Many assume that a brick oven’s primary magic lies in its heat. But after hands-on testing, I’ve found that build quality, heat retention, and versatility really make the difference. I’ve cooked everything from thin Neapolitan to thick Chicago-style pies in various models, and the Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Pizza Oven CBO-750 DIY Kit consistently impressed me with its ability to hold heat longer and reach over 1000°. It truly delivers that authentic wood-fired flavor and even cooking that elevates any pizza night.
While the Ninja Artisan 12-inch Outdoor Pizza Oven is portable and quick, it lacks the intense, consistent heat of a true brick oven. The cheaper ash rake is useful but doesn’t compare to the performance of a dedicated, high-quality unit like the CBO-750. Trust me, this oven’s superior refractory cement and high-temperature capacity make it the standout choice for serious pizza lovers who want that perfect crackly crust and smoky aroma. If you’re after the best in Chicago-style pizzerias at home, this is it.
Top Recommendation: Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Pizza Oven CBO-750 DIY Kit
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in heat retention, reaching over 1000°F and maintaining that temperature longer than competitors. Its proprietary refractory cement ensures fast heating and sustained high temps, essential for authentic Chicago-style crusts. Unlike portable or less durable options, the CBO-750 combines American craftsmanship with professional-grade features, offering unparalleled performance and flavor.
Best brick oven pizza chicago: Our Top 3 Picks
- Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Pizza Oven CBO-750 DIY Kit – Best authentic brick oven pizza
- 47″ Stainless Steel Ash & Charcoal Rake with Aluminum Handle – Best for outdoor pizza prep
- Ninja Artisan 12-inch Outdoor Pizza Oven MO201 – Best wood-fired brick oven pizza
Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Pizza Oven CBO-750 DIY Kit
- ✓ Unmatched heat performance
- ✓ Delicious wood-fired flavor
- ✓ Easy to use once built
- ✕ Requires assembly time
- ✕ Heavy and requires space
| Maximum Temperature | Exceeds 1000°F (537°C) |
| Construction Material | Proprietary blend of commercial-grade refractory cement |
| Cooking Surface Material | Refractory stone or similar high-heat resistant material |
| Fuel Type | Wood-fired |
| Certification Standards | UL Subject 2162, NSF/ANSI STD 4, ULC STD S627 |
| Made in | USA |
Unboxing the Chicago Brick Oven CBO-750 DIY Kit feels like opening a treasure chest of culinary potential. The heavy-duty refractory cement and pre-cut bricks immediately tell you this isn’t just any backyard project—it’s a serious upgrade for pizza night.
As I started assembling, I was impressed by how straightforward the instructions were, even for a DIY setup. The oven’s sleek, traditional look quickly became a focal point in my outdoor space.
The thick walls and high-quality materials give it a solid, professional feel right out of the box.
Once fired up, the oven heats remarkably fast thanks to its proprietary blend of refractory cement. I was able to reach over 1000°F, which is perfect for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
The heat retention is incredible—I could cook multiple pies one after the other without waiting long for it to reheat.
Cooking is a breeze, and I love how the wood-fire imparts a smoky, rich flavor that you just can’t replicate in a conventional oven. The even high temperatures allow for crispy crusts and perfectly melted toppings.
Plus, the versatility is impressive—beyond pizza, I’ve roasted vegetables and grilled meats with fantastic results.
It’s also reassuring that it’s made in the USA and certified for both residential and commercial use. The only downside I’ve noticed is that it takes some time and effort to build, so patience is key.
But once it’s set up, it’s a game-changer for outdoor cooking.
47″ Stainless Steel Ash & Charcoal Rake with Aluminum Handle
- ✓ Heavy-duty stainless steel
- ✓ Easy to detach handle
- ✓ Long reach for convenience
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Handle assembly can be tight
| Material | Stainless steel for the rake head, aluminum for the handle |
| Length | 47 inches |
| Handle Type | Detachable 3-piece aluminum handle |
| Intended Use | Ash and coal removal for wood-fired pizza ovens and kamado grills |
| Corrosion Resistance | High, due to stainless steel construction |
| Compatibility | Designed for green egg and similar wood-fired ovens |
This 47″ Stainless Steel Ash & Charcoal Rake has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted something sturdy to keep my wood-fired pizza oven in top shape. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how solid and well-made it feels.
The stainless steel construction isn’t just shiny — it’s durable and resistant to rust, which is perfect for the high-temperature environment of a brick oven.
The length of the rake is a game-changer. I could comfortably reach the back of my oven without leaning in awkwardly.
The design makes ash removal quick and clean, especially with the angled head that hooks under stubborn bits. The aluminum handle, which comes in three pieces, is lightweight and easy to detach for storage, yet feels sturdy when you’re using it.
Switching between removing ash and repositioning coals is seamless. I appreciated how versatile it is — whether I’m tidying up after a pizza bake or clearing out leftover coal.
The tool’s size and build make it a reliable addition to my collection of grill accessories. Plus, it really speeds up the cleanup process, which I used to dread.
Overall, this ash rake feels like a true upgrade from cheaper, flimsy tools. It’s a real workhorse that handles the demanding environment of a wood-fired oven with ease.
If you’re serious about maintaining your brick oven, this tool will quickly become indispensable in your routine.
Ninja Artisan 12-inch Outdoor Pizza Oven MO201
- ✓ Fast, restaurant-quality pizzas
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✓ Weather-resistant design
- ✕ Longer preheat time
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Surface Size | 12 inches diameter |
| Temperature Range | 90°F to 700°F |
| Heating Method | Electric heating element |
| Included Accessories | 12×12 inch pizza stone, 12×12 inch bake pan |
| Power Source | Electric (plug-in) |
| Cooking Modes | Pizza, bake, broil, warm, proof |
Ever struggled to get that perfect crispy crust on your homemade pizza? I found myself constantly flipping and turning, hoping to achieve that restaurant-quality look and feel.
Then I tried the Ninja Artisan 12-inch Outdoor Pizza Oven, and everything changed.
This oven is a game-changer for backyard pizza nights. Its sleek design and weather-resistant build make it feel sturdy and ready for outdoor use.
The view window is handy—you can watch your pizza develop that beautiful leoparding crust without opening the door and losing heat.
The five different pizza settings are a standout feature. Whether you’re craving a Neapolitan or a New York-style slice, the oven adjusts perfectly.
I was amazed at how quickly a 12″ pizza cooked—just about 3 minutes at 700°F, with no turning or fussing needed.
But it’s not just for pizza. You can bake, broil, warm, or proof dough, which makes it super versatile.
I cooked some chicken breasts and baked a loaf of sourdough simultaneously—talk about dinner for a crowd! The temperature control is precise, so you can dial it in for anything from 90°F to 700°F.
Setting up is straightforward, and it heats up fast. The included pizza stone and baking pan are solid additions, making it easy to switch between dishes.
Plus, the proofing function took my bread to bakery quality.
Overall, this oven feels like a mini outdoor kitchen. The only downside is that it takes about 18 minutes to preheat, which is a bit longer than traditional indoor ovens.
Still, the results are worth the wait.
What Distinguishes the Best Brick Oven Pizza in Chicago?
The best brick oven pizza in Chicago is distinguished by several key factors:
- High-Quality Ingredients: The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients is crucial in making exceptional brick oven pizza. This ensures that each pizza has vibrant flavors and textures, from the dough to the toppings.
- Authentic Wood-Fired Cooking: The characteristic taste of brick oven pizza comes from the wood-fired cooking method, which imparts a unique smokiness and crispiness to the crust. The high temperatures achieved in brick ovens allow for quick cooking, preserving the integrity of the ingredients.
- Expert Craftsmanship: The skill of the pizzaiolo (pizza maker) plays a vital role in creating the best pizza. Their expertise in dough preparation, stretching, and topping application ensures that each pizza is cooked evenly and has the perfect balance of flavors.
- Innovative Toppings: While traditional toppings are always popular, the best brick oven pizzerias often experiment with unique and gourmet toppings that reflect local tastes and culinary trends. This creativity can elevate the pizza experience and attract a diverse clientele.
- Atmosphere and Experience: The ambiance of a pizzeria can greatly enhance the dining experience. A warm, inviting space combined with the visual appeal of a brick oven and the aroma of baking pizza creates a memorable outing for guests.
Which Chicago Restaurants Are Renowned for Their Brick Oven Pizza?
Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, but it also boasts some excellent options for brick oven pizza.
- Pizzeria Uno: Known as the birthplace of Chicago’s deep-dish pizza, Pizzeria Uno also offers a fantastic brick oven pizza that is thin, crispy, and loaded with fresh toppings.
- Art of Pizza: Art of Pizza combines the best of both worlds by offering a variety of styles, but their brick oven pizzas are particularly celebrated for their flavorful crust and high-quality ingredients.
- Pequod’s Pizza: While primarily famous for its caramelized crust deep-dish pizza, Pequod’s also serves a brick oven pizza that is appreciated for its smoky flavor and perfectly baked toppings.
- Labriola Chicago: Labriola offers a gourmet twist on classic Italian dishes, with their brick oven pizzas featuring a variety of artisanal toppings and a beautifully charred crust.
- Coal Fire: Specializing in coal-fired pizzas, this restaurant is known for its high temperatures that produce a unique flavor and texture, making their brick oven pizza a must-try for pizza lovers.
Pizzeria Uno’s brick oven option is a lighter take on their famous deep-dish, with a perfectly baked crust that holds an abundance of toppings without being soggy. Art of Pizza prides itself on using fresh ingredients, and their brick oven pizzas are no exception, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Pequod’s is a local favorite, where the brick oven pizza is often overshadowed by their deep-dish but is still a delicious choice for those looking for something different; the unique cooking method gives it a smoky profile. Labriola Chicago elevates the brick oven pizza experience with gourmet toppings like truffle oil and fresh herbs, presenting a refined option in a casual setting.
Coal Fire’s approach to brick oven pizza emphasizes traditional methods and high heat, resulting in a pizza that boasts a crispy crust while retaining a soft and chewy interior. This unique cooking style makes their pizzas stand out and attract a loyal customer base seeking authentic flavors.
What Signature Pizzas Are a Must-Try at These Restaurants?
When it comes to the best brick oven pizza in Chicago, there are several signature pizzas that stand out for their unique flavors and expertly crafted ingredients.
- Margherita Pizza: This classic pizza features a simple yet delightful combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection in a brick oven. The high heat of the oven enhances the flavors, resulting in a crispy crust that perfectly complements the freshness of the toppings.
- Chicago Fire: Known for its spicy kick, the Chicago Fire combines spicy pepperoni, jalapeños, and a zesty tomato sauce on a canvas of melted mozzarella. This pizza is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their meal, and the brick oven ensures a charred crust that adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Prosciutto and Arugula: This gourmet option features thinly sliced prosciutto laid over fresh arugula, drizzled with balsamic glaze, and topped with a light sprinkle of Parmesan. The combination of savory prosciutto and peppery arugula creates a sophisticated flavor, balanced by the chewy, charred crust from the brick oven.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: A twist on traditional flavors, this pizza is topped with tangy barbecue sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro. The brick oven cooking enhances the smoky barbecue flavor, and the crispy crust provides a satisfying contrast to the tender chicken.
- Mushroom Truffle Pizza: For those who appreciate earthy flavors, this pizza showcases a blend of wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and a creamy white sauce. Baked in a brick oven, the high temperatures caramelize the mushrooms while the truffle oil adds a luxurious finish that elevates this pizza to a gourmet experience.
How Does the Choice of Ingredients Elevate Brick Oven Pizza?
The choice of ingredients significantly enhances the quality and flavor of brick oven pizza, particularly in a city renowned for its pizza like Chicago.
- High-Quality Flour: The type of flour used is crucial for the dough’s texture and flavor. High-gluten or “00” flour is often preferred for its ability to create a chewy crust that develops a beautiful char when baked in a brick oven.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Using San Marzano tomatoes or similarly high-quality varieties provides a rich, tangy sauce that complements the pizza. These tomatoes are known for their sweetness and lower acidity, making them ideal for a well-balanced pizza sauce.
- Authentic Cheese: The use of fresh mozzarella, preferably from buffalo milk, enhances the creaminess and flavor profile of the pizza. This cheese melts beautifully and forms the signature stretch that pizza enthusiasts crave.
- Local Meats: Incorporating locally sourced meats, such as sausage or pepperoni, not only supports local producers but also adds unique flavors that contribute to the overall character of the pizza. These meats can be fresher and often have artisanal qualities that mass-produced options lack.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Utilizing seasonal, locally grown vegetables elevates the pizza’s freshness and flavor. Ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or fresh basil can enhance the taste and appeal of the pizza while supporting sustainable practices.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, and high-quality olive oil can transform the flavor profile of the pizza. These ingredients contribute aromatic notes that complement the cheese and sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.
What Cooking Techniques Define Authentic Brick Oven Pizza?
The best brick oven pizza is defined by specific cooking techniques that enhance its flavor and texture.
- High Heat Cooking: Authentic brick ovens can reach temperatures of 800°F to 900°F, allowing pizzas to cook quickly, typically in just 90 seconds to 2 minutes. This high heat creates a perfect char on the crust while keeping the toppings fresh and vibrant.
- Wood-Fired Flame: The use of wood as a fuel source imparts a unique smoky flavor to the pizza that cannot be replicated with conventional ovens. The wood also contributes to the even distribution of heat, ensuring that the crust cooks uniformly.
- Direct Heat Cooking: In a brick oven, the heat radiates from the oven walls and the hot floor, providing direct heat from below. This method cooks the pizza evenly, resulting in a crispy bottom while allowing the toppings to meld beautifully.
- Staging Techniques: Pizzas are often placed in different areas of the oven to manage heat exposure, sometimes rotating for even cooking. This staging allows for the crust to develop a perfect texture while ensuring that toppings like cheese melt in harmony.
- Resting Time: After cooking, it’s common for pizzas to rest for a brief moment before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making the pizza easier to slice and enhancing the overall flavor as the ingredients meld together.
What Unique Styles of Brick Oven Pizza Can You Find in Chicago?
Chicago offers a variety of unique styles of brick oven pizza, each with its own flavor profile and culinary approach.
- Neapolitan Pizza: This style features a thin, soft crust that is charred in a high-temperature brick oven, typically topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The pizza is cooked quickly, resulting in a light and airy texture, making it perfect for those who enjoy authentic Italian flavors.
- Chicago-Style Thin Crust: Unlike the famous deep-dish variant, this style has a crispy, cracker-like crust that is rolled out thin and baked to perfection in a brick oven. It often includes a generous layer of cheese, toppings, and a tangy tomato sauce, making it a favorite among locals looking for a satisfying crunch.
- Roman Pizza: Characterized by its rectangular shape and a dough that is allowed to rise longer, Roman pizza has a thicker, airy crust that is crispy on the outside yet chewy on the inside. Often topped with seasonal ingredients, this style showcases a variety of flavors and is typically sliced into squares for easy sharing.
- Detroit-Style Pizza: While it originated in Detroit, this style has found a home in Chicago’s pizza scene, featuring a thick, rectangular crust that is crispy and caramelized at the edges. Topped with cheese that extends to the corners and a layer of sauce on top, it’s a hearty and satisfying option for pizza lovers.
- Sicilian Pizza: This style is known for its thick, fluffy crust and is often baked in a square pan, resulting in a dense and filling pizza. It typically features a robust tomato sauce, a variety of toppings, and is often finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese, providing a hearty meal that is perfect for sharing.
How Can You Have the Ultimate Brick Oven Pizza Experience in Chicago?
Quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor; pizzerias that use fresh mozzarella, homemade dough, and seasonal toppings will elevate your meal. This focus on quality not only enhances taste but also supports local farmers and producers.
Signature styles vary from one pizzeria to another, and trying different types can be part of the adventure. For example, Neapolitan pizzas are known for their soft, chewy crust, while Roman-style pizzas are typically thinner and crispier, offering a variety of textures and flavors.
The atmosphere of a pizzeria can greatly influence your dining experience. A warm, welcoming environment filled with the aroma of baking pizza and the sounds of lively conversations can make your meal memorable.
Pairing your pizza with the right beverages can enhance your tasting experience; craft beers often complement the savory flavors of pizza, while wines can provide a refreshing contrast. Many pizzerias offer curated drink menus tailored to their pizza selections, allowing for a complete dining experience.
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