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Pizzeria Uno
Master Critic Review
Pizzeria Uno
8.1
The birthplace of deep dish pizza stands as a registered Chicago landmark where Ike Sewell's 1943 creation launched a culinary revolution. Fresh dough made daily, original recipe maintained for over 80 years in the historic original building.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Deep Dish, Numero Uno, Chicago Classic
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Historic landmark—the actual birthplace of Chicago deep dish pizza in 1943
Who should go: History buffs, first-timers seeking authentic origins
When to visit: Mid-afternoon for shorter waits; evenings get busy
What to order: Numero Uno with sausage, or build your own Original
Insider tip: Check out the plaque commemorating the 1943 founding—you're eating history
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot; nearby garages via SpotHero ($15-25), limited street metered parking on Ohio/Wabash—difficult after 5pm
Dress code: Casual—jeans and t-shirts common, come as you are
Noise level: Moderate—conversation friendly but lively during peak hours in the intimate historic space
Weekend wait: 30-60 min without reservation; use OpenTable or click-ahead waitlist
Weekday lunch: Seated immediately or 10-15 min max; lunch special available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—Primo deep dish with mushrooms, onions, peppers; Spinaci with broccoli and cheese blend; salads
Vegan options: Limited—vegan cheese available for pizzas, side salads with oil/vinegar
Gluten-free options: Yes—GF crust prepared on separate counter but baked in shared oven; not celiac-safe
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Works better as a casual date. The historic ambiance adds charm, but expect a 30-45 minute pizza cook time—plan for conversation. Cozy booths available but the space is compact. Better for 'fun activity' dates than intimate romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but use the click-ahead waitlist on their website to save your spot. Walk-ins face 20-45+ minute waits on weekends. Pro tip: arrive by 4pm or after 8:30pm for shorter waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—kids menu available, highchairs provided, casual atmosphere. Order the deep dish immediately upon seating since it takes 30-45 minutes. Thin crust options cook faster if kids are hungry. Full bar keeps parents happy during the wait.
How long does the pizza actually take? Deep dish takes 30-45 minutes from ordering—it's made fresh in the original style. Order before browsing the menu or grab an appetizer. Thin crust options are faster if you're time-crunched.
Is this just for tourists? It draws tourists for the history, but locals still come for the original recipe and atmosphere. The lunch special (individual pizza, soup, drink under $15) is a local move. Less crowded mid-afternoon on weekdays.
Best For
Better for: Experiencing where deep dish was invented—the 1943 original recipe in the actual historic building. Best crust in the deep dish game according to purists. Great ambiance with historic memorabilia and that 'you're eating history' feeling. Solid lunch special value.
Skip if: You want the buttery 'modern' crust style (go Lou Malnati's), extra-cheesy stuffed pizza (go Giordano's), or you have celiac disease. Also skip if you're in a rush—this isn't fast food.