Pequod's Pizza interior atmosphere
Our Story

Chicago's Original
Deep Dish Legend

Since 1971, Pequod's has been crafting the most iconic pan pizza in Chicago — defined by a caramelized cheese crust that no one else can replicate. This is our story.

Inside Pequod's Pizza restaurant on Clybourn Avenue
1971
Founded
in Chicago
Our Story

Born in Chicago,
Beloved Everywhere

Pequod's Pizza was founded in 1971 in Morton Grove, Illinois by Burt Katz — a visionary pizzaiolo who believed deep dish could be so much more than a thick crust with toppings piled on top. He invented a signature technique: coating the edge of the pan with cheese before baking, creating a caramelized, crispy crust rim that became our calling card.

In 1986, the restaurant relocated to its current home at 2207 N Clybourn Ave in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, where it has served generations of pizza lovers ever since. The new location carried on every tradition, every recipe, and every ounce of passion that started it all.

"The caramelized crust isn't just a feature — it's the soul of every pizza we make. It's what separates Pequod's from every other deep dish in the city."

Today, Pequod's is widely regarded as one of the best deep dish pizzerias in the world. From locals who've been coming since childhood to visitors who make us their first stop in Chicago, the love for our pizza is universal and unmatched.

50+
Years of Pizza
1M+
Pizzas Served
4.8
Star Rating
Our Values

What Drives Us Every Day

Behind every great pizza is a set of principles we refuse to compromise on. These values guide everything we do — from sourcing ingredients to welcoming guests.

Fresh Ingredients

We source locally whenever possible and use only the freshest produce, cheeses, and meats. No frozen shortcuts — ever.

Made with Passion

Each pizza is hand-crafted with genuine care. We treat every order like it's going to our own family's table — because that's exactly how we feel about our guests.

Community First

Pequod's is part of Chicago's fabric. We support local events, partner with neighborhood organizations, and give back to the city that made us who we are.

Uncompromising Quality

Over 50 years and we haven't changed the core recipe once. Consistency and excellence aren't goals — they're the standard we've held since day one.

Our Mission

To Serve Chicago's Most Memorable Pizza,
One Caramelized Crust at a Time

We exist to create joy — through exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a dining experience that keeps Chicago coming back for more. Every pizza we make is a promise to uphold that mission.

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Our History

Over Five Decades of Deep Dish

From a small Morton Grove pizzeria to a Chicago institution recognized worldwide — here's the journey that built Pequod's legacy.

1971

The Beginning

Burt Katz opens the original Pequod's in Morton Grove, Illinois. His revolutionary idea of caramelizing cheese along the pan edge creates an entirely new style of deep dish that Chicago has never tasted before.

1979

The Crust Becomes Legendary

Word spreads across the city. Food critics and local media take notice of the caramelized crust phenomenon. Pequod's earns its first major press feature, introducing the pizza to a wider Chicago audience.

1986

Moving to Lincoln Park

Pequod's relocates to its permanent home at 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago. The iconic Lincoln Park location quickly becomes a neighborhood staple, drawing regulars from every corner of the city.

1994

National Recognition

Pequod's appears on national food television for the first time. Overnight, the restaurant becomes a destination for pizza tourists from across the country, cementing its place in American pizza history.

2005

Catering & Events Launch

Responding to overwhelming demand from loyal customers, Pequod's officially launches its catering service. Corporate events, weddings, and parties across Chicago are now graced with the famous deep dish experience.

2021

50 Years & Still Going Strong

Pequod's celebrates its 50th anniversary with sold-out events and a massive outpouring of love from the Chicago community. Ranked among the top deep dish pizzerias in the world, the legacy only continues to grow.

Our Team

The People Behind the Pizza

Every great dish starts with great people. Meet the dedicated team who wake up every morning passionate about giving Chicago its best pizza experience.

Marco Ricci, Head Chef at Pequod's Pizza
Marco Ricci
Head Chef

With 22 years of deep dish mastery, Marco guards the original recipe and trains every cook who touches a Pequod's pan. The caramelized crust is his art.

Sarah Kowalski, General Manager at Pequod's Pizza
Sarah Kowalski
General Manager

Sarah has managed front-of-house operations for 14 years. Her commitment to warm, genuine hospitality sets the tone for every guest experience at Pequod's.

James Thornton, Sous Chef at Pequod's Pizza
James Thornton
Sous Chef

James brings creative flair to seasonal specials while ensuring consistency on every classic. A Culinary Institute graduate who chose Pequod's over fine dining — and never looked back.

Amara Johnson, Catering Director at Pequod's Pizza
Amara Johnson
Catering Director

Amara leads Pequod's catering operations, turning corporate events and celebrations across Chicago into unforgettable deep dish experiences for hundreds of guests.

Want to be part of our story? We're always looking for passionate people.

Join Our Team
Ready to Taste It?

The Legend is Waiting for You

Now that you know our story, come taste the pizza that's been defining Chicago deep dish for over 50 years. Order online or visit us on Clybourn Avenue.

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