The first Lou Malnati's restaurants opened in some of the more remote suburbs, but the franchise's arrival to hopping River North solidifies its place as one of Chicago's most popular pizza joints. Lou's unique crust puts a buttery spin on traditional deep-dish, and it sets the pizzeria apart from the slew of Italian-named, Chicago-based pizza joints striving for the title of best Chicago-style pie. Patrons swear by the sausage pizza, which is a meat-lover's must, or try the ''Lou'' -- spinach, mushrooms and sliced tomatoes covered with a blend of cheeses. Thin-crust pizza, pastas and sandwiches are also available, as well as a children's menu and a weekday express lunch menu. If you enjoy distractions while you munch, televisions and sports memorabilia provide ample entertainment -- and keep the place low-key enough for families and groups.

Those not completely stuffed with buttercrust, tomatoes and gooey mozzarella can split a delectable, piping-hot chocolate-chip and ice cream ''pizza'' with the group for dessert.

Categories: Restaurants, Pizza, Restaurants-Pizza

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