If you are looking for a place that truly captures the spirit of Chicago's food scene, then you might just find your new favorite spot with Amici Chicago. This place, sometimes called Pizz’Amici, is bringing a fresh perspective to a truly beloved city classic. It’s a restaurant that, in a way, feels like it has always been here, even as it offers something new and exciting for everyone who steps through its doors or places an order.
Whether you call it "thin crust" or "tavern style," there's a certain kind of pizza that many people in Chicago just know and love. It's the kind of pizza that, honestly, feels like the true choice for someone from this city. Amici Chicago has really taken this well-known style and made it their own, serving up pies that, you know, get people talking and coming back for more. It’s a spot where the conversation around what makes a great Chicago pizza often starts, or continues, with a nod to their particular way of doing things.
This isn't just about pizza, though. Amici Chicago has a story that, frankly, is pretty remarkable, involving a moment when things were looking a bit tough, and then a surprising turn of events that brought it into the spotlight. It's a place that, as a matter of fact, offers a warm spot for a meal, along with a menu that goes beyond just what you might expect from a pizza place. You can find all sorts of interesting things to try, from savory rice balls to delightful salads, and even some unexpected flavors that really make you think about what Italian-inspired food can be.
Table of Contents
- What makes Amici Chicago's pizza stand out?
- The story behind Amici Chicago's unique journey
- What exactly is this arancini everyone talks about at Amici Chicago?
- How does Amici Chicago make ordering easy?
- Where can you find Amici Chicago and what's the feel like?
- Beyond pizza - other delights at Amici Chicago
- Why did Keith Lee's visit matter so much for Amici Chicago?
- Supporting Amici Chicago - a local favorite
What makes Amici Chicago's pizza stand out?
When you talk about pizza in Chicago, especially the kind that has that truly local feel, you're probably thinking about a thin crust, often called "tavern style." Amici Chicago, also known as Pizz'Amici, really shines here, you know. They have managed to create a version of this city staple that many folks say is simply the best in Chicago. It's the kind of pizza that, in some respects, just hits different. People often talk about how the crust is like a cracker, very thin and wonderfully crispy, which is a big part of what makes it so appealing.
The focus at Amici Chicago is clearly on getting that classic thin crust just right. It's not just about being thin; it's about that satisfying crunch with every bite, something that really makes the pizza memorable. This attention to detail with the crust is, apparently, what sets their tavern-style pizza apart and makes it a favorite for many who appreciate this particular kind of pie. It's a style that, basically, has a lot of history in Chicago, and Amici Chicago seems to have perfected it in a way that respects that tradition while still making it their own.
Beyond the pizza itself, the whole experience at Amici Chicago is something people often comment on. The place has a lively feel, and the people working there are known for being very good at what they do, making sure you feel welcome and looked after. This combination of great food and a warm atmosphere is, honestly, a big part of why it has become such a talked-about spot. You can also, you know, bring your own drinks, which adds a little something extra to the charm of the place, making it feel even more like a relaxed, friendly gathering spot for a meal.
The story behind Amici Chicago's unique journey
Every great place has a story, and Amici Chicago is no different. This spot, located at 1215 W Grand Avenue, has a rather interesting past, originally being a barbershop before it became the pizza and arancini haven it is today. It's the creation of Cecily and Billy Federighi, who, along with their friend Bradley Shorten, are the minds behind this venture. They've poured their efforts into building a place that offers something special to the community.
What's particularly compelling about Amici Chicago's story is that, at one point, this restaurant in Buena Park was facing some serious challenges, almost on the edge of having to close its doors. It's a situation that, as a matter of fact, many small businesses unfortunately face. But then, something happened that really changed things for them, bringing a lot of attention and a fresh wave of support that helped them keep going. This turn of events is, quite literally, a testament to how much a single voice or a simple act of kindness can do for a local business.
The journey of Amici Chicago, from nearly closing to becoming a celebrated spot, shows a lot about resilience and community spirit. It's a reminder that, sometimes, the places we love most have faced their own struggles, and it's the support from people who care that helps them through. The owners, I mean, have clearly put their hearts into it, and that really comes through in the food and the overall feel of the place.
What exactly is this arancini everyone talks about at Amici Chicago?
If you've heard anything about Amici Chicago, you've probably heard about their arancini. These are, essentially, rice balls, a traditional Italian treat that Amici Chicago has taken and given their own special twist. They offer them in a few different flavors, which is pretty cool, allowing you to try something new each time or stick with a favorite. You can find things like birria arancini, which is a bit of a creative take, and even currycino, which sounds, you know, pretty unique and interesting.
The arancini at Amici Chicago is not just a side dish; it's a star in its own right. People really seem to love them, and the reviews often point out how good these rice balls are. There's even a vegetarian arancini option, so there's something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their dietary preferences. It's clear that a lot of thought goes into making these, ensuring they are flavorful and satisfying.
The quality of the arancini at Amici Chicago is, apparently, a big reason why the restaurant got so much attention from a very popular food reviewer. This particular dish, with its different flavors, really caught the eye of someone who knows a thing or two about good food. It's a dish that, to be honest, represents Amici Chicago's willingness to play with flavors and offer something a little bit different, yet still very delicious.
How does Amici Chicago make ordering easy?
In today's busy world, getting your food quickly and without fuss is pretty important, and Amici Chicago seems to get that. They've made it quite simple to place an order, whether you want to pick it up yourself or have it brought right to your door. You can, for example, order online and even keep an eye on your order as it makes its way to you, which is a nice touch.
There are a few different ways you can get your hands on Amici Chicago's food. For instance, you can use services like Seamless to order delivery instantly. If you're an Uber Eats user, you have two simple ways to place an order: either through their app on your phone or by using the Uber Eats website. After you've had a look at the menu and picked what you want, you'll be able to, you know, review everything, place your order, and then track its progress.
What's more, Amici Chicago also works with Grubhub, which is another great way to support them and get your food. And for those who prefer to order directly from the restaurant and know their money is going straight to them, they also take orders through Toast. Orders placed this way are, apparently, commission-free for the restaurant, which is a pretty good thing for local businesses. Plus, if it's your very first order for delivery, you might even get it without any delivery fees, which is a nice little bonus.
Where can you find Amici Chicago and what's the feel like?
Amici Chicago is situated at 1215 W Grand Avenue in Chicago, a spot that, you know, places it within the West Loop, Near West Side, and West Town areas. It's a location that makes it quite accessible for many people in the city. The place itself has a cozy feel, offering a comfortable setting for you to sit down and enjoy your meal. It’s the kind of spot where you can, in a way, just relax and have a good time with friends or family.
The atmosphere at Amici Chicago, particularly at Pizz'Amici, is often described as lively and full of good energy. It's a place where you feel welcome, and the service is known for being very good. People often mention how much they appreciate the way they are looked after when they visit. This combination of a pleasant environment and attentive service really helps make the dining experience a memorable one.
Beyond the main dishes, the restaurant also offers little touches that add to the overall appeal. For example, they have a policy where you can bring your own drinks, which, honestly, adds a unique charm to the place. It's these kinds of details that, basically, make Amici Chicago feel like more than just a place to eat; it feels like a spot where you can truly unwind and enjoy yourself. You can also view their menu and reviews online to get a better sense of what to expect, and they sometimes have special deals, like in June 2025, which you can check out.
Beyond pizza - other delights at Amici Chicago
While Amici Chicago is certainly celebrated for its pizza, there's a whole lot more to explore on their menu. They're making a point of offering different kinds of food that you can easily hold in your hand, all at a price that won't break the bank. This approach means you can try a variety of things without having to spend too much, which is, honestly, pretty great.
One of the things that people often rave about, besides the arancini, is their focaccia. It's made in-house, which means it's very fresh, and it comes with Ferrarini Italian butter and Maldon sea salt. This combination makes for a truly wonderful start to your meal or a delightful side. People really seem to love how good it is, and it's often highlighted in reviews as something you definitely need to try.
The menu at Amici Chicago also includes things like delicious salads, which offer a lighter option, and a range of other items that go beyond just pizza and rice balls. You might find options like chicken, sandwiches, and even some Mexican or Caribbean-inspired dishes, showing their willingness to embrace different flavors. This variety means that, you know, there's likely something to please just about anyone, whether you're looking for a full meal or just a tasty bite. They even have vegetarian choices, like the arancini, which is a nice touch.
Why did Keith Lee's visit matter so much for Amici Chicago?
The story of Amici Chicago really took a turn when Keith Lee, a very popular food reviewer on TikTok, decided to pay them a visit. This happened when the restaurant was, as a matter of fact, struggling quite a bit and was almost at the point of closing down. Keith Lee has more than 16 million followers on TikTok, so when he posts about a place, a lot of people pay attention. His review, which specifically praised the arancini, really put Amici Chicago on the map.
His visit created a huge wave of interest, drawing many new customers to the restaurant. It's a situation that, you know, shows the significant impact that social media can have on local businesses. People were suddenly curious to try the arancini and the other dishes that Keith Lee talked about, leading to a much-needed boost for Amici Chicago. This kind of exposure is, quite literally, something many small businesses can only dream of.
The review from Keith Lee wasn't just a fleeting moment; it gave Amici Chicago a new lease on life. It helped them continue to show up for their community and keep serving their unique food. The surprises, as they put it, kept coming, and it's clear that the attention from someone like Keith Lee made a real difference in helping them stay open and even thrive. It's a powerful example of how one person's voice can, in some respects, help save a local favorite.
Supporting Amici Chicago - a local favorite
Amici Chicago is more than just a place to grab a bite; it's a local business that has shown a lot of grit and continues to serve up some truly loved food. When you choose to order from or visit Amici Chicago, you are, basically, helping to support a part of the community. Whether you're getting delivery or picking up, every order helps them keep going and keep doing what they do best.
People have said, quite honestly, that they "can't say enough great things about this place." There was even some skepticism about a place having a five-star rating, but those who tried it quickly realized that Amici Chicago absolutely earns that high praise. This kind of feedback from customers really speaks volumes about the quality of the food and the experience you get there. It’s a place that, you know, genuinely seems to make people happy.
So, if you're in Chicago and looking for a spot that offers a fresh take on classic pizza, delightful arancini, and a friendly atmosphere, Amici Chicago is certainly worth checking out. You can find their contact information, like their phone number at 312-285-2382, and explore their menu and ordering options online. It’s a place that, as a matter of fact, truly embodies the spirit of a community favorite, continuing to offer great food and a welcoming experience to everyone who comes through their doors.
