Discovering Chicago Style Pizza In New Jersey: A Culinary Journey

Chicago style pizza has taken the culinary world by storm, and its popularity continues to grow across the United States, including New Jersey. This delicious and hearty dish, known for its deep-dish crust and rich toppings, is a must-try for pizza enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

In this article, we will explore the origins of Chicago style pizza, what makes it unique, and the best places to enjoy it in New Jersey. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to appreciate this iconic dish.

Join us as we delve into the world of Chicago style pizza in NJ, highlighting the restaurants that serve it and discussing tips on how to order it like a pro. By the end of this article, you will be well-equipped to embark on your own pizza adventure in the Garden State!

The Origin of Chicago Style Pizza
Characteristics of Chicago Style Pizza
Best Places to Enjoy Chicago Style Pizza in NJ
How to Order Chicago Style Pizza
Making Chicago Style Pizza at Home
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Resources

The Origin of Chicago Style Pizza

Chicago style pizza originated in the Windy City during the early 20th century. The first pizzeria to serve this iconic dish was Pizzeria Uno, founded in 1943 by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo. They aimed to create a new type of pizza that featured a thick, buttery crust filled with mozzarella cheese, a rich tomato sauce, and various toppings.

This unique pizza style quickly gained popularity, and many other pizzerias began to adopt and adapt the recipe. Today, Chicago style pizza comes in two main varieties: deep-dish and stuffed. The deep-dish version features a thick crust that is baked in a pan, while the stuffed version includes an additional layer of dough on top of the toppings, creating a "stuffed" effect.

As Chicagoans embraced this culinary innovation, the dish began to spread beyond the city limits, eventually reaching New Jersey. The fusion of Chicago style pizza with local tastes has led to the emergence of numerous pizzerias across the state serving their own delightful renditions.

Characteristics of Chicago Style Pizza

What sets Chicago style pizza apart from other pizza varieties? Here are some key characteristics:

Thick Crust: The crust is usually 1-2 inches thick and has a buttery flavor.
Layered Ingredients: The ingredients are layered in reverse order compared to traditional pizzas, with cheese on the bottom, followed by toppings and sauce on top.
Rich Tomato Sauce: A thick, flavorful tomato sauce is essential, often seasoned with herbs and spices.
Generous Toppings: Chicago style pizza is known for its generous portions of cheese and toppings, making it a filling meal.

Best Places to Enjoy Chicago Style Pizza in NJ

New Jersey boasts a vibrant food scene, and pizza lovers will be delighted to find several pizzerias serving Chicago style pizza. Here are some of the top-rated spots to indulge in this delicious dish:

1. Chicago’s Pizza

Located in Westfield, Chicago’s Pizza is famous for its authentic deep-dish pizza. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes to create a truly mouthwatering experience.

2. Giordano’s

Originally from Chicago, Giordano’s has made its way to New Jersey, bringing its legendary stuffed pizza with it. The pizzeria is known for its flaky crust and generous fillings, making it a must-visit for any pizza aficionado.

3. Tony Boloney's

In Atlantic City, Tony Boloney's is a local favorite for its creative take on Chicago style pizza, offering unique toppings and flavor combinations that capture the essence of this iconic dish.

4. The Chicago Diner

With locations in both Montclair and Hoboken, The Chicago Diner serves up a delicious deep-dish pizza that has garnered rave reviews. The inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it the perfect spot for a pizza night.

How to Order Chicago Style Pizza

Ordering Chicago style pizza can be a bit different from standard pizza. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best experience:

Be Prepared for a Wait: Chicago style pizza takes longer to bake than traditional pizza, so expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes.
Share with Friends: Due to its size and richness, it's best to share a pizza with a group to fully enjoy the experience.
Choose Your Toppings Wisely: While classic toppings are always a hit, don't hesitate to explore unique options offered by the pizzeria.

Making Chicago Style Pizza at Home

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making Chicago style pizza at home? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup pizza sauce
Your choice of toppings (e.g., pepperoni, vegetables)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and melted butter until a dough forms.
Press the dough into a greased deep-dish pizza pan.
Add a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by your chosen toppings.
Pour the pizza sauce on top and sprinkle with additional cheese.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chicago style pizza:

Is Chicago style pizza gluten-free? Some pizzerias offer gluten-free options, but the traditional deep-dish crust contains gluten.
Can I find vegan Chicago style pizza? Yes, many restaurants provide vegan cheese and toppings for a plant-based option.
What is the difference between deep-dish and stuffed pizza? Deep-dish has a thicker crust, while stuffed pizza features an additional layer of dough on top of the fillings.

Conclusion

Chicago style pizza has become a beloved favorite in New Jersey, enchanting locals and visitors with its rich flavors and hearty portions. From its origins in Chicago to its rise in popularity across the nation, this delicious dish continues to bring people together. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the best Chicago style pizza spots in NJ or even try making it at home.

Have you tried Chicago style pizza before? Share your experiences in the comments below, and don't hesitate to share this article with fellow pizza lovers!