America's Finest: Top Pizza in Every State
Alabama
Slice Stone Pizza and Brew
Soul food truly embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. Three brothers from Birmingham—founders of Slice—took this homestyle cooking approach and applied it to pizzas with their fittingly called “Soul Pie.” This unique creation features an irresistible combination of sausage, black-eyed peas, turnip greens, red onions, and Pepperjack cheese. For those who want to recreate this at home, they offer a take-home pizza kit. If you're still craving more, explore further options. top all-you-can-eat buffet in your state .
Alaska
Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria
Who would've thought that the top pizza in the U.S. could be found in the Last Frontier? This isn’t just based on glowing feedback; Moose’s Tooth in Anchorage consistently ranks as the highest-grossing independently owned pizzeria nationwide for multiple years now. The deliciousness is such that you may need to reserve your spot at a table, but luckily these culinary champions operate their very own brewery onsite, allowing you to enjoy a cold brew while you await your turn.
Arizona: Pizzeria Bianco
If you’re a real pizza lover, you’ve probably heard about Chef Chris Bianco from Phoenix; he’s often hailed as one of the greatest pizza makers (or “pizzaiolo” in Italian) ever. For him, just a simple dough, crushed tomatoes by hand, a light sprinkle of grated Parmigiano, and a few fresh basil leaves are enough ingredients to create something extraordinary. No matter what, Is tomato classified as a fruit or a vegetable? since it tastes this good.
Arkansas: Iriana's Pizza
Residents concur that Iriana’s stands as an iconic spot in Little Rock. However, take this advice into consideration: refrain from settling for a basic cheese pizza. Opt instead for loading up with any—or even all—of your preferred toppings using their rendition of a deluxe pie known whimsically as “Sweep the Floor.” This generously topped pizza includes Canadian bacon, sausage, black olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, pepperoni, and onions. Beyond these offerings, wild pizza toppings are hard to refuse too.
California: Cheese Board Pizza
Established in 1985, this Berkeley pizzeria originated from the minds behind the Cheese Board cheese store. They began crafting veggie pizzas with distinctive cheeses, high-quality ingredients, and a light, tangy sourdough base. Over three decades since then, their formula remains unchanged; however, Cheese Board Pizza now operates during lunch and dinner hours only on Thursdays through Saturdays, featuring live musical performances. Their menu varies frequently, ensuring each visit brings something new. For times when the eatery is closed, they offer semi-prepared pies that can be finished at home. To prepare yourself for an exceptional vegetarian slice here, find out first if Eggplant is classified as either a fruit or a vegetable. .
Colorado: Blue Pan Pizza
Detroit-style pizza – Blue Pan’s signature dish – is akin to a laid-back relative of the popular New York-style (or thin-crust) pizza. This style boasts a slightly heartier texture and is typically served in square slices rather than triangular ones. Its hallmark is an irresistible caramelized crust, achieved through a mix of three distinct cheeses. As for Denver, known as the Mile High City, you must sample their Mountain Top pizza. This creation includes two kinds of pepperoni, mushrooms, and freshly picked oregano. Quite a combination! food fact worth repeating.
Connecticut: Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
Along the Connecticut shoreline, clams are considered a prized treat, making it natural to enjoy them even on pizza. If you visit Frank Pepe's in New Haven—consistently ranked as America’s top pizzeria by The Daily Meal—you should sample their renowned white clam pie. This distinctive dish features raw littleneck clams, drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with garlic, and finished off with Pecorino Romano cheese.
Delaware: Grotto Pizza
The genuine hallmark of "Delaware-style" pizza is exclusively available at Grotto's, the renowned pizzeria in Rehoboth Beach: the distinctive swirl design. Their perfectly balanced tomato sauce (neither overly watery nor excessively dense) is ladled over the melted cheese and then artfully swirled outwards.
Florida: Steve's Pizza
There’s nothing flashy or complex about this place. When visiting Steve's Pizza in Miami, prepare to order from the counter before settling into a graffiti-covered booth to wait for your heavenly slice. The pizza truly lives up to its reputation; served on a simple paper plate, each New York-style slice strikes the perfect balance—just enough grease, ooze, cheese, and sauce—to hit all those cravings spot-on. You get all the delightful flavors of authentic New York pizza without having to brave the cold weather. Feeling like something sweet now? It might be time to explore some options elsewhere. top ice cream stores across all states .
Georgia: Antico Pizza Napoletana
Located in Atlanta’s Little Italy district, this pizzeria is beloved by enthusiasts and almost holds legendary status—deservedly so. Try their signature San Gennaro pizza, featuring three kinds of melting cheeses, bell peppers, onions, and savory sausage; savor both the blistered crust and ample toppings. This place undoubtedly ranks among the top pizza spots in the country, though there is a caveat: customization isn’t an option here. At Antico, what they offer is non-negotiable, yet why would you want anything else when everything tastes this fantastic?
Hawaii: Sophie’s Exquisite Hawaiian Pizza Restaurant
Here are some high-end pizzas: handcrafted dough and sauce, baked until they reach perfectly charred thin-crusted excellence. If you visit Sophie’s Gourmet Hawaiian Pizzeria in Oahu, you get to craft your very own pizza from scratch. Pick your preferred dough, sauce, cheese, and additional ingredients to concoct a completely novel creation (that will surely satisfy whatever hunger pangs you may be experiencing). The guava-flavored crust sounds incredibly tempting to us; however, should inspiration elude you, we recommend trying their signature Hawaii Pie-O: this features zesty Sriracha sauce, salami, mozzarella, barbecue pork, sausage, and pepperoni, garnished with fresh cilantro atop a classic base. Anyone else feeling welcoming vibes?
Idaho: The Wylder
As others embrace the wood-fired pizza craze, the team at The Wylder in Boise opts for a conventional gas-powered oven. This choice yields a sourdough base that combines chewiness and crispness seamlessly, devoid of burnt ends. Savor Idaho’s renowned potatoes—accompanied by rosemary, sage, and caramelized onions—on their signature White-Sauce Gem State of Mind pizza. Did you know how Idaho earned its nickname as the Gem State? Below are some details: histories behind each state's nickname .
Illinois: Giordano's
Many people compare it to lasagna, yet we believe there’s something special about enjoying a pizza that requires utensils. Whether you love it or not, few culinary delights can match the sinful pleasure—or sheer deliciousness—of a Chicago deep-dish pizza. At the iconic Chicago establishment Giordano's, they elevate this experience even higher with their stuffed pizza. On top of piling up layers of thick crust, gooey mozzarella, and hearty tomato sauce, they add an extra layer of creamy ricotta inside the shell. Excuse me while I take a quick nap from all that richness…
Indiana: Jockamo Elite Crust Pizza
Carnivores, celebrate! At Jockamo's, you can satisfy your meaty desires with a pie inspired by the renowned Indianapolis novelist Kurt Vonnegut’s iconic work. Slaughterhouse Five The crunchy exterior is packed with pepperoni, sausage, ham, Italian beef, and bacon. This type of pizza serves as a backdrop for resolving significant debates, such as whether A hot dog can be considered a type of sandwich. .
Iowa: Great Plains Sauce & Dough Company
Each excellent pizza begins with a perfectly baked crust, something that Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co., located in Ames, has excelled at since their establishment in 1979. Regardless of whether you opt for one of their six distinct crust types—including hearty, whole-wheat Denver-style or Idaho-style made from potato flour—every option is crafted afresh every day and individually hand-rolled per order. Their topping selection holds up well too. In summary, this makes for ideal sustenance when exploring the area. top spot for apple picking in each state .
Kansas: Picasso's Pizzeria
Picasso's didn’t earn the title of Wichita’s Best Pizza six times without reason. Their New York-style pizza slices are renowned not just for their crisp-thin crust but also because they’re exceptionally large! A single slice, which comes from an enormous 26-inch pie, demands both hands—use one hand to fold it in half and the other to catch the sticky tomato sauce dripping down your chin. Tackling a slice larger than your own face? We consider that culinary mastery.
Kentucky: Impellizzeri's Pizza
When dining at Impellizzeri's, be sure to come ready to indulge in their signature dish: Louisville-style pizza. The moment your pie arrives, brimming with an abundance of cheese—did we mention lots of cheese—and additional toppings, you’ll grasp what makes this style so special—a veritable double layering of cheese and ingredients. Essentially, it’s like having two pizzas merged into one delicious creation. Absolutely delightful! fast food fact we can get behind.
Louisiana: Pizza Domenica
The delightful, somewhat caramelized outer layer of the wood-fired pizzas from NOLA’s Pizza Domenica always gets us excited. Combine this with high-end toppings such as fennel sausage and mortadella, or summer squash and mascarpone, and you’ve got a royal feast right on your plate (or perhaps we should call it “king” worthy). un roi ").
Maine: OTTO Pizza
For those of us who aren’t strict adherents to traditional pizza-making, OTTO in Portland has carved out a niche for itself across the Eastern Seaboard with its innovative toppings such as three-cheese tortellini and pulled pork paired with mango. If you're feeling indecisive, fear not—the original creation that put them on the map remains a sure bet: the iconic combination of mashed potatoes, bacon, and scallions. Is this meal more suited for morning fare or lunch? Either way, it’s pizza!
Maryland: Joe Squared Pizza
Hipster enthusiasts adored this Baltimore pizzeria even before it became trendy (aka, prior to its feature). Food Network Magazine and featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) Their preferred pizza is the Flag Pizza, crafted to mimic the colors of the Italian flag, featuring three sections in shades of red tomato sauce, white garlic sauce, and bright green pesto. Bellissimo ! Figuring out the flag pizza is simple enough, but do you know the unexpected origins of these beloved dishes ?
Massachusetts: Area Four
If you’re searching for top-notch pizza in the U.S., a slogan such as “This is Real Food. From the Oven.” can guide you well. This long-standing establishment in Cambridge sticks to its word when it comes to crafting exceptional pizzas. You’ll find evidence of their quality not just in taste but also in how they handle their dough. A4 relies on a 15-year-old sourdough starter which undergoes over 36 hours of rising time before getting hand-rolled and cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. This process yields a delightful combination of airiness and crunch.
Michigan: Licari's Sicilian Pizza Kitchen
Wowza! This genuine Italian restaurant in Grand Rapids serves up thick, pillowy pizzas using an ancestral secret recipe hailing directly from Sicily. Try their "Sfinciuni Pizza" – this massive sheet pan-style pie is every gourmet lover’s fantasy, featuring a slightly sweet sauce topped with generous pieces of matured Parmigiano Reggiano. Hold on, I’m checking out some tickets to Michigan right now…
Minnesota: Pizzeria Lola
This Minneapolis pizzeria is among the three tasty pizza establishments run by James Beard Award-winning chef Ann Kim. It has gained recognition from Guy Fieri as well and has even made an appearance on his show. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives ) and much of the flavor profile showcases Kim’s Korean roots, featuring toppings such as Korean BBQ and radish. Our favorites include the seasonal pizzas; for instance, the Spring Allium combines leeks, garlic, spring onions, caramelized onions, multiple cheeses, olives, and thyme. As the weather gets warmer, it prompts us to consider the query “ What exactly is cold brew coffee? " too.
Mississippi: Square Pizza
Thanks to this renowned establishment in Oxford, your late-night dining options have become even more delightful. Square Pizza remains open until 1 a.m., offering an exceptional twist with each of their pizzas being cooked two times for added crispiness. (Should you ponder over why reheated leftovers taste superior when placed back into the oven, now you know.) Rather than opting for traditional mozzarella cheese, they utilize a lighter provolone variety to fulfill all your cheesiest desires.
Missouri: Pi Pizzeria
Once, Former President Obama stated that Pi in St. Louis is his go-to place for indulging in some pie. You don’t need to be a mathematics enthusiast to savor this pizzeria; just try one slice of their deep-dish or thin-crust variety (spoiler alert: both are mouthwatering) and you’ll be hooked. The crust, coated with cornmeal, provides a solid base strong enough to support the abundant layer of thick tomato sauce, cheese, along with fresh vegetables and herbs topping every pizza. We appreciate plentiful portions, hence Why do potato chip bags not get completely full when sealed? ?
Montana: Eugene's Pizza
Ever since 1962, Eugene’s has served as the go-to place for Glaswegians looking to enjoy a classic slice of pizza crafted from hand-thrown dough and premium toppings, say the current owners who run it. The restaurant stands out due to its extensive menu of customizable options where customers can choose unusual items like Mandarin oranges for their pizzas. However, their taco pizza is also incredibly popular. For those who just can’t get enough, Eugene’s offers partially cooked pies that you can freeze at home and finish off whenever you want more.
Nebraska: Yiayia's Pizza and Brew
Pie and pint: That’s Yiayia's specialty in Lincoln. Try pairing one of their extensive selection of 400 craft beers with an “Around the Globe” pizza. These pizzas showcase flavors from various regions; for instance, the Francais offers blue cheese and walnuts, whereas the American version comes topped with barbecue sauce and corn. However, perhaps your preference leans towards tea rather than beer. Are you aware of their alternative beverage options? what bubble tea is ?
Nevada: Pizza Rock
If you needed someone to create the ideal slice of pizza, who would you choose? Head over to Pizza Rock in Las Vegas where you can find 11-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani. Known for his accolades, his signature Margherita Pizza features San Marzano tomatoes, premium fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a touch of olive oil. This popular pie has limited availability with only 73 made daily on a first-come, first-served basis.
New Hampshire: Alley Cat Pizzeria
This small but remarkable restaurant located in downtown Manchester offers some of the finest thin-crust pizzas around. Their specialty is an incredibly crisp, cracker-like base which makes it ideal for late-night munching or takeaway orders. For eighteen consecutive years, this pizzeria has been crowned the top spot for pizza in Manchester. Each perfectly crafted pie comes with a charming cat-themed name; those who enjoy meaty options should definitely sample the Tom Cat.
Brooklyn Square Pizza in New Jersey
It’s time to indulge in the star attraction at this local pizzeria – the Upside Down Square. This Sicilian-style delight boasts a generous layer of thick, chunky tomato sauce generously poured over a soft, fluffy base. The secret behind this mouthwatering sauce lies within an heirloom family recipe from the proprietor’s Italian grandma herself, crafted using hand-smashed tomatoes for just the right balance between sweetness and tanginess without veering off into either extreme. As you explore the charming streets of Little Italy, perhaps your curiosity will be piqued as well. Exactly what is a macchiato? ?
New Mexico: Giovanni's Pizza
If you're in Albuquerque, be sure to try the "green chile pizza" at Giovanni’s. This New York-style thin-crust pizza includes ricotta cheese, red onions, chicken, garlic, and the signature Tex-Mex touch—hatch green chilies.
New York: Grimaldi's Pizzeria
Is pizza really found beyond the Big Apple? A genuine Brooklyn resident might respond “fuhgeddaboutit” before swiping a slice right off the counter at Grimaldi’s. Known for being one of Frank Sinatra’s go-to spots, they serve large portions baked in a coal-fired oven, which should ideally be enjoyed as the locals do—by folding it lengthwise and holding it while walking. Mastering this technique along with hailing a cab simultaneously will prove your worthiness as an authentic New Yorker. Make sure to polish up on these skills. commonly mispronounced food words , just in case.
North Carolina: Lilly's Pizza
Founded in the 1990s by three musicians in Raleigh, Lilly's offers one of the healthiest pizza options around. Their pizzas are crafted using entirely organic and freshly sourced ingredients, catering primarily to vegans and vegetarians. Enjoy the traditional taste of pizza while indulging in an array of vegetables such as mushrooms, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, and others with their signature Mr. Green Jeans pie.
North Dakota: Blackbird Woodfire
Founded by a previous professional baker, Blackbird in Fargo excels in crafting exceptional pizzas using freshly milled flour sourced daily from North Dakota-grown wheat. The process involves fermenting the dough for two full days to amplify its taste profile before baking it in a traditional wood-fired oven imported directly from Tuscany. This truly represents top-tier artisanal pizza making.
For those who enjoy blending breakfast into their dinner menu, consider trying the Lumberjack dish—a delightful combination featuring béchamel cream sauce, mozzarella cheese, red onions, along with both smoked and Canadian bacon, crowned off with drizzled maple syrup atop a perfectly fried sunnyside-up egg. One can only speculate how this innovative approach places Blackbird within the culinary landscape.
plain eggs versus colored eggs
debate...
Ohio: Crust
Trapped between the renowned pizza cities of New York and Chicago, Crust has developed its own distinctive “Cleveland-style” pizza. This innovative creation merges elements from both well-known styles, resulting in a thicker but still crisp and airy crust. Every aspect (indeed, everything It is prepared fresh every morning, so make sure to enjoy it all, and don’t skip the crust—as they claim, it’s the finest portion!
Oklahoma: Empire Slice House
The pizzas at Empire Slice House in OKC have a distinctive and varied vibe, much like their retro pop-art interior. These large, 20-inch pies come in 14 different specialty options with unconventional monikers such as the Notorious P.I.G., which boasts an impressive full pound of pork topping, or the Evil Empire, featuring serrano, poblano, jalapeño peppers, spicy marinara, and cherry pepper relish. They pack quite a punch, so be sure to save some space for something soothing to tame your fiery palate. Are you familiar with this? who invented ice cream ?
Oregon: Sizzle Pie
Indeed, vegan pizza is a real option. At Sizzle Pie in Portland, they enjoy their plant-based pizzas accompanied by some heavy metal tunes (that’s sort of their signature vibe). When you visit, can Get substantial, cheesey slices at this spot. Sizzle is highly appreciated by vegans due to their extensive range of non-dairy pizzas, such as the Vegan Angel of Doom, which includes vegan mozzarella, jalapeños, pineapple, slivered almonds, and cilantro. It’s clear they offer an excellent choice for anyone looking for delicious pizza options.
Pennsylvania: Earth Bread + Brewery
Could flatbreads be the next big thing following pizzas? Patrons of Philadelphia would likely agree, especially those who have dined at Earth Bread + Brewery. Known as an eco-friendly establishment, this place offers what they proudly call “the finest flatbreads globally,” crafted using fresh regional produce and cooked in a traditional wooden oven. For something sweet like a dessert version of pizza, go for their specialty dish called the Sweetie Pie, which features cream cheese, chocolate, and mascarpone, garnished with candied nuts, chocolate bits, and fruits depending on the season.
Rhode Island: D. Palmieri's Pastry Shop
Ditch the idea of pizza by the slice; in Providence, it’s all about the strips. These thin rectangles of dough come slathered with zesty tomato sauce and sometimes a light dusting of shredded cheese. Best enjoyed chilled or at room temp, these regional favorites shine at places like D. Palmieri's, which uses a soft focaccia-style dough for their version. While it might seem odd to visitors from elsewhere, remember not to dismiss them until giving them a try—much like those who swear by white chocolate. For everyone else, well, we’re still trying to wrap our heads around it. if it's really chocolate .
South Carolina: Village Idiot
For over 25 years, it has catered to the insatiable appetites of countless night-owl college students, and having been named the top pizza spot in Columbia for the last three consecutive years, The Village Idiot shows no signs of closing down. Don’t miss out on sampling their Barnyard pizza, which comes topped with Italian sausage, pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, jalapeños, roasted red peppers, and an extra helping of cheese.
South Dakota: Pizza Business Dough Trader
Perhaps it’s the irresistible crust made from a 130-year-old sourdough starter that has been handed down over generations. Alternatively, it could be the distinctive toppings and whimsical pizza monikers like “Dances with Goats,” which features chicken, onions, Roma tomatoes, garlic, Alfredo sauce, corn, artichokes, and feta cheese. Whatever the reason, this pizzeria stands as an essential part of Spearfish, South Dakota. Keep in mind though; they only accept cash unless you want to queue up at the nearby ATM. So while waiting, can you explain the distinction between jam vs. jelly ?
Tennessee: Big Ed's Pizza
Located just outside of Knoxville in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, lies Big Ed's. Though Big Ed himself passed away in 1998, he was renowned for his stringent criteria regarding his pies. The establishment, now managed by the family, still adheres to Big Ed’s original recipes, making their pizza dough, sauce, and sausage from scratch as per his instructions.
Texas: Big Lou's Pizza
Should you require evidence that everything truly is larger in Texas, visit Big Lou’s in San Antonio, where you can indulge in an astounding 42-inch pizza. It's nearly as wide as your dining table! However, if you prefer something more moderate, their classic pepperoni pizza won’t disappoint. The thinly sliced pepperoni adds just the right crunch, complemented perfectly by the ideal balance between cheese and sauce.
Utah: Settebello Pizzeria
Step inside Settebello in Salt Lake City and you'll instantly be transported to the Italian countryside, surrounded by the aroma of tangy tomatoes and charred dough wafting from the wood-burning oven. Each of their traditional Neapolitan pies is made with the highest-quality ingredients, many of them imported straight from Europe. Keep that European feeling going with the top coffee shop in every state .
Vermont: Piecasso Pizzeria
Similar to their creative counterparts, Piecasso’s pizzas are genuine works of art. Every ingredient hails from local suppliers via the Vermont Fresh Network, which makes the “Tree Hugger” pizza at this Stowe eatery quite sought after. Take a bite of a steaming hot piece adorned with crisp spinach, fragrant basil, pungent garlic, ripe tomatoes, sliced red onions, and melted mozzarella cheese. Even Picasso himself would find it commendable.
Virginia: Bottoms Up Pizza
This Richmond spot is definitely not serving your average take-out pizza. The thick sourdough crust is a perfect base for the flavors of the Mid-Atlantic, like the Chesapeake pie, featuring sweet onions and lump fresh crabmeat seasoned with Old Bay. Warning: Portions at this joint are massive, so be prepared to take home leftovers! If you're craving something sweet after, here's how to decide between sorbet vs. sherbet .
Washington: Serious Pie
While the East Coast boasts its clam pie, the Pacific Northwest prefers the oyster pie. Definitely try a piece at renowned chef Tom Douglas’s restaurant in Seattle, known for its abundant toppings and distinctive crust—light and bread-like, complemented by a delightful sweetness.
West Virginia: Backyard Pizza and Raw Seafood Bar
If you've never had pizza for breakfast, then you’ve missed out. This delightful custom is cherished by the culinary experts at Backyard Pizza in Huntington, who think this ritual should definitely be honored. Their menu boasts various “brunch pizzas” designed to kickstart your day. We highly recommend trying their signature Bacon Egg and Cheese pizza, which features cheddar cheese, scrambled eggs, bacon, all atop a maple-sweetened crust. Yes, a maple-infused base! Pairing it with a coffee seems like the ideal start to anyone’s day. chai tea .
Wisconsin: Harry's Prohibition Bistro
Among just two pizzerias in the entire state to satisfy theAssociazione Vera Pizza Napoletana’s standards for crafting genuine Neapolitan pizza, Harry's Prohibition Bistro in Sheboygan offers an unparalleled experience. Venture into something different with their signature sweetcorn pizza; what might initially seem unusual becomes a delightful blend where the natural sweetness of fresh corn complements the savory flavors of ham and mozzarella beautifully.
Wyoming: Pinky G's Pizzeria
Refuel after a day on the slopes in Jackson Hole with a lavish dinner at Pinky G's. They offer numerous inventive pizza options (all handmade and tossed), but one popular choice is the Abe Froman, which honors the Sausage King of Chicago. This delicious pizza includes buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, along with generous bits of zesty sausage. If it’s fit for Guy Fieri, then we’re sold! Prior to placing your order, make sure to check out their menu first. what your pizza delivery person might not reveal to you .
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