Pizza is my all-time favorite meal.

There are so many different forms: The brilliant, deep-dish that is Lou Malnati’s; the sausage-patty masterpiece that is Gino’s East; and a new discovery in Chicago at 2207 N. Clybourn, Pequod’s, that has edged its way into my heart.

For the best pizza in Chicago, and I’ve pretty much had them all, the small Lincoln Park venue that shares its name with an American-Indian tribe that hailed from Eastern Connecticut wins the nod.

Pequod’s delivers with its deep-dish crust. Encapsulated by caramelized cheese, the thick crust remains crunchy despite a tomato-based sauce.

My date and I chose sausage, tomatoes and fresh basil for toppings. The chunks of sausage were ample and spiced to perfection, the tomatoes were a precise complement to the sauce and the basil brought a clean, crisp and vibrant flavor.

With pizza, I traditionally love to uncork a bottle of Chianti; however, the wine list was less than impressive, and I chose a Leinenkugel’s to accompany my meal.

The next time you order pizza (even if it isn’t at Pequod’s), I’d recommend a 2003 Montepulciano d’ Abruzzo from Masciarelli.

Bought under the careful and knowledgeable guidance of wine consultant Tom Sulek at Binny’s in St. Charles, the $9.99 bottle is a treasure for Italian cuisine.

An easy drink that is soft on your palate, the wine has smooth flavors of cherry, dark fruit and hints of vanilla would complement any dish featuring tomatoes.

The Masciarelli will even entice those who are traditionally not wine drinkers.

Very approachable and full in flavor despite a medium body, Masciarelli is a steal at under $10.

However, if you’re in the Windy City and looking for pizza, go a little off the beaten path and venture into Lincoln Park. There to be found is a great neighborhood filled with plenty of young people enjoying the night life, and a great deep-dish pizza.