National Deep Dish Pizza Day

Celebrated on 04/05/2026

Quick Fact

The first deep dish pizza was created in 1943 at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, who wanted to offer a more substantial, 'meal-like' pizza. The dense, pie-like crust is so thick that it requires a fork and knife to eat, making it a uniquely Chicagoan culinary experience.

Origins and Establishment of National Deep Dish Pizza Day

National Deep Dish Pizza Day was established in 2015 by the Chicago-based restaurant chain Giordano's, which is famous for its stuffed deep dish pizza. The date, April 5th, was chosen to celebrate the iconic dish that has become synonymous with Chicago's food culture. Giordano's created the holiday to honor the city's pizza heritage and to encourage people across the country to try this hearty, cheese-laden pie.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Deep Dish Pizza Day has grown from a local celebration to a nationwide event, with pizzerias and chains offering special deals and promotions. Social media plays a big role, with fans sharing photos of their deep dish creations under hashtags like #NationalDeepDishPizzaDay. Many restaurants now offer unique variations, such as gluten-free crusts or vegan cheese, to accommodate dietary preferences while maintaining the classic deep dish experience.

Facts & General Observations

• Chicago consumes approximately 3 million deep dish pizzas annually, with the average pizza containing over 2 pounds of cheese.
• The tallest deep dish pizza ever made was 6 feet 6 inches in diameter, created by a Chicago pizzeria in 2017.
• Deep dish pizza accounts for about 10% of all pizza sales in the United States, with the majority of demand concentrated in the Midwest.

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