"Post Thanksgiving and the fam wanted a break from turkey, so I suggested and picked up a few pizza pies for our next family hang." (Quoted from my last pizza review because there were two spots I ordered "za" from. Here and Union squared.) Figured since I chose pizza, why not try a pie from a few places. Both businesses happen to be located on the same street but some minutes (drive) apart.
On a whim I decided to try Paninos. When searching square, rectangular cut pizza, they popped up in my search. Their photos across the web looked enticing and a few reviews touched my appetite. Their square pie is known as "Grandma Pie", it's a Sicilian style that is stretched in a square and baked in an oiled pan. The za comes with mozzarella, chunky tomato sauce, garlic, oil and oregano for $17 dollars (current pricing 11-2018). Additional toppings are extra. Decided to add spinach, onions and tomato slices. It comes in one size only and has eight slices which equates to a medium square pizza. Though, cost-size-wise, larger and more quantity than Union squared.
Inside the restaurant, the scene was warm and inviting. The place was freeing up and per counter staff they had just gotten a break after a long busy day. The smell of food filled the air and honestly I could have ditched the family and enjoyed a dinner for one. But, with cute kiddos waiting back at home, I knew I must go. Grabbing takeout in-person is necessary just to take in the enticing smells and sights. Two desserts drew my attention immediately. Their gelato display and these delectable looking turtle-style brownies. Are you a fan of brownies? You should try theirs.. it, is, satisfying. Found inside a glass pedestal display were these fresh, enticing brownies. I could see the fudgy texture which called out to me. Moist bottom and thick, gel like topping. Perfect for spooning up. Decided to grab one and a pint of mixed gelato. Half Cookies & cream and half chocolate brownie.
Final thoughts. The turtle was greatly satisfying and went as quick as the chocolate brownie gelato. The grandma's pie was a hit despite only having vegetables. My family kept saying the freshness of it and the sauce were rich. The crust is a homestyle pan which was different from the Union squared pie. Personally, I didn't think much of the shape. Homestyle crusts are oookay. Looking at photos I kinda expected it to be more like traditional square, pan pizza. I would try it again with different toppings or try something more Chicago traditional, like thin or deep. read more