Where Chicago's deep-dish pizza tradition reached its most authentic expression, My Pi Pizza Chicago stood as the city's pioneering institution that first carried the Windy City's culinary crown beyond Illinois borders. Founded in 1971 near Loyola University by Larry Aronson, this legendary pizzeria represented more than five decades of unwavering commitment to the craft that defined Chicago fine dining's most beloved export.

The story begins with Larry Aronson, son of a third-generation baker, who perfected a deep-dish recipe that his family had been refining since the 1950s. What distinguished My Pi from Chicago's crowded pizza landscape was Aronson's meticulous approach to authenticity—a secret spice blend, Wisconsin cheeses, and California vine-ripened tomatoes combined with an unchanged recipe that remained constant for 54 years. The restaurant became the first Chicago deep-dish establishment to expand nationwide, reaching 25 locations across nine states during its peak, earning recognition from CNN, USA Today, and The Washington Post as one of the best restaurants Chicago had to offer.

My Pi's cuisine centered on the art of deep-dish perfection, with dough made fresh daily using a technique involving three rises to achieve the ideal balance of crisp exterior and tender interior. The signature "My Pi Special" showcased Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers nestled within the restaurant's proprietary sauce—a closely guarded recipe featuring California tomatoes and that distinctive spice blend. Beyond traditional deep-dish, the menu evolved to include thin-crust options and vegan alternatives, demonstrating the kitchen's commitment to dietary inclusivity while maintaining its foundational excellence. The restaurant also offered par-baked pizzas for home finishing, extending the My Pi experience beyond its dining room.

The atmosphere at My Pi's final location on North Damen Avenue in Bucktown embodied the warmth of neighborhood dining elevated by exceptional craft. The space featured both dine-in and carry-out options, complemented by a heated all-seasons outdoor tent that welcomed guests year-round. Service reflected the family-owned philosophy—attentive, consistent, and accommodating to customer preferences, including the choice of receiving pizzas sliced or unsliced. The restaurant's commitment to quality created an environment where casual family meals and special celebrations felt equally at home.

Though My Pi closed in 2025 after 54 remarkable years, its legacy as a Chicago fine dining institution remains unmatched. For those seeking to understand Chicago's culinary heritage, My Pi represented the gold standard of deep-dish authenticity—a testament to how traditional techniques and unwavering quality can create dining experiences that transcend generations and define a city's gastronomic identity.