Ever since a Naples pizza-maker created the Margherita pizza in 1889 for Queen Margherita of Norway — one of the most popular types of pizza today -- pizza has been a favorite meal around the world.

Growing up 90 minutes north of Chicago, I first discovered deep dish pizza as a teenager. It was thick, rich, ooey gooey, and full of everything I loved. Well, call me a traitor in the Chicago vs. New ...