About Pequod's pizza
Pequod's pizza has been Chicago's premier deep dish destination for over 50 years. Rooted in tradition, driven by passion, and dedicated to serving the finest pequods pizza experience in the United States.
Excellence
The Legend Behind
Pequod's pizza
Pequod's pizza was born in the heart of Chicago, where a simple vision became an iconic institution. Founded in the early 1970s, our restaurant set out to redefine what deep dish pizza could be — thicker, bolder, and more flavorful than anything the city had ever tasted.
Our signature caramelized crust — achieved by pressing cheese all the way to the edge of the cast-iron pan — became the hallmark of the pequods pizza experience. That distinctive charred, buttery ring is what keeps guests coming back from across the country and around the world.
Over five decades, we've served millions of slices, hosted countless celebrations, and become a beloved landmark. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, every pie is crafted with the same care, the same recipes, and the same pride that started it all.
Mission, Vision & Promise
Everything we do is driven by our commitment to crafting memorable dining experiences that celebrate community, tradition, and extraordinary food.
Our Mission
To craft the finest deep dish pizza in the United States using time-honored recipes, premium local ingredients, and decades of expertise — served with genuine hospitality in every slice.
Our Vision
To be the gold standard of Chicago deep dish pizza — a name synonymous with quality, authenticity, and passion. We envision a world where every great gathering starts with a Pequod's pie.
Our Promise
We promise that every pizza leaving our kitchen meets our exacting standards — fresh dough made daily, house-blended sauces, and that unmistakable caramelized crust you know and love.
The pequods Values
We Live By
Quality Without Compromise
We source only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients — from locally milled flour to premium Wisconsin mozzarella. No shortcuts, ever.
Community First
We're more than a restaurant — we're a neighborhood gathering place. We support local suppliers, charities, and events that make our community stronger.
Respect for Tradition
Our original recipes have stood the test of time for good reason. We honor our roots while continually refining our craft to deliver an exceptional experience.
People Over Everything
Our team is our greatest asset. We invest in their training, wellbeing, and growth — because happy staff create happy guests, every single time.
Responsible Practices
We're committed to sustainable sourcing, reducing waste, and operating in a way that respects our environment for future generations.
A Legacy Built Slice by Slice
From a small neighborhood pizzeria to a nationally celebrated institution — this is the history of Pequod's pizza.
A Legend is Born
Pequod's pizza opens its first location in Chicago. Founder Burt Katz pioneers the now-famous caramelized cheese crust by pressing mozzarella to the edges of a well-seasoned cast-iron pan.
Word Spreads Citywide
Chicago Magazine names Pequod's one of the city's best deep dish pizzerias. Lines begin forming outside the door on weekends, cementing our reputation as a local institution.
The Morton Grove Move
We expand to Morton Grove, IL, bringing our legendary pequods pizza to the suburbs. The new location quickly becomes a neighborhood staple, serving generations of loyal families.
National Recognition
Food critics from across the United States begin featuring Pequod's in major publications. Travel guides list us as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chicago's legendary food scene.
Recipe Refinements
Our culinary team introduces a refined sauce recipe using vine-ripened San Marzano tomatoes, elevating our signature deep dish to new heights while keeping the soul of the original intact.
Digital & Delivery Era
Pequod's launches online ordering and delivery services, bringing our iconic pies directly to homes across the greater Chicago area. Customer satisfaction ratings reach an all-time high.
Still Going Strong
Pequod's pizza continues to thrive with 50+ years of tradition, millions of pizzas served, and a dedicated team passionate about delivering the greatest deep dish experience in the United States.
Meet Our Team
Every great pizza starts with great people. Meet the passionate individuals who make Pequod's pizza the legendary experience it is today.
With 25 years behind the pizza wheel, Marco has perfected the art of the caramelized crust. His passion for authentic flavors shapes every pie that leaves our kitchen.
Sarah ensures every visit to Pequod's exceeds expectations. Her 15 years of hospitality leadership have made our dining experience as memorable as the pizza itself.
James learned deep dish under Marco and has since become a master in his own right. He manages dough production daily, ensuring consistency in every single pie.
Priya brings Pequod's magic to events of every size — from intimate family dinners to large corporate gatherings. Her attention to detail is unmatched.