Vero’s Chicago Pizza: A Slice of Chicago in Phoenix
Hello Flavor Chasers,
If you're craving authentic Chicago-style pizza in Arizona, then look no further than Vero Chicago Pizza. Ranked 3rd best in the Country, Vero brings the deep-dish magic straight to Arizona.
The Vero Experience
One of our go-to favorites is the Italian Beef—an absolute must-try for any Chicago transplant longing for that authentic flavor. Vero nails it, delivering a sandwich so rich and juicy, it feels like a bite straight out of the Windy City. Every bite of their Italian Beef is a flavorful journey—thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, and soaked in that signature jus. A true Chicagoan will immediately recognize the comforting aroma of slow-roasted beef and the messy, yet glorious, experience of a sandwich best enjoyed with extra napkins. Vero lives up to the true Chicago cuisine. We asked for our sandwiches dipped and that’s what we got, WITH some extra au jus on the side. What we’ve learned from living here in Phoenix, most places that offer Chicago style cuisine don’t know the Chicago food modification terminology. For an Italian beef, it’s dipped or extra dipped, not soaked, not wet. For fried chicken, it’s fried hard, not extra crispy and not well or extra well done. After over 10 years of living in Phoenix, the terminology is still a struggle for us.
Now, let’s talk cheese. If you're the kind of cheese lover who lives for that indulgent, stretch-for-days mozzarella—what J hilariously calls 'bubblegum cheese'—then Vero’s will be your happy place. We’re talking THICC, chewy, borderline-dangerous levels of cheese (because let’s be real, if you haven't almost choked on a cheese pull, are you even a true fan?). We are cheese lovers and we notoriously order extra cheese on every pizza we order. For Chicagoans craving that unmistakable hometown flavor, Vero’s pizza instantly brings Beggars Pizza to mind—the kind that’s so cheesy it practically oozes nostalgia with every bite. So far, we’ve had their Lake Shore Drive, which is equivalent to a meat lover’s pizza. The Lake Shore Drive is topped with sausage, pepperoni, meatballs & bacon. We’ve also had the Wrigley Field, which is topped with sausage, Italian beef, green pepper & onion. Their pizza does not disappoint, they are so full of flavor, you’re constantly punched in the mouth with each bite. Other food items tried:
Fried cheese curds
Onion rings (would recommend eating fresh, hot out of the fryer)
French fries
Original Chicken wings with buffalo sauce on the side (A respectable effort, but our taste buds have had better conversations elsewhere.)
What Else is on the Menu?
Vero Chicago Pizza is known for its deep-dish pizzas, but its menu offers much more than just the classics. Here are some standout dishes and hidden gems:
Deep Dish Meat Lovers Pizza – A hearty, cheesy delight packed with savory meats.
Chicago Butter Crisp Pan Pizza with Spinach – A crispy, buttery crust paired with fresh spinach for a unique twist.
Lake Shore Drive Butter Crust Pan Pizza – A hidden gem that combines rich flavors with a perfectly crisped crust.
Spinach Ricotta Dip – A creamy, indulgent appetizer that compliments any meal.
Homemade Meatball Sandwich – A comforting classic for those who want something besides pizza.
Fried Cheese Curds – A must-try appetizer for cheese lovers.
Vero’s has several locations in the valley which includes:
Ahwatukee
South Chandler
North Chandler
Queen Creek
Gilbert
Maricopa
West Mesa
We visited Vero’s in North Chandler, located at 2855 W. Ray Road, Suite 5, Chandler, AZ. This location, just like the others, offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere, perfect for a casual night out or a family gathering. The Chandler location features outdoor seating, a full bar, and a welcoming vibe that makes it a neighborhood favorite. We’ve also done carry-out at the Ahwatukee and West Mesa location, so it’s safe to say we get around!
🍕 Cheesy Chuckle
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What Locals are saying about Vero
Customers rave about the authenticity of the deep-dish pizza, describing it as one of the best Chicago-style pizzas outside of Chicago. Online reviews consistently highlight the friendly staff, the relaxed atmosphere, and the high-quality ingredients used in every dish.
On platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews, Vero Chicago Pizza averages 4.3 to 4.7 stars, with many diners praising the balance of flavor, crust texture, and generous cheese-to-sauce ratio.
Beyond the food, Vero has strong ties to the local Chandler community, frequently hosting events and offering specials that keep customers engaged.
Why We love Vero
As Chicago natives, we can say with full confidence that Chicago is a powerhouse in the culinary world, especially when it comes to pizza. It’s more than just deep-dish—though, of course, that buttery-crusted, cheese-loaded masterpiece holds legendary status. Chicago’s pizza scene is diverse, featuring not only deep-dish but also tavern-style thin crust, known for its crispy edges and signature square-cut slices—a staple at every neighborhood pizza joint.
After relocating to Phoenix, one thing became clear: the food scene here is a completely different beast, reflecting the Southwestern and Mexican-inspired flavors that define Arizona’s culinary identity. Here, it’s all about Sonoran-style hot dogs, crispy chimichangas, and mouthwatering street tacos. But Phoenix is more than just Southwestern cuisine—it also embraces Native American culinary traditions, with dishes like frybread and blue corn mush making their way onto local menus. And, thanks to the city’s melting pot of transplants, there’s no shortage of flavors from all across the country finding their way into the Phoenix food scene.
But sometimes, when you're craving a true taste of home, you need something that transports you back to those Chicago food haunts you once knew like the back of your hand. That’s where Vero Chicago Pizza comes in. Vero isn’t just another pizza joint—it’s a nostalgia trip in every bite.
From their thin-crust pizza loaded with that THICC cheese to their Italian Beef, Vero delivers true Chicago flavors. Their Italian Beef is juicy, flavorful, and dipped just right, taking us straight back to the legendary sandwich counters of Al’s Italian Beef. And for the Chicagoans reading this, if you’ve ever devoured a gooey slice of Beggars Pizza, then you already know the type of indulgent, cheese-drenched bite Vero’s is serving up.
We love Vero’s because it’s not just about the food—it’s about the feeling. It’s about taking a bite and immediately being transported back to late-night pizza runs and the unmistakable comfort of home. And while Phoenix may have its own incredible flavors to offer, it’s nice to know there’s a little piece of Chicago waiting whenever the craving hits.
For fellow Chicago transplants, if you’re craving that authentic taste of home, Vero’s will have you reminiscing with every bite. And for Phoenix locals, if you’ve never had an Italian beef sandwich 'dipped'—trust us, you’re missing out!
Here’s some fun Chicago Trivia
❓True or False
Chicago-Style Tavern Pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust and is traditionally cut into small squares instead of slices.
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Best Times to Visit
If you’re planning a visit, weekends tend to be busy, especially during dinner hours. To avoid long wait times, consider going on a weekday or arriving early for dinner service. Of course, the best time to visit is ALWAYS Happy Hour, which can vary depending on location.
Final Thoughts
Vero Chicago Pizza isn’t just another pizzeria—it’s a slice of Chicago in the heart of Chandler. Whether you're a deep-dish devotee, a cheese-curd fanatic, or just looking for a fun night out, Vero delivers an unforgettable experience.
They also offer a cool rewards program where of course, you earn points for every purchase made. Perks include that for every 150 points earned, you receive a $10 off Vero Voucher. You also get a $10 reward for your birthday!
Be sure to drop in or check out Vero’s website for daily, weekly, and monthly specials!
How does Chasing Flavors with E&J rate Vero’s Pizza
10 out 10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PIZZA TIP: While the pizza is delicious right when you get it. The pizza is even BETTER when it has sat for a while and all the amazing flavors have set in. Trust, you will not be disappointed!
https://www.verochicagopizza.com/
Fun Facts About Vero Chicago Pizza
Before becoming Vero, the restaurant was named Buddyz but rebranded in 2021 to avoid confusion with Detroit-style pizza. (Vero means "true" in Italian!)
The butter-crust deep-dish is crafted using traditional Chicago recipes, ensuring every bite stays true to its roots.
Vero’s cocktails include seasonal specials like the Piña Colada Spritz, offering a refreshing sip of paradise.
Plan Your Visit to Vero’s Pizza
Craving a slice of Chicago in the desert? Vero’s has you covered across the Valley—with tavern-cut thin crust, deep-dish classics, and cheesy comfort served up daily.
Locations & Hours:
Ahwatukee: 1334 E Chandler Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85048
Mon–Fri: 4–9 PM | Sat: 12–9 PM | Sun: 12–8 PMGilbert: 1431 E Williams Field Rd, Suite 104, Gilbert, AZ 85295
Mon–Thurs: 11:30–9ish | Fri: 11:30–10ish | Sat: 12–10ish | Sun: 9:30 AM–9ishMaricopa: 19975 N John Wayne Pkwy, Ste 110, Maricopa, AZ 85138
Mon–Sat: 12–9 PM | Sun: 12–8 PMNorth Chandler: 2855 W Ray Rd, Suite 5, Chandler, AZ 85224
Mon–Sat: 11 AM–9 PM | Sun: 11 AM–8 PMQueen Creek: 18423 E San Tan Blvd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Mon–Tues: 4–8 PM | Wed–Sat: 12–8:30ish | Sun: 11 AM–8 PMSan Tan Valley: 40975 N Ironwood Rd, Unit B108, San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
Mon–Fri: 11:30–9 PM | Sat: 12–9 PM | Sun: 10 AM–8 PMSouth Chandler: 5070 S Gilbert Rd, Suite 400, Chandler, AZ 85249
Mon–Thurs: 4–9ish | Fri–Sat: 4–10ish | Sun: 9:30 AM–8:30ishWest Mesa: 2057 S Alma School Rd, Suite 3, Mesa, AZ 85210
Mon–Sat: 4–9ish | Sun: 3–8ish
Happy Hour:
Available at select locations—like San Tan Valley—from 2 PM to 6 PM daily. Perfect for pairing a cold drink with crispy cheese curds or a slice of tavern-cut thin crust.
Need to Know:
Hours and Happy Hour specials may vary slightly by location. For the latest info, menus, and online ordering, visit Vero’s official locations page.
Pro Tip:
Fridays and weekends fill up fast—order online or call ahead to skip the wait and dive straight into the cheesy goodness.
Have you tried Vero’s Pizza? What are your thoughts? What’s your favorite pizza place? Let us know down in the comments
