Long before tavern-style pizza became a popular choice among Chicagoans, the suburban gem Washington Gardens had already built a loyal following for its perfect yet straightforward thin-crust pie.
When WG Pizzas, a spin-off of Washington Gardens, opened its first brick-and-mortar location earlier last year, it provided a convenient spot for city dwellers to enjoy its delicious cracker-thin crust without needing a car.
The ideal way to kick off 2026: Veganuary tavern takeover
As we enter 2026, our eating practices are usually changing—especially in January, when many of us tend to choose plant-based diets.
Fortunately, Washington Garden and WG Pizzas have prepared for this shift by collaborating with one of the North Shore’s most beloved plant-based cafés.
The “Veganuay Tavern Takeover” will unite WG Pizzas with Chloe Mendel Corgan and Billy Corgan of Madame Zuzu’s, a plant-based tea shop and café located in Highland Park.
The featured pizza is Grandma JoJo’s Meatball Pizza, a plant-based version inspired by Madame Zuzu’s vegan meatball sandwich. This pie includes Grandma JoJo’s Meatballs, named in honor of Chloe’s grandmother, paired with vegan mozzarella and parmesan from Cheeze & Thank You, Madame Zuzu’s pomodoro sauce, fresh basil, and olive oil.
It will be available in two sizes: a 12-inch for $28 and a 14-inch for $30. You can enjoy the pie at WG Pizzas in Lakeview or Alex’s Washington Gardens in Highwood, as well as through carryout and delivery options throughout January.