Chicago is a city known for its pizza. However, the north and the south sides differ dramatically on style and flavor. While pan and stuffed pizza are popular on the North Side at restaurants like Giordano's and Lou Malnati's, thin crust reigns supreme on the no-nonsense south side. Why? Because thin crust allows the sauce and the toppings to take center stage. And because the South Side is still all about heritage, at the favorite pizza places, you won't just get authentic Italian food, but it might just be served to you by an authentic Italian! The following are pizza joints not to be missed on the South Side.

Aurelio's Pizza is such a favorite of South Side pizza lovers that the owners have franchised 40 stores in addition to the original one in Homewood. This includes cities like Las Vegas and Naples, Florida! Luckily, Chicago is blessed with the original, a homey family restaurant located at 18162 Harwood Ave. in Homewood. If that's a little too far south for your liking, patronize the location at 1545 Western Ave. in Chicago Heights. Having been around for almost 50 years, this pizzeria has built quite a fan base. The thin crust here is what keeps people coming back. And Aurelios slightly sweet slighty spicy sauce is one-of-a-kind. Plus, they certainly don't skimp on toppings here! You'll get a taste of your topping of choice in every bite. The latest of Aurelio's great ideas? You can now order their pizzas shipped to you, ready to bake! So you can get that taste of Chicago pizza no matter where you live. Visit http://www.aureliospizza.com/ to order.

Highlighted by local news stations on several occasions, Punky's Pizza, Pasta, and Sandwiches is a favorite in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago, just south of Chinatown. A family owned restaurant, Punky's offers great pizza along with traditional Italian-American fare, "Punky-burgers" and their delicious giant panzarottis (a delicious calzone of sorts). Punky's is located just minutes from U.S. Cellular Field, making it a hot stop for pre- and post- White Sox game slices. Patrons love the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, and the pizza toppings are delicious. It's one of the few places you can get Italian beef on your pizza! Plus, if you have a large group, this joint is sure to please, as its menu has a broad appeal. If you are in the area, and looking for a great pie, check out Punky's at 2600 S Wallace St in Chicago.

Stepping into Vito and Nick's Pizzeria is an experience. Most of the people there know each other, though they welcome newcomers. The place isn't classy per se, though it does have a nice, homey décor. The waitresses are no-nonsense, but sweet. And your pie may be brought out to you by one of the many family members that work at this place. Whether that is your style or not, you'll forget all that when you try the pizza... it is amazing! Touting 'cracker-thin' crust, the Sicilian recipe of Mary (wife to Vito and mother to Nick), and fresh, plentiful toppings, this pizza place has built quite a following. And it's one of the few that doesn't deliver!! Why, you ask? Nick believes that if you want truly great pizza, you will come into the restaurant for one fresh out of the oven. And he's not lying! This pizzeria is never hurting for customers. The best part about Vito and Nick's? The crust is so thin, you can eat a lot of the pizza before you get full! Visit Vito and Nick's at 8435 S. Pulaski Rd. in Chicago.

Pizza is plentiful in Chicago. But authentic pizza is found in authentic areas. And the South Side of the city boast plenty! For thin-crust pizza, you'd be crazy not to try these pizzerias.