From Neapolitan-style in New York City to California-style known for its fresh, regional toppings, to pizza comes in a myriad of shapes and flavors. One regional pizza classic is Chicago-style pizza, which includes deep dish, pan and stuffed pizza. This regional classic traditionally features a crispy short dough crust and a thick layer of cheese topped with crushed tomatoes. But like all classic favorites, the Chicago-style pizza has seen its fair share of innovation to broaden its appeal to America’s changing dining palate.

NEW TWISTS ON A REGIONAL FAVORITE:

• Deep dish can be healthy, too. Today’s consumers are always on the lookout for something healthy, and deep dish pizza can still meet that need. One pizza shop in Chicago is offering a heart-healthy alternative featuring a spinach supreme pizza bursting with green leaves, a special blend of cheese, herbs and spices, mushrooms and a spicy rather than sweet tomato sauce.
• Deep dish in a pot? Another creative pizza restaurant created what they are calling “Pizza Pot Pies”. In a ramekin, layer sliced cheese, button mushrooms and a sauce steeped with homemade pork sausage and cover with a triple raised Sicilian crust. Bake the pot pie and serve it by flipping it over on the customer’s plate.

Entegra Procurement Services regularly publishes blog posts on food trends and innovations in food services. Entegra is more than a group purchasing organization (GPO): Our team of procurement specialists implement strategic sourcing to bring the most value to your business. We help our clients, in many segments ranging from the healthcare supply chain to restaurant supply, to cut costs and consolidate their portfolios.