Uno Pizzeria & Grill

Uno Pizzeria & Grill

Uno Pizzeria & Grill Logo

Uno Pizzeria & Grill, commonly known as Pizzeria Uno, is a renowned American restaurant chain famous for its Chicago-style pizza. The chain was founded in 1943 by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo in Chicago, Illinois. Uno Pizzeria & Grill has since expanded to numerous locations across the United States and internationally, offering a variety of Italian-American cuisine.

History

The original Pizzeria Uno was established at the corner of Ohio Street and Wabash Avenue in the Near North Side neighborhood of Chicago. Ike Sewell, a former University of Texas football player, and Ric Riccardo, a successful businessman, collaborated to create a new style of pizza that would become iconic. This deep-dish pizza was designed to be a hearty meal, with a thick crust and generous toppings.

Pizzeria Uno and Pizzeria Due in Chicago

Following the success of the original location, a second restaurant, Pizzeria Due, was opened in 1955 just a block away. The popularity of the deep-dish pizza led to the expansion of the brand, and in 1978, the first franchised location opened in Boston, Massachusetts.

Menu

Uno Pizzeria & Grill is best known for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, which features a buttery crust, layers of cheese, and a chunky tomato sauce. The menu also includes a variety of other dishes such as thin-crust pizzas, pasta, salads, sandwiches, and appetizers. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and offers a selection of craft beers and wines to complement its meals.

Restaurant Design

Uno Restaurant Exterior

The design of Uno Pizzeria & Grill locations often reflects the original Chicago setting, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Many restaurants feature exposed brick walls, wooden furnishings, and memorabilia that pay homage to the brand's history. The layout is designed to accommodate both small and large groups, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and casual dining.

Cultural Impact

Uno Pizzeria & Grill has played a significant role in popularizing Chicago-style pizza across the United States and beyond. The brand's commitment to quality and tradition has earned it a loyal customer base and a place in American culinary culture. The deep-dish pizza has become synonymous with Chicago, and Uno's influence can be seen in the numerous pizzerias that have adopted similar styles.

Interior of an Uno Pizzeria & Grill

Expansion and Franchising

Since its inception, Uno Pizzeria & Grill has expanded significantly, with locations in over 20 states and several countries. The franchising model has allowed the brand to maintain its core values while adapting to local tastes and preferences. Each franchisee is trained to uphold the standards of quality and service that Uno is known for.

Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago-style deep-dish pizza from Pizzeria Uno

The Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is characterized by its thick crust, which is baked in a pan to create a high edge. This allows for ample fillings, including mozzarella cheese, meats, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. The pizza is typically baked for a longer time than traditional pizzas, resulting in a crispy crust and a gooey, flavorful interior.

Related Pages

• Chicago-style pizza
• Deep-dish pizza
• List of pizza chains of the United States
• Italian-American cuisine