About Pequod's pizza

The story of pequod's pizza — Chicago's most iconic deep dish destination, crafted with passion, baked with tradition, and served with pride since the 1970s.

50+
Years of Legacy
1M+
Pizzas Served
4.8
Average Rating
30+
Team Members
Pequod's pizza restaurant interior in Chicago
1970s
Est. in Chicago

How pequods pizza
Became a Chicago Legend

Pequod's pizza began as a small neighborhood pizzeria with a single, unwavering vision: to create the most authentic Chicago-style deep dish that money could buy. Founded in the 1970s at the heart of the city, our founders believed that great pizza starts with great ingredients — and that philosophy has never changed.

"We didn't set out to be famous. We just set out to make the best pizza in Chicago — and let the food do the talking."

What sets pequods pizza apart is our signature caramelized crust — a technique perfected over decades that creates an irresistibly crispy, golden-brown edge with a rich, almost nutty flavor. When you bite into a slice from Pequod's, you taste more than just cheese and sauce; you taste half a century of craftsmanship.

Today, operating from our flagship location at 2207 N Clybourn Ave in Chicago, we continue to honor that original recipe while welcoming new generations of pizza lovers through our doors every single day.

Explore Our Menu

What We Stand For

Every pizza we make reflects the core values that have guided Pequod's since day one — quality, community, and passion for the craft.

Uncompromising Quality

We source only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. From our hand-crushed tomatoes to our house-blended cheese mix, quality is non-negotiable at every step.

Made with Passion

Every dough is hand-pressed, every pizza assembled with care. Our kitchen team brings genuine passion to every pie — because you can taste the difference.

Community First

We are part of the Chicago neighborhood fabric. We hire locally, support local suppliers, and give back to the community that has supported us for over five decades.

Honoring Tradition

While we embrace innovation, we never stray from our roots. The recipes that made Pequod's famous are still at the heart of everything we create today.

Five Decades of Deep Dish History

From a single oven in Lincoln Park to a beloved Chicago institution — here's how Pequod's pizza grew into a legend.

1970s

The Birth of Pequod's

Founded in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, Pequod's opens its doors with a single wood-fired oven, two employees, and a dream to make the city's finest deep dish pizza.

1980s

The Caramelized Crust Discovery

Our now-legendary caramelized cheese crust technique is perfected and introduced to the menu, instantly setting Pequod's apart from every other pizzeria in Chicago — and the country.

1990s

City-Wide Recognition

Chicago Magazine names Pequod's one of the top ten pizzerias in the city. Word spreads, and lines begin forming outside our doors every weekend — a tradition that continues to this day.

2000s

Expansion & New Location

Responding to growing demand, Pequod's expands to the Clybourn Avenue location — a larger, modernized space that preserves the original neighborhood warmth while serving more guests.

2010s

National Media Spotlight

Featured on major food networks, travel shows, and national publications, Pequod's pizza earns its place as a must-visit destination for pizza lovers traveling to Chicago from around the world.

Today

Still Baking, Still Legendary

With over 1 million pizzas served and counting, Pequod's continues its mission at 2207 N Clybourn Ave — same recipe, same passion, same commitment to the best deep dish in Chicago.

The People Behind the Pizza

Our passionate team of chefs, managers, and front-of-house staff are the heartbeat of Pequod's — bringing warmth and expertise to every visit.

Marco Ricci

Head Chef & Co-Founder

With 30+ years behind the oven, Marco perfected the caramelized crust technique that defines Pequod's. He oversees every recipe and mentors our culinary team daily.

Sarah Kowalski

General Manager

Sarah has been the operational backbone of Pequod's for 15 years. Her dedication to hospitality ensures every guest leaves with a full stomach and a smile.

James Okafor

Sous Chef

A culinary school graduate with a passion for innovation, James brings fresh ideas while keeping Pequod's classic flavor profiles intact. He specializes in our seasonal specials.

Elena Vasquez

Guest Experience Lead

Elena has trained every front-of-house staff member at Pequod's on the art of warm, attentive hospitality. She ensures that dining at Pequod's is always an experience worth remembering.

Love what we do? We're always looking for passionate people to join the Pequod's family.

View Open Positions
Pequod's pizza dining area
Chicago deep dish pizza fresh from the oven
Pequod's pizza kitchen team at work
Pequod's pizza cheese pull shot
Artisan pizza preparation at Pequod's
Pequod's pizza Clybourn Ave Chicago location

Order Now & Experience
Chicago's Best Deep Dish

Come visit us at 2207 N Clybourn Ave or place your order online. The pizza that built a legacy is just a few clicks away.

2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago
Mon–Sun: 11AM–10PM
Pequod's pizza legendary deep dish ready to serve