You're planning a meeting or team event in Chicago. You've got limited time between sessions, and maybe your team can't swing the full Chicago Pizza Tour (even though, let's be honest, it's the greatest team outing in the city). But you still want your group to have that iconic "we're in Chicago" moment without guessing where to go.
Here are five pizzerias I would personally choose to host a business lunch, team dinner, or corporate meetup in Chicago. And why they work so well for professional groups.
No. 01
Labriola Chicago
535 N Michigan Ave
Best for companies meeting in Streeterville, River North, or anywhere near the Mag Mile.
Rich Labriola has spent 30 years perfecting dough. Between his bread company, his bakeries, 20+ Stan's Donuts, and now his flagship pizza location right on Michigan Avenue, the man is a master of his craft.
He's got a sharp staff and private rooms separated from the main dining space. It is just steps from some of the busiest hotels in the city, making it an easy walk for your team after a long day of sessions.
What to order
Go deep dish for the caramelized crust. It's got that burnt cheese edge you want. Then get tavern-style thin crust to round it out like a real Chicagoan.
No. 02
Pizano's Pizza & Pasta
61 E Madison St (Loop) · 2106 S Indiana Ave (McCormick Place)
Best for companies meeting near Millennium Park, the Art Institute, or attending a trade show at McCormick Place.
This one is a legend. Rudy Malnati Jr. comes from the family that helped pioneer the deep dish at Pizzeria Uno. Rudy didn't stop there. He put just as much care into getting his thin crust right too.
The space is cozy, classic, and full of locals.
When I first told Penny Pollack, the former dining editor at Chicago Magazine and a total pizza nerd, that we were starting the tour at Pizano's, she said, "I can't think of a better representation of a Chicago pizzeria."
It is the perfect spot to give your team an authentic Chicago experience without the tourist-trap feel.
What to order
Get both styles. I wouldn't dream of going without ordering thin and deep.
No. 03
Lou Malnati's
Various locations · Gold Coast recommended
Best for companies meeting in the Near North Side, the Gold Coast, or near Oak Street Beach.
You know the name. You've seen the boxes. But if you've never been to a Lou's in Chicago, now is your chance to do it right. Their Gold Coast spot on State Street is my go-to for meetings.
They've been doing it since 1971 and somehow, after all this time, they are still doing it right. They are a well-oiled machine when it comes to service, meaning you can focus on your conversation while they handle the logistics of a high-quality meal.
What to order
Go straight for the deep dish. Don't mess around. Get the Chicago Classic. That is the butter crust with extra sausage. That is the one.
No. 04
Piece Pizza & Brewery
1927 W North Ave
Best for companies meeting in Wicker Park, Bucktown, or looking for a vibrant neighborhood vibe.
Since 2001, Piece has been running the wild concept of brewing their own beer and pizza. Okay, I realize that is not an extremely new concept now, but it was when they first opened. Piece puts you in the heart of one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Chicago.
Piece has a few different sections that can be rented out privately that separate you from the main crowd. It is a great way to give your team a break from the Loop or River North and show them a different side of the city.
What to order
Their New Haven-inspired pizzas are a far cry from the deep dish, but they are one of our favorite stops on the tour. Go for a red or white pie and pair it with a house-brewed beer.
No. 05
Pizzeria Serio
1708 W Belmont Ave
Best for companies with large groups looking to meet in Lakeview or Roscoe Village.
This has always been one of our late-night go-to spots on the tour because they have the space and the quality to make a private event memorable in one of Chicago's great neighborhoods.
They have a very large upstairs area that you can rent out with its own private bar. It is the perfect setup if you need a dedicated space for a presentation or a large team dinner where you don't want to be cramped.
What to order
These are dynamite wood-fired artisan pies. The crust is thin, crispy, and consistent, exactly what you want when you are feeding a big crowd.
Can't Pick Just One?
That's why we built Chicago Pizza Tours.
If you're planning a team outing, company off-site, or even just a small client dinner, we'll take your group to multiple pizzerias in one afternoon so no one has to choose. You'll visit real Chicago neighborhoods, taste the different styles, and actually learn what makes Chicago pizza so legendary. All you have to do is show up hungry.
Reach out to book a team outing or check our weekend tour availability.
