photo: Kate Schwartz

For some Chicagoans, thicker isn't better when it comes to pizza. They think deep-dish is despicable, and thin is in. Thank goodness for Café Luigi—where New York-style pies reign.

The simple space, located in the heart of Lincoln Park, is decorated with years worth of accolades and newspaper articles. Each framed piece of prose is full of praise for Cafe Luigi's ability to recreate New York-style crust and sauce. Bubbly workers, obviously confident in the product they are selling, work behind the pizza counter, where a variety of pies are ready to be heated and served by the slice.

If you think thin crust is little more than glorified cardboard, the restaurant offers something for you, too. How about a thicker Sicilian-style pie ($13.25 for a 14-inch), or a meat-lover or vegetarian stuffed pizza ($22.70 for a 16-inch)? Or, if you're not into pizza at all, you can try one of Luigi's specialty rolls. For less than $6, you can get a calzone-like concoction filled with items like stromboli or spinach. Also on offer are salads, Italian grinders, traditional pasta dishes (served with garlic bread, they can serve up to 30 people). Sweet tooths can indulge in homemade cannoli for dessert.

If you are in the area for lunch, don’t miss the specials. For less than $8, customers get one of four pastas, tossed salad and garlic bread. Still hungry? Add on a slice of cheese, served up in a New York minute for just $3.05.

Centerstage Reviewer: Pasha Carroll