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There are a few important things to remember when discussing deep-dish pizza, no matter where your allegiance lies. First, deep-dish is not for everyone. Second, deep-dish shouldn’t be compared to thin crust, particularly New York style slices - it’s a unique fork and knife experience.
And if you’re looking for classic deep dish, Lou Malnati’s is the move. And if you want Lou Mal’s straight from the pan (you do) go to the restaurant in River North. Keep in mind that when the Wells St. location opened in 1986 River North was a neighborhood full of adult video stores, not bottle service. The point is, Lou Mal’s on Wells is from a different era, and looks like it. And we apppreciate the old school feel of a cozy bar and dining room with sports jerseys hanging on the walls.
As far as the pizza goes, Lou’s is classic Chicago-style pizza. Meaning the sauce is on top with the cheese and toppings underneath. The crust is buttery and flaky, there’s a ton of cheese, and the whole thing is pretty much a gooey and delicious mess. In other words, after a trip here you might want to make sure your schedule is light the rest of the day.