The story
Pizza Friendly Pizza opened in the summer of 2020, born from a simple solution: feeding hungry patrons at the Empty Bottle, a beloved dive bar on Chicago’s West Side. What started as a tiny alleyway garden window has evolved into a casual neighborhood eatery that has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about restaurants.
The restaurant is a project from the Chicago-based hospitality collective 16” on Center, in partnership with Michelin-starred chef Noah Sandoval—the chef behind Oriole, Kumiko, and Kikko. Sandoval’s five-day fermented dough is the foundation of everything here, giving the Sicilian-style pan pizzas a crust that is as fluffy as it is crunchy. All pizzas are made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and are available by the slice or as a whole pie.
The menu leans into the friendly, rock-and-roll spirit of the place. Standouts include the Pepperoni & Basil with Ezzo’s pepperoni, the Sausage with giardiniera, and a Miso Mushroom (vegan) option. There is also a Potato Pesto pizza, a Burrata pie, and a Buffalo Chicken slice. For those who want to sample, a Slice Flight offers one of each variety. The intimate dining room is designed for kicking back with a bottle of wine and a pie, but carry-out and delivery are also available.
This laid-back spot earned a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026, a testament to how seriously they take their pizza—without ever taking themselves too seriously.
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