When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Giordano's
Why Giordano's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Giordano's stands out as a premier destination for friends and families looking to enjoy authentic Chicago-style stuffed deep-dish pizza in a welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1974 by Italian immigrant brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio, Giordano's originated from a recipe inspired by their mother’s traditional Italian Easter Pie, offering a unique double-crust, cheese-filled pizza experience that has captivated the local community and beyond. Today, with more than 65 locations across multiple states including Illinois, Florida, Indiana, and Colorado, it has become a reliable and popular spot for get-togethers, celebrations, and casual dining alike. Highlights include their signature deep-dish pizzas characterized by a rich, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings, catering options for larger groups, and a family-friendly environment. Numerous locations offer accommodations for different dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it accessible for various preferences. Whether dining in at their iconic Chicago locations or ordering frozen pizzas for home enjoyment, Giordano's maintains a high standard of quality and service, making it a great venue for socializing and sharing great food.
Here's what people think of Giordano's
As of recent, Giordano's holds a 4.5-star rating based on 22745 reviews.
Reviews of Giordano's across multiple platforms consistently showcase a strong appreciation for its iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Positive feedback highlights the restaurant's rich, flavorful stuffed pizzas with their buttery crusts and hearty fillings, which many describe as a must-try for deep-dish enthusiasts. Patrons frequently praise the friendly and courteous staff, the welcoming atmosphere, and the overall pleasant dining experience, with some reviewers noting memorable interactions with management. The availability of frozen pizzas is also appreciated for allowing customers to enjoy Giordano’s products at home with convenience. On the other hand, some negative reviews indicate that wait times can be lengthy due to the pizza’s preparation time, and a few customers felt that certain locations sometimes experienced inconsistencies in service or pizza quality. Price points have also been mentioned as on the higher side compared to other pizza chains, and busy times might impact seating availability. However, these drawbacks appear to be outweighed by the overwhelming number of positive responses. In conclusion, Giordano's has earned a solid reputation for delivering a beloved, authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza experience, backed by strong customer satisfaction and a loyal following.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lena Godwin
One bite, everyone knows the rules. In town for my daughter's Navy graduation, and she really wanted to try this place. The service was excellent. We ordered a few appetizers and salad before the pizza arrived. Everything was great! The ball things from the appetizer menu are AMAZING! I can't remember what they were called, but I would order a thousand of them if I could. The deep dish pizza was so good. I usually like thin, but this was quality. I would definitely recommend checking this place out.
Jennifer Contreras Zamora
The pizza was absolutely delicious — we had the classic cheese and it was full of flavor. The service was very good, friendly and attentive. Just be prepared to wait a bit for a table and your food, as the place gets quite crowded. Definitely worth it!
Carrie Milkanin
Family of four-grown kids. We had a large pepperoni deep dish and the sampler appetizer. Four soft drinks and our bills was $98 with a tip. We came on a Saturday at 1, near the beginning of the rush. They said twenty minutes, but it was closer to thirty. The cool thing was you go up to what looks like a hostess stand with registers and place your pie order while you wait they bake it, so you do not have to wait too long for your deep dish. Food was great. Had to track down server for refills, but they were very busy.
Nathan O'Day
No trip to Chicago would be complete without stopping for some deep dish pizza and Giordano's fit the bill. We got the garlic bread and meat and more meat. Service was spot on, waiter was very attentive and patient while we decided which pizza to order. Garlic bread was a great starter as we waited for our pizza knowing it was going to take a while. Once the pizza came we dug in and it was great. Lots of cheese, meat, and sauce, it was everything we had hoped for. Experience was so good I even ordered a few pies to be shipped so I could share the food with my family that didn't make this trip with me.
Golden Globetrotter
There’s something sacred about your first Chicago deep dish pizza and I’m glad mine happened at one of the originals, Giordano’s! I’ll admit, I couldn’t quite wrap my head around this upside down, thick as a brick, fork and knife pizza style. But the moment that first slice hit the table—oozing with cheese, packed with flavor and layered with love? I got it! And now? I’m a believer. We went with a half vegetarian half meat pie and it was the best of both worlds. The crust had the perfect buttery crunch and each bite was rich without being overwhelming. Paired with a round of cocktails, it was a match made in carb lover heaven. The service was just as solid as the pizza. Friendly, attentive and genuinely warm. It felt like the kind of place where locals come to celebrate and tourists leave with bragging rights. Would I return? In a heartbeat! Giordano’s turned a curiosity into a new favorite.
How to reach Giordano's
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Why Giordano's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Giordano’s with your friends?
Giordano’s is not just a pizza place; it is a celebrated Chicago institution famous for its iconic deep dish pizzas that offer a unique and satisfying dining experience perfect for group gatherings. With a strong rating of 4.5 from over 22,700 reviews, it clearly demonstrates wide customer appreciation and loyalty. When you and your friends decide to meet up, Giordano’s provides a welcoming atmosphere that combines delicious comfort food with a lively environment—the perfect backdrop to relax, celebrate, and create memorable moments. The joy of sharing a giant, cheesy deep dish pizza or a variety of traditional thin crust pies fosters connection and conversation. Beyond the food, the attentive and friendly service, full bar options, and accommodating seating ensure your group feels taken care of whether you want to chat over drinks or dig into a hearty meal. Whether you’re assembling a casual catch-up or marking a special occasion, Giordano’s delivers an inviting setting that feels both festive and cozy, making it an optimal venue to rally your friends and enjoy some classic Chicago flavors together.
What activities can you do at Giordano’s?
Giordano’s is primarily known for its world-famous Chicago-style deep dish stuffed pizza, providing a unique culinary activity for groups eager to share a meal. The experience of digging into their signature pizzas, which are rich with gooey cheese and abundant toppings, creates a communal sense of anticipation and enjoyment. Besides pizza, the menu features Italian classics like sandwiches and appetizers such as Wisconsin cheese curds, offering variety for diverse group tastes. Watching live sports is another popular activity here, especially since most Giordano’s locations have multiple TVs, perfect for friends who want to enjoy a game as they eat. The presence of a full bar adds a social dimension, allowing guests to order craft cocktails, beer, or wine, enhancing the festive mood. The vibrant yet relaxed dining rooms and patio seating options provide flexible spaces for mingling comfortably. Whether your group prefers a casual lunch, dinner, or an after-hours hangout, Giordano’s facilitates lively conversations, sharing plates, and the kind of group dynamics that make meetups memorable.
Why is Giordano’s perfect for group meetups?
Giordano’s excels at hosting groups because of several key factors that make it welcoming and hassle-free for gatherings. First, the large portion sizes of their deep dish pizzas are ideal for sharing, which removes the hassle of ordering multiple small dishes and keeps the focus on eating together. The spacious dining areas and option of lounge or quieter seating cater to different group preferences, from lively celebrations to more intimate discussions. Their attentive service ensures that even when the restaurant is busy, groups receive prompt and respectful attention, keeping the atmosphere positive and stress-free. Additionally, Giordano’s understands timing—deep dish pizza does take about 45 minutes to cook, so the option to start with appetizers or enjoy drinks while waiting makes the visit a well-paced social event. Their accommodating staff often suggests the best pizza sizes and topping combinations to suit group appetites, which shows thoughtful customer care for shared dining. Moreover, the location in popular areas like Millennium Park and downtown Chicago makes it easily accessible for friends meeting up from different parts of the city.
What should you order at Giordano’s for your group?
When looking to please a group, Giordano’s deep dish pizza is the centerpiece to order. Their famous “Chicago Classic” deep dish features a harmonious blend of pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions wrapped in a buttery crust filled with generous layers of cheese and rich tomato sauce. For those who prefer a lighter option, their traditional thin crust pizza offers the same quality toppings but cooks faster and provides a thinner, crunchier bite. Start your meal with crowd-pleasing appetizers like their Wisconsin cheese curds, lightly breaded and served with house-made marinara or signature ranch, which pairs beautifully with the pizza. Wings with buffalo sauce are another flavorful starter that complements the hearty pies. For drinkers in the group, their full bar offers well-crafted cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages such as the Moscow Mule, which some guests praise for its quality. This menu versatility allows every member of your group to find something appealing, creating a shared dining adventure you’ll all appreciate.
How does the atmosphere at Giordano’s enhance a fun group experience?
The atmosphere at Giordano’s is crafted to enhance social interaction and enjoyment. Whether you choose to sit in the bustling dining room or opt for the quieter lounge area, the ambiance supports lively conversations and group bonding. The decor reflects classic Chicago pizzeria charm with warm lighting and comfortable seating that invites you to linger over your meal. Many locations provide patio seating, perfect for sunny days or warm evenings, offering a more open and airy environment that groups often find refreshing for meetups. The presence of multiple TVs showing sports games creates a background buzz that energizes the space without overpowering conversation. Friendly, knowledgeable staff contribute to a positive vibe by ensuring your group’s needs are met quickly and cheerfully. All these elements combine to make Giordano’s not just a place to eat but a destination for shared experiences that bring friends and family together.
What are some tips for planning a meetup at Giordano’s?
To make the most out of your group gathering at Giordano’s, consider a few planning tips. Because deep dish pizza requires about 45 minutes to prepare, ordering appetizers and drinks first lets your group settle in and enjoy each other’s company while waiting. Reserving a table in advance or arriving during off-peak hours can help secure ample seating for larger groups and reduce wait times. Discuss with your group beforehand about topping preferences to simplify ordering and ensure everyone is happy. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations on pizza sizes and combinations tailored to your group’s appetite and dietary needs—they are experienced in catering to groups. Finally, factor in the location you choose; some Giordano’s branches are busier or noisier than others, so select a venue fitting your group’s vibe, whether you want a lively atmosphere or a quieter, more intimate setting.
In summary, Giordano’s offers a rich, flavorful menu of Chicago-style pizzas and Italian dishes that are tailor-made for groups looking to share a hearty, satisfying meal. Combined with an inviting ambiance, attentive service, and enjoyable social activities like watching sports and savoring drinks, it becomes an excellent choice to rally friends or family around. Whether it’s a casual occasion or a special get-together, Giordano’s strikes a perfect balance of comfort, taste, and conviviality that will leave your group eager to return.