crafted from scratch with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The signature buttery crust is a customer favorite, delivering a rich and satisfying bite every time. The menu caters to diverse tastes, including vegetarian options and classic Italian dishes. Complement your pizza with their famous lemon pepper wings or a fresh house salad, and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, and expertly crafted cocktails from the full bar.

The vibrant interior adorned with signed sports jerseys creates a lively and welcoming vibe, perfect for groups, families, and sports fans alike. Lou Malnati's also offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options, accommodating every preference. While the restaurant can get quite busy on weekends and holidays, the friendly and helpful staff ensure a smooth experience.

Highly recommended, especially during busy times to avoid long waits.

Paid street parking is available nearby; plan accordingly.

Good for children with a dedicated menu and welcoming atmosphere.

They accept credit, debit cards, and NFC payments for your convenience.

Is Lou Malnati's Pizzeria open on Christmas Day? 

It's best to contact the restaurant directly to confirm their holiday hours.

Yes, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria offers a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails.

Community Sentiment and Visitor Experience

Lou Malnati's enjoys a positive reputation among both locals and tourists, praised for its consistently delicious deep-dish pizza and attentive service. Diners often highlight the crispy, buttery crust and fresh toppings as key reasons to return. The family-friendly environment and sports-themed decor make it a great spot for groups and casual gatherings. While wait times can be longer during peak periods, particularly weekends and holidays, the consensus is that the exceptional food quality justifies the patience. Some guests note variability in service, but overall, the pizzeria remains a must-try for an authentic Chicago pizza experience.

North America

United States

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, a cherished establishment in Chicago's River North neighborhood, has been serving up its iconic deep-dish pizza since 1971. This family-owned pizzeria has become synonymous with Chicago-style pizza, known for its buttery crust and generous toppings. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, adorned with signed sports jerseys that reflect the city's rich sports culture. Visitors often rave about the friendly staff and the vibrant energy that fills the space, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists.

The menu at Lou Malnati's is a celebration of Italian-American cuisine, with a focus on their signature deep-dish pizzas. Each pizza is crafted with a flaky, buttery crust, layered with fresh mozzarella, and topped with a rich tomato sauce. Diners can also enjoy a variety of appetizers, salads, and desserts that complement the main attraction. Popular choices include the classic 'Chicago Classic' pizza, featuring sausage and a blend of cheeses, and the 'Lou' pizza, which is loaded with spinach and mushrooms.

Chicago Classic: Sausage, cheese, and tomato sauce.

The Lou: Spinach, mushrooms, and a blend of cheeses.

Lemon Pepper Wings: Crispy and flavorful.

House Salad: Fresh greens with a variety of toppings.

Located at 439 N Wells St, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is situated in the vibrant River North area of Chicago, known for its art galleries, shopping, and nightlife. This bustling neighborhood is a hub for both tourists and locals, making it an ideal spot for a delicious meal after exploring nearby attractions like the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile. The pizzeria's proximity to these cultural landmarks enhances its appeal, drawing in visitors eager to experience authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza.

A: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

A: Yes, takeout and delivery options are available.

A: Yes, vegetarian pizzas and salads are available.

Whether you're a local or visiting Chicago for the first time, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a culinary destination that should not be missed. Indulge in their famous deep-dish pizza and experience the warmth of their hospitality. Plan your visit today and savor the flavors that have made Lou Malnati's a beloved institution in the Windy City.

Family-owned local chain for Italian classics & Chicago-style, deep-dish pizzas with buttery crusts.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLVo2UTZ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUoDqLYsDogRG8jygr_J23U/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLVo2UTZ3RRAB

Had an amazing experience at Lou Malnati's pizzeria..first time visiting Chicago and had a famous deep dish pizza. We ordered "The Lou", personal size pizza and appetizers since we were not hungry much. Both dishes were really tasty and presentable. The atmosphere was pleasant, you can see lots of signed jerseys there which is very interesting. The staff is very helpful. It gets real busy during weekends and holiday time so plan it properly. 15-20 min waiting time is normal for a table of 4-5 people. We lucked out since we were only 2 people and we got a table immediately 😀 after ordering a deep dish pizza ,the wait time was 30-40 min since they made it from scratch, which was worth it. Thanks for the yummy deep dish pizza guys. I would definitely recommend this place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuc19iSnJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUoDqLYsDogRG8jygr_J23U/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuc19iSnJ3RRAB

This was my first time eating Chicago deep dish, and I drool thinking about my next visit. The entire experience was just so wonderful and satisfying. We made reservations ( highly recommend) and were seating within 10 minutes. The appetizers were fresh and tasty, but then the pizza came. We had 4 different pizzas on the table and they were all delicious with extremely fresh toppings. This was my first time visiting Chicago, and I would visit again just to eat this pizza ❤️

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYMVlYUVlBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUoDqLYsDogRG8jygr_J23U/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYMVlYUVlBEAE

Just got into Chicago after years away and was craving for a good deep dish pizza. Checked on Yelp and this place seemed great. I order the personal size pizza and did not mind the 40 minute wait but when the waiter brought me the pizza it looked more like a tiny quiche than anything else while my neighbors where enjoying their regular 2-3 inch deep pizza, I asked the waiter who answered that the personal size though on the menu as deep dish is not so deep. My thought: then why don’t you write that deep dish is not available in personal size?? So I order a house salad, the saddest thing I have ever seen with no condiment at all(I had asked oil and vinegar). There was nothing, dry. With patience I ask the waiter who had brought it to me (who was not the one I had ordered food from) to bring me some oil and vinegar and very matter of fact tells me he will tell my waiter, but is so kind as to bring me a mini fork and knife  , too bad the knife was dirty, then he puts on my table a dirty dish belonging to someone else and gets an order from another table leaving me with the stranger’s dirty dish on my table.  That was really too much. Never ever have I seen a waiter so …. Incompetent  (to use a kind word) as to leave dirty dishes on another patron’s table. Impossible to qualify. Unheard of. I wonder if management trains these people.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcW9fU0R3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUoDqLYsDogRG8jygr_J23U/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcW9fU0R3EAE

Best deep dish in Chicago. Did a s load of research on locals pick for the best pizza and most said Lou’s were they correct? HECK YEA! The lemon pepper wings were bomb, the pizza was literally the best way to end our Chicago trip imagine a warm delicious deep dish on a cold rainy day. The staff was so friendly and helpful! Love Lou’s writing this review from my bed in California oh GOD how I wish I can go back 100/10

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3cGJ1RU5nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJNUoDqLYsDogRG8jygr_J23U/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3cGJ1RU5nEAE

I had my first ever Chicago deep dish pizza here and it was absolutely delicious! I had the Chicago Classic which was perfect since I love meat. The salad was one of the best I ever had as well. The atmosphere is really cool with signed jerseys and sports memorabilia hung all over the restaurant. The server was extremely kind as well and he was awesome. I highly recommended checking out Lou Malnati’s!

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: Best Deep Dish in Chicago's River North

Founded in 1971 by Lou Malnati, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a Chicago institution known for its deep-dish pizza. The River North location, established in 1986, was the first within Chicago city limits. Over the years, the restaurant has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: A chicago deep-dish legacy born in river north 

Since its humble beginnings in 1971, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria has grown into an iconic name synonymous with Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Founded by Lou Malnati himself in Lincolnwood, Illinois, the pizzeria introduced a buttery crust and richly layered toppings that have delighted food lovers for decades.

A milestone: river north location opens in 1986

The opening of the River North location in 1986 marked a significant chapter as Lou Malnati's established its first pizzeria within Chicago's city limits. Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, this location quickly became a beloved culinary destination for locals and visitors seeking authentic deep-dish pizza in a welcoming atmosphere adorned with sports memorabilia.

Evolution and growth: moving headquarters in 2021

Continuing its evolution, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria moved its headquarters to Buffalo Grove, Illinois in 2021. This strategic move supported expanding operations while preserving the family-owned spirit that has underpinned the brand since its inception. Despite growth, Lou Malnati's remains deeply rooted in its Chicago heritage.

 First Lou Malnati's Pizzeria opened in Lincolnwood, Illinois.

 River North location opened as the first Chicago city location.

 Headquarters moved to Buffalo Grove, Illinois.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Curbside Pickup

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a family-owned local chain in Chicago, renowned for its Italian classics and Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas with buttery crusts. The warm atmosphere and rich flavors make it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Serves Dessert

A selection of Chicago-style deep dish pizzas, starters, and salads.

Deep Dish Pizza

The Lou

Malnati Chicago Classic

Gluten-Free Deep Dish

Lou's Bruschetta

Calamari Fritti

Chicken Wings

Three-Cheese Bread

Garden Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad

Malnati Salad

Chicken BBQ Club Salad

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Menu

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, a family-owned institution in Chicago, is renowned for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas. With a culinary philosophy rooted in tradition, the restaurant focuses on high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes. Each pizza features a buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of cheese, embodying the essence of Italian-American cuisine.

Located at 439 N Wells St in the vibrant River North neighborhood, Lou Malnati's has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza.

Deep Dish Pizza - A classic featuring layers of cheese, tomato sauce, and a buttery crust.

The Lou - A delightful mix of spinach, mushrooms, and fresh tomatoes topped with mozzarella.

Malnati Chicago Classic - Loaded with lean sausage and extra cheese, this pizza is a true crowd-pleaser.

Gluten-Free Deep Dish - A delicious alternative that maintains the same great flavors.

To complement your meal, Lou Malnati's offers a curated selection of beverages, including local craft beers and fine wines. The mixology team also crafts signature cocktails that pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the deep-dish pizza.

Lou Malnati's is committed to accommodating various dietary preferences. The menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal without compromise.

For a truly authentic experience, the chef recommends trying the Malnati Chicago Classic, paired with a refreshing craft beer. This combination captures the essence of Chicago dining and is sure to satisfy.

Join us at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria in Chicago for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, our deep-dish pizza is a culinary delight that you won't want to miss.

Savor iconic deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's in River North, Chicago. Experience pizza perfection today—visit us for a slice of heaven!

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria - Chicago's Deep-Dish Delight

Cook County

Enjoy a meal in the cozy atmosphere of the River North location.

Dine-In

Carryout

Have your meal delivered to your doorstep.

Group Ordering

Drop-Off Catering

Outdoor Seating

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Chicago River North Experience Highlights and Offerings 

Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a beloved family-owned gem famous for its authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas. This iconic spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where locals and visitors alike come to savor buttery crusts, fresh toppings, and classic Italian flavors that have made this chain a culinary landmark.

Step inside the cozy River North location to enjoy a classic dine-in experience. The walls are adorned with signed sports jerseys and memorabilia, reflecting Chicago’s rich sports culture, creating a lively yet comfortable setting perfect for families, friends, and groups. Whether you're craving the famed "Chicago Classic" deep-dish or leaning toward a vegetarian option, Lou Malnati's serves up delicious pizzas made from scratch with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Don't forget to try their lemon pepper wings or fresh house salads, which complement the meal perfectly.

Whether you prefer to enjoy your meal on-site or from the comfort of your home, Lou Malnati's has you covered. The pizzeria offers multiple convenient options, including carryout and delivery services, ensuring you can indulge in their famous deep dish wherever you are. For larger occasions, group ordering and drop-off catering make it easy to share Chicago's best deep-dish pizza with colleagues, friends, or family gatherings.

 Enjoy a meal in the cozy atmosphere of the River North location.

 Have your meal delivered right to your doorstep, perfect for a cozy night in.

 Ideal for parties and gatherings, making sharing easy and convenient.

 Catering services available for your events to impress your guests with iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza.

 Available during warmer months for a refreshing al fresco dining experience.

Family Friendly and Sports Enthusiast Haven

Lou Malnati's is a fantastic destination for families, offering children’s menus and a welcoming environment that kids love. Additionally, with an impressive collection of signed sports jerseys and memorabilia, the pizzeria doubles as a great spot for sports fans to indulge in delicious meals while catching a game. The friendly staff and accommodating service add to the overall positive dining adventure.

 Weekends and holidays can get busy with wait times of 15-20 minutes or more; reservations are highly recommended.

 Deep-dish pizzas are made fresh to order, so expect a wait of 30-40 minutes for that signature buttery crust and layered flavor.

 Paid street parking is available nearby and multiple payment methods including credit, debit, and NFC are accepted for ease.

Located at 439 N Wells St in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a family-owned establishment renowned for its authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. With a commitment to quality and tradition, this beloved pizzeria has been serving locals and visitors alike since its founding. The restaurant offers a casual and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for pizza lovers of all ages.

Whether you're dining in, taking out, or ordering delivery, Lou Malnati's ensures a memorable experience with its buttery crusts and fresh ingredients. The restaurant also features a full-service bar and outdoor seating during warmer months, enhancing the dining experience.

Ideal for both casual outings and special occasions, Lou Malnati's is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in Chicago's iconic pizza.

Multiple dining options including dine-in, carryout, and delivery

Gluten-free and vegan-friendly options available

Full-service bar with a variety of beverages

Higher price point compared to some competitors

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is perfect for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a classic Chicago dining experience. It's also a great choice for sports fans wanting to catch a game while indulging in delicious pizza.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long wait times. The restaurant can get busy, and a typical wait for a table can range from 15 to 40 minutes depending on the time of day.

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria stands out as a quintessential Chicago dining experience, offering delicious deep-dish pizza in a welcoming atmosphere. While it may have its drawbacks, such as wait times and parking challenges, the quality of food and service makes it a worthwhile visit for anyone in the city.

Illinois

Efter så många positiva recensioner på YouTube-videor kunde jag inte vänta med att äntligen uppleva denna restaurang. 
Min beställning togs snabbt när jag satt i baren, men gick utför därifrån. Min individuella pizza anlände och tomt ölglas togs bort utan någon begäran om påfyllning. 
Pizzan var utsökt, men mycket mindre än väntat. 
Jag hade älskat en öl till och att någon frågade hur jag avnjöt min måltid, men det inträffade aldrig. 
När min check presenterades och jag uttryckte min besvikelse, var svaret ”okej!” 
Inga ursäkter. 
När jag uttryckte min besvikelse med värdinnan skrattade hon också och sa ”okej!”. 
Hon trodde att jag skämtade. 
Jag ägde en restaurang i 30 år och vet att ta hand om gäster. 
Aldrig mer kommer jag att återvända till denna anläggning.

Detta är den enda pizza att äta medan i Chicago. Korvskorpa. Så gott. När vänner eller familj kommer till stan är detta vår första måltid tillsammans. Det är pizzan de ber mig ta med till dem på ett plan. Så bra är det.

Familjen åt här vår första natt i Chicago. Pizza var förutsägbart gott , och jag skulle särskilt rekommendera smörskorpan . Servicen var vänlig men lite slumpartad.

Detta var vår första gången faktiskt prova en riktig Chicago Deep Dish stil pizza. Vi beställde två pajer, Pepperoni och Cheese levereras till vårt hotell. 

De lekte inte när de la till Moz på båda pajerna. Pizzasåsen var på den sötare sidan. Pepperoni hade mer smak än vanlig ost. 

Grillvingar var ordentligt tillagade och med massor av sås. 

Priserna är rimliga.

När vi är i Chicago, måste vi göra ett stopp på Lou Malnati's! Det är ute absolut favorit deep dish pizza! Jag såg till att vårt hotell hade ett litet kylskåp i vårt rum så att vi kunde ta hem rester! Vi tog även med oss våra rester hem i kylväskan tillbaka till Columbus, Ohio och vi njöt av dem nästa dag när vi kom hem!

Har ätit djupa rätter i Chi sedan 1963 . Dagens pizza kom halvvarm. Jag ville att det skulle vara brännhett. Vad mer finns det att säga?

Mycket bra ställe för ursprungliga Chicago deep dish pizza. Servicen var vänlig och snabb. Vår deep dish pizza var riktigt bra. Sammantaget platsen känns lite försummad men. Det kan hållas i bättre form för att göra det till en perfekt upplevelse. Inget att klaga på maten dock.

Stannade till för lunch. Vi beställde den klassiska Lou personal Chicago pizza och en Malnati’s sallad. Båda var enastående. Janice vår server var mycket hjälpsam och tillmötesgående. Allt som allt, en fantastisk upplevelse. Bästa Chicago stil pizza jag någonsin ätit.

Vi hade en mycket bra upplevelse här. Vår server var vänlig och uppmärksam och smörskorpan på den djupa maträtten pizza verkligen gör det sticker ut. Den djupa disken ost med tillsatt svamp var välsmakande och en liten var precis rätt storlek för oss två. Det enda negativa var att vi var tvungna att vänta mycket länge för gratis dessert som vi hade från ett hotell - utfärdade kupong.

VI BESTÄLLDE EN FAMILJEBESTÄLLNING PÅ 12 HETA VINGAR... HARD AND OLD! JAG VET ATT VINGARNA VAR GAMLA... VÄNTADE CA 40 MINUTER FÖR EN SUPERSTOR PEPPRONI PIZZA, 6 AV 10 . . . ÄRLIGT TALAT, JAG KUNDE HA GJORT BÄTTRE IFRÅN MIG PÅ LITTLE CAESARS! 
SNÄLLA GÖR BÄTTRE, NI VET ATT KYCKLING VAR GAMMAL:(

Vi ville prova deep dish pizzan från Chicago, vi beställde från det här stället och det var gott, skorpan var krispig, men portionerna är lite på den mindre sidan. Jag skulle rekommendera denna plats, men det är inte ett måste.

När jag är i Chicago försöker jag alltid äta på Lou Malnati's. Chicago pizza här är mycket bra, vi tog en medelstor djup maträtt ost pizza med pepperoni och det räckte för två. Bra öl, bra service och bra priser!

Fantastisk deep dish pizza. Min favorit i Chicago den här gången. Ser fram emot att gå tillbaka för att prova fler olika typer av sort

Vilken rolig atmosfär och Lou’s var jättegott! ! Sån pizza hittar man inte i Kansas! Fyllning, saftig, tjock, kryddad väl, ostig varm godhet! Mums! ! !

Vi besökte efter att ha rekommenderats av en guide på en rundvandring. 
Vi blev inte besvikna. Pizza var enorm och mycket välsmakande, och vår server var glad och vänlig. 
Lite bullriga, men jag antar att det är populärt eftersom han mat är bra!

Experience authentic Chicago deep dish at Lou Malnati's in River North, Chicago. Enjoy family-friendly atmosphere, gluten-free options, and outdoor seating.

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