CHICAGO - Giordano's Pizza in Chicago is one of the city's best places to get deep-dish pizza. It is a family-run restaurant that has been serving Italian favorites since 1974. Today, Giordano's has 59 locations in the Chicago area and Florida. They also offer a variety of other items on the menu, including pasta, fresh salads, and sandwiches.
Chicago is synonymous with deep-dish pizza, and among the city's many pizzerias, Giordano's stands out as a beloved institution. Known for its signature stuffed deep-dish pies, Giordano's has been serving up its unique take on this Chicago classic since 1974. This article explores the history, the ingredients, and the enduring appeal of Giordano's Pizza, a Chicago culinary landmark.
A Family Recipe with Deep Roots
The story of Giordano's pizza is a story of family tradition. When Giordano's opened its first restaurant in Chicago in 1974, the recipe for its signature stuffed deep-dish pizza was based on a 200-year-old family recipe, reportedly originating in a small town near Turin, Italy (Source: Giordano's website, historical accounts of the restaurant). This connection to Italian heritage is a key part of Giordano's identity. The restaurant was founded by brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio.
The Art of the Stuffed Deep-Dish
Giordano's is most famous for its stuffed deep-dish pizza, a distinct variation on the Chicago deep-dish style.
- Double Crust: Unlike a typical deep-dish, which has a single thick crust, Giordano's stuffed pizza features two layers of crust.
- Cheese First: The bottom crust is layered with generous amounts of cheese (made in Wisconsin), then the toppings, and finally, a thin top crust.
- Sauce on Top: The top crust is then covered with a rich tomato sauce, made from California tomatoes.
- Slow Baking: The pizza is baked slowly to ensure the cheese is melted, the crust is cooked through, and the flavors meld together.
Quality Ingredients: A Commitment to Flavor
Giordano's emphasizes the quality of its ingredients:
- Wisconsin Cheese: The cheese, a crucial component of any pizza, is sourced from Wisconsin, renowned for its dairy products.
- Mendocino County Tomatoes: The pizza sauce is made with tomatoes from Mendocino County, California, known for their rich flavor.
- Thin and Crispy Crust: Despite being a deep-dish pizza, the crust is described as thin and crispy, adding to its appeal.
Menu Options and Popular Choices
While the stuffed deep-dish with pepperoni is the most popular choice, Giordano's offers a variety of options:
- Toppings: Customers can choose from a range of classic pizza toppings.
- Sizes: Pizzas are available in individual 6-inch sizes and a medium size that serves multiple people (up to eight slices).
- Beyond Pizza: Although the text focuses on pizza, Giordano's likely offers other Italian-American dishes, appetizers, and salads (this should be confirmed by checking their menu).
Recognition and Acclaim
Giordano's has earned widespread recognition for its pizza. It has been featured in publications like the New York Times, Chicago Magazine, and the Chicago Tribune, solidifying its status as a Chicago culinary icon.
Giordano's Pizza is more than just a pizzeria; it's a Chicago institution, a testament to the enduring appeal of deep-dish pizza, and a celebration of family tradition. From its 200-year-old recipe to its commitment to quality ingredients and its signature stuffed deep-dish creation, Giordano's offers a unique and delicious pizza experience. Whether you're a Chicago native or a visitor exploring the city's culinary scene, a visit to Giordano's is a must for any pizza lover.