This article was inspired by content originally published on WGN Radio 720
Introduction
Each spring, Chicago’s pizza fanatics gather for the ultimate showdown: the Chicago Pizza Madness Tournament. It’s the bracket that pits neighborhood legends against trendy newcomers, deep-dish masters against tavern-cut rebels all for the honor of being crowned Chicago’s fan favorite.
This year, Pequod’s Pizza once again rose to the top, earning the title of 2025 champion proof that old-school techniques, signature flavors, and fierce local love still matter in a world that’s constantly chasing the next big thing.
So, what can the rest of the pizza world learn from Chicago’s latest winner? Whether you’re a home pizza enthusiast, a supplier, or a shop owner trying to grow your slice of the pie, Pequod’s win offers lessons that go far beyond caramelized crust.
For Enthusiasts: Master the “Frico” at Home
One reason Pequod’s consistently claims top honors? That crispy, caramelized cheese crust known in pizza circles as “frico” is downright addictive.
If you’re a home baker eager to replicate it, start with the right pan. A cast-iron skillet helps create that perfect cheese-to-pan contact. Next, splurge on a blend of whole-milk mozzarella and Wisconsin brick cheese. Want that signature bite? Layer your cheese all the way to the edge and butter the pan sides for maximum crunch.
For Suppliers: Help Pizzerias Tell a Signature Story
Pequod’s didn’t just win because they have a tasty pie they won because they own their style. The takeaway for ingredient suppliers is clear: help your operators carve out a story.
Think beyond bulk mozzarella. Can you offer curated cheese blends that help pizzerias create a signature frico? Could you supply house-made sausage or locally milled flour to set them apart? Sites like WebstaurantStore make it easier than ever to source unique ingredients that become a calling card.
Suppliers can also lean into the storytelling angle sharing the heritage of their products and offering marketing support to help shops promote what makes them different.
For Shop Owners: Defend Your Crown and Your Margins
Pequod’s success is a reminder that nostalgia and consistency build die-hard fans. But staying on top in a city like Chicago takes more than a cult pie.
Smart shop owners keep their operations tight so they can handle tournament-fueled rushes and viral buzz. This means reliable equipment, a modern POS system that tracks online orders, and loyalty tools that turn first-timers into regulars.
If you’re ready to think like a champion, do what Pequod’s does: lean into limited-edition pies, seasonal specials, or pop-ups to keep your biggest fans engaged all year long.
Pizza Pro Tip: Build Your Own Bracket
A fun nugget from the Chicago Pizza Madness Tournament? The power of community engagement. Pequod’s loyal following mobilized on social media, rallying thousands of votes.
Why not run your own version? Host a “March Madness” of pizza toppings, crust styles, or limited-time pies and let your customers crown a winner. It’s a brilliant way to test new ideas before adding them to the menu and it turns casual fans into invested advocates.
Final Slice
In a pizza world dominated by trends, Pequod’s shows that sticking to what you do best and telling that story fiercely is what wins hearts year after year. For enthusiasts, it’s a call to celebrate regional styles and techniques. For suppliers, it’s a chance to help operators stand out. And for shop owners, it’s a reminder that your signature pie is your greatest asset.
So fire up your oven, crisp that frico edge, and let your pizza do the talking. In the end, the true champion isn’t the one who shouts the loudest it’s the one whose slice you crave long after the final bite.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article was inspired by content originally published on WGN Radio 720. This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase them.
