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Saturday Chicago Pizza History and Tastings Bus Tour

5 (9)
Chicago, US
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Saturday Chicago Pizza History and Tastings Bus Tour

5 (9)
Chicago, US
Share
Embark on a culinary adventure with the Saturday Chicago Pizza History and Tastings Bus Tour. Led by renowned food journalist Steve Dolinsky, this tour takes you on a journey through Chicago's pizza scene, showcasing four different styles of pizza. Discover the city's 10 pizza styles and learn about their unique characteristics. Meet the owners, learn about the history of Chicago pizza, and indulge in delicious tastings of deep-dish, artisan, tavern-style, and Detroit-style pizzas. As you explore the vibrant neighborhoods, you'll also uncover interesting stories and tidbits about the city. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into Chicago's pizza culture and savor its mouthwatering flavors. Book now and get ready to satisfy your pizza cravings on this unforgettable tour.

About this experience

  • Non Refundable There is no return, refund or cancellation possible with this product
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-6 Participants
  • Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Discover Chicago's 10 pizza styles
  • Learn how pizzas are made
  • Talk to owners and taste the differences
  • Try deep-dish, artisan, tavern-style, and Detroit-style pizza
  • Explore a hipster paradise with trendy restaurants
  • Driver/guide
  • Live commentary on board
  • Lanyard/Badge with all of the social media handles for pizzerias, redeemable for free beer at Goose Island taprooms and restaurant discounts.
  • Gratuities
  • Soda and alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Get ready to embark on a pizza-filled journey through the heart of Chicago with the Saturday Chicago Pizza History and Tastings Bus Tour. This unique and mouthwatering experience is created by the renowned 13-time James Beard Award-winning food journalist, Steve Dolinsky. Inspired by his book, "Pizza City, USA," this tour takes you on a culinary adventure to explore the diverse pizza styles that make Chicago a pizza lover's paradise.

What to expect?

During the 210-minute tour, you can expect to delve into the world of Chicago's famous pizzas. With four different styles to tantalize your taste buds, you'll get to sample the iconic deep-dish pizza, savor the artistry of artisan varieties, indulge in the city's beloved tavern-style pizza, and finally, delight in a slice of the acclaimed Detroit-style creation. Along the way, expert "doughcents" will captivate you with the intriguing history of Chicago pizza, while sharing interesting tidbits about the neighborhoods you'll visit. This experience promises to be a treat for your senses.

Who is this for?

This tour is a must for pizza enthusiasts and anyone eager to explore the culinary wonders of Chicago. Whether you're a local looking to uncover hidden gems or a visitor wanting an authentic taste of the city, this tour caters to all. Vegans and pork-free eaters are also welcome. The inclusivity of this tour ensures that everyone can revel in the flavors and stories behind Chicago's diverse pizza culture.

Why book this?

What sets this pizza tour apart is the expertise of Steve Dolinsky, who is not only a James Beard Award-winning food journalist but also an experienced traveler with knowledge of all the insights of places around the world. Through his storytelling and passion for pizza, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the culinary artistry that goes into each slice. The opportunity to explore Chicago's neighborhood gems, engage with pizza owners, and taste the rich flavors of the city's pizza offerings make this tour a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Good to know

The tour starts promptly at 11 a.m. in the private dining room of Labriola Ristorante, located at 535 N. Michigan Avenue. It will take you through dynamic neighborhoods, showcasing the vibrant culture, trendy bars, and up-and-coming dining establishments. The tour concludes back at Labriola Ristorante no later than 2:30 p.m. Remember to inform the organizers of any dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or pork-free options, at the time of booking. Get ready to relish the flavors, history, and vibrant atmosphere of Chicago's pizza scene.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on this pizza adventure have consistently praised the tour for its knowledgeable guides, immersive experiences, and delicious pizza samplings. They have raved about uncovering hidden pizza gems and gaining insights into Chicago's rich pizza culture. Participants have left the tour feeling satisfied, both from the delectable pizzas and the captivating stories they heard along the way. Overall, the Saturday Chicago Pizza History and Tastings Bus Tour has received glowing reviews, ensuring a remarkable experience for all pizza enthusiasts.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Your Itinerary

Logan Square

(Pass by)

We'll ride through this hipster paradise, home to cocktail bars, tattoo parlors and funky, up-and-coming restaurants in one of the city's most dynamic neighborhoods.

Reviews

(9)

5 (9)

Molly_N

I loved hearing about the history of pizza in Chicago. It was fascinating. And learning about the different types of pizza. The food was amazing!

TERRI_C

Keith our guide was great: very personable; knowledgeable & interesting. The 4 pizza places were quaint. I did ask for vegetarian but didn’t get until I had to remind guide but pizzas were tasty.

Rebecca_G

Kevin our guide was a wealth of information about anything pizza. He knew the histories of the various types of pizzas. He knew everything. He was super considerate with my mom who is elderly and physically challenged.

Rhonda_R

Steve was very informative and a fun tour guide. Getting to meet the business owners and hear their stories and passion for pizza was an extra special treat. Learning interesting facts about Chicago on the bus ride was great as well. All four pizzas were delicious and different styles. Highly recommend this tour!

usernametaken0

Fun afternoon going to 4 top Chicago pizza places with 4 different varieties of pizza. Sample full pizza slices, included. Plenty of food. Drinks separate if you want something other than water. Mike the tour guide was great—funny and very knowledgable of pizza and Chicago trivia. You learn not only the culinary aspects of Chicago style pizza but also the owners and legendary pizza families. Small but nice coach bus was great for February and Mike kept us entertained during transit. 9 people on our tour, friendly group. Much enjoyed, highly recommend

DarrylTom

I was fortunate to have Steve as my "doughcent" on the bus tour. As a lifelong Chicagoan, I thought I knew my pizza. Having read his book and listened to the podcast, I give kudos to him for opening my eyes and educating me on the different styles. We started off at Labriola with their deep dish sausage. I was excited to go because it's tops on his list of deep dish, and it didn't disappoint. Better than Pequod's, and was my favorite on the tour. Next, we went to Pizzeria Bebu where we had artisan style pizza. Two different white pizzas: a white pizza with some jalapeno and the Carbonara. Some interesting toppings--I'll definitely go back and try others. Location is off the beaten path, and I probably would never have gone. Third was a Detroit style pan pizza at Paulie Gee's. I've had Jet's before, and while it's not my favorite style (the foccacia crust is too much), we had the style that won an award with some fresh ricotta topped with pepperoni and a spicy honey. Last, but not least, we ended at Pat's Pizza, which is the only place I had been to before. Great crunchy super thin crust, it's one of my favorite pizzas. We also got a tour of the kitchen and saw the oven and the way they let the dough sit to draw out the moisture. Very interesting. All of the pizzas were ready to go as soon as we arrived. The tour was well-organized, and we got some Chicago history and pizza history along the way. As the title says, I think even Chicagoans would appreciate the knowledge gained in 3 short hours, not to mention eating top notch pizza.

Susan J

Wonderful tour with excellent selections of 4 different types of superb pizza. Discussion about pizza and the city was filled with facts and responsive to group interests. Steve presented a well designed tour with energy and positive manner. Long time chicago residents as well as newcomers will learn from and enjoy this experience!

shannon h

My sister and I did the pizza bus tour on a beautiful spring day in the city. The "doughcent" Mike was so knowledgeable (and funny!) and shared some great info, not only on pizza but on Chicago history. Each stop was very different experience (different style pizza at each) and all were fantastic! I will recommend this tour to anyone visiting or friends who live locally too - not just for out of towners! I have lived here almost 20 years but still learned so much during this tour. Plus, had good pies and tasty beer on a beautiful day - what more could you ask for?!

Sarah G

I had a great time on the Saturday bus tour. The content delivered was a nice blend of just the right amount of pizza-nerdery, Chicago history, and pizza culture. The locations visited and pizza variety each stood tall in their different categories, with special visits to the kitchens and with the teams preparing their signature pies. The travel and pacing were executed well, allowing adequate enjoyment of the last tasty treat before bellying up to the next specialty. It was the type of activity that you could do more than once - whether on your own, with loved ones, in mixed company of age groups, or for a fun trip with colleagues. I'm looking forward to a Sunday bus tour for another selection of Chicago's best pizza producers, and the walking tours in the warmer weather for a further sampling. The tour provided some clarity to why Chicago's pizza-scene can be misrepresented, and presented a diverse selection of the "REAL Chicago pizza" options peppered around the neighborhoods of Chicago.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-04-30 23:33
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