(From our new Chicago reporter) East Side Joey’s Pizza, the brainchild of Mark Drozek, opened in Algonquin in mid 2011. Drozek brought 30 years of restaurant experience to the new venture, including previously owning Little Joey’s Pizza. The “East Side” moniker is due to the location on the east side of the river, before you reach downtown.
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A full service restaurant, Joey specializes in Chicago thin crust pizza, sourcing his ingredients locally, including using Anichini Brothers Sausage, which IS the sausage that makes Chicago pies taste so great.
Other styles of pizza, including deep dish, pan, and double decker are available, as well as the full menu which features pasta dinners, sandwiches, appetizers, burgers, salads, fried chicken, and even ribs. Daily specials grace the menu as well.
As for the thin crust pie? It’s superb. Cracker-crispy at the outer rim, chewier as you work towards the middle, with ample toppings and plenty of cheese. I was predisposed to order “double cheese” but was glad that I didn’t, Joey’s piles it on as it is. The sausage and pepperoni are great, and the tomato sauce is a thick, lightly seasoned puree of fresh tomatoes, and the taste really pops.
Joey’s delivers locally after 4p, or you can dine in. They have a complete catering menu to serve your private parties or office.
