When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Paulie Gee's Logan Square
Why Paulie Gee's Logan Square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Paulie Gee's Logan Square is a celebrated pizza restaurant located at 2451 North Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago's vibrant Logan Square neighborhood, offering an ideal spot for friends to gather and enjoy a memorable meal. Known for its creative and diverse pizza offerings, this establishment provides both classic and vegan-friendly options, ensuring that all guests can find something to savor. The inviting atmosphere, enhanced by friendly table service and a lively yet comfortable setting, makes it conducive for socializing and relaxation. Standout menu items include the 'Brian Deparma,' featuring Italian tomatoes and Parmigiano Reggiano, and the 'Regina,' with fresh mozzarella, Italian tomatoes, Pecorino Romano, olive oil, and fresh basil. For those seeking a plant-based experience, the vegan pizzas stand out for their flavor and creativity. Beyond the pizzas, Paulie Gee's offers appetizers like wood-fired garlic knots known as 'Knots of Love,' served with a house-made marinara sauce, and creamy burrata with fresh basil, perfect for sharing. The blend of classic and innovative ingredients and dishes, paired with a well-curated beverage list, enhances the dining experience. Whether it’s a casual night out or a special occasion, Paulie Gee's Logan Square provides a welcoming environment that encourages connection over exceptional food.
Here's what people think of Paulie Gee's Logan Square
As of recent, Paulie Gee's Logan Square holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1517 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Paulie Gee's Logan Square for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious pizza, especially highlighting the quality and creativity of both the traditional and vegan options. Many commend the friendly and attentive service that adds to the overall positive dining experience. The wood-fired pizzas, noted for fresh and high-quality ingredients such as Italian tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and unique toppings like Berkshire soppressata piccante, receive enthusiastic acclaim. Positive reviews frequently mention the welcoming vibe, excellent food variety including standout dishes like the Monte Cristo and Detroit-style pizzas, and the restaurant’s unique charm within the Logan Square area. On the downside, some customers note that the restaurant can get quite busy, leading to longer wait times even on weekdays or early evenings, which at times affects the pacing of the meal. A few reviews mention the prices as somewhat on the higher side, though many feel the quality justifies the cost. Some guests have reported variability in pizza styles, which might not suit all preferences, particularly those expecting a classic Chicago deep-dish experience. Overall, the positive feedback strongly outweighs the negatives, indicating that Paulie Gee's Logan Square is a popular and highly regarded destination for pizza lovers, known for its combination of quality food, inviting ambiance, and accommodating service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Graham
The Us Pizza Cup Winner Detroit style could be one of my all time favorite pizzas. The crispy cheesy crust, the bacon jam, the ricotta. The tomato sauce it outstanding and all the flavors just come together so well. The pepperoni is crispy and spicy. We also got the So Fresh So Green fireoven white sauce pizza and that was so refreshing. It was a nice earthy arugula flavor and the crust was so soft. The vegan cookies and cream cake was absolutely so delicious, it was from a local bakery and the waiter said the flavor rotates every month. Ben was so friendly and attentive! I love Pauline G’s and can’t wait to be back.
Vanesha Blackburn
My first visit here and I enjoyed myself. I went with a friend and we shared the “my kind of town pizza”- and it was soo good. Beyond what I expected for sure. The sauce, the veggies, the cheeses, the meats were spot on and fresh. 10 out of 10 recommend and will return. Our server was also very nice and provided recommendations and things to us and was so sweet. If you are in the area please check them out you will not regret it.
Kelly Wen
We got: • Vodka-Roni • Monte Cristo • The US Pizza Cup Winner The first two woodfire pizzas were the Monday special with a drink and whisky shot - $17 each (great deal). They were both tasty. Texture of the dough was incredibly light and fluffy. The Monte Cristo was unlike any other that I've tasted before - I'd come back for this again. The dough of US Pizza Cup Winner is so so fluffy and bouncy. After each bite, the crust springs back almost immediately. The flavor combo (ricotta, basil, hot honey) is one of my favorites but I've had better elsewhere (taste-wise). I definitely recommend Paulie Gee's!
Gourmand
This spot serves the BEST pizza and cake while simultaneously having the WORST service I’ve ever experienced. To make matters worse, they automatically force you to pay a 20% tip. It is because of this that staff can treat you however they want because they know they’re getting paid. Let’s start with the good. The Logan Squares (Detroit-style pizza) is out of this world. The pizzas are on the expensive side for the quantity, but the flavor is excellent. I got the funghi pizza that was a lot of different cheese and mushroom. I added a side of Mike’s hot honey to drizzle on the pizza. The flavors were incredible with heavy umami from the mushrooms and cheeses. The hot honey added a much needed sweetness and subtle heat to cut through the rich, heavy flavors of the pizza. Paired with a non-alcoholic beer, this was excellent. They also had a dense strawberry shortcake with an incredible buttercream frosting that was mind blowing! It was so so delicious, sweet, and tasted surprisingly fresh with real strawberries. Now for the bad. Like I mentioned at the start, service is abysmal. It first took 15 minutes for a waiter to come to the table to take drink orders. The drinks are just canned, but it took another 15 minutes to bring that out with a relatively empty restaurant. Then, the waiters never checked on me to bring more water or anything. They even brought a wrong pizza, put it on my table, and then I had to tell them it was not mine. They then went and took it to another table. This is an issue as a restaurant should immediately take it back and bring out a new pizza to the correct table instead of taking it off of ours to give to someone else. Also FYI, they can’t modify any toppings on the Detroit style pizzas as those come premade (the restaurant just bakes them). Service was just poor throughout the meal with no one checking to refill drinks or anything. At this point I was frankly offended that they force a 20% tip for this service. I would normally be happy with giving 20-25% for good service, but this spot did not come anywhere close to that. If you’re looking for good food but to be treated horribly by staff and forced to pay a large tip, come here!
Kaz
The pizza was okay. The pizza cup winner pizza was really quite good, but the honey makes it soggy at least for pickup. Some of the crust and cheese was already burnt so reheating it fully enough to crisp up the crust without burning more of it was challenging. But it tastes great fresh, so I think this pizza would really shine when dining in. The beef gyro pizza was just average, but I applaud them trying something new. Wouldn't get it again. The 20% auto gratuity even on pickup orders is brutal and in my opinion, unethical. Just raise your prices and pay your employees more. Two small pizzas after taxes and auto gratuity came out to 60 dollars. I didn't find this place to be a great value. The quality of the pizza wasn't something I found to be extraordinary for the cost.
How to reach Paulie Gee's Logan Square
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Why Paulie Gee's Logan Square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Paulie Gee's Logan Square with your friends?
If you're looking for a place that perfectly blends excellent food with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, Paulie Gee's Logan Square is an unbeatable choice for gathering with friends or family. First and foremost, its reputation for outstanding pizza—recognized widely as both authentic and innovative—makes it a magnetic spot for any pizza lover. Whether you’re craving the rich, wood-fired Neapolitan style or the hearty Detroit-style pies, Paulie Gee’s offers both with quality that keeps people coming back. The fact that the pizza ovens are imported directly from Italy highlights the commitment to authenticity, ensuring every bite delivers an outstanding flavor experience. Beyond the food, the venue in Logan Square provides a vibrant yet comfortable setting, making it ideal for lively group conversations or simply relaxing as you enjoy your meal. It’s this combination of delicious, versatile menu options and a welcoming environment that makes Paulie Gee’s Logan Square a prime meeting spot to catch up, celebrate, or just enjoy each other’s company. The ability to accommodate various dietary preferences, including thoughtfully prepared vegan choices, means that no one in your group feels left out, fostering an inclusive dining experience. In short, rallying your friends here means sharing memorable moments over some of Chicago’s best-loved pizza in an upbeat neighborhood hub.
What kind of food and drink options can groups explore at Paulie Gee’s Logan Square?
At Paulie Gee's Logan Square, food is the star attraction, with an emphasis on high-quality, wood-fired pizzas crafted with care. They serve two main types of pizza styles: Neapolitan and Detroit-style, each catering to different tastes and preferences. The Neapolitan pies come with a thin, chewy crust and classic Italian toppings, all cooked to perfection in one of the imported Italian pizza ovens. Meanwhile, the Detroit-style pizzas offer a thicker, crispy-edged experience that is more filling and hearty, ideal for groups wanting to share something substantial. Notably, Paulie Gee’s doesn’t just stick to traditional meat options; their vegan pizzas are surprisingly flavorful and thoughtfully created, providing a delicious alternative for plant-based diners. A fan favorite topping is their signature spicy honey, which adds a delightful sweet heat that enhances the overall pizza experience. Beyond pizza, the restaurant offers a curated selection of appetizers and sides, as well as beverages that complement the meal. These include local craft beers and craft sodas, which are great for sharing and rounding out your gathering. Whether your group is looking to indulge in classic flavors, experiment with new tastes, or accommodate multiple dietary needs, Paulie Gee’s diverse menu offers plenty of options that make it easy to tailor your meal for everyone’s enjoyment.
What activities or atmosphere make Paulie Gee’s Logan Square perfect for a group meetup?
Paulie Gee’s Logan Square is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience that caters brilliantly to groups looking for a casual yet lively atmosphere. The venue's layout features communal seating as well as smaller tables, encouraging social interaction and making it simple for larger groups to stay together and share food. The vibrant neighborhood of Logan Square adds to the appeal, with the restaurant acting as a local hotspot where energy and conversation flow easily. The welcoming vibe paired with the buzz of a busy, popular pizza joint creates a perfect backdrop for catching up with friends or celebrating special occasions. Additionally, because of its popularity and the efficient wood-fired ovens, your food arrives promptly, so long waits aren’t a problem when your group is hungry and eager to dig in. The staff, despite some mixed reviews, generally strive to keep the environment friendly and accommodating, which is key when dining with multiple people. Lastly, the menu and social setting encourage sharing and trying various pizza styles and sides together, turning the meal into a fun, interactive group activity centered on great food and conversation.
How does Paulie Gee’s accommodate dietary needs and preferences in a group setting?
One of the standout features of Paulie Gee’s Logan Square is its thoughtful approach to accommodating different dietary preferences, which makes it an excellent choice for diverse groups. The menu includes dedicated vegan options that don’t compromise on taste, providing rich, flavorful alternatives that win over even non-vegans. This is particularly important for groups who may have mixed dietary needs, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable without having to settle. Classic pizza varieties also cater to omnivores, with flexible toppings and crust options that can be customized. For those with gluten intolerance or other common restrictions, Paulie Gee’s typically can provide options or alternatives upon request—making the experience inclusive broadly. Offering a range of beverage choices including craft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks further supports varied preferences within your party. This flexibility is a key reason why groups feel comfortable choosing Paulie Gee’s Logan Square, as it makes organizing a meal easier when everyone’s needs and tastes are considered and respected.
What makes Paulie Gee’s Logan Square an ideal location in the neighborhood for group meetups?
Located in the vibrant Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago, Paulie Gee’s benefits from an energetic yet laid-back community atmosphere that directly enhances the group dining experience. Logan Square is known for its artistic, eclectic vibe and welcoming spirit, attracting locals and visitors who appreciate quality food and culture. For groups wanting to make a day or evening of it, the restaurant’s location offers proximity to other attractions, bars, and coffee shops, making it easy to extend your meetup before or after the meal. The neighborhood’s walkability, combined with accessible public transportation, allows everyone in your group to arrive and depart conveniently. Inside, the décor mirrors the neighborhood’s character — hip, urban, and comfortably casual — which invites lingering and relaxed socializing. The combination of a prime, easily reachable location with an inviting ambiance makes Paulie Gee’s a natural gathering point, fitting for everything from casual hangouts to birthday celebrations or informal reunions.
How do guests rate their experience at Paulie Gee’s Logan Square overall?
Paulie Gee’s Logan Square boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating based on over 1,500 reviews, indicating a strong and consistent track record of satisfaction from its patrons. The high rating reflects widespread praise for the exceptional quality of the pizza, especially their wood-fired Neapolitan and Detroit-style pies, which are often described as some of the best in Chicago. Reviewers frequently mention the flavorful and creative toppings, including the popular spicy honey drizzle that sets Paulie Gee’s apart. While there are occasional notes about service inconsistencies, the food quality and inviting atmosphere consistently win customers over. Many guests emphasize that the experience is well worth the visit, especially for groups who appreciate sharing great pizza in a lively yet relaxed setting. The restaurant’s growing reputation as a top pizza destination, combined with its positive ratings, makes it an appealing and reliable spot for anyone planning a group outing centered around excellent food.
What special touches at Paulie Gee’s make group gatherings more memorable?
Paulie Gee’s Logan Square enriches group gatherings with special touches that elevate the dining experience beyond just a meal. The imported Italian pizza ovens not only enhance the authenticity and quality of the pizzas but also create a rustic, artisanal ambiance that adds charm to your visit. The ability to customize pizzas with unique toppings like their house-made spicy honey adds a playful and memorable flavor twist that sparks conversation and sharing among friends. Additionally, the staff are generally attentive to accommodating the dynamics of group dining, ensuring pizzas arrive hot and fresh and helping with any special requests. For those interested in trying different styles, the mix of Neapolitan and Detroit pizzas allows groups to sample and compare, turning the meal into a food adventure. The combination of these culinary and service details means your gathering is not only tasty but also genuinely enjoyable and distinctive, leaving a lasting impression on your friends or family.
How does Paulie Gee's Logan Square support celebrations and special group events?
Whether you’re organizing a casual birthday party, a reunion, or a laid-back celebration, Paulie Gee’s Logan Square shines as a venue that supports group events with its inviting space and menu. The restaurant’s layout and seating options can accommodate larger parties who want to sit together, and the wide-ranging menu caters to diverse palates, minimizing stress around food choices. The vibrant atmosphere naturally lends itself to lively celebrations without feeling overly formal or stuffy, making everyone feel comfortable. While the restaurant might not have a fully private event space, its neighborhood charm and strong food reputation provide the perfect backdrop to mark special occasions in a memorable way. Booking ahead is advisable for bigger groups, ensuring smooth service and a well-organized experience. This combination of flexibility, quality food, and warm ambiance makes Paulie Gee’s a dependable and favored choice for group celebrations that prioritize good times and delicious pizza.
What is the best way to plan a group outing to Paulie Gee’s Logan Square?
Planning a successful group outing to Paulie Gee’s Logan Square involves considering several factors to make the experience smooth and enjoyable. First, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially on weekends or evenings, because the place is popular and can get busy. Confirm the size of your party and any dietary requirements to help streamline ordering once you arrive. Encourage your group to share pizzas to experience the variety of options Paulie Gee’s offers, and consider trying both Neapolitan and Detroit-style pies to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Getting there is easy due to Logan Square’s convenient location and public transportation links, but carpooling or rideshare can simplify parking concerns. Finally, allocate ample time to enjoy the full meal and soak up the laid-back atmosphere, turning your meetup into a memorable occasion rather than a rushed dinner. With these tips, your group can fully appreciate what makes Paulie Gee’s Logan Square a standout venue for social gatherings centered around exceptional pizza.