Pizza Hut recently introduced a new item: the Chicago Tavern Style pizza. With a flurry of commercials showcasing this new offering, our beloved local pie has hit the national stage. But does it live up to the hype and do justice to Chicago’s iconic tavern-style pizza?
When it comes to cheese, Pat’s Pizza takes the lead. The cheese on Pat’s pizza tasted richer and less dry compared to Pizza Hut’s version. Pat’s cheese had a creamier texture and a more satisfying mouthfeel.
In the sauce department, Pizza Hut fell short. They skimped on the sauce, resulting in a drier and less flavorful pie. On the other hand, Pat’s Pizza had just the right amount of sauce, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
The sausage on Pat’s Pizza was another highlight. It oozed with juicy fat, adding a burst of flavor to every bite. In contrast, Pizza Hut’s sausage lacked the same juiciness and depth of flavor, making it a less satisfying choice.
Both pizzas featured a cracker-thin crust, but the similarities ended there. Pat’s crust crackled with baked bread goodness, offering a perfect balance of crispiness and flavor. Unfortunately, Pizza Hut’s crust fell flat, resembling cardboard in both texture and taste.
Price is a significant factor for many pizza lovers. Pizza Hut’s 14″ sausage pizza costs $10, while Pat’s 12″ sausage pizza is priced at $16.75. While Pizza Hut offers a more affordable option, Pat’s higher price reflects the quality and care put into their pizza.
Pizza Hut delivers a decent tavern-style pizza at a reasonable price, but it doesn’t quite capture the essence of the original. The crust, in particular, is a major letdown. While Pat’s Pizza costs more, the superior quality of its ingredients and the meticulous attention to detail make it worth the extra money. Additionally, Pizza Hut loses points for not offering giardiniera, a classic Chicago topping, as an option.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an authentic Chicago tavern-style pizza experience, Pat’s Pizza remains the gold standard. Pizza Hut’s new offering is a passable imitation, but it doesn’t quite measure up to the real deal.
