Located near the Southport L stop, the sterile, hospital-like interior of one of the HomeMade Pizza Co. stores belies its diverse selection. It's a simple idea that takes the homemade pizza crust concept one step further, and an idea that’s been going strong for seven years, according to co-founder Eric Fosse.

Customers enter and order a pie, either a mix-and-match creation with a selection of fresh ingredients that range from sausage to chevre, or a favorite combo like the spinach pie. All pizzas are made right in front of you, arranged on dough and then wrapped in plastic. The pre-made pizza is then taken home, tossed in the oven (it's made on a sheet of parchment paper) for ten minutes and then ready to go. Delivery is available as well.

HomeMade Pizza Co.'s prices are slightly higher than that of its Domino’s counterpart. The 12-inch medium is $9.75 and the 14-inch large is $11.75, both of which have tomato sauce or pesto and mozzarella. Extra ingredients cost $1.25 or $1.75. Fosse says that you get what you pay for. "You can't expect greatness for no money," he said. "And, we allow people to do what they want with their pizza, to use the dough as a canvas."

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Patrick Sisson