Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company

2121 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
$$$ Pizza restaurant
(6661 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

If you find yourself navigating the vibrant streets of Chicago, make sure to detour to the cherished Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company, a hidden gem nestled at 2121 N Clark St. This beloved pizza restaurant has been serving up deliciousness since 1972 and is hailed as a must-visit spot for pizza aficionados and casual diners alike.

As you step inside, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere, where the charm of a cozy Italian eatery beckons. The rustic decor and intimate booths create the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. Whether you're on a family outing, a romantic date, or just grabbing a bite with friends, the ambiance makes everyone feel right at home.

The star attraction at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company is undoubtedly the Pizza Pot Pie. Conceived by the owner in his law office, this innovative dish has garnered a loyal fan base and is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Each individual serving is crafted from scratch, featuring a luscious, cheesy filling encased in a light, buttery Sicilian bread shell that rises like a golden crown. You have the option to choose between a half-pound or a full-pound serving, ensuring a hearty meal that can satisfy any appetite. Diners rave about the rich meat sauce, which is reminiscent of a homemade spaghetti sauce, skillfully blended with big button mushrooms and complemented by the delightful crust. This dish is more than just food—it’s a comforting experience that warms your soul.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. The Oven Grinders are another incredible offering, with the Italian Combination being a crowd favorite. Imagine a lavish Italian loaf generously stuffed with a medley of select Italian meats, Swiss cheese, and roasted peppers, all nestled in freshly seasoned garlic oil and baked to crispy perfection. Each bite sends your taste buds on a savory adventure, leaving you craving more.

For those looking for something lighter, the Chef's Salad offers a delightful medley of fresh ingredients, including crisp greens, vibrant tomatoes, and zingy pepperoncini. And let's not forget the Mediterranean Bread, which is simply magical; its buttery flavor and wonderful texture make it a must-try—perfect for dipping into the assorted dressings offered.

Feedback from patrons paints a picture of not just great food, but exceptional service as well. From friendly staff who genuinely enjoy their roles to prompt attention that enhances the dining experience, visitors have expressed their delight time and again. One happy diner remarked, “Service was great and food was really delicious,” while another encouraged future guests to try the Mediterranean flatbread as an appetizer and the unforgettable Pizza Pot Pie, reinforcing its status as a signature dish worth the trip.

In a city packed with dining options, Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company stands out not only for its unique dishes but also for its local charm and spirited atmosphere. Make sure to arrive early, as seating is first-come, first-served in this beloved eatery, which can fill up quickly with appreciative customers. But rest assured, the delicious memories made here will linger long after you leave. Explore Chicago's culinary treasures, but don't miss out on this jewel of a restaurant!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves late-night food
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Lunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually has a wait
Payments
Cash only
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Valet parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

4:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

4:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

4:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

4:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

4:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

6661 Reviews
M W

24 Sep 2025

I’m so glad we stumbled upon this place! I haven’t had an experience like this in quite some time. We had ample space in our booth and got greeted immediately. I wish I could remember our servers name, the service they provided was excellent. We had drinks out in no time and the appetizers were delicious (Mediterranean flat bread and salad, doesn’t sound like much, but just trust ). Four of us ordered the pizza pot pie and my son ordered the oven grinder. Both were excellent! We never had empty cups, someone walked around constantly refilling our water. The same person removed dirty dishes from our table, immediately after finishing our appetizers and meal. Our server constantly checked on us and was warm and friendly every time. If we’re ever in Chicago again, we’ll definitely return. Thank you for the amazing service!

Kristi

02 Sep 2025

Saw it on Instagram and had to go during our trip to Chicago. The pizza pot pie is fantastic and definitely worth it. Super small place so I recommend going early but it's definitely worth it. The pizza pot pie was hearty, super cheesy, and the meat sauce is definitely homemade style. Our user Reed was very friendly and pleasant, knew his stuff well, and you can tell he enjoys his job. It's a great place to go if you want to try something unique you can't find in other cities.

James Rogers

30 Jul 2025

I was a toddler when my parents first brought me here and luckily for all of us it has not changed much in over 4 decades. Very unique pizza pot pies in which you order by half or a full pound of cheese! The hearty meat sauce and big button mushrooms inside are great, I thought it was similar to a really good spaghetti sauce. The Mediterranean bread and salad were also good. Service was great, server and bus boy came around often and took orders, filled water and took plates promptly even though it was packed. I only have one wish, Old Style would be nice in keeping with the Chicago tradition. Everyone should experience this place at least once if in Chicago.

Ashley Chmielewski

30 Jul 2025

I was very excited to try the pot pie pizza. Walked in without a reservation and was seated right away. I was able to customize a vegetarian order. I would happily eat the filling as a soup. Just delicious and didn't disappoint. I enjoyed the Mediterranean bread appetizer as well and took that home. Parking somewhat difficult to find on the street during busy afternoons but I found a spot a few blocks north. You can also request valet parking for $14. Used to be cash-only with an ATM on site but they do accept credit cards now. Beer selection pairs nicely with the menu. Staff are very attentive. I'd go back.

SY G

17 Jul 2025

Restaurant does not take any reservations. First come first serve which made it easy for my family to just drive down. We have been wanting to try for a while. It’s worth trying it for the first time and it tasted good. Mediterranean bread for appetizer is a must. Wish they had few more choices for pizza but that’s just me. Not a fan of sausage pizza. Overall good experience.

Elizabeth Hadden

04 Jul 2025

Great spot with local charm! Pizza pot pie was unique and delicious, half pound was plenty for two people. Also loved the classic salad with solid dressings that were perfect for pizza dipping. The Mediterranean flat bread was surprisingly great. It seems so simple, but it is SO delicious. Buttery, good flavor combos, and excellent dipped in the salad dressings. Service was great and food was ready fast. They accept credit cards now!

Daniel R

27 Jun 2025

Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. is clearly a well-known spot, and it’s easy to see why. I visited with my family of 5 and we ordered the Mediterranean bread (a must-try) along with the famous Pizza Pot Pies. We got three one-pound meat and mushroom Pizza Pot Pies, and that was plenty of food for all of us, with leftovers to take home. As for the verdict: the pot pies were definitely tasty—rich, cheesy, and satisfying. That said, I’m not sure I’d wait more than an hour for it. At the end of the day, it felt like a glorified calzone, and the novelty didn’t quite justify an extended wait. Still, the food is solid, the interior has a cozy, old-school charm, and the location across from the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre (as someone who loves mob history) adds a cool historical twist. I’d happily return—but only if the line isn’t too long.

Tanya Оlives

09 Jun 2025

We had an absolutely wonderful experience at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company! We ordered the Italian Festa Salad, the warm and flavorful Mediterranean Bread, and of course, their famous Pizza Pot Pie—and everything was outstanding. The flavors were fresh, unique, and unforgettable. Service was friendly and attentive, and the cozy, inviting atmosphere made it even better. We loved every bite and can’t wait to come back!

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