The phrase refers to a well-known purveyor of Chicago-style pizza mentioned in The New York Times, generally using a less formal name than its official corporate title. This form of identification might be employed for brevity or to reflect common usage. For example, a reference to “Lou Malnati’s” instead of “Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria” could be considered an instance of this informal naming convention.
The practice of utilizing shortened or colloquial names in news publications serves multiple purposes. It enhances readability by avoiding cumbersome legal titles, increases relatability by mirroring everyday language, and implicitly acknowledges the brand recognition already established in the public consciousness. This approach is particularly effective when discussing businesses with strong regional identities or widely recognized brands. Understanding how established brands are referenced provides insight into the media’s approach to addressing businesses, particularly in major publications.