If you ask a Chicagoan what pizza they actually eat on a regular Tuesday night, the answer is almost never deep-dish. The real Chicago pizza is thin-crust, and it is a category all its own.
The Crust
Chicago thin-crust is rolled, not hand-tossed. The result is a super-thin, crispy base with an almost cracker-like texture. There is no puffy cornicione like a Neapolitan pie. Every bite has the perfect ratio of crust, sauce, and cheese. At Mad Pizza, we roll our dough fresh daily to achieve that signature crunch.
The Cut
This is the most recognizable difference. Chicago thin-crust is cut into squares, known as the tavern cut or party cut. The square slices are easy to grab with one hand, making this style perfect for sharing at bars, parties, and family dinners. The corner pieces are all crust, the center pieces are loaded, and everyone has a favorite.
The Sauce
Chicago thin-crust uses a seasoned tomato sauce that goes directly on the dough. Our sauce follows a 4-generation recipe passed down through the family, with a balance of sweetness, acidity, and herbs that has stood the test of time.
The Cheese
Hand-shredded mozzarella is the standard. At Mad Pizza, we shred our mozzarella in-house every day. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting and flavor. Hand-shredding makes a noticeable difference in every bite.
Why Tavern Style?
The name comes from the Chicago taverns and bars where this pizza became a staple in the mid-20th century. It was the perfect bar food: easy to eat, shareable, and satisfying without being too heavy.
Mad Pizza brings authentic Chicago thin-crust to Hollywood, FL at 211 N 21st Ave. If you have never tried tavern-style pizza, call (754) 275-8466 and discover what Chicago locals have known for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Chicago thin-crust and deep-dish?
Chicago thin-crust has a crispy, cracker-like rolled crust cut into squares, while deep-dish has a thick, buttery crust in a deep pan cut into triangles. Thin-crust is what most Chicagoans eat regularly.
Why is Chicago thin-crust cut into squares?
The square or tavern cut originated in Chicago bars where pizza was served as shareable bar food. Square pieces are easy to grab with one hand and make it simple to share a pie among a group.
Where can I get Chicago thin-crust pizza in South Florida?
Mad Pizza at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL serves authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza with hand-shredded mozzarella and a 4-generation sauce recipe. Call (754) 275-8466.
Ready to Taste the Difference?
Order authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza from Mad Pizza. Every slice supports veterans through our LEGION partnership.