Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago

Thinking about a fun, hands-on way to explore Chicago’s culinary heritage? A Deep Dish Pizza Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno offers just that. This experience combines learning how to craft a genuine Chicago-style deep dish pizza with the chance to savor your creation, all in the birthplace of the dish itself.

What we love about this class is that it’s not just about cooking; you get insider tips on making the perfect deep dish, enjoy a meal complete with salad and drinks, and walk away with the confidence to recreate this iconic dish at home. The knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to be part of American food history add extra layers of enjoyment.

One thing to consider, though, is that the class can get quite popular, sometimes leading to crowded spaces that might affect the experience. If you’re a solo traveler or visiting with friends who enjoy culinary adventures, this activity is a fantastic choice. However, those seeking a more intimate or less crowded experience might want to plan accordingly.

This tour is well-suited for food lovers, casual travelers wanting a memorable local activity, or anyone eager to learn a classic Chicago recipe. Now, let’s dig into what makes this experience stand out, what you can expect, and how to get the most from your time at Pizzeria Uno.

Good To Know

Authentic Experience: Learn to make the original deep dish pizza in the city where it all began.
Inclusive Learning: Enjoy hands-on instruction that covers every step, from dough to toppings.
Tasty Meal: Savor your freshly baked pizza with a salad and your choice of soda, beer, or wine.
Convenient Location: Held at Pizzeria Due, just a block away from the famous Pizzeria Uno, making it easy to find and access.
Price & Value: At $59 per person, the class offers good value, especially considering the meal and the skills gained.
Flexible for Solo & Groups: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun activity.

What to Expect During the Cooking Class

The Meeting Point and Timing

The experience kicks off at 6:00 pm sharp at 619 N Wabash Ave, Chicago. The class lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to learn, cook, and enjoy without feeling rushed. The start time makes it a great evening activity, especially after a day of sightseeing.

The Location and Atmosphere

Classes are held at Pizzeria Due, just a short walk from Pizzeria Uno itself. While it’s technically a sister restaurant, the setting feels welcoming and casual—perfect for a hands-on cooking class. Expect a lively, informal environment where the focus is on learning and having fun.

The Cooking Process

You’ll be guided step-by-step through creating your own deep dish pizza. The class covers all the essentials, from preparing the dough to layering toppings and baking it to perfection. Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable and funny, making the session both educational and entertaining.

One guest noted that the class provided all the information needed to create your own dish, emphasizing the thoroughness of the instruction. Another reviewer highlighted the value of learning authentic techniques, making it more than just a casual cooking session.

The Meal and Drinks

Once your pizza is baked, it’s time to enjoy your masterpiece. The class includes a salad and a drink—choices range from soda to beer or wine—allowing you to customize your meal. The inclusion of a drink is often appreciated, adding a relaxed, social touch to the experience.

The Overall Experience

Guests have described the experience as lots of fun, especially for couples or groups of friends. The ability to recreate the dish at home is a big plus, and many find that the class gives them the confidence to try making deep dish pizza independently.

However, some reviewers mention issues with overbooking, which can lead to less optimal conditions—such as being seated next to large groups or difficulty hearing instructions. These hiccups seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, but it’s worth noting if you prefer a more intimate setting.

The Value of the Tour

For $59 per person, this class offers a lot. You’re not just paying for the meal—you’re gaining cooking skills that can be used long after your trip. It’s a fun, interactive way to learn about Chicago’s culinary pride, with the added bonus of dining on your hard work.

Given the reviews, many guests find the guides engaging and knowledgeable, making the experience more enjoyable. The inclusion of a salad and a drink enhances the value, turning a simple cooking lesson into a full meal.

While transportation isn’t included, the location near public transit makes it accessible for most travelers. The class is also flexible in cancellation—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind to your booking.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Step 1: Gathering and Introduction

Upon arrival at Pizzeria Due, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will introduce the session and provide a brief history of the deep dish pizza. Knowing it’s the original place where the dish was born adds a fun layer of authenticity to the experience.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough

Expect to get hands-on right away, mixing ingredients and kneading the dough. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and humorous approach, making even the basics feel accessible.

Step 3: Layering and Filling

The class covers how to layer ingredients—crucial for achieving that iconic deep dish look. Reviewers appreciate the attention to detail here, like how much cheese and sauce to use, which really affects the final result.

Step 4: Baking and Finishing Touches

Once assembled, the pizza goes into the oven. While waiting, you might enjoy your salad and drink, or chat with fellow participants. When delivered back to the table, the hot, cheesy pizza will be ready to cut and share.

Step 5: Eating and Sharing

The best part—tasting your creation. Many guests mention how satisfying it is to eat something you’ve made yourself, especially knowing it’s an authentic Chicago-style deep dish.

Optional Tips:

• Arrive early if you want to get the most out of the experience, especially during busy seasons.
• Take notes or photos to remember the process for future recreations at home.
• Engage with guides—they know a lot about local pizza traditions and can answer questions beyond the class.

Authenticity and Insider Tips from Reviews

One reviewer pointed out that the guides are not only knowledgeable but also funny, making the entire session more relaxed. This helps especially if you’re new to cooking or just want to enjoy the process without stress.

Another mentioned that the class provides all the information needed to create your own dish, which is perfect for those who want to replicate the experience at home. The fact that the class is held in the Birthplace of Deep Dish Pizza adds authenticity that’s hard to beat.

Challenges and Considerations

Some reviews reveal that the class can get crowded, leading to challenges like difficulty hearing instructions or being seated next to larger groups who aren’t participating—potentially affecting the experience. If you’re seeking a more intimate setting, arriving early or asking about group size might help.

The Sum Up

A Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno offers a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend an evening in Chicago. You’ll gain practical skills, learn about the city’s culinary icon, and enjoy a satisfying meal—plus, you walk away with the confidence to make your own Chicago-style deep dish at home.

This experience works best for foodies, solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable activity that combines learning and eating. It’s particularly valuable for those who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences that go beyond just sightseeing.

While it’s not a private class, the lively guides and the opportunity to indulge in a classic dish make it a worthwhile choice for most visitors. Just keep in mind that it can get busy, so arriving prepared for a somewhat lively environment can enhance your enjoyment.

In short, if you’re craving a taste of Chicago’s culinary heritage, want to improve your cooking skills, or simply love pizza, this class is a solid pick—delivering both fun and flavor in one tasty package.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. The class starts at 619 N Wabash Ave, which is accessible via public transportation.

What’s the duration of the experience?
It lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing ample time to cook, eat, and relax.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. One reviewer mentioned going solo and highly recommending it as an evening activity.

What drinks are included?
You can choose from soda, beer, or wine, included with your pizza.

Are there any age restrictions?
The provided info doesn’t specify age limits, but since alcohol is served, minors should probably check with the provider directly.

Overall, the Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno offers a balanced mix of learning, authentic taste, and fun, making it an experience that’s both memorable and practical. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or planning a culinary-themed day, it’s a tasty way to connect with Chicago’s pizza heritage.