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 is celebrated for its iconic Chicago-style stuffed deep-dish pizza, making it a superb destination to meet up with friends. Founded in 1974 by brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio in Chicago, this pizzeria chain blends authentic Italian flavors with hearty portions in a family-friendly setting. The restaurant features a bustling ambiance often complemented by full bar service, adding to the enjoyable social atmosphere. Guests can savor a variety of menu highlights such as the signature stuffed double-crust pie, pepperoni classic pie, Italian beef sandwich, fettuccine alfredo, cheesy garlic bread, and a decadent oversized skillet cookie topped with ice cream and chocolate drizzle for dessert. With over 65 locations across several states including Illinois, Colorado, Florida, and more, Giordano's makes it convenient to enjoy its renowned pizzas whether dining in, ordering for delivery, or catering an event. Its commitment to using fresh ingredients combined with a cozy yet lively environment makes Giordano's an ideal spot to gather, share great food, and create lasting memories.
Here's what people think of Giordano's
As of recent, Giordano's holds a 4.4-star rating based on 5977 reviews.
Reviews consistently praise Giordano's for its authentic and richly satisfying stuffed deep-dish pizzas, contributing to its solid 4.4-star rating from nearly 6,000 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the quality and abundance of fresh ingredients, the distinctive double-crust style that sets it apart, and the friendly, family-oriented atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Many customers recommend their signature deep-dish pies and appreciate the flexibility of options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as slow service during peak hours and inconsistent food temperatures upon delivery. A few reviewers have noted that the restaurant can get quite busy, resulting in longer wait times. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly favorable, with most customers valuing the taste, authenticity, and convivial environment that Giordano's offers. In conclusion, the abundant positive reviews paired with minor critiques reflect Giordano's strong reputation as a top-tier destination for Chicago-style deep dish pizza lovers looking to enjoy great food with friends or family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maria Zheng
The deep dish pizza is great! You can read all the other reviews. The crust is not greasy, a little dry, but we like the healthy part of it. The service: the hostess is very friendly, they even took our order before assigning seating since the deep dish pizza will take 40 minutes to cook. The waiter that served our table was excellent. The only thing is that one of the waitress is very rude. We had a lot of shopping bag, we used an empty seat next to us to hold our bags, but that waitress rudely request us put take our gift bags off from the chair. That table and chairs are vacant, she could have waited until she really had customers needed that chair. We took the bags to the floor since we do not want to argue with this mean and rude person Guess what, the next guests showed up with 3 person. Leaving an empty seat. It was totally not necessary for us to take the gift bags off from that chair. That waitress is just a rude, mean person with no customer service in mind. They need more training in that area.
Ezequiel Zurlo
We came as a group of 8 and had a great time here. We tried a Chicago classic deep dish and a Margherita, all really tasty! Vicky and Orlando took great care of us, super friendly and attentive. Perfect spot to enjoy real Chicago pizza!
Irene Dona King
Front desk reservation experience was terrible. We arrived at 6 PM and weren’t seated until an hour later. The hostess told us the wait would be 30 minutes, but it ended up being much longer we waited right next to her since we didn’t have a local number. The food was okay. I liked the pizza, though I wish we had ordered the deep dish instead. 😆
Joy Gray
Pizza was ok. For being one of the main talked about pizza places in Chicago I had high hopes. It was ok. Our server was great. Cocktail was not bad. The pizza is fine but was nothing special. The crust was a little bland for me. There was just nothing that stood out at all. The chicken they put on the Cesar salad......it was the whitest of white meat. Not a spice to be seen or touched within 1,000 miles of that bird. So if you go to order a salad and they ask if you want to add chicken, you don't. It's not bad but if you're wanting to be blown away by pizza, this will not do the trick.
alexa weil
This restaurant is top tier near the navy pier! Very busy, yet super organized. Our pizza was served immediately upon arriving to our table and the service was incredible. We had Jesus as our server and he was absolutely amazing. We did not leave without a few laughs with him! Great dinner and I would highly recommend!!
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?
When planning a gathering with friends or family, the venue sets the tone for the entire experience, and Giordano's shines as an exceptional choice. Famous for its iconic Chicago-style deep dish pizza, Giordano's offers much more than just a meal; it provides a shared culinary adventure steeped in tradition and flavor. Imagine digging into a piping hot, cheese-stuffed pizza with your closest companions, the gooey cheese stretching irresistibly with each pulled slice, sparking laughter and conversation. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it easy to relax and catch up, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Plus, Giordano's longstanding reputation since 1974 adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia, perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you want a lively night out or a cozy spot to enjoy quality time, Giordano's balances a casual yet vibrant setting ideal for group meetups. The combination of hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming ambiance ensures that rallying here turns an ordinary gathering into an event worth repeating.
What makes Giordano's perfect for group activities?
Giordano's caters wonderfully to groups looking for more than just a place to eat. Its menu offers large, family-style deep dish pizzas designed to be shared, ensuring no one leaves hungry. These pizzas, layered with generous amounts of cheese, savory sauces, and fresh toppings, naturally encourage communal dining and conversation as everyone reaches for slices. Beyond pizza, the menu includes Italian classics such as sandwiches, flavorful pastas, and zesty appetizers, giving diverse taste preferences room to breathe. The restaurant's dining areas are spacious and comfortable, allowing groups to sit together without feeling cramped, while some locations even offer outdoor patios to enjoy a fresh-air meal. Additionally, Giordano's full bar provides a variety of drinks that enhance socializing, from craft cocktails to local brews. The lively yet comfortable atmosphere is key for groups who want to chat, laugh, and enjoy their time without distraction. Whether it's a casual meetup or a celebratory night, Giordano's layout and offerings are tailored to facilitate relaxed and fun group experiences.
How does Giordano's menu accommodate a diverse group?
One of the reasons Giordano's stands out for group meetups is its versatility in accommodating varied dietary tastes and appetites. While renowned mostly for their Chicago-style stuffed deep dish pizza, they also offer traditional thin-crust options and gluten-free choices, ensuring inclusivity for different dietary needs. The menu is expansive beyond pizza, featuring Italian-inspired sandwiches, fresh and crisp salads, and comforting pasta dishes, which cater to both lighter eaters and those craving a hearty meal. Appetizers like the Wisconsin cheese curds provide bite-sized starters perfect for sharing at the table, sparking conversation before the main course arrives. The presence of vegetarian and gluten-free options makes Giordano's a conscious choice for groups with diverse requirements, so nobody feels left out. This culinary variety means everyone in the group can find something they enjoy, making the meal inclusive and enjoyable from the first sip to the last bite.
What kind of atmosphere can groups expect at Giordano's?
Giordano's offers an atmosphere that balances liveliness with comfort, making it ideal for a meet-up with friends or family. Inside, the dining rooms are lively and vibrant—perfect for people who enjoy a bustling background while sharing meals and stories. For those who prefer something quieter, certain locations feature lounge areas with a more subdued ambiance, better suited for intimate conversations or relaxed gatherings. The décor often highlights Chicago’s rich pizza heritage, adding an authentic and homey feel that invites diners to unwind. If the weather permits, outdoor patios provide a refreshing open-air environment that guests enjoy for casual dining or drinks. Friendly staff contribute to the welcoming vibe, often attending to groups’ needs promptly despite busy periods. All these factors combine to create a dynamic yet inviting environment where groups can comfortably spend hours catching up or celebrating special occasions.
What activities and experiences enhance group meetups at Giordano's?
Beyond just sitting down for pizza, Giordano's dining experience has elements that turn a simple meal into a shared event. Watching the signature "cheese pull" when the first slice of the deep dish pizza is served excites and entertains everyone at the table, creating that perfect photo opportunity and a fun shared moment. The full bar encourages leisurely socializing, offering cocktails and drinks that pair beautifully with the bold flavors of the pizza. Some locations provide music or event nights which can add a festive spark to gatherings, ideal for groups wanting a more lively environment. For groups who prefer staying in, Giordano’s convenient delivery and pickup options make it easy to bring their celebrated pizzas and Italian dishes home or to any meetup location, extending the social experience beyond the restaurant walls. This flexibility allows you to customize your group event, whether you want an on-site celebration or an informal gathering with Giordano’s food as the centerpiece.
How reliable and well-reviewed is Giordano's as a venue for groups?
With a high rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on nearly 6,000 reviews, Giordano's enjoys a strong reputation for quality and service, important aspects for any group meetup. Most customers praise its legendary stuffed deep dish pizza and the generous portions that make sharing easy and enjoyable. While some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service speed or ambiance noise levels, the overall consensus highlights a dependable dining experience that satisfies diverse palates and large groups alike. The restaurant's long-standing presence since 1974 and multiple locations also indicate a solid operational track record. Reviews often note the friendly atmosphere and the efficiency of staff, even during busy times, ensuring groups feel welcome and well-cared-for. If your meetup requires a mix of good food, accommodating space, and dependable service, Giordano’s is a trusted option that continually draws returning guests looking to reunite over unforgettable pizza.
What are some insider tips for making the most of your group visit to Giordano's?
To ensure your group gathering at Giordano’s is seamless and enjoyable, consider planning ahead by reserving a table or ordering in advance, especially during peak times or weekends when the restaurant tends to be busy. Sharing large deep dish pizzas is highly recommended—not only does it maximize variety and taste, but it fosters camaraderie around the table. Trying appetizers like the signature cheese curds can kick off the meal on a fun note and keep everyone engaged while waiting. For drink lovers, sampling from the full bar’s cocktail menu can add to the celebratory feel. If noise or crowding is a concern, requesting a table in the lounge area or patio can offer a more relaxed setting. Lastly, if someone in your group has dietary restrictions, make sure to explore the gluten-free and vegetarian options to keep the experience inclusive. Following these tips can elevate your group meetup, making Giordano’s a memorable spot to gather again and again.
Why does Giordano's stand out among Chicago-style pizza places for meetups?
Chicago is renowned for its deep dish pizza, but Giordano's distinguishes itself through its authentic "stuffed" deep dish style and consistency in delivering a hearty, satisfying experience. Unlike typical deep dish, Giordano’s signature pies have a double crust layered with a rich blend of cheese and toppings that create a unique texture and flavor profile that invites sharing and savoring. The commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes since 1974 means each pizza reflects a piece of Chicago's culinary heritage, ideal for groups seeking an experiential meal. The balance of a cozy yet energetic atmosphere, combined with extensive menu options and accommodating service, makes it more than just a pizza place but a social hub. Giordano’s maintains a status as a beloved institution where friends and family can come together, enjoy a signature food experience, and celebrate community and connection over unforgettable pies. This blend of tradition, taste, and atmosphere stands it apart as an exceptional venue for group gatherings.