Prince Street Pizza, a popular New York City pizza joint, has opened its first Chicago location in the West Loop. Located on Randolph Restaurant Row, this new spot offers Chicagoans a taste of the renowned pizza chain, known for its Sicilian squares and large Neapolitan-style slices.
The move to Chicago was made possible through a partnership with local restaurateur David Choi, the founder of Seoul Taco. Choi worked with Prince Street CEO Lawrence Longo to bring the iconic pizza to the city. Choi noted the lack of slice shops in Chicago, despite its large population, which he believed created an opportunity for Prince Street to thrive here.
The menu offers a variety of pizzas, including the chain’s well-known Spicy Spring pizza, topped with fra diavolo sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano. Other Sicilian options include spicy vodka, four cheese, meat lover’s, and vegan pies. Neapolitan pizzas on the menu include cheese, pesto and ricotta, smoked mozzarella and basil, and a veggie option with onions, bell peppers, olives, and mushrooms.
Choi promises that the Chicago location will stay true to the New York original. “From the dough to the water, we’re using the same PH levels as New York water to ensure authenticity,” he said.
The Prince Street Pizza brand was founded in 2012 by Frank Morano, and its original recipes remain in place. Choi worked hard to convince Longo to expand to Chicago, a city that has a strong pizza scene. Longo was initially hesitant, but Choi believed it would be a great addition to the city’s food scene.
In a nod to Chicago’s pizza culture, the Chicago Supreme pizza was created specifically for the new location. This pizza is inspired by the flavors of a Chicago-style hot dog, topped with giardiniera, poppy seeds, pepperoni, mushroom, and onion.
The restaurant will offer a traditional New York slice shop experience with a small indoor space featuring a bar ledge against the window for those who want to eat on-site. However, the concept is mostly takeout, with quick service for on-the-go customers.
As with the other locations, diners can expect some wait time, but the pizza is well worth it.
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