Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Chicago

Welcome to the heart of Chicago, where the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory sausage fills the air, drawing you into an establishment that’s as iconic as the city’s skyline: Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. Nestled conveniently at 410 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, this particular location places you right in the bustling energy of the Magnificent Mile, making it a perfect stop after a day of shopping or sightseeing. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a pilgrimage for deep-dish enthusiasts and a beloved local haunt. The ambience here strikes a perfect balance between a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and a cozy, inviting dining experience. You’ll find rustic decor, often adorned with historical photographs, checkered tablecloths, and the comforting hum of happy diners enjoying their meals. The air buzzes with friendly chatter and the clatter of forks against plates, all contributing to a vibrant, authentic Chicago feel. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, you’ll immediately feel at home in this slice of Chicago heaven.

Planning your visit is easy with their accommodating hours. Lou Malnati’s at Michigan Avenue welcomes guests from Sunday through Thursday, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, extending their hospitality until 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday. This schedule ensures you can satisfy your deep-dish cravings for lunch or dinner, any day of the week. Should you need to make a reservation, inquire about a wait time, or place a takeout order, their friendly staff can be reached directly at (312) 828-9700. They are always ready to assist, ensuring your Lou Malnati’s experience is seamless from start to finish. Come for the pizza, stay for the unforgettable memories, and savor every moment at this legendary Chicago institution.

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Menu Highlights

Lou Malnati’s menu is a carefully crafted symphony of traditional Italian-American flavors, anchored by its world-famous deep-dish pizza but extending far beyond. Every dish is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, reflecting a commitment to the Malnati family’s culinary legacy. From hearty appetizers perfect for sharing to crisp salads, satisfying pastas, robust sandwiches, and delightful desserts, there’s something to please every palate. The star of the show, of course, is the pizza, available in both the legendary deep dish and a perfectly crispy thin crust, each offering a unique textural experience. This menu isn’t just about food; it’s about tradition, comfort, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, all steeped in the rich history of Chicago’s pizza culture. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through some of the most beloved dishes on offer.

Deep Dish Pizzas – The Unmistakable Chicago Classic

The very heart and soul of Lou Malnati’s, these deep-dish pizzas are a testament to generations of perfecting the craft. Each pie is built from the bottom up: a flaky, buttery crust, a layer of fresh mozzarella, your choice of toppings, and then topped with their signature vine-ripened tomato sauce. Baked to golden perfection, these pizzas are rich, robust, and utterly unforgettable, truly embodying the spirit of Chicago.

Malnati Chicago Classic: A legendary deep-dish pizza featuring lean sausage patty, buttercrust, and vine-ripened tomatoes. This iconic creation embodies the true spirit of Chicago’s pizza heritage. It’s built on Lou’s famous lean sausage patty, which covers the entire buttercrust base, then topped with a generous layer of Wisconsin cheese, and finally, crowned with a rich, chunky tomato sauce. A must-try for deep-dish aficionados seeking an authentic taste.
Lou’s Special: Signature deep dish with spinach, mushrooms, sliced tomatoes, and three cheeses. This vegetarian masterpiece is a flavorful celebration of garden-fresh ingredients. The creamy mix of cheeses perfectly complements the earthy spinach and mushrooms, all brought together by the tangy fresh tomatoes. A delightful and satisfying option for those craving a vegetable-forward deep dish experience.
Crustless Deep Dish: A delicious, gluten-free option featuring sausage as the crust. This innovative dish redefines deep-dish for those avoiding traditional crusts. The flavorful sausage patty forms a sturdy and savory base, holding the cheese and sauce beautifully. It’s a surprisingly satisfying and hearty alternative that doesn’t compromise on classic Lou Malnati’s taste.
Cheese Deep Dish: A simple, yet profoundly satisfying, classic deep-dish cheese pizza. This foundational offering highlights the quality of their ingredients, with rich mozzarella melting perfectly under the bright, zesty tomato sauce. It’s a timeless choice, perfect for purists who appreciate the beauty of simplicity done exceptionally well.
Sausage Deep Dish: Generous portions of Lou’s signature lean sausage on a classic buttercrust. This deep dish is a meat-lover’s dream, featuring their acclaimed sausage known for its superb flavor and texture. The sausage crumbles are evenly distributed, ensuring a savory bite with every single slice, making it a perennial favorite.
Pepperoni Deep Dish: Classic pepperoni topping layered over cheese and delicious signature deep-dish crust. The spicy, savory notes of premium pepperoni burst through with every bite, creating a delightful contrast with the rich cheese and sweet tomato sauce. A consistently popular choice that delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Veggie Deep Dish: A garden delight with an assortment of fresh, crisp, flavorful seasonal vegetables. This vibrant deep dish is packed with healthy goodness, featuring a colorful array of bell peppers, onions, and other fresh produce. It offers a lighter, yet equally flavorful, alternative for those seeking a vegetable-centric pizza experience.
Spinoccoli: Fresh spinach, broccoli florets, and creamy three-cheese blend atop deep dish. This verdant pizza is a nutrition-packed and incredibly tasty option. The combination of green vegetables with the gooey cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your greens in a delightful deep-dish format.
BBQ Chicken Deep Dish: Tangy barbecue sauce, grilled chicken, red onion, and blend of cheeses. This creative deep dish offers a delightful twist on tradition, with the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce complementing the tender chicken. It’s a fusion of flavors that works surprisingly well within the deep-dish framework, offering a unique and memorable taste.
The Lou: A robust deep-dish creation with spinach, mushrooms, and mixed onion. This pizza, named after the founder, is a true vegetable-lover’s paradise. The fresh produce is expertly combined with garlic and a blend of three cheeses, creating a profoundly savory and incredibly satisfying deep-dish experience.
Chicken Buffalo Deep Dish: Zesty buffalo chicken, mozzarella, crumbled bleu cheese, and tangy ranch drizzle. This bold deep dish brings the heat and flavor of buffalo wings to a pizza. The tender chicken, spicy sauce, and cool ranch create a dynamic taste profile that’s both exciting and satisfying for adventurous palates.
Meatball Deep Dish: Savory meatballs, ricotta cheese, and fresh basil atop a classic deep dish. This hearty option combines the comfort of meatballs with the richness of deep-dish pizza. The succulent meatballs and creamy ricotta cheese add a satisfying dimension of flavor and texture to every substantial slice.

Thin Crust Pizzas – Crispy, Classic, and Craveable

For those who prefer a lighter, crispier bite, Lou Malnati’s thin crust pizzas are a revelation. These pizzas feature a perfectly baked, cracker-thin crust, generously topped with fresh ingredients and baked to golden perfection. They offer a delightful contrast to the deep dish, showcasing the versatility of Lou Malnati’s culinary expertise while still delivering that unmistakable Malnati flavor profile.

Cheese Thin Crust: A perfectly crisp thin crust generously topped with classic melted mozzarella. This simple yet satisfying option highlights the quality of Lou Malnati’s cheese and their perfectly baked, delicate crust. It’s a timeless choice, perfect for when you crave a lighter pizza experience.
Sausage Thin Crust: Flavorful lean sausage crumbles spread over a crisp, golden-brown thin crust. This delightful pizza offers a savory bite with every piece, showcasing Lou Malnati’s signature sausage in a different format. It’s a classic for a reason, delivering consistent taste and texture.
Pepperoni Thin Crust: Zesty pepperoni slices atop a thin, crunchy crust, a timeless favorite. The crispy edges of the pepperoni combined with the thin crust create a delightful textural experience. It’s a straightforward, satisfying choice that never disappoints with its classic, spicy kick.
Veggie Thin Crust: Fresh, vibrant seasonal vegetables meticulously arranged on a crispy thin crust. This lighter option is packed with garden-fresh flavors, providing a refreshing and healthy pizza experience. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a delicious, crispy format.
Hawaiian Thin Crust: Sweet pineapple and savory ham perfectly complement the crispy thin crust. This tropical-inspired pizza offers a delightful balance of sweet and salty notes. The juicy pineapple adds a burst of flavor, while the ham provides a savory counterpoint, making it a popular choice.
Margherita Thin Crust: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil on a delicate thin crust. This elegant pizza celebrates the simple beauty of fresh, quality ingredients. The creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil create a harmonious and authentic Italian flavor profile.
BBQ Chicken Thin Crust: Grilled chicken, red onion, and tangy BBQ sauce on a crispy thin crust. This flavorful pizza offers a smoky and sweet profile, with tender chicken and crisp onions. It’s a fantastic alternative for those who enjoy the unique combination of barbecue flavors on their pizza.
Super Six Thin Crust: Loaded with six classic toppings: sausage, pepperoni, onion, mushroom, green pepper, and black olives. This robust thin crust pizza is a feast for the senses, offering a complex blend of savory and earthy flavors. It’s an ideal choice when you want a little bit of everything.
The Malnati Salad Pizza: A unique thin crust topped with a fresh, crisp, undressed salad. This innovative pizza is served with a light, flavorful vinaigrette on the side, allowing you to dress your salad pizza to your preference. It offers a refreshing and surprisingly light pizza experience.

Appetizers – Kickstart Your Feast

Begin your Lou Malnati’s adventure with an array of delicious appetizers, perfect for sharing and building anticipation for the main course. From cheesy delights to savory bites, these starters are designed to complement your meal and set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. They embody the comfort and flavor that Lou Malnati’s is famous for, ensuring there’s something to please everyone at the table.

Malnati Salad: Crisp iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, mushrooms, and choice of dressing. This refreshing salad is a perfect starter, offering a crisp and clean palate cleanser. The generous medley of fresh vegetables makes it a satisfying and healthy choice before your main course.
Garlic Bread: Toasted Italian bread brushed with garlic butter, a simple delight. The aromatic garlic butter infuses every slice of the perfectly toasted bread, creating an irresistible aroma and taste. It’s a classic appetizer, wonderfully simple yet profoundly flavorful.
Cheese Garlic Bread: Garlic bread topped with melted mozzarella cheese, extra indulgent. This elevated version of garlic bread adds a layer of gooey, savory cheese, making it even more satisfying. The melted mozzarella creates a delightful stretch and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
Toasted Ravioli: Crispy breaded ravioli filled with seasoned beef, served with marinara. These golden-fried pockets of pasta are a delightful textural contrast of crispy exterior and tender, savory filling. The accompanying rich marinara sauce provides a perfect dipping complement.
Mozzarella Sticks: Golden-fried mozzarella cheese sticks served with zesty marinara sauce. A timeless crowd-pleaser, these gooey cheese sticks offer a satisfying crunch followed by a warm, stretchy interior. The vibrant marinara sauce adds a tangy counterpoint, making them utterly irresistible.
Malnati’s Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. This classic Italian appetizer is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil sit perfectly on crisp bread, offering a refreshing and savory start to your meal.
Fried Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried calamari rings, served with marinara sauce. These tender and crisp calamari rings are a delightful seafood starter. The delicate breading provides a perfect crunch, while the savory marinara offers a tangy and flavorful dipping experience.
Boneless Wings: Succulent breaded chicken pieces tossed in your choice of sauce. These convenient and flavorful wings are a great option for sharing. Available in various sauces, they offer a customizable heat and flavor experience, perfect for satisfying a craving for something a little spicy.
Traditional Wings: Classic bone-in chicken wings, oven-baked then tossed in your favorite sauce. These perfectly cooked wings are tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Choose from a selection of signature sauces to customize your flavor experience, ideal for wing enthusiasts.
Cheesy Bread Sticks: Warm, soft breadsticks loaded with melted mozzarella cheese. These comforting breadsticks are a simple yet incredibly satisfying appetizer. The warm, gooey cheese combined with soft bread makes them an irresistible start to any meal, especially with a side of marinara.

Salads – Fresh and Flavorful Greens

For those seeking a lighter option or a refreshing complement to their rich deep dish, Lou Malnati’s offers a selection of crisp, vibrant salads. Prepared with the freshest ingredients, these salads are more than just an afterthought; they are flavorful creations designed to balance the heartiness of the main menu, providing a healthy and delicious addition to your meal.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing. This classic salad is always a popular choice, offering a refreshing crunch and savory flavor. The tangy dressing perfectly coats the fresh greens, making it a timeless and satisfying option.
House Salad: Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and choice of dressing. A fresh and versatile salad, perfect as a lighter accompaniment to any meal. The crisp vegetables provide a delightful textural contrast, and you can personalize it with your favorite dressing.
Chopped Salad: Finely chopped greens, chicken, bacon, pasta, tomatoes, and blue cheese. This substantial salad is a meal in itself, packed with a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The combination of savory meats, pasta, and fresh vegetables makes it a highly satisfying choice.
Malnati’s Salad: Signature house salad with unique blend of cheeses and specialty dressing. This beloved salad features a special touch, with a unique cheese blend that adds an extra layer of flavor. It’s a signature item for a reason, offering a distinctive and highly enjoyable taste.
Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. This elegant and simple salad showcases the beauty of fresh, quality ingredients. The creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil create a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile.

Pastas – Comfort in Every Bite

Beyond its legendary pizzas, Lou Malnati’s offers a selection of comforting and hearty pasta dishes, embodying the warmth and tradition of Italian-American home cooking. Each pasta is prepared with care, featuring rich sauces and quality ingredients, promising a satisfying and delicious experience that extends the family’s culinary heritage beyond pizza.

Lasagna: Layers of pasta, seasoned meat, ricotta, and mozzarella, baked to perfection. This classic dish is a comforting and hearty option, with rich flavors and tender pasta. The savory meat sauce and creamy cheeses meld together beautifully, creating a truly satisfying experience.
Spaghetti with Marinara: Al dente spaghetti tossed in Lou’s rich, homemade marinara sauce. A simple yet incredibly satisfying dish, highlighting the quality of their signature marinara. The pasta is cooked perfectly, providing a delightful texture to complement the robust tomato sauce.
Chicken Parmigiana: Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara and mozzarella, served with spaghetti. This classic Italian-American dish features tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal, providing a complete and utterly satisfying dining experience.
Rigatoni with Meat Sauce: Hearty rigatoni pasta smothered in a savory, slow-cooked meat sauce. This robust dish is a meat lover’s delight, with a rich and flavorful sauce clinging perfectly to the tubular pasta. It’s a deeply satisfying and traditional Italian comfort food.
Baked Ziti: Ziti pasta baked with marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese until bubbly. This indulgent pasta dish is a comforting classic, with tender pasta swimming in a rich, cheesy sauce. The baked finish creates a delightful golden crust and perfectly melted cheeses.
Pasta Primavera: Fresh seasonal vegetables and garlic tossed with pasta in light olive oil sauce. This vibrant and healthy pasta dish is a celebration of fresh produce. The crisp vegetables and light sauce create a refreshing and flavorful experience, perfect for a lighter meal.

Sandwiches – Handheld Deliciousness

Lou Malnati’s also offers a selection of robust sandwiches, perfect for a satisfying lunch or a lighter dinner option. Each sandwich is crafted with quality ingredients, from savory meats to fresh toppings, all served on freshly baked bread. These handheld delights provide another avenue to experience the rich flavors and comforting fare that defines the Lou Malnati’s dining experience.

Italian Beef: Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef on Italian bread, dipped in au jus. This quintessential Chicago sandwich is bursting with savory flavor. The tender beef, soaked in its own juices, on crusty bread, creates an irresistible and authentic taste of the city.
Meatball Sub: Homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella on Italian bread. This hearty and comforting sandwich is a true classic. The juicy meatballs and rich marinara, topped with gooey cheese, create a deeply satisfying and flavorful experience.
Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich: Breaded chicken, marinara, and mozzarella on Italian bread. This savory sandwich offers the delicious flavors of chicken parmigiana in a convenient, handheld format. The tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese make it a wonderfully comforting choice.
Italian Sausage Sandwich: Char-grilled Italian sausage, served with optional sweet peppers on Italian bread. This flavorful sandwich highlights the quality of Lou Malnati’s sausage. The juicy, seasoned sausage on crusty bread, especially with the added sweetness of peppers, is a true delight.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Marinated grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, onion on a bun. A healthier yet equally delicious option, featuring tender, flavorful grilled chicken. The fresh vegetables and light bun create a well-balanced and satisfying sandwich experience.

Desserts – A Sweet Ending

No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Lou Malnati’s offers a delightful selection of desserts to perfectly cap off your dining experience. From classic Italian favorites to indulgent house specials, these desserts provide a satisfying end to your savory journey, ensuring you leave with a happy and contented palate.

Tiramisu: Classic Italian dessert with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. This elegant dessert is a light and sophisticated end to any meal. The delicate layers of coffee, cream, and cocoa create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Pizza: Warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie baked in a deep-dish pan. This unique and incredibly indulgent dessert is a fun twist on tradition. Served warm, its melted chocolate chips and soft texture are absolutely irresistible, especially when shared.
Cheesecake: Creamy New York style cheesecake, served plain or with toppings. A rich and decadent classic, offering a smooth and luxurious finish to your meal. Its creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it a timeless and satisfying dessert choice.
Brownie Sundae: Warm chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. This ultimate comfort dessert is a heavenly combination of warm and cold, rich and sweet. The fudgy brownie and melting ice cream create a truly irresistible treat.
Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet, creamy ricotta cheese. These traditional Italian pastries offer a delightful crunch and a creamy, sweet filling. They are a perfect, lighter option for those seeking an authentic sweet ending to their meal.

Beverages – Refreshments for Every Palate

To complement your meal, Lou Malnati’s offers a wide array of beverages. Whether you prefer a classic soft drink, a refreshing iced tea, or a choice from their selection of beers and wines, there’s a perfect drink to quench your thirst and enhance your dining experience. They ensure you have the ideal pairing for every bite, from the first appetizer to the last slice of pizza.

Soft Drinks: Coca-Cola products, Sprite, Diet Coke, and other popular sodas. Classic fizzy refreshments perfect for pairing with hearty pizza.
Iced Tea: Freshly brewed unsweetened or sweet iced tea, a refreshing choice. A crisp and clean option, ideal for quenching your thirst.
Lemonade: Tart and sweet lemonade, a classic thirst-quencher. This bright and zesty drink is invigorating and perfectly balances rich flavors.
Coffee: Freshly brewed regular or decaffeinated coffee, a warm companion. Perfect for a morning visit or to end your meal on a comforting note.
Beer: Selection of local craft beers and popular domestic/imported options. A fantastic pairing for pizza, offering a range of styles.
Wine: House red and white wines, by the glass or bottle, for sophisticated pairing. Enhances your meal with a touch of elegance and flavor.

The interior of Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria on Michigan Avenue captures the essence of a classic Chicago eatery with a welcoming, slightly rustic charm. Exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and sturdy wooden tables create a cozy yet bustling atmosphere. You’ll often find iconic red and white checkered tablecloths, adding to the nostalgic, family-friendly vibe. The service is consistently prompt, attentive, and genuinely friendly, with staff who are passionate about sharing the Lou Malnati’s experience. Pricing is generally moderate, offering excellent value for the quality and portion sizes, making it accessible for families and tourists alike. The overall vibe is one of celebratory indulgence – a perfect spot for gathering with friends, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply soaking in a truly authentic Chicago dining moment.

In conclusion, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria stands as an undeniable pillar of Chicago’s culinary landscape, offering an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. While the entire menu is a delight, the Malnati Chicago Classic deep-dish pizza, with its rich sausage patty and buttery crust, truly remains the star of the show, a must-try for any first-time visitor. Not far behind in popularity are Lou’s Special, a vegetarian marvel, and their incredibly crisp Thin Crust Sausage Pizza, offering a different but equally satisfying experience. This legendary establishment is perfect for virtually anyone: families looking for a hearty, comforting dinner, tourists eager to taste an authentic slice of Chicago, or locals simply craving their favorite deep dish. It’s a place where celebrations happen, memories are made, and every bite feels like a warm hug. Expect prompt, friendly service in a vibrant, bustling setting, and leave feeling utterly satisfied. Lou Malnati’s isn’t just serving pizza; they’re serving a piece of Chicago history with every delicious slice, making it a perennial favorite and a truly exceptional dining destination.

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