Marco DiNapoli
Executive Head Chef
With 25 years in Chicago's finest kitchens, Marco oversees every recipe and ensures the caramelized crust remains as perfect as it was in 1971.
Est. 1970s — Morton Grove, IL
About Pequod's pizza
The story of pequod's pizza is one of passion, craft, and a relentless dedication to crafting the most iconic deep dish in the United States. Every slice tells our story.
50+
Years of Craft
Our Story
How Pequod's Became a Chicago Legend
Pequod's pizza was born in the early 1970s with a singular vision: to craft a deep dish pizza unlike anything else. Named after Captain Ahab's legendary ship from Moby Dick, Pequod's set out on its own voyage — one dedicated to perfecting the caramelized cheese crust that would become our hallmark.
Today, pequods pizza remains a beloved institution in the United States. From our original Morton Grove location to the hearts of pizza lovers everywhere, we've never wavered from the recipes and techniques that made us famous.
The Famous Caramelized Crust
Our signature pan-baked crust caramelizes at the edge, creating a uniquely crisp, buttery rim that no other pizza can replicate.
Fresh, Quality Ingredients
We source the finest cheeses, hand-crushed tomatoes, and premium toppings to ensure every bite reflects our commitment to quality.
Made With Passion
Every pizza is crafted by hand with the same love and care as it was on day one — a tradition passed down through generations of our team.
50+
Years Active
2M+
Pizzas Served
4.8★
Avg. Rating
100%
Handcrafted
Our Mission
The Values Behind Every Pequod's Slice
At Pequod's, we believe great pizza is more than food — it's a gathering, a tradition, and a craft perfected over decades. Our core values guide everything we do.
Uncompromising Quality
We never cut corners on ingredients. From dough to sauce to cheese, every component is selected with care and expertise.
Community First
Pequod's has been woven into the fabric of the United States community. We celebrate every table, every milestone, every memory shared over our pizza.
Honoring Tradition
Our original recipes have stood the test of time. We honor our heritage while continuously refining our craft for new generations of fans.
Sustainable Practices
We are committed to responsible sourcing, reducing waste, and supporting local suppliers to minimize our footprint and maximize freshness.
Our History
Five Decades of Pequod's Pizza
From a small Morton Grove kitchen to an iconic United States institution — here's how pequods grew into the legend it is today.
Founding
The Voyage Begins
Pequod's pizza opens its doors in Morton Grove, Illinois. Named after Captain Ahab's ship, the restaurant launches with a mission to craft the most distinctive deep dish in Chicago. The caramelized crust technique is pioneered from day one.
1971
1980
Recognition
Chicago's Best-Kept Secret Goes Public
Word spreads across the United States as Pequod's receives its first major press recognition. Food critics flock to experience the legendary caramelized crust, and reservation waitlists begin stretching weeks long.
Expansion
A Second Home in Lincoln Park
Demand for pequods pizza leads to the opening of a beloved second location in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. The new location brings Pequod's iconic deep dish to a new generation of fans and further cements its status as a Chicago institution.
1993
2005
Award
Named Best Deep Dish in the USA
Multiple national food publications and travel guides crown Pequod's as the definitive deep dish pizza destination in the United States. The recognition brings visitors from across the country and around the world to experience our iconic pie.
Innovation
Embracing Online Ordering
Pequod's launches its first digital ordering platform, making it easier than ever for fans across the United States to order their favorite pizza. Delivery reach expands significantly, bringing our caramelized crust to more households than ever before.
2015
Today
Ongoing Legacy
Still Crafting the Perfect Pie
Over five decades after our founding, Pequod's pizza continues to honor its roots while evolving to serve a new generation of deep dish devotees. Every pizza is still made by hand, with the same soul and dedication that started it all in Morton Grove.
Meet the Team
The People Behind Pequod's Pizza
Behind every legendary pequod's pizza is a passionate team of culinary craftspeople, restaurateurs, and hospitality experts dedicated to your experience.
Sarah Kovacs
General Manager
Sarah brings 15 years of hospitality leadership to Pequod's. Her warmth and precision ensure every guest leaves with a smile and a full stomach.
James Ortega
Master Dough Artisan
James has spent 18 years perfecting the sacred Pequod's dough formula — the buttery, hand-pressed foundation beneath every legendary pie we serve.
Lisa Chen
Head of Operations
Lisa ensures every Pequod's location runs with precision and warmth. Her systems and standards keep our quality consistent across every order, every day.