Two Chicago Pizza Spots Named America’s Best New Joints

If you thought Chicago pizza was “just Deep Dish,” it might be time to think again.

That’s because pizza in the Windy City continues to evolve, and if you need proof, look no further than Food & Wine.

On a list featuring nine of the best new pizza joints in America, two of them are in Illinois, Chicago specifically, and yes, they aren’t places that specialize in deep dish either.

Two Illinois Pizzerias Named Best New in America by Food & Wine

READ MORE: These Are the 5 Best Chicago Deep Dish Pizzas, Food Experts Say

These two joints take pizza to another level, like Desi Boys, the first of the two places highlighted by Food & Wine.

Their menu includes butter chicken and tikka pizzas as well as Achari and Manchurian-inspired pies. That’s not all. Desi Boys are doing well.

Their idea of combining Indian food with pizza is just the basis, as they also offer gluten-free crusts and vegan cheese.

Standing Out in America’s Most Competitive Pizza City

READ MORE: The Pope's Favorite Pizza Isn't Deep Dish, And It's Not in Chicago

That’s not all for Chicago pizza joints, as Zarella was mentioned for doling out crispy tavern-style pizzas, something I loved as a kid and still do to this day.

We used to just call them thin crust, but pizza aficionados dubbed this kind of pie “tavern-style,” which is fine, if not a little fancy.

Regardless, you should probably try these two joints. In a city crowded with pizza places, Desi Boys and Zarella stand out among the very best new ones in America.

Have you been to either place? What’s your take?