Our Story

Founded in 1971 by Lou Malnati, our restaurant began as a dream to create the perfect deep-dish pizza. Lou, a former manager at Pizzeria Uno, wanted to take Chicago-style pizza to the next level with fresh ingredients, a buttery crust, and a perfect blend of cheese and sauce.

What started as a single location in Lincolnwood has grown into a beloved Chicago institution, but we've never lost sight of Lou's original vision: to serve the best deep-dish pizza using only the finest ingredients and time-honored techniques.

Today, we continue to honor Lou's legacy by maintaining the same commitment to quality that made us Chicago's favorite pizza destination for over five decades.

Lou Malnati's restaurant interior

Our Mission

To serve authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza crafted with passion, using only the finest ingredients and traditional techniques passed down through generations. We're committed to creating memorable dining experiences that bring families and communities together, one pizza at a time.

Our Values

The principles that guide everything we do

Quality First

We use only the finest ingredients, from our signature sausage to our vine-ripened tomatoes, ensuring every pizza meets our high standards.

Family Tradition

Our family recipes and time-honored techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the authentic taste of Chicago.

Community

We're proud to serve our local communities, supporting local suppliers and creating gathering places for families and friends.

Excellence

From our hand-rolled crust to our exceptional customer service, we strive for excellence in every aspect of the dining experience.

Meet Our Team

The passionate people behind Lou Malnati's

Marc Malnati, CEO

Marc Malnati

CEO & Owner

Lou's son who continues the family tradition, ensuring every pizza maintains the quality and authenticity his father envisioned.

Sarah Chen, Executive Chef

Sarah Chen

Executive Chef

With 15 years of culinary experience, Sarah oversees all kitchen operations and ensures our recipes stay true to Lou's original vision.

Mike Rodriguez, Operations Manager

Mike Rodriguez

Operations Manager

Mike manages our daily operations across all locations, ensuring consistent quality and exceptional customer service at every restaurant.

Jessica Williams, Customer Relations Director

Jessica Williams

Customer Relations Director

Jessica leads our customer service initiatives and community outreach programs, ensuring every guest has a memorable experience.

Our History

Over 50 years of deep-dish pizza excellence

1971

Lou Malnati opens the first Lou Malnati's Pizzeria in Lincolnwood, Illinois, introducing his unique take on Chicago deep-dish pizza with a buttery crust and fresh ingredients.

1978

Second location opens in Elk Grove Village, marking the beginning of Lou Malnati's expansion throughout the Chicago area.

1986

Lou Malnati passes away, and his son Marc takes over the business, committed to preserving his father's recipes and vision for authentic Chicago pizza.

1995

Launch of nationwide shipping program, allowing pizza lovers across America to enjoy authentic Lou Malnati's deep-dish pizza at home.

2010

Introduction of gluten-free crust options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Lou Malnati's experience regardless of dietary restrictions.

2021

50th Anniversary celebration with over 60 locations across the Chicago area, maintaining the same quality and commitment to excellence that Lou started with.

Experience the Lou Malnati's Difference

Taste the pizza that's been a Chicago favorite for over 50 years. Visit us today or order online for delivery and carryout.