Best Pizza in
Illinois

The state-wide leaderboard. We've aggregated data from across Illinois to find the absolute elite pizza destinations.

Average State Score
75.6
across all ranked restaurants
Top-Rated City
Bloomington
highest avg. score in Illinois
Verified Deliveries
85
restaurants confirmed active
Cities Ranked
4
Bloomington · Cicero · Rockford · Chicago

State Hall of Fame

Paisans Pizzeria
State Elite
1
Paisans Pizzeria
93.00
Score
5840 W 16th St, Cicero, IL 60804, USA

Paisans Pizzeria presents a cracker-thin crust, notable for its satisfying crunch and buttery texture. The balance of toppings to sauce is precise, allowing each element to register without overwhelming the palate. The spicy garlic Parmesan wings offered a flavorful profile, though a touch more heat would elevate them further.

The establishment's staff demonstrated a notable capacity for accommodating errors. When a pickup order was mistakenly placed for the wrong date, the team swiftly prepared the catering order in under thirty minutes, averting a potential disruption. This flexibility extended to the day-to-day operation, with a counter-service model followed by table delivery, a contrast to other locations.

Customer interactions were consistently positive. The staff exhibited a friendly and helpful demeanor, contributing to a charming atmosphere. The dragon fries, a standout dish, delivered a compelling blend of sweet and spicy notes without excessive heat.

Flingers Pizza Pub
State Elite
2
Flingers Pizza Pub
91.00
Score
1503 E Vernon Ave, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA

The thin crust pizza at Flingers Pizza Pub arrived with an undercooked, pliable dough. Toppings dislodged with each bite, presenting a structural challenge rather than a cohesive dish. Chicken wings, seemingly prepared with minimal attention, offered a straightforward fried coating with sauce.

The establishment's bar area provided a lively backdrop. High-top seating in this space facilitated attentive service even when the room was occupied. The selection of craft beer contributes to the pub's atmosphere.

Mac and cheese bites emerged from the kitchen hot and flavorful. A special pizza, the Nashville hot cheesebomb, showcased a complex layering of flavors, its accompanying sauce providing a counterpoint to the spice.

The Lucca Grill
State Elite
3
The Lucca Grill
91.00
Score
116 E Market St, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA

The Lucca Grill's dining room offers a bustling energy, with an attentive staff navigating the space efficiently. Warm breadsticks and a crusty loaf arrive promptly. The pasta primavera, featuring chicken and shrimp in a garden marinara, stands out.

On the culinary front, a built-your-own pizza with sausage and pepperoni presented a crisp crust and balanced flavors. Cheese garlic bread offered a similar textural appeal, its interior yielding to a crisp exterior. The meat ravioli, well-seasoned, came with a marinara accompaniment.

Dessert features a tiramisu. A cold, creamy, and rich rendition, it provided a satisfying conclusion.

Pizza Payaa
State Elite
4
Pizza Payaa
90.63
Score
107 E Beaufort St Ste C, Normal, IL 61761, USA

The staff at Pizza Payaa offers immediate and attentive service, a factor that elevates the dining experience. A server greeted the table promptly, anticipating needs and ensuring a comfortable atmosphere. The chef's specialty pizzas, including the Sausage Fun Guy with its notable Detroit-style crisp, demonstrate a commitment to flavor.

Pizza Payaa’s interior presents a clean, intimate setting, the right amount of lively without being overwhelming. Window-side tables offer a refreshing view, while the bar area presents a polished aesthetic. The monthly specials showcase creative ambition, expanding beyond the standard menu.

While the pizzas impress, the mixed drink selection falls short. Cocktails lacked balance, with one tasting predominantly of sweet vermouth and another of orange oil. This aspect of the beverage program warrants attention, contrasting with the otherwise commendable food and hospitality.

Monical's Pizza
State Elite
5
Monical's Pizza
89.46
Score
718 Eldorado Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704, USA

The pizza crust at Monical's offers a substantial foundation, supporting a generous application of cheese and toppings. The Italian dressing, particularly the creamy variety, presents a distinct tang.

The dining area provides a vantage point to observe the kitchen's operations. Staff interactions are polite, though individual approaches to customer concerns can vary.

A misunderstanding regarding salad dressing orders required multiple exchanges. The meatball sub provided a competent accompaniment to the main offerings.

City Directory