LINCOLN PARK — The 100-year-old wood in Homeslice Pizza's log cabin-style restaurant is imported straight from Oregon ... but don't call it Oregon-style pizza.
Instead, the partners behind Homeslice Pizza, 958 W. Webster Ave., are bringing Oregon to Chicago pizza, said co-owner and Medford, Oregon native Josh Iachelli.
The concept began three years ago when Iachelli and his business partner, Clay Hamilton, decided on Lincoln Park as the location for their dream restaurant.
A "retro hip" log cabin design, a cornmeal pizza crust base and a semi truck full of 400-600 pound eastern Oregon Douglas firs made that dream a reality.
"It's not always easy to get out of the city, but having some of that rustic feeling helps — wood has a very warm, contemporary feeling," Iachelli said.
Homeslice's artisan pizza consists of a hand-tossed, fluffy cornmeal crust for a bit of a sweeter bite than traditional dough. The menu, like the restaurant's merchandise, feature clever names such as the Schira Palin, a roasted chicken based pizza; the Red Behrens, a vegetarian selection and the Lew-Wow, a pizza with Canadian bacon and pineapple.
A Sherwood Homeslice shirt is also available for purchase, by the way.
The restaurant has a series of large flat screen televisions on display as well as a full bar with liquor, wine and 12 beers on tap. But don't mistake Homeslice for a full-time sports bar — many of the sets stay off unless a popular sporting event is on.
"We like the idea of people talking to each other," Iachelli said. "[But] I know Chicago loves their sports."
Homeslice offers tasty salads and calzones in addition to the pizza.
Be sure to check out the restrooms — the walls are covered with 209,000 pennies that complement the comfy 35,000 square foot wood interior.
Wreaths and decorations posted along the walls and ceiling give the space a homey feel for the holidays, reminiscent of a Midwestern Christmas.
"If you have a log cabin, there's gotta be some greenery," Iachelli said.
Delivery options and online ordering are now available at Homeslice Pizza.
