18 Legendary North Carolina Pizzerias Every Slice Lover Should Visit
North Carolina might be known for barbecue, but its pizza scene has earned serious bragging rights.
Across the state, you’ll find long-loved pizzerias where dough is made daily, ovens blaze hot, and every slice feels like a local tradition.
Some stick to classic New York style, others add Southern flair, but all share one thing – a loyal following that swears by every bite.
1. Mission Pizza Napoletana (Winston-Salem)
Authentic Neapolitan pizza doesn’t require a plane ticket to Italy when Mission Pizza exists. Brick-oven magic happens here, where dough gets hand-tossed and topped with imported Italian ingredients.
The crust achieves that perfect leopard-spotted char that pizza purists dream about.
Margherita lovers will find heaven in every bite, with San Marzano tomatoes and creamy buffalo mozzarella stealing the show completely.
2. Pizzeria Toro (Durham)
Durham’s foodie reputation owes a big thanks to Pizzeria Toro’s inventive approach. Chef Matty runs a tight ship, crafting seasonal pies that change with local harvests.
Think Brussels sprouts with pancetta or butternut squash with sage – combinations that shouldn’t work but absolutely do.
The vibe feels neighborhood-casual, but the flavor profiles punch way above their weight class every single time.
3. Randy’s Pizza (Raleigh)
Sometimes you just need a proper New York-style slice, and Randy’s delivers without pretension. Massive triangles of cheesy goodness fold perfectly for that authentic street-eating experience.
Late-night crowds flock here because nothing beats grabbing a slice after midnight. The no-frills atmosphere and consistent quality have made this Raleigh institution a beloved fixture for decades running.
4. Oakwood Pizza Box (Raleigh)
Neighborhood charm meets serious pizza craftsmanship at Oakwood Pizza Box. This cozy spot serves up creative pies that locals guard like precious secrets.
Their signature combinations push boundaries while respecting classic techniques. The crust strikes that Goldilocks balance – not too thin, not too thick, just absolutely right.
5. Inizio Pizza Napoletana (Charlotte)
Charlotte’s pizza scene got a serious upgrade when Inizio opened its doors. Wood-fired ovens imported straight from Naples cook pies in just 90 seconds flat.
That blistered, airy crust paired with simple yet bold toppings creates pure culinary poetry. Skip the heavy, greasy slices elsewhere and experience what real Italian tradition tastes like right here in Queen City.
6. Frank’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant (Raleigh)
Family recipes passed down through generations make Frank’s feel like dining at your Italian grandmother’s house. The pizza here stays true to old-school traditions without cutting corners.
Thick, doughy crusts support generous toppings that never skimp on quality. Beyond pizza, their pasta dishes complement any meal perfectly.
7. Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (Raleigh)
Vic’s has been slinging pies since way back, earning its legendary status through sheer consistency. Red-checkered tablecloths and vintage photos create an atmosphere dripping with nostalgia.
Their sauce recipe remains unchanged for good reason – it’s tangy perfection. Regulars swear by the pepperoni pizza, where crispy edges curl into little grease cups of joy.
8. Nancy’s Pizzeria (Raleigh)
Nancy’s proves that sometimes simplicity wins the day. This unassuming spot focuses on doing the basics brilliantly rather than chasing food trends.
Fresh ingredients, reliable service, and fair prices keep customers coming back week after week. The cheese blend melts into stretchy, gooey perfection that photographs beautifully.
9. Benny Capitale’s (Raleigh)
Big Apple vibes meet Southern hospitality at Benny Capitale’s lively establishment. Transplanted New Yorkers actually approve of these pies, which says everything you need to know.
Thin crust with just enough chew supports bold flavors without falling apart. The garlic knots deserve their own fan club honestly.
Whether grabbing lunch or settling in for dinner, expect portions that satisfy and flavors that impress completely.
10. Trophy Brewing & Pizza (Raleigh)
Craft beer and artisan pizza create the ultimate pairing at Trophy Brewing’s multiple locations. Their brewpub concept elevates casual dining into something genuinely special.
Inventive topping combinations complement their rotating beer selection beautifully.
The Maui Wowie with ham and pineapple sparks heated debates among pizza purists. Industrial-chic spaces buzzing with energy make this perfect for group outings and celebrations alike.
11. Lily’s Pizza (Raleigh)
Lily’s approaches pizza like an art form, treating each pie as a canvas for culinary creativity. Seasonal menus showcase local farms and producers whenever possible.
Expect unexpected flavor marriages that somehow work brilliantly together. The dough ferments slowly for complex flavor development you can actually taste.
Small batches and attention to detail mean quality never gets sacrificed for speed or volume here.
12. Cristo’s Ristorante & Pizzeria (Raleigh)
Cristo’s brings authentic Italian flavors to Raleigh with recipes rooted in tradition. The family atmosphere makes every visit feel warm and welcoming from the moment you enter.
Their pizza showcases quality ingredients without unnecessary gimmicks or complications. Thin crust lovers rejoice here, where crispy bottoms support fresh toppings beautifully.
The lunch specials offer incredible value without compromising taste or portion sizes whatsoever.
13. Sergio’s Pizza (Raleigh)
Did you know Sergio’s started as a tiny takeout joint before becoming a Raleigh staple? Their commitment to consistency has built a loyal following over many years.
Generous cheese coverage and perfectly seasoned sauce define their signature style. The crust hits that satisfying middle ground between crispy and chewy textures.
Quick service and reasonable prices make this ideal for feeding hungry families without breaking the bank.
14. Cugino Forno Pizzeria (Winston-Salem)
Winston-Salem’s pizza game stepped up considerably when Cugino Forno arrived on the scene. Their wood-fired oven produces pies with that irresistible smoky char.
Italian-trained techniques meet locally-sourced ingredients for outstanding results every time. The prosciutto and arugula pizza tastes like a vacation to Tuscany.
Cozy dining room ambiance makes this perfect for date nights or special occasions worth celebrating properly.
15. Slice Pizzeria (Kill Devil Hills)
Beach vacations demand good pizza, and Slice Pizzeria delivers for Outer Banks visitors. Post-beach hunger gets satisfied with massive slices that hit the spot perfectly.
Casual beach-town vibes match the laid-back atmosphere everyone craves on vacation. Their pizza-by-the-slice setup means quick service for families with impatient, hungry kids.
16. Bird Pizzeria (Charlotte)
Charlotte’s South End neighborhood lucked out when Bird Pizzeria nested here. Neapolitan-style pies emerge from blazing hot ovens in minutes flat.
Simple ingredient lists let quality shine through without unnecessary complications or distractions. The Margherita represents pizza perfection in its purest form imaginable.
Minimal seating means takeout remains popular, but eating fresh on-site offers the best experience hands down.
17. Pizzeria Omaggio (Charlotte)
Omaggio translates to tribute, and this pizzeria honors Italian tradition beautifully. Imported ingredients from Italy ensure authenticity in every single bite.
The 00 flour creates that signature tender yet structured crust texture. Watching pizzaiolos work their magic provides free entertainment while you wait.
Wine pairings elevate the experience from casual meal to memorable dining event worth repeating often.
18. Anna’s Pizzeria (Apex)
Apex found its pizza home when Anna’s opened with family recipes and genuine hospitality. Every pie comes out of the kitchen with care you can actually taste.
The Greek-style pizza offers something different from typical Italian-American options available everywhere else. Friendly service makes newcomers feel like regulars immediately.
Supporting this local business means supporting neighbors who truly care about their community and craft.
