John's Pizzeria Ristorante and Lounge

Though Chicago is only famous for its deep dish pizza, if you're from here you know that there are really two types of Chicago style pizza. Deep dish's not so famous counterpart is the greasy, thin crust, sauce and cheese heavy, delicious pizza which must be cut into squares and not slices to be considered authentic. This pizza is so good that it comes in "football" size (really 2 large pizzas baked together), and the entire cumbersome, somewhat precarious beast can easily be consumed by 3 mouthwatering Chicagoans.

If you have never delighted in this treat, I suggest you go immediately to John's Pizzeria Ristorante and Lounge. I will allow you to order only under the following conditions; you are handicapped, there is an intense rain/snow storm, or if you've already eaten at this wonderful establishment. Really, they are not just an excellent Pizzeria Ristorante, they are an excellent lounge as well.

This establishment is refreshing blast from the past. There is an overwhelming brown and orange color theme with the occasion splash of pastel floral prints much like your grandmother's basement complete with fake hanging ferns. The juke box boasts only the greatest artists of all time like Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Peggy Lee, The Beach Boys, and The Doobie Brothers. I suggest you grab a pitcher and a football size cheese with extra sauce (yea, that's a topping) and sit in the adjoining more private room. There, you can plant yourself in front of the fireplace beneath the big screen television turned to the appropriate Chicago-relevant sports event. Want to listen to the jukebox instead? There's a great seat by the window where you can feel the neon glow of the jukebox on your cheeks as you complete your mafia murder themed logic puzzle on your placemat.

This place is a Chicago Landmark. Come here with friends or even alone if want to make some and I guarantee you will have a great and delicious time. John's is at 2104 W. Western, and their number is 773.384.1755. You don't need to see a menu. You're ordering a football size cheese with extra sauce, and don't forget to ask for your free RC Cola.