Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl

Discover Chicago’s Deep-Dish and Beyond on the West Loop Pizza Crawl

The Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl offers a delicious journey through some of the city’s best pizzerias for $79 per person. Spanning approximately 3 hours, this tour provides an in-depth look at Chicago’s famous pizza culture, featuring four different pizza styles including deep-dish, Neapolitan, Roman al taglio, and Sicilian. Starting at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria and ending near Forno Rosso Pizzeria Napoletana, this experience is perfect for those eager to explore the city’s culinary heritage beyond just the usual deep-dish slice.

Led by a trained pizza guide, participants enjoy live commentary about Chicago’s history, local eateries, and the stories behind each pizza type. The tour combines tasting enough pizza for a hearty meal with fascinating insights into Chicago’s food scene. While it’s a walkable, social experience suited for most travelers, vegetarians need to notify the team in advance.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Chicago’s pizza scene with four different styles tasted.
• Approximately 3 hours of guided walking through the West Loop neighborhood.
• Includes lunch at each stop, so you’ll leave well-fed.
• Led by knowledgeable guides with commentary on Chicago’s history and culinary heritage.
• Starts at Lou Malnati’s and concludes near Forno Rosso Pizzeria, about a half mile apart.
• Price is $79, with bookings typically made 18 days in advance.

The Starting Point at Lou Malnati’s in the West Loop

The tour begins at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria located at 1235 W Randolph St. This iconic spot is a natural starting point for Chicago-style deep-dish pizza lovers. The guide greets the group here, providing a brief overview before setting off on the 3-hour walk. The location is near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors, but parking may require extra planning since guests aren’t allowed to leave cars in Lou Malnati’s parking lot for more than an hour.

Sampling Four Pizza Styles: Deep-Dish, Neapolitan, Roman al Taglio, and Sicilian

Throughout the tour, pizza tasting is the main focus. You’ll sample slices at each stop, ensuring you don’t leave hungry. The stops include well-known establishments where pizza owners and makers share their stories, inspiration, and tips. This approach makes the experience more than just eating; it’s about understanding the craft and culture behind each style.

The deep-dish from the starter spot is classic Chicago, while other stops introduce Neapolitan, Roman al taglio, and Sicilian pizzas. The doughcents, trained to discuss the city’s pizza history and highlight from the book “Pizza City USA,” make sure you gain a richer appreciation of Chicago’s diverse pizza offerings.

Learning About Chicago’s Culinary and Historical Heritage

The itinerary includes a historical stop at the market, where you learn about the Haymarket Massacre and the city’s May Day founding. These stories connect Chicago’s past to its vibrant food scene today. The guides are well-versed in local history, making the tour educational as well as tasty.

This historical context adds depth to the experience, helping participants see Chicago’s pizza culture as part of a larger story. The guides’ commentary is lively and informative, making each stop memorable beyond just the pizza.

Insider Tips from Expert Guides

The trained guides provide more than just pizza orders—they share insider tips, stories, and recommendations. They introduce you to social media handles through a lanyard, making it easy to connect with the pizzerias afterward. Their knowledge on Chicago’s pizza highlights from “Pizza City USA” enriches the tasting experience.

Guides also discuss the history of each restaurant and offer suggestions for further exploration. If you’re a vegetarian, be sure to notify the team the day before as some stops may have limited options for non-meat eaters.

Practical Details: Group Size, Booking, and Weather

The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want a moderate-paced walking experience with ample time to enjoy each slice. The tour departs at 11:00 am, making it a perfect late-morning activity—just come hungry and ready to walk.

Good weather is necessary for the outdoor walking and tasting. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The tour is suitable for most people age nine and older, but those with mobility concerns should consider walking distances.

The Final Stop at Forno Rosso Pizzeria Napoletana

The tour concludes about half a mile from the starting point at Forno Rosso Pizzeria Napoletana. Here, you’ll experience a different style of Neapolitan pizza, rounding out the tour with a lighter, authentic Napoletana experience. The location offers a cozy setting where you can reflect on the diverse styles sampled during the crawl.

Who Will Enjoy the Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl?

This tour is perfect for food lovers eager to learn about Chicago’s pizza culture in a friendly, guided setting. It’s especially suitable for those who want a rundown of different pizza styles, rather than a superficial tasting. The knowledgeable guides and historical context elevate the experience, making it educational as well as delicious.

Because the tour includes four pizza stops, guests should come with a big appetite—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Vegetarians should communicate in advance, as some stops may have limited options. The walkable route and small group size create a relaxed atmosphere for everyone.

The Sum Up: A Must-Do for Pizza Enthusiasts in Chicago

The Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl offers a well-balanced mix of tasting, learning, and strolling. Priced at $79, it provides a thorough introduction to the city’s pizza scene, with insider stories and expert commentary. The stops at iconic pizzerias enable guests to savor four distinct styles, making it ideal for those who want more than just a slice.

While the tour is not suitable for vegetarians without notice and requires good weather, its small group size and informative guides make it a high-value experience. Whether you’re a local pizza lover or a visitor eager to explore Chicago’s culinary roots, this tour offers a satisfying, educational slice of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 11:00 am.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria at 1235 W Randolph St and ends near Forno Rosso Pizzeria Napoletana at 1048 W Randolph St.

What styles of pizza will I taste?
You will try deep-dish, Neapolitan, Roman al taglio, and Sicilian pizzas.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Vegetarians need to notify the tour provider the day before to accommodate dietary needs.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guided commentary, four pizza tastings, and a badge with social media handles. Drinks like soda and alcohol are not included but available for purchase.

How many people participate in each tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are generally made about 18 days in advance and are non-refundable.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English well?
The data does not specify language requirements, but generally, the guide’s commentary is in English. Check with the provider for language options.

Is parking available?
Guests should allow extra time for parking, as cars cannot stay in Lou Malnati’s lot for more than an hour.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and bring an appetite—this is a food-focused tour with ample tastings.