About Pequod's Pizza
Discover the story behind Chicago's most beloved deep dish pizzeria — where every pie is a masterpiece baked with passion, tradition, and that legendary caramelized crust.
The Legend of Pequod's Pizza
Pequod's pizza was born in 1971 in the heart of Chicago, bringing a revolutionary approach to deep dish pizza — a caramelized cheese crust that set us apart from day one.
Founded by Burt Katz on Chicago's north side, Pequod's quickly earned a devoted following thanks to its one-of-a-kind crust. Unlike traditional deep dish, our cheese is pressed up against the pan walls before baking, creating a beautifully caramelized, slightly crunchy ring that pizza lovers travel across the country to experience.
The name "Pequod" — taken from the legendary whaling ship in Herman Melville's Moby-Dick — reflects our bold, adventurous spirit. We set out to chart new waters in the pizza world, and more than five decades later, that spirit is alive in every bite.
Today, Pequod's pizza at 2207 N Clybourn Ave remains a Chicago institution, beloved by locals and tourists alike. We've kept the original recipes, the same cast-iron pans, and the same unwavering commitment to quality that Burt instilled from the very beginning.
What Drives Pequod's
We believe great pizza is more than food — it's a shared experience, a memory, a reason to gather.
Our mission at Pequod's pizza is simple: to craft the most unforgettable deep dish pizza in Chicago using time-honored techniques, the freshest ingredients, and a whole lot of heart — one caramelized crust at a time.
Crafted with Passion
Every pizza at Pequod's pizza is made by hand with the same love and attention to detail that Burt Katz poured into the very first pie back in 1971.
Fresh Ingredients
We source the finest local produce, premium cheeses, and quality meats. Pequods pizza never compromises on the ingredients that make each bite extraordinary.
Community First
Chicago is our home and our heart. We give back to the neighborhoods that have supported us, and we treat every guest like family from the moment they walk in.
Uncompromising Quality
From the caramelized crust to the chunky tomato sauce piled on top, pequods pizza maintains exacting standards so every visit is as good as the first.
The Pequod's Pizza Timeline
Five decades of deep dish history — from a single pan to a Chicago legend.
The Beginning
Burt Katz opens the original Pequod's pizza location on Chicago's north side, introducing the city to his revolutionary caramelized cheese crust deep dish. Lines form immediately.
First Recognition
Chicago Magazine names Pequod's pizza one of the city's top pizzerias. Food critics begin making pilgrimages to taste the legendary caramelized crust that has become the talk of the culinary world.
Clybourn Avenue
Pequod's pizza moves to its iconic home at 2207 N Clybourn Ave in Lincoln Park. The new space becomes the definitive Pequod's experience with its warm, welcoming atmosphere and open kitchen.
National Spotlight
Pequod's pizza is featured on national food television programs, bringing visitors from across the United States to Chicago. The waitlist on weekends stretches to over two hours.
Second Location Opens
In response to overwhelming demand, Pequod's pizza expands to a second Chicago location, allowing more guests to enjoy the signature deep dish experience without compromising on quality.
Online Ordering Launched
Pequod's pizza embraces the digital age with online ordering and delivery, making our legendary deep dish accessible to pizza lovers throughout greater Chicago and beyond.
Still Going Strong
Over 50 years after the first pie came out of the oven, Pequod's pizza remains a living Chicago legend — still hand-crafting every pizza with the same passion, still caramelizing that iconic crust, still making memories.
The People Behind the Pizza
Our talented team brings decades of culinary passion and expertise to every pizza we craft.
Marco DeVito
With 22 years perfecting the art of deep dish, Marco guards the secret of our caramelized crust recipe like a family heirloom. His passion for pizza is legendary in Chicago.
Sarah Kim
Sarah ensures every guest leaves with a smile. Her warm leadership style and 15 years in hospitality have made Pequod's dining experience as memorable as the pizza itself.
James Callahan
James brings culinary school precision to Pequod's kitchen. He leads the daily prep operations and constantly experiments with seasonal topping combinations to surprise and delight guests.
Elena Torres
Elena is the heartbeat of our front-of-house. Whether it's a first visit or a hundredth, she makes every guest feel like the most important person in the room.
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Experience Pequod's Pizza Today
Visit us at 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago — or order online and bring the legendary caramelized crust home. Pequod's pizza is waiting for you.