Detroit-style and Chicago thin-crust sit at opposite ends of the pizza spectrum. Here is how they compare.
The Crust
Detroit-style pizza has a thick, airy crust similar to focaccia bread. It is baked in blue steel pans that were originally automotive parts trays, which conduct heat efficiently and create a crunchy exterior. Chicago thin-crust is rolled flat with a pin to create a cracker-thin base. The crust philosophies could not be more different: one celebrates thickness and airiness, the other celebrates thinness and crispiness.
The Cheese
Detroit-style uses Wisconsin brick cheese, which melts beautifully and caramelizes against the hot pan edges to create a crispy, cheesy border called the frico. Chicago thin-crust uses mozzarella, often hand-shredded like we do at Mad Pizza, spread evenly across the pie. Both approaches create incredible cheese experiences in very different ways.
The Sauce
Detroit-style traditionally has racing stripes of tomato sauce on top of the cheese, applied after baking. Chicago thin-crust puts sauce directly on the dough before cheese and toppings. Our 4-generation sauce at Mad Pizza goes on first, providing a flavor foundation for everything that follows.
The Cut
Detroit-style is typically cut into squares or rectangles, which it shares in common with Chicago thin-crust's tavern cut. However, the eating experience is very different because of the crust thickness. A Detroit square is a two-handed, knife-and-fork affair. A Chicago thin-crust square is a grab-and-go snack.
Which Is Better?
Neither is objectively better. They serve different moods. Detroit-style is satisfying when you want something substantial and bread-forward. Chicago thin-crust is ideal when you want something crispy, shareable, and balanced. At Mad Pizza, we chose thin-crust because it represents the everyday pizza culture of Chicago.
Taste authentic Chicago thin-crust at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL. Call (754) 275-8466 to order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Detroit-style and Chicago thin-crust pizza?
Detroit-style has a thick, airy crust baked in a steel pan with brick cheese that caramelizes on the edges. Chicago thin-crust has a cracker-crisp rolled crust with mozzarella and is cut into squares. They are opposite approaches to pizza.
What type of cheese does Detroit-style pizza use?
Detroit-style pizza traditionally uses Wisconsin brick cheese, which melts beautifully and creates a caramelized, crispy cheese edge called frico when it contacts the hot pan.
Does Mad Pizza make Detroit-style pizza?
No, Mad Pizza specializes in authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza. We focus on doing one style exceptionally well with hand-shredded mozzarella and our 4-generation sauce recipe at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL.
Ready to Taste the Difference?
Order authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza from Mad Pizza. Every slice supports veterans through our LEGION partnership.