The Pope’s Favorite Pizza Isn’t Deep Dish, And It’s Not in Chicago

When a Chicago guy becomes Pope, you expect hot dogs, beef, and maybe a prayer for the Sox. But what's getting the most buzz? Pizza... and not the kind you think.

A Holy Crust Encounter in Homewood

When Chicago native Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV, Windy City pride kicked into high gear, especially on the food front. Portillo's renamed its Italian beef "the Leo," bakeries started blessing cookies, and naturally, pizza entered the chat.

TastingTable.com shared the twist: the Pope's favorite slice isn't deep dish

Introducing the "Pope-erroni"

Just months before his Vatican promotion, Pope Leo stopped at Aurelio's Pizza in Homewood, Illinois, while visiting family near his hometown of Dolton. His order? A classic pepperoni on Chicago-style thin crust, square-cut, tavern-style, and unmistakably local.

In honor of the papal pizza pick, Aurelio's has rolled out the "Pope-erromi" and even designated his booth as the official "Pope's Table," complete with a chair donated by a local church.

MORE: Chefs Agree, Illinois Pizza Joint Serves Best Slice in America

What is Chicago-Style Thin Crust Anyway

Often overshadowed by deep dish, tavern-style pizza is the tru staple of Chicagoland. It features a crisp, cracker-like crust, toppings edge to edge, and is cut into squares. It's been a barroom favorite for decades, think community, comfort, and zero need for a fork.

READ MORE: Reformed Illinois Dive Bar Serving the True Chicago-Style Pizza for 70 Years

What If the Pope Were From Rockford?

If Pope Leo had grown up in the Forest City, be honest... where would he now have a corner booth? Lino's? Capri? Or, would he drive to Beloit to some Tilley's?

MORE: Illinois Pizzerias With The Highest Scores From Dave Portnoy's One Bite Reviews