The Chicago Traveler

Uno Chicago Grill / Pizzeria Uno

by Matt B on January 24th, 2008

I’ve written about quite a few pizza places here in Chicago, but you can’t talk about deep-dish pizza without giving homage to the original: Uno Chicago Grill, better known as Pizzeria Uno. (The new name evolved from the new menu, which includes “hip and intense new tastes.” Hmm.)

Whatever the name, the gooey deep-dish has remained the same. Uno’s introduced the world to this Chicago trademark in 1943, under the command of founder Ike Sewell. (It is likely though that the original recipe was developed by Chef Rudy Malnati.) Twelve years later, Pizzeria Due opened just a block away (619 N Wabash Ave) to handle the overflowing crowds from the original restaurant. It’s no surprise that Uno fills up so quickly, considering its small size: 18 small tables, 5 booths, and an 8-seat bar. The outdoor patio makes for a great people-watching spot, though.

Deep-dish choices include your typical cheese, sausage, or pepperoni, along with interesting flavors like BBQ chicken, Spinoccoli (spinach and broccoli), and the Numero Uno—extra cheese, sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers. Please, please remember that these are big pizzas, so they will very likely take 45-60 minutes to bake. However, I assure you, it will most certainly be worth the wait.

Make room in your refrigerator before you leave. You’ll need the space because after only two slices, your hunger will be obliterated, and you’ll want to save the rest for when you’ve recuperated.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) christina.hope, Scuddr

Uno Chicago Grill ($$): 29 E Ohio St; 312-321-1000
Sun: 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Mon – Fri: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Street parking difficult, pay lot available across the street
Public trans: Bus # 3, X4, 10, 22, 26, 29, 36, 65, 125, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 151
Red Line train (Grand)
http://www.unos.com/

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POSTED IN: Pizza, Restaurants