Lou Malnati's deep dish pizza flagship is closing in Chicago

A major piece of Chicago's deep-dish landscape is shifting. After 15 years as a neighborhood cornerstone, the iconic Lou Malnati's Pizzeria flagship restaurant on the Gold Coast is officially closing its doors.

While the news is sudden and shocking for local pizza purists and tourists alike, company officials emphasize that this is merely a temporary pause for the beloved establishment, rather than a final curtain call.

Why is this Lou Malnati's location closing?

The closure stems entirely from a real estate decision rather than a decline in the restaurant's popularity. In September 2025, Convexity Properties acquired the high-profile buildings at 1120 and 1130 N. State St. for $39 million as part of an ongoing district revitalization project. Because the property owner plans to redevelop the site—which is currently zoned for a 345-foot residential tower approved by the Chicago City Council—they declined to renew Lou Malnati’s existing lease.

When is it closing?

Fans of the famous Malnati's crust have only a short window left to experience the dining room at 1120 N. State St. The final day of operations for the Gold Coast flagship is scheduled for Tuesday, June 30.

How many other Lou Malnati's locations are there in Chicago?

While losing a flagship hurts, local deep-dish cravings will not go unsatisfied. This specific venue is just one part of a massive regional empire; there are 69 other Lou Malnati's locations operating across the broader footprint. Hungry patrons can easily find alternative full-service dining rooms, cafes and carryout spots scattered throughout the Chicago area.

What's next for Lou Malnati's?

Lou Malnati’s leadership is already planning for the future. "It is unfortunate that we must temporarily close our dine-in and carryout service in that area," said CEO Julie Younglove-Webb in a press release, adding that the brand remains fully committed to the neighborhood.

The company is actively evaluating several potential replacement sites for a full-service pizzeria on the near-north area, including a potential spot inside the new development replacing their old home. In the meantime, the same kitchen team will transition to a temporary space to keep delivery service to the Gold Coast rolling beyond the closure.