Gino's East Chicago Style Pizza - "Legendary Chicago Style Pizza"

When I first moved to the Chicago area, years ago, several people told me that Gino's pizza was "the place to go for pizza". The Chicago Pizzeria was located just off of Michigan Avenue and Superior Street, in the City of Chicago.

When I finally got to go, it was a unique and memorable experience. The Italian style pizzeria had a cozy feel, filled with happy diners. There were names scribbled in the wood and stucco walls.

That was my one and only visit to the flagship pizza restaurant, but it is etched in my mind.

Since then, there have been several Gino's East restaurants opened in the suburbs. Even though they may not quite match the ambiance of the flagship pizzeria, they still do have an excellent atmosphere and great pizza.

Gino's East of Chicago, is a standout in a city that is famous for pizza. The pizzeria was opened by two taxi drivers, and a friend, over 40 years ago. It "became an instant legend among Chicagoans, national celebrities and visitors from around the world."

Gino's East of Chicago, located in Lake Zurich, Illinois, was my most recent Gino's experience.

Gino's East in Lake Zurich is located at 561 W. Main Street. It is near the intersection of Route 12 and Highway 22, on the southeast corner on the intersection, located behind a bank.

The restaurant has plentiful parking and an easily accessed entry. On the evening of our midweek visit, the restaurant was not busy. In fact, there were only a few occupied tables, and business seemed a little slow.

We were escorted to a generously sized wood booth. The wood surfaces of the restaurant were clean and shining.

The server came to the table almost immediately and greeted us with a warm, friendly smile. He asked if we wanted a drink and we each ordered a glass of red wine.

The Gino's East menu features "Our Legendary Deep Dish Pizza". The featured pizzas include: cheese, cheese and Gino's famous sausage, cheese and pepperoni, Gino's East Supreme, Bacon cheeseburger, four cheese, meaty legend, vegetarian and spinach. Gino's is famous for their excellent deep dish style pizza, with the thick crust and rich sauce and cheese.