Gino’s East South Loop Is Back and Better Than Ever

If you’ve ever walked down South Wabash on a summer evening, you know there’s something different about this stretch of the South Loop. It’s laid-back but lively. A little gritty, a little polished. It’s where locals find their go-to neighborhood spots, and visitors discover slices of Chicago they didn’t know they were missing.

Now, one of those beloved spots is officially back: Gino’s East South Loop has reopened its doors.

Whether you’ve been craving the cozy comfort of that familiar interior, missed sitting on the patio under those string lights, or just want a reason to bring your crew together again over Chicago-style pizza, your wait is over.

A Homecoming in the Heart of Chicago

Originally opened in 2008, the South Loop location quickly became more than just a place to grab a bite—it became part of the neighborhood’s rhythm. Tucked between residential buildings, universities, and cultural landmarks, it was the kind of place where weekday lunches, post-game meetups, and family dinners all happened without fuss.

Then, like many restaurants across the city, Gino’s East South Loop had to hit pause. The closure was temporary, but for fans of the space, it felt like losing a piece of the neighborhood.

Now, in 2025, the space has come alive again—with the same character, charm, and comfort it’s always had, plus a few small upgrades to keep things running smoother than ever.

Same Great Vibe, Same Gino’s Spirit

What makes this reopening feel like more than just unlocking a door is the return of that unmistakable Gino’s East spirit. The one that welcomes you with a “Hey, how you doin’?” and lets you linger over a slice or a beer without rushing you out the door.

The South Loop dining room is back with its familiar warmth: the worn-in booths, the aroma of pizza that somehow hits you before you’ve even walked in. And yes, the dog-friendly patio is open again—still shaded, still twinkly, and still a favorite among locals and their four-legged dining companions.

This is the kind of place where servers remember your order, where kids are welcome, and where conversations go long over food that’s made with care. And that hasn’t changed one bit.

A Fresh Chapter in a Classic Story

There’s something uniquely Chicago about Gino’s East. Since 1966, we’ve been part of this city’s food story—starting with two taxi drivers and a friend who believed that a good slice of pizza could bring people together. They were right.

That belief carried through to every location we’ve opened, but South Loop has always had its own energy. Maybe it’s the blend of students, families, tourists, and working professionals. Maybe it’s the location just far enough from the hustle of the Loop, but close enough to catch the skyline in the right light. Whatever it is, we’re glad to be part of it again.

Welcome Back, South Loop

As we turn the lights back on and fire up the ovens, we’re excited to welcome back our regulars—and meet new neighbors, too. Whether you’re here for a weekday lunch, a game day gathering, or a long-overdue dinner with friends, our doors are open and the tables are waiting.

This isn’t just a reopening. It’s a return to shared laughs, first bites, and that unmistakable feeling of a neighborhood favorite coming home.

So stop by, bring your appetite, and let’s pick up where we left off.