The Iowan Pizza Chronicles: Re-Attempt #1

The Venue

629 Second Avenue SW,

Cedar Rapids, IA

(319) 366-8406

We originally attempted Sam's Pizza while they were still located on 6th Street SW. Times change, and since we never actually rated this establishment, we should give it another around of rating. Sam's Pizza prides itself from getting their ingredients straight from the Windy City itself, on a weekly basis. Sam's is one of the few pizza joints in Cedar Rapids that actually serve authentic Chicago Style pizza. Their sole location on 2nd Ave. is shared with Mr. B's bar. Sadly, we found it cramped, loud, and not a good place for children, as they did not have highchairs or the available space. The restaurant section was minimized down to 4 tables. I observed may people having carry-out, probably for this very reason. The waitress was helpful, and prompt with her service refilling drinks as need be. Their website has the menu on it, although the prices are not accurate. Take a look at: http://www.samspizzacr.com/files/Download/Menuforweb.jpg

The Pizza

Chicago Style: Yes

Crust Thickness: Two Thick and One Thin

Our group consisted of 12 participants; so we ordered three large specialty pizzas. The Special, and the Chicago's Famous Stuffed Spinach were served with a large (16")Chicago Style stuffed Crust, whereas the BBQ Chicken was served in a large (16") thin crust. Sam's Pizza is known around town for their authentic Chicago Style deep dish pies, although they come at a price and an hour wait. So best to order yours in advance.

Special - Sausage, Pepperoni (added by request), Mushroom, Green Pepper, Onion, Black Olives, Green Olives (Large Chicago Style [16”], $28.00)

Chicago's Famous Stuffed Spinach - Spinach, Mushrooms, Onions (Large Chicago Style [16”], $28.00)

BBQ Chicken - White BBQ Chicken Chunks, Mozzarella Cheese, BBQ sauce (Large Thin Crust [16"], $25.00?)

The Verdict

Large (16"), Chicago Style Crust, Special ($28.00)

Large (16"), Thin Crust, BBQ Chicken ($24.00)

The Chicago style slices were cut into triangles, while the thin crust were cut into rectangular shapes. The participants were tied 5 vs. 5 for the favorite pizza between the Special and the BBQ Chicken. One of the biggest changes that several people noticed was that the sauce was noticeably sweeter than it was previously, which disappointed most within our group. It was still good, but it needed a bit more zing (spice), and less sugar. The cheese never failed to disappoint, with heap loads baked between the crusts. The crusts were also very good, leaving a authentic taste of a local Chicago pizzeria in your mouth. Some felt that both Chicago Style's were a bit on the sparse side when it came to number of toppings. The great thing about Sam's is that even though they charge a lot for a large ($28), one piece will fill you up, or at least get you halfway there. One thing to note is that the Chicago Style pizza's take an hour to cook, so calling in advance is advised. If you are in the mood for a Chicago Style pizza and you're in downtown Cedar Rapids, head on over to Sam's.