Pequod's Pizza

Pequod's Pizza, at 2207 N Clybourn Ave, is one of Lincoln Park’s best-known pizzerias. Its history begins with the original Morton Grove restaurant created by Burt Katz in the early 1970s. The Chicago location opened in 1992 and helped turn Pequod’s signature caramelized cheese edge into one of the city’s most recognizable pan-pizza variations.

The technique brings cheese all the way to the edge of the pan so it caramelizes during baking, forming a dark, crisp, deeply savory ring around the dough. The interior is airier and somewhat focaccia-like. In addition to pan-style pizza, the menu includes thin crust pizza, appetizers, salads, sandwiches and desserts.

Pequod’s draws heavy demand, so reservations can be useful during popular dining periods. Pickup and delivery are also available, and during some of the busiest windows selected pickup orders are handled at neighboring Whale Tale. An appearance on The Bear further increased its visibility among travelers interested in Chicago food culture.