Best Hidden Gems Heaven Pizza Restaurants in River North
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop
True late-night New York–style slices and subs steps from River North bars.
Notable Picks
Since 2014, Dough Bros has been the go-to New York–style slice window in 60654, staying open as late as 4 a.m. on weekends. Counter service, foldable slices, and subs make it the quintessential post-bar pizza stop near the State & Hubbard cluster of nightlife.
Must-Try Dishes:
Artichoke & Spinach Slice, Mushroom Slice, Custom Build-Your-Own Whole Pie
What Makes it Special: True late-night New York–style slices and subs steps from River North bars.
This family-run gem between the Wrigley Building and Trump Tower serves authentic Italian thin-crust pizzas with traditional toppings in a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere. Italian-born chef takes pride in scratch-made preparations since 2011.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Dee-Lish Pizza, Prosciutto & Mushroom Pizza
What Makes it Special: Authentic family-run Italian with a Bongiorno always in the house
#3
Pizzeria Uno
8.1
The birthplace of deep dish pizza stands as a registered Chicago landmark where Ike Sewell's 1943 creation launched a culinary revolution. Fresh dough made daily, original recipe maintained for over 80 years in the historic original building.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Deep Dish, Numero Uno, Chicago Classic
What Makes it Special: Historic landmark—the actual birthplace of Chicago deep dish pizza in 1943
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Opened in 2025 by Boka Restaurant Group, Zarella does both tavern-style squares and artisan round pies alongside starters and a few Italian American plates. Its grab-and-go window and relatively moderate pricing make it a newer, more casual entry into the River North Italian landscape.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soppressata & Mortadella specialty pie, Spicy vodka pizza, Sunday Salad with salami and ditalini
What Makes it Special: Chef-driven tavern and artisan pizzas with a grab-and-go window in the former GT Fish space.
Pizzeria Ora is a long-running downtown spot attached to the Best Western River North, specializing in classic Chicago deep dish plus thin-crust tavern pies in a straightforward, family-friendly dining room. It’s a quieter, more local-feeling option for visitors who want traditional deep dish without queuing at the big-name chains.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deep Dish Cheese Pizza, The Supreme Deep Dish Pizza, El Blanco Thin Crust Pizza
What Makes it Special: Classic Chicago deep dish and thin crust in a low-key, family-run setting steps from the Mag Mile corridor.