Pittsburgh’s pizza scene stands toe-to-toe with America’s major cities. Dozens of establishments compete to be named the city’s best pizza spot. The city offers an impressive array of pizza styles, from century-old family recipes to modern artisanal creations in a variety of neighborhoods.
The search for the perfect slice takes you from Downtown’s bustling pizzerias to hidden gems tucked away in Squirrel Hill and Lawrenceville. Each neighborhood brings its unique character to the city’s pizza landscape. South Side’s late-night spots and North Side’s traditional family-owned establishments each tell their own story.
This detailed guide takes you through eight distinct areas of Pittsburgh’s best pizza places. You’ll learn about local favorites and pizza-making traditions while finding the perfect slice for any occasion – whether you need a quick lunch stop or plan a special evening dining experience.
Downtown’s Pizza Paradise
Pittsburgh’s downtown streets are home to some of the city’s finest pizza establishments. Each place puts its own spin on the perfect pie. The combination of wood-fired ovens and authentic Italian ingredients makes downtown a paradise for pizza lovers.
Cultural District Favorites
Proper Brick Oven & Tap Room stands as the Cultural District’s crown jewel. Their wood-burning oven creates pizzas with perfectly charred crusts, and they serve 30 craft beers on tap to pair with their creative pies. The Bianca pizza with candied bacon has earned legendary status among locals. Their thoughtful lighting and stylish décor create an ideal atmosphere to grab dinner before a show.
Market Square Options
Pizzaiolo Primo serves as Market Square’s go-to spot for authentic Neapolitan pizza. They’ve managed to keep their old-world techniques and premium ingredients since 1996. Their menu showcases classic choices:
- Margherita with fresh mozzarella ($20)
- Prosciutto e Arugula with San Daniele prosciutto ($24)
- Quattro Formaggi featuring four premium cheeses ($21)
A 4.7-star rating from over 900 diners proves their excellence and attention to detail. Their brick oven creates pizzas that match Naples’ finest, while imported mozzarella adds authentic flavor to each pie.
Business Lunch Pizza Spots
The business district caters to professionals who want quick yet quality pizza options. Pizza Parma has become skilled at corporate catering and delivers everything from single slices to party spreads. Their extensive Italian menu features:
| Quick Service Options | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Personal Pizzas | $$ |
| Pizza By The Slice | $ |
| Group Catering | $$$ |
Slice on Broadway brings New York-style pizza to Pittsburgh with huge, thin-crust slices that work perfectly for quick business lunches. Their PNC Park location draws crowds on game days and serves generous portions that locals and visitors love.
V3 Pizza rounds out downtown’s innovative lunch spots. Their distinctive pizza boxes have become a familiar sight during lunch rush, showing how popular they’ve grown with the midday crowd.
Strip District Pizza Tour
The Strip District, Pittsburgh’s historic market neighborhood, has turned into a pizza lover’s paradise that serves an eclectic mix of traditional and creative pizza styles. This lively district serves everything from Detroit-style squares to authentic Old World recipes. Pizza fans should definitely check it out.
Historic Pizza Establishments
Pizzeria Davide is the life-blood of Pittsburgh’s pizza heritage and stands out for its Old World and New York style pizzas. Their dedication to authentic Italian recipes has created a loyal customer base. The pizzeria’s link to DiAnoia’s Eatery, which ranks among Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the US, adds to its stellar reputation. Their catering menu has become the top choice for events and celebrations across the city.
New Wave Pizza Joints
Iron Born Pizza shows the district’s creative spirit by bringing Detroit-style pizza to Pittsburgh’s food scene. Chef Pete’s trip from Kittanning to making some of Pittsburgh’s best pizza shows how local pizza-making has grown. Their signature features include:
- House-made garlic oil
- Seasonal ingredient rotations
- Hand-forged specialty toppings
- Distinctive square shape
Aslin Beer’s Izzi, the newest spot in the Terminal building, adds a fresh viewpoint to the Strip’s pizza scene. It blends craft beer culture with creative pizza making in a casual space that works well for dining and hanging out.
Food Hall Pizza Options
The historic PA Market, a two-story building that once helped distribute the neighborhood’s produce, now serves as a hub for different pizza experiences. Today’s pizza menu includes:
| Style | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Artisan | Wood-fired specialty pies | Pizza connoisseurs |
| Traditional | Classic Italian recipes | Family dining |
| Modern Fusion | Creative combinations | Adventurous eaters |
The market’s vendors give visitors a chance to try multiple pizza styles under one roof, making it a must-stop on any Pittsburgh pizza tour. The food hall keeps the Strip District’s historic character while embracing new food trends.
The district’s pizza scene keeps growing. Places like Papa J’s now offer pizza flights so diners can try various styles and toppings in one visit. This mix of history and culinary creativity has made the Strip District a top spot for pizza lovers who want both traditional and modern takes on this favorite dish.
South Side Pizza Adventures
South Side has created something special with its pizza scene. The neighborhood’s bustling nightlife has sparked a mix of late-night slice shops and traditional Italian spots. You’ll find everything from huge New York-style slices to deep-dish pizzas that satisfy cravings day and night.
Late Night Pizza Spots
Benny Fierro’s rules South Side’s late-night pizza world with their massive 28-inch pies served until 4 AM on weekends. Their signature doughy crust makes them one of Pittsburgh’s best spots to crush those midnight cravings. The place lets you bring your own drinks and serves huge slices that keep the late-night crowd coming back.
These spots have what you need late at night:
- Weekend hours stretch to 4 AM
- Huge slices you can share
- Fast service when the bars close
- Quality ingredients at good prices
Carson Street Classics
Michael’s Pizza Bar & Restaurant brings traditional flavors to South Side’s pizza scene. They mix Italian food with a full bar experience. The locals and tourists keep coming back thanks to fair prices and great service.
Gennaro’s Pizza & Pasta raises the bar with their deep-dish pizzas. Here’s what you’ll pay for their specialties:
| Style | Price Range | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | $$ | Classic Italian recipes |
| Deep Dish | $$-$$$ | Chicago-style specialties |
| Specialty Pies | $$$ | Unique topping combinations |
Hidden Side Street Gems
Away from Carson Street’s crowds, some pizza spots have found their sweet spot. Mario’s blends American bar food with great pizzas in a space perfect for eating and hanging out. The quieter location makes it a nice break from Carson Street’s energy.
The side streets are also home to Sal’s Pizza, where traditional pizza-making is king. They might be strict about dining in, but their quality keeps the South Side pizza fans coming back. These tucked-away spots usually mean shorter waits and a more personal experience than their Carson Street neighbors.
Each place adds its own flavor to South Side’s pizza reputation. The options run from quick slices to sit-down meals, and new spots keep popping up next to old favorites. This mix creates a pizza scene that works for any craving, any time of day.
Lawrenceville’s Pizza Revolution
Lawrenceville stands at the heart of Pittsburgh’s pizza revolution. This former industrial neighborhood blends traditional techniques with state-of-the-art methods. Local pizzerias experiment with bold new ideas that set them apart.
Artisanal Pizza Pioneers
Michigan & Trumbull guides the Detroit-style pizza movement in Pittsburgh. Their square pies come with perfectly crispy edges that locals love. The Packard Pepperoni pizza has subtle sweetness that pairs well with crispy pepperoni cups. Driftwood Oven, Pittsburgh’s only dedicated sourdough pizzeria, makes artisanal pies with time-tested fermentation methods. They serve hand-tossed 16-inch rounds and Roman-style 12-cut options.
Craft Beer and Pizza Pairings
The craft beer scene in Lawrenceville pairs perfectly with its pizza offerings. Local spots have become skilled at creating these great combinations:
| Pizza Style | Recommended Beer Pairing | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Detroit-Style | American Pale Ale | Cuts through rich cheese |
| Sourdough | Unfiltered Lager | Complements natural tang |
| Artisanal | Belgian Strong Ale | Improves complex flavors |
Innovative Pizza Concepts
V3 Flatbread Pizza revolutionizes custom pizza with their build-your-own concept. Customers create their masterpieces from:
- Multiple dough options
- Unlimited premium toppings
- Specialty oils and finishes
- Unique seasonal ingredients
Mobile pizza units add much to the neighborhood’s scene. Driftwood Oven started as a mobile operation before opening their permanent spot. These units work together with local breweries to create unique pizza and beer experiences that showcase Pittsburgh’s growing food culture.
Pizza Taglio expands pizza-making boundaries with new techniques and recipes. They test different approaches constantly. Their dedication to new ideas spans from traditional Sicilian to modern fusion creations, making them stand out among Pittsburgh’s best pizza spots.
Lawrenceville’s pizza scene mirrors the changes in Pittsburgh’s culinary identity. These establishments test new techniques while honoring traditional methods. This mix of old and new defines the neighborhood’s pizza revolution.
Squirrel Hill Pizza Traditions
Squirrel Hill’s pizza scene proves Pittsburgh’s ongoing love affair with authentic Italian cuisine. The 65-year-old establishments serve loyal customers and engage in friendly rivalries that have become local legend.
Long-Standing Establishments
Mineo’s Pizza House, a 65-year-old institution, is the life-blood of Squirrel Hill’s pizza tradition. The original location tells its story through awards and photographs on its walls. Classic booths and a pickup counter create an authentic feel. They added a full-service bar in 2014 that offers casual neighborhood dining and a dedicated party room for gatherings and special events.
Their steadfast dedication to quality makes them one of Pittsburgh’s best pizza spots with these features:
- Traditional family recipes passed down through generations
- Full-service bar with extensive beverage options
- Versatile party space for events and pizza classes
- Combination of takeout and sit-down dining experiences
Murray Avenue Pizza Wars
Aiello’s Pizza and Mineo’s share a legendary rivalry that defines Murray Avenue’s pizza culture. This friendly competition has turned the area into one of Pittsburgh’s most exciting pizza destinations. Pizza lovers have strong opinions about their favorite spot.
| Establishment | Known For | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Aiello’s Pizza | Cash-only policy | Die-hard following |
| Mineo’s | Original recipes | Full-service bar |
| Napoli Pizzeria | Extended hours | Daily specials |
Student Favorite Spots
Universities nearby have encouraged a thriving student-friendly pizza scene. Napoli Pizzeria runs from 11 AM to 11 PM Sunday through Thursday and stays open until midnight on weekends. Students love their convenient delivery service with its modest $1.50 charge during late-night study sessions.
The area has grown into a food destination with pizzas for all tastes and budgets. These pizzerias honor traditional flavors while adding modern touches that appeal to changing tastes. Families and students alike enjoy some of Pittsburgh’s best pizza thanks to the mix of traditional spots and flexible service options.
Squirrel Hill’s pizza culture mirrors its neighborhood character. Traditional values blend perfectly with modern convenience. Customers can grab a quick slice between classes or enjoy a full meal with family. Local pizzerias serve authentic flavors that celebrate the area’s rich food heritage.
North Side Pizza Discoveries
The sort of thing I love about the North Side’s pizza scene is how old meets new. Food trucks that grew into restaurants share the neighborhood with stadium favorites, creating some of Pittsburgh’s most unique pizza spots.
Traditional Family Pizzerias
Alberta’s Pizza shows how Pittsburgh’s pizza scene has grown. This Western Avenue spot started as a food truck before becoming an elegant brick-and-mortar restaurant in 2016. Their Neapolitan-inspired pizzas blend traditional methods with modern dining, and they offer:
- Extended bake times to perfect the crust
- Fresh, seasonal ingredients
- House-crafted small plates
- Special beer collaborations with local breweries
The restaurant’s ties to Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene run deep. Four Points Brewing even created Olde Pitz Italian pilsner just for Alberta’s menu. This partnership shows the North Side’s dedication to creating complete dining experiences beyond just great pizza.
Up-and-Coming Pizza Spots
New pizza places in the neighborhood bring fresh ideas to traditional pizzeria dining. Since 2015, Fierro’s Pizza has made its name with massive 28-inch pies and a BYOB policy that keeps things casual and welcoming. Their role in the North Side’s revival has built them a loyal following among locals and visitors.
The newest spots stand out in Pittsburgh’s competitive pizza world by mixing old-school techniques with modern touches:
| Innovation Area | Feature |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Elegant yet casual dining spaces |
| Menu Design | Global-inspired small plates |
| Beverage Program | Curated wine and cocktail selections |
| Community Impact | Local brewery partnerships |
Stadium Area Pizza Options
Near Acrisure Stadium, you’ll find some of Pittsburgh’s best game-day pizza spots. Franco’s Pizzeria, a 5-year old establishment, has become part of the Steelers game day tradition. You’ll find it near the FedEx Great Hall on Art Rooney Avenue, where they honor football legend Franco Harris with pizzas like:
- The Gina Margharita
- PeppeRooney
- The Immaculate Pie
Franco’s blends Pittsburgh’s sports culture with quality pizza-making. Their spot near the historic Immaculate Reception site makes it special for sports fans looking for great pizza in Pittsburgh.
The North Side’s pizza scene keeps growing, and each spot adds its own flavor to Pittsburgh’s pizza story. From Alberta’s elegant dining room to Franco’s game day buzz, these pizzerias show how old recipes and new ideas create memorable meals together.
Suburban Pizza Destinations
Pittsburgh’s suburban communities hide some amazing pizza spots that might surprise you. These gems create their own special takes on classic recipes that taste better than many city pizzerias, with a more relaxed atmosphere too.
Worth-the-Drive Locations
Cucina Bella in Bridgeville leads the pack of suburban pizza places. This restaurant brings New Jersey Italian dining to life with happy diners and the sounds of busy tables. Their pizza shows real craftsmanship with a three-day dough fermentation that produces more than two dozen red and white pies. The Torta di Dom, named after Piccolo Forno’s Domenic Branduzzi, brings together smoked speck and creamy mascarpone perfectly.
Quality Markers at Cucina Bella:
- Three-day dough fermentation process
- Premium imported ingredients
- Family-style dining atmosphere
- Extensive red and white pizza selection
Shopping Center Surprises
Several pizza places have turned plain retail spaces in suburban plazas into amazing food destinations. Slice on Broadway shows how it’s done, growing from one shop into several suburban spots, including a busy location in Carnegie. They succeed because they nail the basics:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Crust Style | Ultra-thin, perfectly crispy |
| Sauce | Rich, balanced red sauce |
| Cheese | Bubbly, expertly browned |
| Value | Under $5 for two substantial slices |
Neighborhood Favorites
Shelly Pie has developed a loyal following through great pizza and community connections. Their mix of traditional methods and modern touches keeps locals coming back. Aviva Brick Oven in Warrendale has also made its mark with both a regular restaurant and a mobile oven that visits local breweries and events.
The suburban pizza scene keeps growing with places like Caliente Pizza and Draft House, whose wins in international competitions have put Pittsburgh’s suburbs on the world pizza map. Their pan pizza has earned praise beyond the region, showing great pizza exists outside city limits.
These suburban spots offer benefits city restaurants can’t match:
- Ample parking
- More spacious dining rooms
- Lower operating costs reflected in pricing
- Strong community connections
Driven brings something new to suburban pizza with Detroit-style squares that have crispy edges and plenty of toppings. Their success shows suburban diners love trying new pizza styles alongside classics.
Suburban pizza has become a destination itself. Wood Stoked Oven brings wood-fired pizza to farmer’s markets and community events throughout Pittsburgh’s suburbs. These mobile operations make artisanal pizza accessible to more people outside traditional restaurants.
Each suburban spot adds its own special touch to pizza making. Some use old Italian family recipes while others redefine the limits of what pizza can be. These places prove that Pittsburgh’s best pizza adventures happen beyond city limits, and pizza lovers find unique flavors and great experiences when they explore.
Pizza Events and Experiences
Pizza lovers in Pittsburgh can find more than just great restaurants. The city’s pizza culture comes alive through festivals, classes, and food trucks. Local pizza artisans have created amazing interactive events that celebrate this favorite dish.
Pizza Festivals and Pop-ups
PizzaFest! 2024 brings together seven of Pittsburgh’s finest pizza makers. GoodTaste! Pittsburgh presents this 21+ event with two sessions (2:00-4:00 PM and 5:00-7:00 PM). Tickets cost $30.00, and guests can enjoy:
- Award-winning pizza acrobatics demonstrations
- Exclusive food vendor demonstrations
- Paired wine tastings
- Live entertainment and music
The Pittsburgh Pizza Passport program (February 24th – March 17th) gives pizza fans a chance to explore 18 outstanding pizzerias in Western Pennsylvania. This self-guided tour showcases American Baker, Artisan, Detroit, Indian, Neapolitan, and Ohio Valley pizza styles. Visitors can win a grand prize outdoor pizza oven by checking out multiple locations.
Pizza-Making Classes
Mineo’s Pizza House stands out with these great class options:
| Class Type | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Classes | Wine/beer tasting, custom apron, 12″ pie | $69.00 |
| Family Classes | Kid-friendly snacks, sweet treats, take-home apron | $55.00 |
| Private Events | Team building, parties (8-30 people) | Custom |
Chef David’s artisan pizza workshops help students master authentic Italian techniques. Students learn essential skills such as:
- Proper dough preparation and kneading
- Traditional sauce creation
- Topping selection and combination
- Cooking techniques using specialized equipment
Food Truck Pizza Scene
Bado’s Pizza has transformed mobile pizza service with their custom-built food truck. Their state-of-the-art equipment makes perfect street pizza. With 40+ years of restaurant know-how, they bring their brick-and-mortar quality to private events across Pittsburgh.
Alberta’s Pizza shows how a food truck can grow into a permanent restaurant. They’ve worked with local breweries like Dancing Gnome and Four Points Brewing Co. since 2016. Their beer and pizza pairings were so popular that Dancing Gnome created Lievito, a special farmhouse ale to celebrate Alberta’s grand opening.
Food trucks now offer much more than traditional pizza. Vendors like Tony Sac run pop-up events that attract crowds minutes after opening. These mobile vendors have become essential to Pittsburgh’s food scene at:
- Local brewery events
- Community festivals
- Private catering functions
- Corporate gatherings
Regional Italian food traditions shape Pittsburgh’s pizza scene today. Mobile vendors and pop-up events bring creative twists to traditional recipes. The DiCarlo family’s Ohio Valley-style pizza and the Pabala family’s Indian-inspired creations at Peoples Indian Restaurant expand traditional pizza-making while showcasing Pittsburgh’s diverse pizza heritage.
Pittsburgh has one of America’s best pizza scenes that features everything from century-old family recipes to modern artisanal creations. The city’s neighborhoods each bring something special to the table. Downtown restaurants offer sophisticated dining, while the Strip District preserves historic flavors. South Side serves up perfect late-night slices, and Lawrenceville experiments with new concepts.
Many local pizzerias stay true to their traditional roots and embrace new ideas that appeal to both purists and adventurous eaters. Great pizza isn’t limited to the city – suburban spots serve exceptional pies too. Pizza enthusiasts can learn more about craftsmanship through special events and classes.
The city’s pizza scene keeps getting better as new establishments join longtime favorites throughout Pittsburgh. This mix of heritage and creativity makes Pittsburgh a top destination where pizza lovers can find authentic flavors and memorable dining experiences.
FAQs
Who is recognized for having the best pizza in Pittsburgh?
In Pittsburgh, several establishments are highly regarded for their pizza, including Proper Brick Oven and Tap Room, Pizzaiolo Primo, Mercurio’s, Piccolo Forno, Mineo’s Pizza House, Bella Notte, Giovanni’s Pizza & Pasta, and Fiori’s Pizzaria.
Which is the oldest pizza restaurant in Pittsburgh?
Beto’s Pizza holds the title of the oldest pizza restaurant in Pittsburgh, having been in business since 1953.
What is considered the best pizza place globally?
Globally, Una Pizza Napoletana in New York City is celebrated as the top pizza place, according to the annual rankings by 50 Top Pizza.
Can you describe Pittsburgh style pizza?
Pittsburgh style pizza is characterized by a slightly thicker crust compared to New York pizza, which supports the generous amount of toppings used. It also features a higher ratio of sauce and cheese, offering a robust flavor profile.
Are there any unique or exceptionally good pizza places in Pittsburgh that a student should try?
As a student in Pittsburgh, you’ve already explored several notable spots like Fiori’s and Beto’s. For further exploration, consider checking out local favorites in different neighborhoods or even venture to nearby areas like Cranberry or Monroeville for unique and exceptional pizza experiences.
