Milly’s Pizza in the Pan, nominated for the 2025 Jean Banchet Award for “Best Pizza,” offers a unique take on Chicago-style pan pizza. The restaurant is owned by Robert Maleski, who was inspired by his grandmother, Milly. Maleski handcrafts a limited number of pizzas daily at his two locations, in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood and Berwyn.
Maleski’s journey into pizza-making began during the pandemic when he started experimenting with recipes in his kitchen. His creations quickly gained popularity among friends and family, leading him to open a ghost kitchen before launching the brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Maleski’s love for cooking was nurtured by his grandmother, who encouraged him to cook in her kitchen. His passion for pizza was solidified after a visit to Burt’s Place, a renowned pizzeria in Morton Grove, which inspired him to perfect his own version of the pizza.
Milly’s signature pizza features a caramelized crust, made from a scratch dough that is cold-fermented for several days with a poolish starter and cake yeast. The dough is hand-pressed into special pans and layered with cheese, tomato sauce, and toppings, creating a balanced bite with a crisp crust—less sloppy than traditional deep dish.
The restaurant offers unique menu items with clever names, such as the “Clickbait” (featuring olives, red onion, mushrooms, mini peppers, Kumato tomatoes, jalapenos, Calabrian chilis, and fresh ricotta) and the “Craigslist Org” (with Peppadew peppers, sausage, mushrooms, red onions, toy box tomatoes, spinach, and ricotta). There’s also a build-your-own option called “You Do You.”
Milly’s Pizza in the Pan is recognized as one of the best pizzerias in Chicago, earning praise from Eater Chicago, Time Out, and The Infatuation.
Related Topics
- Dave Portnoy Slams Wawa Pizza as ‘Disgusting’ in Maryland Review
- Cafe Alyce Introduces Hidden Tasting Experience in Jersey City
- Papa John’s Opens in Fields Corner After Nearly Two Years
