A Guide To Highly Acclaimed Pizza Restaurants In Every State
Craving a slice worth crossing state lines for? This guide takes you through the most acclaimed pizza restaurants in every state, from coal fired classics to creative sourdough stunners.
You will find beloved neighborhood joints and destination pizzerias that spark lines out the door. Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure, because the next unforgettable pie might be closer than you think.
1. Pizzeria Bianco – Arizona
Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix has a loyal following for good reason. The crust lands airy and blistered, kissed by a roaring wood fire that perfumes the room.
Tomatoes taste bright, and mozzarella melts into juicy puddles that beg for one more bite.
You taste craft in every detail, from the olive oil drizzle to the basil snip. The menu is simple yet confident, letting seasonal ingredients lead.
If you love balance and restraint in pizza, this spot sets the bar.
2. Pizzaria Lola – Minnesota
Pizzeria Lola in Minneapolis blends Korean American creativity with classic technique. The dough bakes with gentle chew and crackle, perfect for playful toppings.
Try the Lady Zaza for a punch of kimchi heat swirling through creamy cheese.
Service feels warm and quick, making it easy to linger over another slice. The space glows with wood and tile, showing off the dancing flames.
You leave grinning, wondering how comfort and surprise can coexist so deliciously.
3. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana – Connecticut
Frank Pepe is a coal fired legend, drawing lines for decades. The signature white clam pie tastes briny, garlicky, and beautifully charred around the edges.
Crust sits thin, crisp, and slightly chewy, with just enough bend to fold.
New Haven style fans swear by the delicate balance of char and chew. The bustling, no nonsense vibe makes every tray feel celebratory.
If bucket list pizza exists, this one deserves a spot near the top.
4. Di Fara Pizza – New York
Di Fara in Brooklyn delivers a slice with soul. The pies come out shimmering with olive oil, basil confetti, and a crackling edge.
You taste patient craft in every bite, the kind that only decades of repetition can refine.
Expect a wait, and bring cash. The square pie is especially beloved for its caramelized corners and saucy middle.
Each slice feels like New York nostalgia and careful artistry meeting right on your plate.
5. Pizzeria Beddia – Pennsylvania
Pizzeria Beddia in Philadelphia focuses on impeccable dough and balance. The crust shows leopard spotting, airy lift, and a light crunch as you bite.
Toppings lean seasonal and restrained, with bright tomato sauce shining through.
Service flows smoothly, and the vibe encourages conversation over careful slices. You will not find gimmicks here, just confident execution.
It is the kind of pizza that rewards slow eating and a second look at the last slice.
6. Lou Malnati’s – Illinois
Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago icon for deep dish lovers. The buttery crust forms a crisp edge that holds generous cheese and bright sauce.
Each slice eats hearty, saucy, and deeply comforting without feeling heavy.
Grab a sausage patty pie for the full experience, with crispy cheese along the rim. The dining room buzzes, and service keeps pans landing hot.
If you want classic deep dish done right, this is the benchmark.
7. Santarpio’s Pizza – Massachusetts
Santarpio’s brings East Boston swagger and perfect char. The crust is thin, chewy, and smoky from the old ovens.
Order a sausage and garlic pie with a side of skewered meats to feel like a regular.
The staff moves fast, the rooms feel lived in, and the plates come out hot. You come for the flavor, not the fuss.
It is a slice of Boston attitude coupled with time tested pizza craft.
8. Apizza Scholls – Oregon
Apizza Scholls in Portland respects tradition while embracing Pacific Northwest produce. The crust hits that crisp yet pliable sweet spot.
Pies lean simple, like margherita or pepperoni, executed with near obsessive precision.
Expect a wait and a friendly, neighborhood feel. The balance of salt, fat, and acidity keeps you reaching for another slice.
It is proof that fewer toppings, done right, can taste like more.
9. Prince Street Pizza – New York
Prince Street Pizza punches hard with thick squares and roni cups. The edges caramelize into crunchy corners, while the middle stays saucy and rich.
Every bite delivers crisp, spice, and a little grease in the best way.
Lines move quickly, and slices reheat beautifully. You may find yourself ordering extra to take home.
When you crave maximalist pepperoni energy, this spot over delivers with swagger.
10. Flour + Water Pizzeria – California
Flour + Water Pizzeria brings San Francisco sourdough finesse to pizza. The crust carries gentle tang, light blistering, and satisfying chew.
Seasonal toppings shine, turning simple pies into produce forward highlights.
Order a classic cheese to appreciate the dough, then chase seasonal specials. The vibe feels bright and modern, perfect for a casual date night.
You taste California sunshine and craft in every slice.
11. Sally’s Apizza – Connecticut
Sally’s Apizza delivers legendary New Haven char. The long, oval pies come thin, smoky, and deliciously chewy.
Tomato pies sing with sweet acidity and a hint of garlic warmth.
Inside feels timeless, buzzing with locals and visitors chasing a perfect bite. The ovens have stories baked into every edge.
When you want old school technique with unforgettable flavor, Sally’s makes the decision easy.
12. Buddy’s Pizza – Michigan
Buddy’s helped define Detroit style, with frico edges that crunch and sing. The rectangular pies have airy interiors and sturdy, crisp bottoms.
Sauce often lands in racing stripes over molten cheese, balancing richness perfectly.
It is comforting yet lively, ideal for sharing with a crowd. The history adds charm without overshadowing the food.
If you love corner pieces, this is a celebration of them in every pan.
13. Regina Pizzeria – Massachusetts
Regina Pizzeria has classic Boston energy and a brick oven bite. Crust arrives thin with char bubbles and a gentle bend.
The sauce is bright, the cheese stretchy, and the basil fragrant.
There is nothing fussy here, just Old World charm done consistently. Families, tourists, and locals share narrow tables and big smiles.
If you crave straightforward, dependable excellence, Regina always shows up.
14. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana – California
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is a playground of styles done right. Multiple ovens allow true Neapolitan, New York, and Sicilian to shine.
The margherita shows tender crumb and balanced acidity that feels timeless.
Service is seasoned, guiding you toward the best bake for each style. You can explore techniques without leaving your table.
For a master class in pizza variety, Tony’s makes learning delicious.
15. Varasano’s Pizzeria – Georgia
Varasano’s in Atlanta channels high heat finesse with a tender, leopard spotted crust. Each pie balances lightness and chew, letting simple ingredients lead.
The margherita tastes elegant, with bright tomatoes and clean dairy notes.
It is a comfortable place to settle in with friends and share a few pies. You feel attention to detail in every step.
When you want refined without pretension, this is your move.
16. Lucali – New York
Lucali feels like a secret everyone knows. The pies are delicate and crisp, topped with ribbons of basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Each slice folds neatly and delivers clean, harmonious flavors.
Expect a wait, and bring cash. The room glows warmly, making every bite feel special.
If romance could be a pizza, Lucali would be the love letter.
17. Anchor Pizza – Montana
Anchor Pizza brings big flavor to a relaxed Montana setting. The crust bakes golden with a sturdy base for generous toppings.
Think house sausage, roasted veggies, and balanced sauces that never overwhelm.
The vibe is friendly and unhurried, perfect after a day outdoors. You can taste care in the dough and local ingredients.
It is the kind of place where one slice turns into an extra pie for the road.
18. Ken’s Artisan Pizza – Oregon
Ken’s Artisan Pizza is a Portland favorite for elegant simplicity. The dough bakes open crumbed and light, with a lovely char ring.
Sauces and toppings are restrained, letting the crust lead the conversation.
Start with a salad and end with seasonal specials. The room hums with warm light and friendly service.
You leave feeling satisfied rather than stuffed, already plotting a return visit.
19. Spacca Napoli – Illinois
Spacca Napoli brings true Neapolitan softness to Chicago. The cornicione puffs tender and spotted, with a custardy interior.
Tomatoes sing sweetly while mozzarella melts into delicate pools.
It feels transportive, with Italian art and friendly servers guiding choices. The pies arrive quickly, light enough to justify ordering two.
When you crave Naples in the Midwest, this is your ticket.
20. Al Forno – Rhode Island
Al Forno popularized grilled pizza with a signature crackly finish. The char comes fragrant and complex, carrying toppings with surprising lightness.
A simple arugula and Parmesan pie feels luxurious here.
The dining room leans elegant, perfect for date night or celebrations. Service is seasoned and thoughtful, pacing dishes just right.
If you want pizza that flirts with fine dining, Al Forno nails the balance.
21. Post Office Pies – Alabama
Post Office Pies turns a historic space into a neighborhood hangout. The crust shows gentle char and solid chew, perfect for peppery greens or spicy sausage.
Sauces pop with brightness, balancing the heat beautifully.
It is a great spot for a casual night with friends. The staff keeps things moving while staying welcoming.
You will likely plan another visit before finishing your last slice.
22. Joe’s Pizza – New York
Joe’s is the archetypal New York slice. The crust folds cleanly without flopping, with just enough crisp on the bottom.
Cheese and sauce land in balance, delivering comfort in every bite.
Lines move fast, and the counter crew keeps pies coming. Grab a plain slice and feel like a local.
When simplicity beckons, Joe’s answers without hesitation.
23. Home Slice Pizza – Texas
Home Slice brings New York attitude to Austin warmth. Slices are big, foldable, and satisfyingly salty.
The crust hits that crisp chew sweet spot, making each bite feel classic.
Grab a picnic table outside and watch the scene roll by. The staff keeps the line moving while staying playful.
It is the kind of slice shop you remember long after leaving town.
24. Serious Pie – Washington
Serious Pie leans artisan without losing heart. The oblong pies feature crisp edges and flavorful toppings like foraged mushrooms.
Each bite balances umami, salt, and a hint of smoke.
The room feels intimate, ideal for sharing a couple pies. Service guides you toward seasonal options and great beer pairings.
When you want thoughtful pizza that still comforts, this delivers confidently.
25. Vito and Nick’s – Illinois
Vito and Nick’s serves tavern style legends on Chicago’s South Side. The crust is ultra thin and crackery, cut into neat squares.
Toppings spread edge to edge, creating perfect crispy corners.
It feels nostalgic and lively, with servers who have stories. A sausage and giardiniera pie packs the right punch.
If you love crispy thin crust, this place defines the category.
26. Roberta’s – New York
Roberta’s brings playful creativity to Bushwick cool. The Bee Sting balances spicy chili and sweet honey over a blistered crust.
Each slice hits salty, sweet, and hot in quick succession.
The space hums with energy and music. Seasonal specials keep regulars curious and excited.
When you want a little swagger with your pie, Roberta’s nails the vibe.
27. Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta – Illinois
Pizano’s offers both thin and deep, each with personality. The butter crust has a gentle crunch, and the sauce tastes bright and herby.
Cheese melts into satisfying pulls that never overwhelm.
It is a family friendly room where conversation flows easily. Order a salad and a sausage pie for balance.
You leave full and content, already thinking about leftovers.
28. CoalFire – Illinois
CoalFire brings a char forward style with finesse. The pizzas emerge with delicate blackened bubbles and a crisp, airy base.
Sauces are bright and focused, pairing well with creamy cheese.
The modern room keeps focus on the food. You will notice how clean the flavors feel.
For those who love char but not bitterness, CoalFire strikes the balance.
29. Cane Rosso – Texas
Cane Rosso champions Neapolitan softness with Texas hospitality. The cornicione is pillowy and spotted, wrapping simple toppings gently.
Sauce lands sweet and bright, letting the dough shine.
The space feels welcoming and unpretentious. You can crush a whole pie and still feel light.
When you crave Naples with a southern smile, this is it.
30. Pizzeria Vetri – Pennsylvania
Pizzeria Vetri offers buoyant dough and focused toppings. The pies bake quickly, emerging with crisp edges and tender centers.
Tomato and mozzarella harmonize cleanly, with herbs adding lift.
Start with the rotolo, then share a couple pies. The staff guides pairings with ease.
You feel cared for without any fuss, and the pizza simply sings.
31. Santina’s Pizzeria – Alaska
Santina’s serves comfort for long Alaskan nights. The crust holds up to generous cheese and rich toppings without sogginess.
You will appreciate hearty flavors after a chilly day.
The room feels welcoming and warm, a neighborhood anchor. Grab a meat lovers or veggie supreme and settle in.
It is reliable, satisfying pizza that hits the spot when you need it most.
32. Pizzeria Limone – Utah
Pizzeria Limone keeps things light and zesty. The thin crust snaps cleanly and carries fresh toppings like arugula and prosciutto.
A squeeze of lemon brightens each bite in a signature way.
It feels casual and sunny, perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners. You leave refreshed rather than weighed down.
When crisp and lively is your mood, this fits perfectly.
33. Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria – Alaska
Moose’s Tooth is an Anchorage institution mixing bold toppings and great beer. The crust is sturdy and flavorful, ready for inventive combos.
Think spicy chicken, creamy sauces, and roasted veggies done right.
It is lively, loud, and perfect for groups. The beer list matches the pies in creativity.
If you want a fun night with big flavors, this place delivers every time.
34. Pequod’s Pizza – Illinois
Pequod’s built its reputation on caramelized cheese edges. The pan baked pies arrive sizzling, with lacy, crunchy rims.
Inside, the crumb stays airy and the sauce bright.
It is indulgent without turning heavy, thanks to focused flavors. The atmosphere leans divey in the best way.
When you crave deep, caramelized goodness, Pequod’s answers loud and clear.
35. Pizzeria Locale – Colorado
Pizzeria Locale marries Neapolitan technique with Colorado ease. Pies bake fast with tender, airy edges and clean toppings.
Tomato, mozzarella, and basil come through distinct and balanced.
The space feels bright and modern, ideal for casual dates. Staff keeps service smooth and friendly.
It is a reliable stop when you want classic flavors done precisely.
36. Flippers Pizzeria – Florida
Flippers brings dependable, family friendly pies across Florida. The dough is hand tossed and bakes to a pleasant chew.
Sauces are balanced, and toppings land generously without feeling messy.
It is great for quick dinners or weekend gatherings. The staff stays upbeat and efficient.
When you need a reliable pie that pleases everyone, Flippers hits the mark.
37. American-Freckled Fig Pizzeria – Idaho
This Idaho spot serves honest, satisfying pies with a rustic touch. The stone oven gives a gentle char and steady heat.
Cheese bubbles happily, and the crust holds a satisfying chew.
You will meet friendly faces behind the counter. It is the kind of place where regulars know each other by name.
If you like simple pizza made with care, you will feel right at home.
38. Gino’s East – Illinois
Gino’s East is deep dish theater with personality. The tall pies hold rich cheese, sausage, and a chunky, herb flecked sauce.
Crust tastes buttery and firm, keeping slices intact.
The graffiti walls and lively crowd add to the fun. It is a rite of passage for visitors and locals.
When you want a knife and fork classic, Gino’s delivers with flair.
39. The Pie Pizzeria – Utah
The Pie is a Salt Lake City legend for oversized, loaded pies. The crust stays sturdy under mountains of toppings.
Sauces lean savory and satisfying, perfect for late night cravings.
The underground vibe and murals make it a hangout. Staff smiles through busy rushes and keeps pies coming.
When you need big and bold, The Pie brings it confidently.
40. Beddia Slice Shop – Pennsylvania
Beddia Slice Shop focuses on crisp thin slices and clean flavors. The sauce pops with bright tomato and a pinch of salt.
Cheese stretches without greasiness, making for easy eating.
Grab a slice, stand at the counter, and savor the details. It feels intentionally simple, with craft hidden in plain sight.
You will likely order another before you leave.
41. Emmy Squared – Tennessee
Emmy Squared brings Detroit style squares to Nashville. The frico edges crunch while the center stays soft and saucy.
Spicy honey adds playful sweetness to rich cheese and pepperoni.
It is a fun room with friendly service and great cocktails. Sharing a couple pies makes it easy to sample styles.
When you want bold corners and big flavor, Emmy hits the note.
42. Pizzeria Domenica – Louisiana
Pizzeria Domenica brings Italian technique to New Orleans swagger. The crust is airy with gentle char, ideal for spicy meats and tangy sauce.
Calabrese pies offer a lively kick that pairs well with a cold drink.
Service moves briskly, and the room hums with happy tables. You will want dessert, too.
For a celebratory pizza night, Domenica shines brightly.
43. Patxi’s Pizza – Colorado
Patxi’s offers deep dish comfort and thin crust versatility. The deep pies feature sturdy crusts with bright, chunky sauce.
Cheese pulls impress but stay balanced, not heavy.
The thin crust brings a pleasant crisp for lighter moods. Friendly staff and a clean room make it easy to settle in.
When your group has mixed cravings, Patxi’s solves it gracefully.
44. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria – Nevada
Grimaldi’s brings coal fired tradition to the neon glow of Las Vegas. The crust arrives thin with signature char bubbles.
Sauce is bright, and mozzarella pools into silky bites.
Service stays quick despite busy nights. You get a reliable, classic pie every time.
It is a comforting anchor amid the Strip’s dazzle.
45. Supreme Pizza – North Dakota
Supreme Pizza keeps things straightforward and satisfying. Expect a sturdy crust, lots of toppings, and a sauce that ties it together.
It is comfort food you can count on.
The staff is kind, and the room feels familiar. Grab a supreme or pepperoni and settle into a booth.
Sometimes the best slice is the one that feels like home.
46. Pizza Delicious – Louisiana
Pizza Delicious serves New York style slices with New Orleans charm. The crust folds easily with a light crisp beneath.
Sauce pops bright, and cheese lands in perfect ratio.
It is the kind of spot you drift into after a neighborhood stroll. Grab a slice and a drink, then people watch.
When you want simple and excellent, this place nails it.
47. Bronx Pizza – California
Bronx Pizza brings East Coast attitude to San Diego sunshine. Slices are thin, foldable, and satisfyingly salty.
The crust has that right mix of crisp and chew.
Order a plain or pepperoni to appreciate the fundamentals. The line moves fast, and you will likely return for seconds.
It is a dependable slice that hits cravings squarely.
48. Paulie Gee’s – New York
Paulie Gee’s balances whimsy and tradition with wood fired finesse. The crust blisters beautifully, light yet sturdy.
Toppings like hot honey and soppressata dance between sweet and spicy.
The hospitality feels genuine and thoughtful. You can go classic or explore inventive combinations.
Either way, you will leave plotting your next visit.
49. L&B Spumoni Gardens – New York
L&B Spumoni Gardens is a Sicilian square legend. The sweet sauce sits on top, with cheese beneath creating a luscious middle.
Corners crisp while the center stays soft and comforting.
Grab a tray and a spumoni for dessert. The outdoor seating buzzes with families and longtime fans.
It is a summer afternoon dream that holds up year round.
50. Giordano’s – Illinois
Giordano’s is stuffed deep dish spectacle. The double crust seals in a lake of cheese and bright sauce.
Slices are hearty and photogenic, a showstopper for first timers.
Despite the drama, flavors stay balanced. Staff handles crowds with practiced ease.
When you want Chicago pizza as theater, Giordano’s delivers the headline act.
