Chicago Deep Dish Takes on D.C.: A Slice of the Windy City in the Capital

WASHINGTON, D.C. – May 28, 2026 – The long-simmering buzz among Washington's food enthusiasts is about to reach a boiling point. Giordano's, the legendary Chicago-based pizzeria synonymous with towering stuffed deep-dish pizza, is officially bringing its iconic pies to the nation's capital. The restaurant will open its doors on June 9 at 600 14th St. NW, a prime location in the bustling Lafayette Square neighborhood just steps from the White House, marking a significant culinary and cultural moment for the city.

For months, anticipation has been building as signage appeared and hiring commenced. Now, the arrival of the 50-year-old institution represents more than just a new dining option; it's the introduction of a distinct regional food tradition into one of America's most diverse and competitive culinary landscapes.

A New Contender in the Capital's Pizza Wars

Giordano's is not stepping into an empty arena. Washington, D.C. boasts a sophisticated and fiercely competitive pizza market, with established players serving a wide array of styles. The city's diners can readily find acclaimed Neapolitan pies from the wood-fired ovens of 2Amys and Pizzeria Paradiso, classic New York-style slices from institutions like Andy's Pizza, and the thick, crispy-edged Detroit-style squares popularized by Emmy Squared.

Yet, for all its diversity, authentic Chicago-style deep dish has remained a notable void in the market. While a few local spots like Pi Pizzeria and the pandemic-born DC Chi Pie have catered to the craving, the arrival of a titan like Giordano's is a game-changer. The brand brings with it not just a recipe, but a half-century of history and an international reputation as a standard-bearer for the style.

This entry promises to ignite the age-old debate: is it pizza or a casserole? Giordano's signature offering is an architectural feat—a thick, tall crust forming a bowl filled with layers of toppings and a formidable amount of Wisconsin mozzarella, all topped with a layer of crushed tomatoes. For many, it's an 'occasion' pizza, a hearty, communal experience far removed from a foldable slice. The new 7,400-square-foot D.C. location is built for this, featuring seating for over 180 guests across a main dining room, bar, seasonal patio, and a private dining space aptly named The Lincoln Room.

More Than a Pizzeria: Jobs, Charity, and Community

The impact of Giordano's arrival extends beyond the plate. The company projects the creation of over 100 jobs, a significant contribution to the local economy. These roles span management, kitchen operations, hospitality, and future delivery and catering services. In a city where the average hourly wage for a server hovers around $20.77 before tips, these positions represent a meaningful injection into the D.C. hospitality sector, which continues to be a vital engine for the city's economy.

Demonstrating a commitment to embedding itself within the community, Giordano's is launching its D.C. presence with a charitable initiative tied to a national milestone. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the restaurant will debut a limited-time “250 Pizza.” This special pie, featuring pepperoni, sausage, and a commemorative Parmesan stencil, will see its proceeds benefit HonorFlight.org.

This partnership is particularly poignant in the nation's capital. Honor Flight Network, a top-rated non-profit with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, is dedicated to flying veterans from across the country to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials built in their honor. The funds raised will directly support this mission, creating a powerful connection between the new restaurant and the city's unique role as a center for national remembrance.

“Opening in Washington, D.C. is about more than opening another restaurant for us,” said Giordano’s CEO Nick Scarpino in a statement. “It’s a chance to bring a real piece of Chicago culture to the nation’s capital while also becoming part of the local community.”

A Strategic Slice of a National Expansion

The Washington, D.C. opening is a cornerstone of a broader, carefully calculated expansion strategy for the Giordano's brand. Under the leadership of CEO Nick Scarpino, the company is embarking on a period of renewed growth, targeting key markets with high volumes of tourism and business travel. The logic is clear: deep-dish pizza is often an “occasion-driven event,” and cities like D.C., Las Vegas, and destinations like the Mall of America are prime locations for such memorable meals.

This move follows a period where the brand saw a decline in its footprint, making the high-profile D.C. launch a statement of intent. The company is not just expanding its map; it's modernizing its entire approach. Plans are underway for a new mobile app and loyalty program, alongside a revamped delivery management system designed to integrate in-house and third-party services seamlessly. This digital transformation is crucial for competing in today's fast-paced market.

Furthermore, Giordano's is astutely aware that deep dish may be a 'sometimes food.' To encourage more frequent visits, the full menu at the D.C. location will also prominently feature the brand's tavern-style pizza—a crispy, thin-crust, party-cut pie that is just as beloved in Chicago but offers a lighter, more casual dining option. By offering a full spectrum of choices, from its iconic stuffed pizza to salads, sandwiches, and desserts, Giordano's aims to become a regular haunt, not just a special-occasion destination. As it opens its doors near the heart of American power, Giordano's is betting that its blend of tradition, community focus, and strategic innovation will conquer the capital's discerning palate.