3 Italian Joints Take Home Top Prizes in 2017 'Pizza Wars'

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Ten pizza joints battled it out last week to take home the title of the “best” at Downers Grove South High School, but only three can claim they earned top prizes.

After 500 pizzas were consumed by 700 guests, more than $15,000 was raised for the District 99 Education Fund and votes were counted, these were the results:

• Best Crust: Olive Theory Pizzeria
• Best Sauce: Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
• Best Overall: Tortorice’s Pizza

According to a release from the district, the voting in all categories was extremely close. Tickets bought by event-goers went toward the total jackpot of more than $15K, which will go toward teacher grants and student scholarships in local schools.

“The District 99 community should become patrons of Pizza Wars vendors, if they aren’t already,” Martha Merilos, Pizza Wars Chairperson and District 99 Education Foundation board member said in the release. “Since these pizza places support our students, we should support them.”

This year’s annual event had plenty of pizza, but there was also a raffle with more than 20 gift baskets, “split-the-pot” which put $205 in a lucky winner’s pocket and ambience provided by South High violinist Michael Beube.

Three sponsors, who each donated $1,000, were also recognized: Tim’s Professional Painting, Inc., Wight & Company and orthopedist Dr. Lawrence Lieber.

Hungry yet? Don’t worry — Pizza Wars will be back in 2018. For now, though, you might want to buy a slice to tide yourself over.

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Photos courtesy of District 99