California Pizzeria Crowned Best for Chicago-Style Pizza, According to Yelp
In a surprising twist, the best Chicago-style pizza, according to Yelp, is not found in Chicago but in Monterey, California. Celebrating National Deep Dish Pizza Day, pizza lovers used Yelp to rank the top 25 places in the U.S. and Canada for enjoying this cheesy, deep-dish delight. The top spot went to Heirloom Pizza Co. in Monterey, highlighting the nationwide love for this style of pizza. Other California eateries like Tony’s Little Italy Pizza Company and Masa of Echo Park also featured on the list, alongside entries from Chicago, Texas, Nevada, and Arizona.
A Golden Victory for Deep Dish Pizza
Heirloom Pizza Co. in Monterey has been crowned the best place for Chicago-style pizza, according to Yelp reviews. This surprising victory over traditional Chicago pizzerias has brought attention to the Golden State’s pizza scene. Tony’s Little Italy Pizza Company in Placentia and Masa of Echo Park in Los Angeles also secured spots on Yelp’s prestigious list, proving California’s strong presence in the deep dish pizza domain.
The list includes eateries from various states including Texas, Nevada, and Arizona, showcasing the widespread appeal of Chicago-style pizza across the country. Despite the competition, three Chicago-based restaurants managed to hold their ground in the top 25, maintaining the city’s reputation as a deep dish haven.
What Makes Chicago-Style Pizza Stand Out?
Chicago-style pizza is renowned for its deep, pan-baked crust filled with cheese, meats, vegetables, and sauce, in that specific order. This hearty version of pizza is celebrated annually on National Deep Dish Pizza Day on April 9th, reflecting its beloved status among pizza enthusiasts. Its distinct layers and robust flavors differentiate it from other pizza styles, making it a must-try for those who cherish a rich and satisfying meal.
The method used by Yelp to determine the top Chicago-style pizzas involved analyzing businesses in the pizza category based on mentions of “Chicago style pizza” and “deep dish pizza” in reviews. Factors like the volume and ratings of these reviews were considered to rank the eateries, showcasing the community’s favorite spots for indulging in this iconic dish.
Top Picks for Chicago-Style Pizza Enthusiasts
Among the top recommendations is Tony’s Little Italy Pizza Company, praised by a Yelp Elite member for its authenticity and quality, reminiscent of true Chicago pizza. This endorsement highlights the importance of genuine preparation and knowledge in achieving the authentic taste of Chicago-style pizza outside of its home city.
The list also features a diverse array of locations across the United States and Canada, including standout establishments like Carmines Pie House in Jacksonville, FL, and Vero Pizza Company in Queen Creek, AZ. Each of these eateries brings a slice of Chicago’s culinary excellence to their local communities, allowing more people to experience the deep dish phenomenon.
Canada’s contributions to the list, with spots like The Hungry Dragon in Oakville and Chicago Style Pizza in Hamilton, ON, further illustrate the international appeal of Chicago-style pizza. These establishments, along with Slice of Chicago in Vancouver, BC, ensure that the deep dish tradition is enjoyed far beyond the borders of the United States.
Heirloom Pizza Co.’s victory is a testament to the universal love for pizza and the innovative spirit of pizzerias outside Chicago. It challenges the notion that the best Chicago-style pizza can only be found within the Windy City, encouraging foodies everywhere to explore new and unexpected destinations for their deep dish fix.
