Lou Malnatis is my go to place when we have guests who just want deep dish. I don't happen to care for deep dish, but this version is the most acceptable I've found and a bonus is they're close enough to me to walk to.

Pizzeria Uno or Due - jumped the shark years ago. Horrible. Ditto on Gino's East and Edwardos.

Al's Italian Beef - OK for what it is, I think Mr. Beef on Orleans is better, but Al's gets the job done - be sure to practice the "scrunch" first (sandwich in both hands, lean forward at the counter, etc.) For a true experience if you have a car drive out to Johnny's on North Avenue in Elmwood Park - still the best after all these years.

Portillos - I have no problem with them. They make a decent Chicago style dog and I like their fries.

Ann Sathers - OMG. NO, just NO. A faint shadow of its former self. In a previous incarnation it was the safe place to take your parents from the small town who didn't want to be challenged. Now its just gross. There are fewer and fewer of us who remember Ann sitting in the front of the restaurant, always in a red dress.