Chicago-style Pizza in Dallas?
From time to time, I have a hankering for a good pizza, and I especially enjoy Chicago-style pizzas (mmm, so much sauce and cheese — delicious!). But, are there any such restaurants in Dallas? (I don’t know of any yet)
After some brief searching, I found BJ’s Chicago Pizza & Brewhouse. They have a few restaurants in Texas, but I’m not sure if any are near here (Clear Lake? Lewisville?). Their Addison location is listed as opening “early 2003”, so maybe that’ll be available soon.
If all else fails, Pizza Hut also now offers Chicago-style pizza:
According to Evans, Chicago-style pizza is different from other pizzas: Chicago-style pizza has a flaky crust with tall sides. The dough is made with a hint of corn meal for taste and texture. The build of the pizza begins with a thick layer of sliced mozzarella cheese. It’s filled with an abundance of toppings, shredded cheese and then chunky marinara sauce is poured on the top of the pizza. […]
They talk-the-talk, but I’m not convinced yet. It’s not that I dislike Pizza Hut's pizza, but I’m concerned whether the cooking-speedups necessary for the delivery environment may have an impact on the quality or flavor :-/.
Lewisville is only about 20 minutes north on I-35 (by Carrolton if that helps).
Pizza Hut’s Chicago-style pizza is a very pale imitation of true Chicago style pizza. (I live in Chicago and can attest to this).
Almost any family-style restaurant that makes deep-dish pizza will do a better job.
Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza is available at an unlikely place in N.Texas, Rockwall area. In Heath, TX there is a great donut shop, the Southern Maid. The owner is from Chicago and makes pizza in the evenings Thur-Sun, 5-9PM, and for lunch Sat-Sun, 11-1PM. No delivery, pick up or dine in only (very small dine in area). If you have given up getting deep dish pizza, like I had, you need to try this place. Its discovery has been a satisfying end to a very frustrating search for real Chicago Pizza in the North Dallas area.
I am from Chicago. BJ’s is good, but is NOT chicago-style pizza, despite their claims.
Check the freezer section of Super Target. The one in Lewisville carries a frozen deep dish pizza shipped from Schaumburg, IL. Granted, it is frozen, but it still isn’t half bad.
Might try these – wo-max is my fav – havent been there in a while as it is a bit of a drive for me, their website is down so I’m not sure if they are still in business.
Chicago’s Finest Pizza – 6150 Independence Pkwy, Plano, 75023 – (972) 618-6500
Chicago Rick’s Pizza – 3628 Frankford Rd, Dallas, 75287 – (972) 820-9689
Chicago St Pizza – 8000 Coit Rd, Plano, 75025 – (972) 335-7273
Wo-Max Pizza – 2809 Flower Mound Road Flower Mound, TX 75022 – 972-691-2101
I’ve eaten at Chicago Ricks Pizza and that place serves pretty good chicago style pizzas, they also have tyue chicago style Hot Dogs, this place is worth a try
i work at chicago rick’s pizza, 3628 frankford, at the george bush and marsh. we have a pretty decent chicago style pizza. it’s no lou malnati’s or gino’s yet but we’re trying to fine tune it. we currently have the chicago style dogs and italian beef, and i’m working on the polish and italian sausage, and brats. i grew up in dekalb, bout an hour west of the city. i came in here about 3 days after moving to dallas(june 2003) and i’ve been here ever since. i make the sauce daily. i cut the produce daily. i’m trying to make it as authentic as i can.
That sounds pretty awesome, Paul! I’ll try to stop in when I have a chance :).
http://thatchicagoplace.com/
unbelievable !
but it’s in Bedford.
I’m from Chicago and having a very hard time finding even good pizza for that matter. I have had a few places that claim to be Chicago style pizza but haven’t found any. The people that say Chicago Rick’s Pizza is good are DEAD WRONG! I’m sorry from the rubber hot dogs to the bad pizza that place is just not good. They should not be alound to have the word Chicago in their name that’s how bad it is. The only place so far that even comes close is Chicago’s Finest Pizza. They have a good hot dog it is true Venna Beef. The pizza isn’t bad, and the beef sandwiches are good just a little dry.
Melissa: I worked at a Chicago themed restaurant in the Houston area during college and it was idiots like you that we always made fun of. So many times people would come in and lead off their greeting with “I’m from Chicago,” just like you did. 25% of those people were really nice and helpful folks that just wanted to sample some Chicago flavor a long way from home. But the other 75% acted as if living in Chicago for two months gave them a free pass to bitch and complain about everything, make ridiculous suggestions, and just be negative jerks in general. The point is, most people loved our stuff, so whoever reads this…..I’ll guarantee that Chicago Rick’s is pretty tasty and authentic. It’s fairly easy to say after the idiot spoke. Sidenote: If you’re from Chicago, as you claim, the dogs are made from Vienna beef. Whatever this Venna is that you’re talking about is an imposter meat…unless you just have trouble spelling. I’ve always wondered what you people would do if you moved back to Chicago. All your bitching entertainment would end. I suppose you would go to barbecue restaurants and say “I’m from Dallas” and start complaining about how sweet the sauce is just to rekindle your moron fire.
BJ’s is not Chicago style pizza
Chicago’s Finest used to be Rosati’s which is a Chicago based franchise. CF still uses the same ingredients and so far is the best pizza I have tasted in Texas. Grant it I would not go to Rosati’s in Illinois, I would go to mom and pop shop places, Gino’s or Lou Malnati’s but what can you do when you don’t have many to choose from.
I have not tried Chicago Rick’s but I will need to give it a try.
One thing that everyone can do is order pizza online from Gino’s or Lou Malnati’s. It comes shipped in dry ice and is decent out of the oven.
A personal pleasure of mine was the pizza puff made by Il Taco. There was a place in Plano called Wrigleyville and I got them to carry them but it closed down. It was not in a good area.
To me there are 2 different styles of Chicago pizza. Everyone thinks of the deep dish but there is also a thin crust which is flour based that blows away all other pizza. All of these pizzas were made in mom and pop shops and have a distinctive flavor over other areas of the country.
There are good barbecue places in Chicago as well but I thought I could always take a bbq joint from the Dallas area and open it up north and it would do great. The tastes from north to south are just different. I could do the same with Tex-mex as well.
Just enjoy the best food you can in the region you live and keep searching for those places that cater to those tastes you miss.
Ok — May 2006, where is the best place in the greater metroplex (Dallas\Fort Worth) area to get a fresh hot Chicago Style Pizza?
Wow Melissa. Paul from Chicago Rick’s. All our dog and beef products are shipped from Vienna, Chipico, and Papa Charlie’s in Chicago. 100% of our crust is Chicago products. We work with Connie’s in Chicago on the crusts. Sorry to hear that you’ve had such a bad experience with us. –Paul
Hi Paul,
I will give Chicago Rick’s a try. I am wondering why if you work with Conie’s in Chicago you don’t use their beef instead of Vienna? Vienna is great for hot dogs but Connie’s makes much better beef. Also, do you have hot giardiniera and would you make a special pizza with Italian beef?
Thanks,
Sue – native Chicagoian, happier Texan
There are plenty of places to get a good Chicago dog here but the italian beefs are lacking. Used to make my own so I can still do that.
I also used to own a pizza place in Chicago so I think I can speak with some authority.
I have been to Chicago Ricks and it is about the same taste as Pizza Hut.. Quite a disappoinment. As to the claim about using Connies ingredients, it takes more then ingredients to make a good product.
I have found one place here called “That Chicago Place.” It has an exceptional Chicago pizza. I have only tried the thin crust but they also make a deep dish and a stuffed pizza. They sell par baked pizza’s so you can take them home and cook them later. They just reopened in Addison in the 15100 building which is the hockey rink Located in “Addison Square Garden”
15100 Midway Road
972-980-2335
They are open arfter 4 PM They also sell;
Italian Beef Homemade
Chicago Hot Dogs Vienna
Italian Sausage
Chicago Calzone
Pasta/Dinners
Cheesy Brats
Eli’s Cheesecake
As I said I only tried the thin crust pizza but it was exceptional. Give them a try you won’t be disappointed.
PS I forgot to mention…. You can buy Home Run Inn frozen pizzas at Abertsons now…. That is the largest selling thing crust pizza in Chicago. While frozen is not as good as fress… This is pretty good for a frozen pizza..
I was born and raised in Oak Park. I used to go to Cicero for my pizza. I have tried Wo-Max. It tastes just like Rosati’s. Crust is OK, but I prefer a sweeter sauce. They do however use chunk Italian sausage and not the crumbled stuff you get at other places. I usually make my own or get Home Run Inn from Albertson’s. They also sell Reggio’s and UNO’s. Culver’s just opened up in Flower Mound. All we need now is a Portillio’s. I may have to try some of the places mentioned here.
We don’t use Connie’s italian beef, we use Papa Charlie’s. The Vienna Beef was coming in very fatty and chunky so we gave Papa Charlie’s a try and people seem to like it. We make the gravy ourselves. Sue, we do have the Giardiniera for you. We don’t list it as a topping but if you request such a pizza we’ll make it. As for tasting like Pizza Hut you couldn’t be more wrong. You bring in one of their’s and we’ll taste them both. Ingredient don’t make a good product, preparation does.
Ok. I just ordered a Pizza Hut pan pizza. This thing is not even close to being a pan pizza. Can’t even pass for a thick crust. The sauce is non-existant, for good reason. There is no flavor to it. Pizza Hut large 2 topping for delivery=$16.37. Chicago Rick’s large up to 3 topping for delivery=$13.52. The flavor is no extra charge.
Hey Paulie!!
Ok so I know we havent been by in a really long time but we heard you guys moved somewhere else, to some ice rink or something…?? anyways we want to come by for pauls birthday next week so hope to see you!! let me know where your new location is.
and for everyone else, I cant really speak for the pizza b/c we always order the beef but its great:)
NO we’re still here. Rick sold the place about a year ago and we had a falling out. He tried to open a place in Addison(the rink) but couldn’t get it going. Look forward to seein’ you guys.
Okay, I prefer chicago thin crust – why everyone associates deep dish with the city, I will never know. Tourists like it, but natives (that I know) prefer thin. Here are place I have found that serve good thin:
Louie’s on Henderson in East Dallas – great sausage
Wo-Max in Flower Mound – good pizza, good beefs
The old Rosati’s – good
Little Joes in Keller – just found this place – pizza was great, beefs okay
Weinberger’s Deli in Grapevine – good dogs
Wild about Harry’s on Knox St – best dog I have had in Dallas
Will have to try That Chicago Place – thanks for a new one to try out
Tried Chicago Ricks and did not care for the pizza – haven’t tried the beefs or dogs
I think Chicago Ricks is good, not great. Since they moved and sold one shop I think it has went downhill. {just my opinion}
I also think Wo Max is just fair now it was better but the original owner died [I was told] and taste went too. I had a craving for Chicago dogs the other day and went there and had to wait 25 minutes for 2 hot dogs. Not doing that again.
Little Joe’s in Keller. I live in Flower Mound and make the drive every 2 weeks. The service is weak sometimes. The atmosphere is iffy. but the thin pizza is the best south of Chicago. I am making a trip to Chicago the end of the month and plan on going to the Tinley park, Chicago location. Try Little Joes in Keller you wont be disappointed.
Agree – Little Joes is great. Let’s go there as much as possible so they stay in business!!
Is Little Joe’s the place on Keller PKWY? I am dying for some good thin crust.
Just tried Lil Joe’s tonight. Wonderful. Best thin crust pizza I have had since leaving Chicago in 1984. Hit the spot!!! Thanks for the recommendation.
Yes, Lil Joe’s is normally closed on Tues, but they had accidentally booked a big party tonight, so they opened up. Just our LUCK… Thanks again…
Hi Annie! You’ve probably heard of us, That Chicago Place, previously of Bedford. Divorce caused the closing of our store there, we have reopened in Addison, just north of Belt Line on Midway. We are now known as Chicago Place Pizza, and when we were in Bedford, had been rated #1 in the DFW area, and voted Best of 2005 by Fort Worth Weekly. We are also the ones Pugs and Kelly always talk about. Come see us. 972-980-2335
Thank GoD! I am a South Side native and have lived in Dallas the past couple of years. I was doing some internet research for italian beef because i definately want to serve it for the superbowl. GO BEARS. I’m going to try That Chicago Place. Thanks for the suggestions!
Hey BGND98 you should try Chicago Ricks Pizza at 972-307-4257. I love there italian beefs and dogs and all the people who work there are very friendly. I love there pizza, the deep dish is out of this world. I usually get one atleast once a week. They are located on Frankford and Marsh, if i am not wrong they also won a couple of awards for the best pizza in dallas.
GO BEARS
Thanks Tom and Carol for the tips. I am also a native south side Chicagoan. I’ve been here a year and I truly miss the Chicago pizza, ribs, italian beefs and polishes. I live in Lewisville and will be visiting both Chicago Rick’s and Chicago Place Pizza. I’ll also have to check out Lil Joe’s.
Now all I need is some Italian ice and some good chinese food!
Been here for 9 years, from Northbrook. So far Chicago’s Finest in Plano is the best I’ve tasted because it use to be an actual Rosatti’s. Don’t know the details on why or how the name changed, but the Rosatti’s thin crust recipe is still there. Dog’s are great, If you order the beef make sure it’s dipped. Going to try The Chicago Place this weekend – thank’s for the recomendation. Let me know if find a good Maxwell St polish. Go Bears!
If you’re stuck here in Texas, you can’t get any better than Chicago’s Finest Pizza in Plano. Great little hole-in-the-wall joint that reminds me of home. This is the BEST Chicago-style pizza in Texas. Seriously. We’ll be ordering a couple of pies for Super Bowl Sunday. GO BEARS!!!
http://chicagosfinestpizza.com/
Janice, I also live in Lewisville – check out what used to be Womax pizza (renamed now to Mooses) in Flower Mound (right off 2499 and 3040). Good pizza. Going to get one for the game. They also have beefs and dogs. Weinberger’s Deli in Grapevine has polishes, but I have not had one. BEARS RULE
Just ordered italian beef from Chicago Place Pizza for the big game. They even have the gonnella bread!!
i am not from chicago but that chicago place is the best pizza i have EVER had. i don’t claim to be any sort of expert, but i know what i like and i suggest that chicago place every chance i get. when they were in bedford i drove an hour just to eat it.
i’m also from chicago, northsider (go cubs?). weinberger’s deli in grapevine have pretty good beefs, polishes and dogs. they carry vienna and scala products. i also think they have a location in southlake as well.
After searching for an honest Chicago stuffed pizza, and being disappointed time and time again, I am pleased to announce [b]I HAVE FOUND IT!!! [/B]
I’ve been going there for years, but getting their regular pizza, which is better than most deep dishes I’ve had, but tonight I thought I’d try their stuffed pizza again. Pictures are here:
This pizza place started as “The Flying Tomato”, which was an offshoot of the “Garcia’s Pizza in a Pan” that is popular in Illinois and Indiana college towns. 11 years ago, it became simply “The Tomato” and owned/run by a fellow who comes from the Chicago area. It’s a winner, hands down. And no, I don’t work for the place.
Better hurry though. It’s a victim of the “Fry Street Massacre” which is taking place in Denton. They will be reopening in another location, but they don’t know where yet. As it is now, they will be in their present location until Mid May.
Corner of Fry and Hickory near the UNT campus in Denton. (940) 383-1111. Try it while it’s still there!
JWK
Sorry, thought I could edit my comments. I took the liberty of shooting a couple of pictures of this pizza for your enjoyment.
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s141/K5ING/0702260001.jpg
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s141/K5ING/0702260005.jpg
JWK
A Rosati’s Pizza just opened in McKinney February 24th 2007. It is part of the http://www.rosatispizza.com group sponsored by Rick Rosati. The location is in the Wal-Mart Supercenter shopping center at Lake Forest & McKinney Ranch Parkway in McKinney (1 Mile north of Hwy 121 & Lake Forest Drive). The address is below:
Rosati’s of McKinney
5261 McKinney Ranch Parkway
McKinney, TX 75070
(972) 548-3900
I had their thin crust pizza and it was just like the pizza I enjoyed when I grew up in Niles Il and went to the 2nd Rosatis Pizziria to open in the 1960′s. It’s very similar to Chicago’s Finest Pizza.
If your from the Chicago area and miss authentic thin crust Chicago Style Pizaa, you’ll love Rosatis.
I just tried Little Joe’s Chicago Pizza in Keller and mmmmmm mmmmmmmm mmmmmmmmm To Die For!!!!!! My wife and I are definitely going back…. Next trip I am going to try the homemade Italian beef sandwich. I talked to diners and they tell me the Italian dishes are all great as well. Thin crust, deep dish and stuffed pizza and they now deliver in the Keller area…. Here is the important information….
Little Joe’s Famous Chicago Pizza and Ristorante
104 Navajo Drive, Keller, 76248
(SW corner of Navajo & Keller Pkwy, just west of Rufe Snow) (FM1709)
817-753-6300
Hours
11 a.m.- 9:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.- 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Hey,
I am from Lombard/Villa Park area, moved here in 99,to Grapevine. I used to drive up to Plano to Chicago’s Finest and get my pizza’s halfed cooked and freeze them. Lil Joe’s is closer and it is really good. We all have to email Buona Beef, Portillo’s,Carms and your favorite beef joints and ask them if they are tired of the winters and tell them that they would make a mint down here selling JUST BEEFS!!
Superbowl Beef;
1 crock pot
1 loaf of bread
1 rump roast
1 jar of Giardinaira (hot or mild)
cook on high for 4 hrs or slow for 7 hrs
Enjoy!! Mangia Mangia
maybe you can sell that, but keep emailing and bothering those eskimos to get down here!!
and if you liked those greek family diners, this chain is owned by vietnamese that have the best
Cindy’s Restuarant and NY Deli
I was born and raised in Chicagoland area (Mt. Prospect/ParkRidge). I spent 20 years there and then moved to the worst place for Pizza (California) and lived there for 32 years. I’m living in Irving now and can’t wait to have the chance to try some of these restaurants once I get to know the area. Thanks to all who have shared about the pizzas, Italian beef sandwiches, and the hot dogs. I’m so excited… lol
I am also originally from the south suburbs of Chicago. Over the last 11 years I’ve lived all over the Eastern U.S. and I can tell you no where will you find anything like Chicago cuisine. Vienna hotdogs are scarce and (good) Italian Beefs just can’t be found. I have tried Rick’s. It was a decent sandwich. For Texas it was great. In Chicago, like I said, decent. Unfortunately from where I live it cost me $20 for that one sandwich. (the sandwich, gas and tolls.) That’s why the best thing to do is order Portillo’s and Lou Malnati’s online. There’s nothing like the original. We ordered the beef sandwiches for the Superbowl and grilled Italian Sausage to make our own Combos. Portillo’s can not be beat. Luckily I was in Chitown over the weekend and had Portillo’s for lunch and pizza for dinner.
The phone to That Chicago Place Pizza in Addison Suare Garden is disconnected. Did he close down again? Did he relocate? I ate the pizza a few times in Bedford and it was great. I did not know he had relocated to Addison. And now I find out, but he is gone again.Anyone know a new location for him?
Wow! I did not know what chicago Pizza was supposed to be and couldn’t figure out all the hype. But, we have some friends who are from Chicago and have been looking for a taste of home. I had read about Little Joe’s Famous Chicago style Pizza on a local website and told my friends to try it. We ended up going along and What a treat! The thin crust is excellent, we order it extra crispy. The calamari is wonderful, get it with marinara not the offered ketsup. The cappelleni with shrimp, broccoli, sun dried tomatoes in olive oil and garlic is excellent. The meat balls are as tender as pate’ and the marinara sauce is the best. We have been back every Friday night. You can bring your own wine or beer in, which is always a nice bonus. They are closed on Tuesdays and have a Wed. lunch 2 for one pasta plate special. As far as I am concerned, everything here is special. They have the sweetest hostess that seats you and the wait staff is friendly and attentive. In fact when you walk-in even the cuatomers have a smile on their face, because they have discovered this hidden treasure stashed away on Navajo Drive in Keller, Texas. Hey, even I will tolerate that Chicago accent for a slice of the good stuff. Highly recommended even for the long drive from my town.
Little Joe’s Famous Chicago Pizza and Ristorante
104 Navajo Drive, Keller, 76248
(SW corner of Navajo & Keller Pkwy, just west of Rufe Snow) (FM1709)
817-753-6300
Chicago ricks was ok at best and the beef was way to expensive for what you get. i had to buy two last time, to make a resonable beef sandwich. i was born and raised in chicago and go back every chance i get. chicagos finest is very good and has good deep dish. BJ’s is ok.
as far as pizza puff you can order from Iltaco and pick up a deep fryer of your own. thats what i did. i like a good pizza when watching the sox or bulls so chicagos finest is where its at.
I was born in Chicage. The first time I had Pizza in Little Joe’s on 63rd St. in Chicago was in 1959. I was a steady customer for many years. It was the best Pizza in the Chicago area. We moved to Texas in 1996 and couild not find a place to enjoy Chicago stye Pizza. Now, a month ago, low and behold, we are told that Little Joe’s opened a place in Keller, Texas. Upon entering the parlor I knew we arrived and have been going back once a week ever since with a few friends. Little Joe’s has an aroma from the pizza’s that is outstanding. The pizza, extra large size, arrived at our table and I was finally able to taste a Chicag style Pizza again. We, naturally, ordered the largest size so we can feast again the following day. So, anyone in Texas that has a hankering for what a Pizza really is, go on down to Keller,Texas, for the treat of your culinary life. In addition to the Pizza’s they also serve many pasta meals, that you will not be able to finish the first time around.
After spending the first 38 years of my life living in the suburbs of Chicago, I moved to Ft. Worth almost 2 years ago. I have tried many pizza’s, but have found that Little Joe’s in Keller is, by far, the best Chicago Style pizza anywhere in North Texas. Don’t expect Gino’s East or Lou Malnati’s, but you won’t have to look any further than Little Joe’s for a very satisfying deep dish pizza.
Glad to hear more of you love Little Joe’s Famous Chicago Pizza in Keller. Last week, we met the owner Stephanie, who was in town checking on the restaurant. She is a bundle of energy. We got the scoop on what the best dishes are, so we are going next for the homemade lasagne and the ravioli. Can’t wait. Oh and of course we’ll have a Chicago Style Thin Crust Pizza on the side.
Here’s the address in case anyone out there needs it.
Little Joe’s Famous Chicago Pizza and Ristorante
104 Navajo Drive, Keller, 76248
(SW corner of Navajo & Keller Pkwy, just west of Rufe Snow) (FM1709)
817-753-6300
WOW! Matt recommended Chicago’s Finest Pizza, which is located in Plano at Independence and Springcreek pky….Awesome!! My favorite was Uno’s, but now that they are no longer in Dallas….I know where to go!
Hello Fello Chicagoans! I moved here to Keller about a year ago from Division and Damen in Chicago – culture shock yes, I’m still going through it. However, I have to agree with all of you in that Little Joe’s is great Chicago style pizza. Also, I would love to know if you guys have found any good places to hang out in the Fort Worth area? My husband and I are always up for meeting other Chicagoan in Texas! I can be reached at amygarnold@gmail.com Happy Memorial day everyone.
Drat, too late to set up a Memorial day get together :( But as has been said, lets DO have a Chicago get together someday soon?
Anybody on here went to Bloom HS, or Rich East?
Went to Joe’s the day after my post. It was very good, better than what I have had for a very long time, but was not totally like home. I have had better beef (Portillos had just opened up in SoCal the year before, and Mustard’s in Long Beach was even better), but I bought 4 of them, and took 2 back to work for friends – they all LOVED them (of course, never had the REAL thing to compare ha ha).
I had a large thin crust – and WOW! You could hold it straight out without drooping!!!! Have not seen that for a long timne. The crust and sauce were very good, though a bit salty. And the cheese was so chewy, the way I love it, and flavorful, not too overwhelming like at other places.
Also tried their mostaccioli with ricotta cheese and meat sauce – hmmmmmm.
I will be back for sure! But will also try to get to the others as well.
Thanks all for the suggestions!
PS: Just so happens, Joe’s still has 2 places back home – both my where my brother still lives.
Found this site by accident and what a great find it is. I was born and raised in Chicago…first on the south side, then Downers Grove, and then when I was old enough to get out on my own, I lived at 1120 N. LaSalle, then on Kenmore St. in Lincoln Park, and lastly Presidential Towers…ahhh, the city life of Chicago. I sure miss it. I’ve lived in Rowlett now for the past 12 years. I would love to do a Chitown get-together. My husband just doesn’t understand the connection us Chicagoans share.
Now on to food, I can’t wait to try all the wonderful suggestions on this site. I’d also like to add: “What about Mr. Beef’s” on Orleans in Chicago…BEST BEEF sandwiches…and I’m not just saying that because the owners, Dominic & Joey Zucchero, are my cousins!!:)
Now where the heck is Keller, TX??? I’ve got to try this Lil Joe’s. It sounds fantastic. I’m dying for a beef sandwich “dipped” with hot giardinara!!!! Okay, I’m getting hungry now…
BJ’s Chicago Pizza in Dallas should close its doors forever!! Not only was it one of the worst pizzas I’ve ever had, it most certainly nothing near Chicago style pizza. I really don’t know how they can get away with calling themselves that. Maybe most of their visitor just don’t know. They are giving Chicago style pizza a bad name!
Keller is surrounded by Roanoke, Southlake and an outskirted area of Ft. Worth. You’re about 1 1/2 hours away, but it would be worth the trip if you’re really missing that home style pizza. Get it extra crispy. Come over for a day trip or something. You’ll surely find one of your Chicago peeps there;)Be sure to go to Little Joe’s Famous Chicago Style Pizza on Navajo, not a restaurant down the road by a similar name.
If anybody is in mckinney we just got a great Chicago Style pizza place. It is off of 380 across from Raytheon. Best pizza and beef sandwiches around. The owner is Ozzy from Chicago. Worked in some of the pizza restraunts around. Give it try. You wont be sorry.
Chicago St Pizza
972-548-7050
B.J.’s has got to be THE worst pizza I have ever tasted. I love pizza! And for me i’ll take deep dish or thin, but B.J’s is trash!!!!! I had a horrible experience with Chicago Rick’s which I won’t mention, but I will never set foot in that place ever again! I like to go to Pappa’s Pizza in Addison on Beltline, I would’nt call it true Chicago style but it’s pretty damn good. Oh, and Goodfellas on Frankford and Old Denton is good too, but you must get the New York style, the Other one too hot!
Correction to my original note! Try Goodfellas New york style because the other one is NOT that good
I just found this website and was delighted to see all of the people who miss Chicago like I do!
I taught in Naperville and my husband is from Roselle. We moved here in 1984.
Here are the latest updates on Chicago food:
Windy City Grill in Keller has closed. :(
The Tomato Pizza in Denton has been flattened by a developer. :( Their website still works:
http://thetomatopizza.net
A new Rosati’s has been open for four months in McKinney. http://www.rosatispizza.com
Chicago’s Finest Pizza in Plano USED to be a Rosati’s.
South of I-20 in Fort Worth is Sweet Home Chicago, 6208 McCart Ave. http://www.sweethomechicagorestaurant.com
I maintain a “Ties to Home – Chicago” list. If you’d like a copy, respond to this or send me an email at paulette@themoralefairy.com
My family loves Chicago Ricks’ pizzas. I also had my first real Vienna Beef hot dog there – Chicago-style. Yumm!
Chicago Rick’s Pizza – 3628 Frankford Rd, Dallas, 75287 – (972) 820-9689
Another Chicago transplant here. My wife and I were life long resindents (Me in Maywood, Oak Park, my wife in Niles and Schaumburg, we moved to Bartlett) prior to moving here in December of 2005. We, like many other Chicagoans, took pizza for granted, and never realized how good we had it there. We STILL marvel at how Texans can completely screw up pizza. We were recommended I Fratelli so tried it. MOTHER OF GOD how can it possibly that bad? We still cannot figure out what they put on top of it, but I can assure you it bears no resemblence to what we call “sausage” in Chicago. We had a Rosati’s in Hanover Park close enough that delivery came to us piping hot. Rosati’s is not the best, but they make a solid thin crust.
Thanks to all who posted…we’ll give a try to Little Joe’s as that sounds pretty good. Go Bears.
Hey Crip, I am also a fellow Oak Park’er. Born and raised. Humphrey & Harrison and Ridgeland & Fillmore. We used to go to Al’s in cicero on 22nd. St. In Texas you better say Italian Sausage or you may get breakfast sausage.
I am from Park Forest and a graduate of Rich East. That Chicago Place when in Bedford had the best Stuffed Pizza Ever! Unfortunately with the constant moving we have been unable to catch up with it and have it again.
Will have to try Little Joe’s in keller.
Anyone ever try the original Aurellios Pizza in Homewood?
I’m a transplant from Fullerton and Narragansett. And today, I received the greatest news in my life (well, since I moved to Texas in ’04). Finally, a place to get anything close to a deep dish and a real italian beef. From what I’ve read, no Gino’s and no Uno’s around here. But I’m definitely going to drive around and try all these places.
I’ve been away from Chicago for a few years now, so my question is… is ketchup still a No No on Chicago dogs?
Anyway, anyone frequent Perry’s up in Park Ridge? Or the Weiner’s Circle downtown? I miss Chicago a lot and seeing the Cubs play the Rangers was a treat. Go CUBBIES!!!
I’ve made up my mind!! We’re going to Little Joe’s in Keller tonight for some extra crispy thin crust, a med. deep dish (for leftovers tomorrow) and gotta try a beef. Do they have the always fanous combo’s (It. beef and It. sausage together on Gonella Bread!!!) And don’t forget the giardiniera peppers!! To die for!! If you’re reading this tonight, come join us. We’ll be the ones with smiles on our face. Now if I can only find some Old Style beer to take with me
SWEET HOME CHICAGO!!! (But I got to Texas as quick as I could and Lovin’ it…..Hook ‘em Horns!
Hey Crip, Born and raised in Oal Park. If you ask for “sausage” you better specify Italian sausage or you will get breakfast sausage. Give Joe’s a try in Keller. Best around.
Scott,
Yeah, I noticed that about the breakfast sausage…what a difference. I lived on Grove in between The Eisenhower and Roosevelt, walking distance from Buona Beef and Giovanni’s.
Anyhow, I have not made it to Joe’s in Keller yet as it’s 40 minutes from where I am at in Flower Mound and, well, I’m lazy. That said, we have ordered recently from Womax (or Moose’s as it is now called) in Flower Mound. The Deep Dish is OK to maybe a little less than OK, but the thin crust ain’t bad. It’s definitely better than anything else we’ve had down here.
Susan B,
I frequented Aurillio’s in Villa Park. It was definitely good, but a little salty for my taste.
-Crip
I lived on Ridgeland and Fillmore. We used to go to Al’s in Cicero for our pizza. Womax is nothing more than Rosati’s. We go to Joe’s every couple of months when we need our fill.
Scott,
Are you an OPRF grad? If so, what year did you graduate?
-Steve
Crip,
I went to OPRF my freshman year. I would have graduated in ’87. We moved to Berkeley. I recall a pizza place on MAdison. I think it was called Pizza Amore’ or something like that. now the next thing we ned here is a Portillio’s. I miss the little hot dog joints that you find on every corner.
http://www.loumalnatis.com/ They’ll mail you Chicago Pizza anywhere in the world.
Going to Ft Worth for a convention, will try Little Joe’s. Raised in Streamwood, so in my book, nothing beats Nana’s for Beef. I tried the combo at Buona Beef a few weeks back. You can get better in Chicagoland, but at 11:30 PM, it can’t be beat.
I was born and raised in Hillside my wife in Cicero. We were exceiled to Southlake for ten years. Two years ago when our son graduated high school we decided it was time to go home. We now live in Elmwood Park withing walking distanc eof Johnnies and eat Pizza weekly at various places, Jim & petes Armands Q’s Falcos Al’s etc. Anyway while in Texas my go to place for Pizza was Natale’s in Dallas. 146 Spring Creek Shopping Center 972-392 7390 Run by an old Chicago area family it is the best thin crust you will find in the area. Small (was BYOB) and will remind you of a Chicago neighborhood place. I used to drive from Southlake every two weeks for a fix. They make their own excellent Italian sausage, no Texas rabbit turd “sausage” here. They will also par cook to take home and finish but it is best eaten there piping hot from the oven.
Friends of my husband told him about a place in Arlington that has real Chicago-style pizza. He thinks the name of the place is Weinsteins. Anyone heard of it? Recommendations???
There is a Weinburger’s deli in grapevine that serves some Chicago stuff i.e. dogs, beefs, polishes but no pizza.
Better late then never…I finally took my family to Little Joe’s in Keller. It was definitely the best deep dish pizza that I’ve had in the metroplex, but would end up being middle of the road in Chicago. We got one deep dish and one stuffed…I definitely recommend the deep dish over the stuffed. I felt that the sauce was a bit thin and that they could have added some more meat to the festivities, but overall it was pretty solid.
I live in Dallas but have been to Chicago. I ate at Pizzeria Due. It was amazing. I’ve been craving it ever since we came back. Can’t find anything like that in the metroplex. Sad. I will say one thing about BJ’s pizza. It’s by no means Chicago style, but it is amazing pizza.
Thanks for posting these. BJ’s is not Chicago pizza but for the most part I have enjoyed it though I have had one or two that were just OK. The first Chicago Rick’s I had was Ok and I called a second time to order and told them I was disappointed with the first and to put more cheese on it. They did and it was much better. I definitely appreciated that they listened to the customer. I have not been to the flying tomato in years but it was excellent. Hope it is still good. I would eat at all these places again. Think I will try that Chicago Place or Rositas in the next week or two. I have ordered Lou Malnati’s and had it shipped here. It was good but it needs to be thawed before cooking. Looking forward to Gino’s. I have never been to Chicago but was introduced to its pizza by Nancy’s Pizza in Atlanta. It was food from the God’s as far as I was concerned. They do have Chicago locations and I am posting their website.
http://www.nancyspizza.com/index.html
Again, all of you who have posted: Thanks.
You can order Lou Malnati’s from the website I am posting below. I really enjoyed the crust. It is good pizza but I would have enjoyed more tomato sauce. I am also posting Gino’s, have not had it but a Chicago friend of mine recommended it. Both offer reasonable pricing with shipping being $18-23 for a couple of pizzas.
Lou’s
http://www.tastesofchicago.com/
Gino’s:
http://featuredfoods.com/
Also from Park Forest, Went to Rich east “95″ moved down here but was trying to get to houston. Man I am starved down here I need a good beef sandwhich, some ribs and a hotdog. I used to whine to these dallas folks that they do not know good food. They are fat for no good reason my extra 50 pounds I carry come from portillios, Lems ribs, Aurellios pizza. Not this nasty sonic, cc pizza mess. I am looking up “little joes” right now!! Worest of all pregant and craving good food.
To Jon from 06 be quiet if you are not from chicago! SHUT uP! A chicago themed pizza does not give you the qualifications to judge anything chicago. Yeah We proud Chicago people announce where we are from becuase we can be pround of our city. There is NO place like Chicago and we do not like to be bull craped about Chicago style food. This site is for the people who were from there. Born and raised. WE know good food! Dallas Ribs Suck to!!
I also have to agree Chicago Ricks BAD SERVICE, EXPENSIVE and NOT GOOD!!!! They should be NOT be allowed to have Chicago in their title. BJ’s Sucks to. I took my husband there becuase he was craving some Chicago style pizza he was so mad at me over that sorry!@@# pizza he sent the pizza back and told off the manager.
The Tomato in Denton was hands down the best pizza, ever. I’ve missed ever since I moved away. I’m so sad to hear it’s gone–does anyone know if they managed to relocate?
Failing that, can anyone give me a recipe for Garcia’s/Flying Tomato pizza? I’ve been looking all over the net.
I tried Chicago’s Finest in Plano for the first time in March. Folks I grew up eating at Uno’s in Addison and thoughts that was good but Chicago’s Finest is in a class by itself. They get most of their ingredients from Chicago and make the crust and cheese in-house. This is the closest you’re gonna get in Texas. It is one incredible pie.
To begin with, I was born and raised in Chicago. I moved away when I was 30, so I do not have a passing acquaintance with Chicago style cuisine. I have not been to some of the places mentioned in the earlier responses and I do not have time to read all of the entries. My husband and I found a great Chicago style pizza restaurant in McKinney. The name of the restaurant is “Chicago Street Pizza” and their address is 2414 West University Drive. This is west of 75 on 380 at the corner of Wisteria Way in the strip mall. It takes 45 minutes for them to make a deep dish pizza, so they recommend you call ahead. Their telephone number is 972-548-7050. They don’t have a menu online, but they will fax a copy of their menu. This pizza is really worth the time, distance, and effort.
There is a new place in plano called Chicago’s Gourmet pizza…. I got a 50 percent off ad for it in the mail so tried it out last night. I ordered a chicago style deep dish and what i got was a pizza that looked and tasted like dominoes with a 2 inch fluffy crust little sauce on top of it with cheese then the pepperonis on top on that… I will never go back and will tell everyone i know not to go there. It is a straight up lie. The owners claim to have studied chicago pizza the last 15 years. http://www.Chicago‘sgourmetpizza.com you can see pictures on there of this supposed deep dish pizza it looks almost identical to the other crust.
Have you tried Chicago St. Pizza in Plano on Coit Rd. and Hedgcoxe? I love their thin crust. They sell pizza by the slice at lunch time. I sometimes add toppings…
http://www.chicagostreetpizza.net
Anybody here anything about Chicago PLace Pizza in Addison? is it open? Any info is appreciated…
My family has been going to Chicago Ricks for almost 8 years now. Love the pizza. It has a different flavor than the other chains – LOTS OF FLAVOR. Their pizza pie is incredible. It is almost 2 inches thick! I get the dawgs when I have time to sit in the lobby and watch the tube.
My company made their website many years after being just a customer.
Chicago Ricks
Keep up the great food Sam and Paul!
Born and raised on the north side (GO Cubbies), Harlem and Irving area, close to Taft High. Moved to Schaumburg, then Bloomingdale. Went to Glendbard North in Carol Stream. Really miss the food!! Glad to hear of Little Joe’s, bit of a drive but I am going this weekend. I owned a Chicago Style Hot Dog joint in Colorado Springs, miss the Vienna dog’s, and beef’s.
I hear that Little Joe’s in Keller has a new owner and has changed the pizza. You may want to call ahead and ask questions before going.
Where can a man in NC get one of these wonderful deepdish pies?
The best place was Sweet Home Chicago in Fort Worth but it closed this past year!! So sad.
I tried to call Little Joe’s last night and the phone is not a working number. I searched for awhile and found no alternative number. I’m guessing that they went out of business. Too bad. I live near Denton and since “The Tomato” closed I’ve been dying for a good stuffed pizza.
My family moved to Rockwall in 2006. We came here from the Western Suburbs of Chicago. The things I miss most are the Chicago Style Pizza and the Italian Beef sandwiches. I have been searching for good pizza for almost two years. We found a fantastic Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza at Deliciano’s Pizza in downtown Heath, Texas. My wife says it is better than Giordanno’s, the sauce, the crust everything about it is fantastic. I’m hoping he will soon have some Chicago Style Hotdogs and Italian Beef sandwiches. The search is over…..
I’m a chicagoean that enjoys her stuffed pizza like anyone else. I would say a Pizza Snob, and for the ones who wrote about not understanding about what all the hype with chicago food is… Just go and you will understand. Otherwise keep your ignorant comments to yourself.
Anyway…. I found a place in Frisco that is very very good. And trust me until I tasted it I wasn’t a believer. It’s called Chicago Pizza Cafe. You can eat it there and it’s very close to the taste of home. Give it a try….
JUST MOVED TO DFW AREA> I lived and worked in Chicago on the NS, WS, ES and SS as a police officer so I’ve had my share of Amato’s, Art of Pizza, Bacinos, Beggars, Connies, Demenzios, Due, Edwardo’s, Falcos, Father & Son’s, Freddies, Ginos East, Giordanos, Home Run Inn, Lou Malnatis, Moretti’s, Nancy’s, Nick & Vitos, Pizanos, Pizza Capri, Pompei, Reggio’s, Ricobene’s, Rosatis, Rusticas, Uno, God awful Aurelios in Indiana, not to mention L/C, D’s, P/H, and a host of others. SO I have my work cut out for me trying to find good pizza, get back to you later.
From the western suburbs as well. Little Joes in Keller closed last year. Haven’t found good deep dish in a while. Found another place in Keller that does a great thin crust called Chelsea Pizza. Have them cook it well done and ask them to cut it into squares for you. Don’t know why, but it just tastes better that way!!
We have found the only true, Chicago pizza in DFW area. Deep Dish and thin crust alike, the best, REAL CHICAGO! We went to Chicago’s Original last weekend, and the food is awesome. We had the deep dish and a thin crust, better than we ever had anywhere in Chicago. Real sausage chunks on the cut in squares thin crust. The sausage on the deep dish was semi patty. Had to add a beef and dog to our collection that night, and wow, better than Portillos, Al’s or Mr. Beef! The customer sitting by our table was from Philidelphia, and he said their Philly was equal to or better than any Philly in his home town of Philidelphia. Seating was limited, but they just opened up a wall to reveal a nearly finished dining room for more than 40. It gave us a “Cheer’s Bar” feeling of atmosphere because many regulars and newcomers alike all chatted as friends, with the owner that was from Chicago pleasantly talkig with all. It appeared that it is the home to all Chicagoans who finally found the food they would bring home in a plane whenever they visited Chicago! This place is a must, and worthy of my long review. http://www.chicagosoriginal.com