There’s a special kind of joy that comes from cutting into a pizza so thick it needs a fork, watching the cheese stretch for what feels like forever. Across Illinois, a handful of pizzerias have turned that towering, cheesy craft into an art form worth driving across town for.
Some are famous names, others are cozy neighborhood spots you might walk past without a second glance, but each one packs its pies deep with flavor. If you’re hungry for the real thing, these seven places deserve a spot on your list.
1. Papa Del’s Pizza Factory, Champaign, IL
Some people plan their family visits around a pizza, and this Champaign favorite is exactly the kind of place that earns that loyalty. The deep-dish here comes stacked with thick, melted cheese, a generous pile of toppings, and a slightly sweet sauce that ties the whole thing together.
Beyond the signature deep-dish, the menu stretches to thick-crust and thin-crust pies, pasta, and even garlic donuts that fans rave about. The spacious, stylish location gives you room to spread out, whether you’re dining solo, grabbing lunch, or feeding a whole crew…