Ask a Chicagoan to name their favorite pizza spot, you’ll likely spark a debate as passionate as Cubs vs. Sox or Marshall Field’s vs. Macy’s. Deep dish pizza isn’t just food here, it’s part of the city’s identity. And when visitors ask us about the best Lou Malnati’s location, they’re looking for more than just great pizza. They want to know which restaurant offers the best atmosphere, whether dining in is worth it and which location delivers the ultimate Chicago experience.
At Chicago Food & City Tours, we’ve sampled plenty of pizza across the city while leading thousands of guests through Chicago’s most iconic food neighborhoods. While we don’t officially pick favorites, Lou Malnati’s has earned its reputation as one of Chicago’s most beloved deep dish institutions. That’s why it’s featured on our Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour.
So what’s the best Lou Malnati’s location? The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a deep dish enthusiast, or a local introducing friends to Chicago classics, this guide will help you choose the right Lou’s for your next pizza adventure.
The first Lou Malnati’s location opened in Lincolnwood in 1971, just northwest of Chicago. Founder Lou Malnati began making pizza in the 1940s and helped define what many people now think of as authentic Chicago deep dish pizza.
Today, the family-owned company has grown to dozens of locations throughout Illinois and beyond, but the recipe remains consistent. Hand-selected tomatoes, mozzarella cheese from a small dairy producer, a proprietary lean sausage blend, and Lou’s famous Buttercrust continue to set the standard for Chicago-style pizza.
If you’re visiting Chicago and want the classic dine-in experience, the Gold Coast location is our recommendation.
Located near Michigan Avenue, Oak Street Beach and some of the city’s most popular hotels, this flagship restaurant offers:
Deep dish pizza takes time (typically 30-45 minutes) and while takeout is convenient, we recommend dining in if your schedule allows. For first-time visitors, the sit-down experience is worth the wait. If it is your first time visiting this part of the city, then check out our guide to the best things to do in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood.
Visit Lou Malnati's - Gold Coast: 1120 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610
The River North restaurant holds a special place in company history. Opened in 1986, it was the sixth Lou Malnati’s location and the first within Chicago city limits.
What makes Lou Malnati's River North location special:
This location is featured on our Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour because it combines great pizza with a great neighborhood. After your meal, you’re just minutes away from Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk and Navy Pier. Looking for an after-dinner drinks nearby? Check out our guide to unique River North cocktail bars.
Visit Lou Malnati's - River North: 439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
There’s something special about visiting the location where Lou Malnati’s story began. While the menu is consistent across locations, many longtime fans appreciate the nostalgia and neighborhood feel that Lincolnwood offers.
Visit Lou Malnati's - Lincolnwood: 6649 Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Want to enjoy Lou Malnati’s while learning the stories behind Chicago’s most iconic foods? Our Iconic Foods of Chicago Tour includes a stop featuring Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizza, along with other Chicago favorites.
Our tours offer the added benefit of local insights from guides who every day explore Chicago’s culinary landscape. Check out our tour calendar to see current availability for all of our food tours in Chicago.
