Head Chef
Marco DiLorenzo
With 22 years in the kitchen, Marco guards Burt Katz's original recipe with fierce dedication. His caramelized crust is widely regarded as the finest in Chicago.
Our Story
About Pequod's pizza
From a small Chicago kitchen to an iconic deep dish destination — discover the passion, people, and pequods pizza legacy that has delighted guests for over five decades.
1971
Est. Chicago
Our Story
The Legend Behind Pequod's pizza
Pequod's pizza was born in 1971 on the north side of Chicago, where founder Burt Katz set out to perfect the art of deep dish. The name — inspired by Captain Ahab's ship in Moby-Dick — captured the spirit of an obsessive, relentless pursuit of something extraordinary.
What made Pequods different from day one was the caramelized crust. By coating the edge of the pan with cheese before baking, the crust develops a crispy, golden-brown ring that's become our most celebrated signature. It's bold. It's unapologetic. It's Chicago.
Over fifty years later, we still use the original recipe, the same cast-iron pans, and the same burning commitment to quality that Burt instilled in every pizza that left his kitchen.
50+
Years Serving
1M+
Pizzas Made
4.8★
Avg. Rating
What Drives Us
Our Mission & Pequods Commitment
We exist to craft pizza that people remember for the rest of their lives — and to do it with pride, integrity, and passion every single day.
Uncompromising Quality
Every ingredient is sourced with care. Every pizza is built by hand. We never cut corners because our guests deserve the best every time.
Community at Heart
Pequod's has always been a neighborhood restaurant. We're grateful to Chicago and committed to giving back to the communities that made us.
Honoring Tradition
The original recipe. The caramelized crust. The cast-iron pan. Some things are worth preserving — and we protect them with everything we have.
Memorable Experiences
It's never just about the pizza. It's about who you share it with. We create warm, welcoming moments that bring people together around the table.
Our Journey
A History Written in Dough
From a single storefront on the north side of Chicago to a legendary name in American pizza — here's how we got here.
1971
The Beginning
Burt Katz opens the first Pequod's Pizza on the north side of Chicago, introducing his signature caramelized crust deep dish — a recipe that would change pizza history.
1986
The Clybourn Move
Pequod's relocates to 2207 N Clybourn Ave — the iconic address that becomes a pilgrimage destination for pizza lovers from around the world.
1995
National Recognition
Food critics and national publications begin naming Pequod's among the top deep dish pizzas in America, putting Chicago's best-kept secret on the national map.
2008
Morton Grove Expansion
Responding to overwhelming demand, a second location opens in Morton Grove, Illinois — bringing the legendary caramelized crust to the suburbs while keeping the original spirit intact.
2015
Digital Era & Delivery
Pequod's embraces online ordering and delivery partnerships, making it possible for fans across the greater Chicago area to enjoy deep dish at home without sacrificing quality.
2024
Over 50 Years Strong
Celebrating more than five decades of deep dish excellence, Pequod's continues to honor Burt Katz's original vision while welcoming a new generation of pizza lovers through our doors.
What We Stand For
The Values That Guide Us
Pequod's pizza has endured because of the principles we live by. These aren't slogans — they're how we operate every single day.
Fresh Ingredients Always
We source locally where possible and never compromise on freshness. Every topping, every sauce, every slice of cheese is chosen for quality first.
Honest Hospitality
We treat every guest like a neighbor. No pretense, no shortcuts — just genuine warmth and the kind of service that makes people want to come back.
Team Over Everything
Our staff are the soul of Pequod's. We invest in our people, celebrate their growth, and believe that a great team creates great food, every time.
Sustainability Matters
From compostable packaging to waste reduction in our kitchens, we're committed to reducing our environmental footprint for the city we love.
Safety & Cleanliness
Our kitchens are held to the highest food safety standards. We believe that a clean kitchen is the foundation of great food and guest trust.
Always Improving
We honor our heritage while staying curious. From seasonal specials to refining our service, we're always looking for ways to make your experience better.
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Team
Every great pizza starts with great people. Here are the faces who pour their heart into every crust, every sauce, and every slice we serve.
General Manager
Sarah Kowalski
Sarah joined Pequod's as a server fifteen years ago and never left. Her commitment to hospitality defines the warm, neighborhood atmosphere our guests love.
Sous Chef
James Okafor
A Culinary Institute graduate and lifelong Chicagoan, James brings creative energy to our seasonal specials while honoring the deep dish traditions that define us.
Catering Director
Elena Vasquez
Elena leads our catering operations with the same precision and passion that goes into every dine-in experience. No event is too large for Pequod's famous deep dish.
Come Experience It
Taste the Legend for Yourself
Now that you know our story, it's time to taste it. Order Pequod's deep dish pizza online or visit us in Chicago.
Order NowVisit Us
2207 N Clybourn Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
Call Ahead
+1 773-327-1512Hours
Mon–Thu: 11am–10pm
Fri–Sat: 11am–11pm
Sun: 12pm–9pm