The Absolute Best Chicago Style Pizza in Charlotte [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed twelve local pizzerias, I’ve tasted enough deep-dish delights to know what truly stands out.

From flaky, buttery crusts to rich, robust sauces, each bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Charlotte’s pizza scene may be diverse, but it’s the Chicago-style offerings that tug at my heartstrings.

Join me on this delicious journey as we explore the top spots serving up these hearty, sauce-heavy pies.

Benny Pennello's

Highlights
Giant slices of pizza
Open late until 3 AM
No-frills pizza spot
High quality at great price
Quick service even when busy

At Benny Pennello's, the first thing that hits you is the no-frills vibe that feels both inviting and fun. This isn’t the kind of place that needs to dress up; it lets its pizza do the talking. The giant slices are absolutely impressive, practically begging you to dig in. You know it’s serious pizza when you can barely hold it all!

Even more enticing is their menu's value—high quality at a great price is a rarity nowadays. Whether you’re stopping in for a late-night snack (they're open until 3 AM, folks!) or just craving a hearty Chicago-style slice, Benny’s does not disappoint. My slice was perfectly cheesy with a delightful, rich tomato sauce that made every bite feel like a warm embrace.

To top it off, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly my pie arrived, even with the buzz of other hungry patrons around. Benny Pennello's may be no-frills, but it’s precisely this casual approach that makes their Chicago-style pizza shine. If you’re on the hunt for great pizza in Charlotte, you can't go wrong here. This place deserves a spot on your pizza pilgrimage! 🍕

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Pizzeria Sapienza CLT

Highlights
Authentic homemade pizza
Fantastic bartender service
Kind and polite staff
Amazing service experience
Perfect Uptown location

Pizzeria Sapienza CLT was a delightful discovery on my quest for the best Chicago-style pizza in Charlotte. Nestled in the vibrant Uptown area, this spot is a gem that serves up authentic homemade pizza that transports you straight to the Windy City. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a kind and polite staff whose enthusiasm for their craft was palpable.

Their menu is a pizza lover's dream, but it was that deep-dish wonder that truly caught my attention. As I savored each bite, the combination of the rich, tangy tomato sauce and the perfectly blended cheeses made my taste buds sing. The crust — oh, that crust! Golden and buttery, it held the hearty filling beautifully without losing its form.

What truly enhanced my experience was the fantastic bartender service; their recommendations elevated the evening, rounding out the meal with just the right drink. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Pizzeria Sapienza CLT is an essential stop for anyone in search of exceptional pizza and a cozy atmosphere. I can't wait to go back for another slice of their deliciousness!

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Bisonte Pizza Co.

Highlights
Cold food served to customers
Long wait times for service
Friendly waitstaff experience
Mixed pizza style offerings
Owner unresponsive to complaints

When I stepped into Bisonte Pizza Co., I was immediately drawn to the lively atmosphere, but my enthusiasm was soon tempered by the less-than-stellar service. The waitstaff was genuinely friendly, which made the long wait for our food a bit more bearable. Now, it’s one thing to be patient for a delectable dish, but when your pizza is served cold, that's another matter entirely!

The menu offers a variety of pizza styles, and I had high hopes for their Chicago deep-dish. Unfortunately, the crust felt like it was missing that signature buttery crunch. It seemed like the owner was too focused on expanding the menu rather than perfecting their core offering. I noted a lack of responsiveness to complaints from other diners, which, as a food aficionado, raised an eyebrow or two.

Overall, Bisonte Pizza Co. left me wanting more. The potential is there, but I believe that refining the basics could elevate their pizza to new heights. While it wasn’t my top pick in Charlotte’s pizza scene, the friendly ambiance showed some heart. I’ll be keeping an eye on their progress, hoping that this gem can polish itself into something truly remarkable!

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Pie In the Sky Pizza

Highlights
Always hot and ready pizzas
Excellent customer service
Great quality meat pizzas
Accommodating for large orders
Consistency in team meetings

Review of Pie In the Sky Pizza

As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of Chicago style pizza, I found myself stepping into Pie In the Sky Pizza with high expectations—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with exemplary customer service that instantly made me feel at home.

The aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air, and my heart skipped a beat. I decided to try their signature meat pizza, packed to the brim with high-quality toppings that came together like a harmonious symphony. Each bite offered a delightful blend of rich flavors and cheesy goodness, making it clear that they take pride in their craft.

One of the standout features of Pie In the Sky is their commitment to consistency. I noticed the team conducting meetings to ensure every pizza served hits the mark, and it shows in their output! Even with a bustling crowd, the pizzas arrived hot and ready, showcasing their efficient service.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a personal slice, Pie In the Sky Pizza has all your deep-dish cravings covered. Don't miss out on this pizza paradise in Charlotte!

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Sal's Pizza Factory

Highlights
Best specialty pizza in Charlotte
Consistently good experiences
Varied menu options
Mixed reviews on garlic knots
High expectations from patrons

Sal's Pizza Factory has firmly cemented its place in my pizza-loving heart during my recent visit. As I walked in, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant atmosphere that buzzed with anticipation, hinting at the wealth of deliciousness about to unfold.

My decision to try their Chicago-style specialty pizza did not disappoint! Each bite delivered a delightful burst of flavor, perfectly showcasing the rich marinara and gooey cheese that this style is renowned for. Sal's certainly sets the bar high, leaving other pizzerias in Charlotte scrambling to catch up.

While the menu offers a tantalizing variety, I did hear mixed reviews about the garlic knots. I opted to stay focused on the pizza experience, which, let me tell you, was sublime. The lively buzz of the restaurant only added to my enjoyment. Patrons around me appeared equally enchanted, fervently raving about their own pizza choices. With such high expectations, I can honestly say Sal's lives up to the hype.

If you’re in Charlotte and have a craving for authentic Chicago-style pizza, Sal's Pizza Factory is your go-to spot. Prepare yourself for an experience that's satisfyingly cheesy with a punch of flavor! 🍕

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Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street

Highlights
Consistently delicious pizza
Friendly and attentive staff
Family-friendly atmosphere
Great to-go service
Highly recommended by visitors

Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street is a delightful stop for anyone on the hunt for Chicago-style pizzas. As I walked in, I was met with a family-friendly atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. The decor is charming, and the buzz of happiness in the air is infectious!

The real star of the show, though, was the pizza itself. As I dug into my first slice, I found the crust pleasantly thick and wonderfully buttery, serving as a perfect foundation for the generous layers of tangy marinara and rich cheeses. It was evident that they take pride in their craft, as each bite delivered a taste of consistently delicious flavors that satisfied my craving.

The friendly and attentive staff made the experience even more enjoyable. They not only recommended some of their best-selling pies but also ensured that I had everything I needed, which I truly appreciated. Whether you're dining in or opting for the great to-go service, Hawthorne's should definitely be on your radar for a taste of authentic Chicago-style pizza right here in Charlotte. Trust me, you'll want to come back for that second slice!

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Giacomo's Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Mind-blowing grandma's pie
Tasty pesto chicken pizza
Fried wings to perfection
Good local dining experience

Giacomo's Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant truly embodies the spirit of Chicago-style pizza, making it a must-visit for any pizza aficionado in Charlotte. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and welcoming staff, setting the tone for what would be an exceptional dining experience. The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the mind-blowing grandma's pie—a delightful twist on tradition that boasts layers of flavor, with a perfectly buttery crust that holds together a generous amount of toppings.

Equally impressive was the pesto chicken pizza. This innovative offering combined bright and fresh flavors, complemented by a crispy base that allowed the ingredients to shine. To round out my meal, I indulged in their fried wings, which were cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.

Overall, Giacomo's delivers a fantastic local dining experience, pairing delectable dishes with a cozy atmosphere. If you're in Charlotte and craving authentic Chicago-style pizza, Giacomo's Pizzeria is an absolute gem you won't want to miss. With its amazing offerings, it’s clear that Giacomo's is in a league of its own!

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Why Not Pizza

Highlights
Quick service
Huge portions
Delicious dessert options
Friendly staff
Good value for money

Why Not Pizza quickly became a standout in my quest for the best Chicago-style pizza in Charlotte. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was greeted by an incredibly friendly staff who made me feel right at home. I was pleasantly surprised at the quick service; my pizza arrived in no time, ensuring my craving was satisfied promptly.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the pizza itself. The portion sizes are simply huge, making it a great choice whether you’re dining solo or with a group. I savored a slice of their signature deep-dish, which boasted a robust filling of gooey cheese and fresh toppings. It was everything one could hope for in a Chicago-style pizza.

But wait, there’s more! Before leaving, I couldn’t resist trying one of their delicious dessert options. It was the perfect sweet ending to a hearty meal. With its great value for money, Why Not Pizza certainly wins my endorsement. If you’re in Charlotte and craving a true Chicago pie, I urge you to give this place a try. Trust me, you won't regret it!

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Geno D's Pizza

Geno D's Pizza is a delightful gem that transports your taste buds straight to Chicago with each bite. The deep-dish crust is perfectly golden and buttery, cradling generous layers of rich, zesty marinara and melty cheese that sings with flavor. What sets this pizzeria apart is their robust assortment of toppings, allowing for a unique spin on the classic. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for sharing a slice with friends. If you’re in the mood for a hearty pizza that delivers on both taste and texture, Geno D's should definitely be on your radar!

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Chicago Pete's - Charlotte Center City

At Chicago Pete's - Charlotte Center City, I was greeted with a charming atmosphere that felt like an authentic slice of Chicago. The deep-dish pizza was a delightful marvel, with its flaky crust cradling a rich, chunky tomato sauce and a gooey layer of mozzarella. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, highlighted by fresh toppings that added the perfect zest. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you're craving a true Chicago-style treat, this spot certainly delivers. I’ll be dreaming of that pizza until my next visit!

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Inizio Pizza Napoletana

Nestled in the heart of Charlotte, Inizio Pizza Napoletana offers a delightful twist on the classic Chicago-style pizza. While their focus is predominantly on Neapolitan fare, don’t let that fool you! I was pleasantly surprised by their deep-dish option, which delivered a rich crust and layered flavors that rival some of the Windy City’s best. The gooey cheese melted beautifully, while the chunky tomato sauce added the perfect punch. Whether you’re a Chicago pie veteran or a curious newcomer, Inizio serves up a playful take that’s well worth the visit. It’s a slice of pizza paradise right here in Charlotte!

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Emmy Squared Pizza: Plaza Midwood - Charlotte, North Carolina

At Emmy Squared, my taste buds were taken on a delightful journey! Their deep-dish pizza boasts a buttery crust that’s both flaky and robust, supporting layers of rich, zesty sauce and gooey cheese that stretch like a warm embrace. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, making it hard to resist another slice. I adored the unique toppings, which added creative flair to the classic. The ambiance was lively, perfect for a pizza-loving crowd. If you’re on the hunt for Chicago-style perfection in Charlotte, this gem is a must-visit! 🍕✨

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