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Stix n Brix Pizza + Cafe
Master Critic Review
Stix n Brix Pizza + Cafe
8.0
Tucked into Armour Square, Stix n Brix runs a cozy pizza-and-cafe hybrid built around wood-fired pies, beer-dough tavern pizzas, and a short list of sandwiches and salads. It’s pricier than classic slice shops, but the crust work, topping quality, and ability to sit with a coffee or drink make it a solid value for a more modern, sit-down pizza night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pepperoni Pizza, Margherita Pizza, Hot Honey Hustle Pizza
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Wood-fired and beer-dough pizzas in a small, cafe-style space that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a typical slice joint.
Who should go: Din ers wanting upgraded toppings and crust without fine-dining formality.
When to visit: Weeknights and early weekends before peak takeout and delivery volume.
What to order: Pepperoni Pizza, Margherita, Hot Honey Hustle.
Insider tip: Mix crust styles by ordering one pie on the original wood-fired crust and another on the thicker beer dough to see which you prefer.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking on nearby residential blocks; usually manageable on weeknights but can tighten during White Sox game days or peak dinner hours. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, sneakers, and neighborhood hangout attire are common.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is generally easy at smaller tables, but it can feel lively during peak takeout and family-dining periods.
Weekend wait: 15–35 minutes at peak if you walk in, especially during game nights or bad weather when takeout spikes.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with plenty of seating outside of school dismissal and early dinner rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — Margherita-style pies, customizable veggie toppings, and salads make it workable for most vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — you can build a cheeseless veggie pie or lean on salads, but there isn’t a dedicated vegan cheese program.
Gluten-free options: Limited — no dedicated gluten-free dough advertised; salads and lighter sides are safer options, and guests with strong sensitivities should confirm cross-contact policies with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, low-pressure dates — the cozy cafe setting and shareable pies work well if you want conversation without formality. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a quiet or upscale atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it operates primarily as a walk-in neighborhood spot. Arrive a little earlier on weekends or around game nights to avoid short waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are common, and the menu is approachable for kids. Space is compact, so strollers and large groups fit best during off-peak hours.
Best For
Better for: People who want upgraded toppings and crust work in a relaxed, sit-down cafe environment rather than a quick slice counter.
Skip if: You want the lowest-cost by-the-slice experience, ultra-thin tavern pies at scale, or a very quiet dining room during peak hours.