Houston, Texas boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and pizza holds a significant slice of that pie. From classic New York-style to innovative gourmet creations, Houston offers a pizza experience for every palate. This comprehensive guide dives deep into 23 of the best pizza places in Houston, ensuring your next pizza night is unforgettable. We'll explore various styles, price points, and unique offerings to help you find your perfect pizza slice.
Neapolitan Nirvana: Authentic Italian Pizza
Neapolitan pizza, characterized by its thin crust, airy texture, and use of San Marzano tomatoes, has a dedicated following. Several Houston establishments excel in this category.
1. Pizzeria Stella: A Stellar Neapolitan Experience
Pizzeria Stella consistently earns top marks for its authentic Neapolitan pies. Their wood-fired oven imparts a unique char to the crust, complementing the fresh, high-quality ingredients. The Margherita pizza, a classic showcasing the simplicity of great ingredients, is a must-try.
2. Cane Rosso: Neapolitan with a Texas Twist
Cane Rosso offers a slightly more modern take on Neapolitan pizza, incorporating some Texan influences into their menu. Their spicy soppressata and pepperoni pizzas are crowd-pleasers.
3. Luigi's Pizza: A Houston Favorite for Decades
Luigi's has been a Houston staple for years, delivering classic Neapolitan pizzas at affordable prices. Their consistency and commitment to quality have made them a neighborhood favorite.
New York Style: A Big Slice of the Big Apple
New York-style pizza, with its thin, foldable crust, is another popular choice in Houston. These pizzerias offer that classic taste of the Big Apple.
4. Frank's Pizza: A Taste of New York in Houston
Frank's Pizza delivers on the promise of a great New York-style slice. Their large, thin crust pizzas are perfect for sharing (or not!).
5. Pizzitola's: A Houston Institution
Pizzitola's is another long-standing Houston favorite known for its classic New York-style pies. Their simple recipes and consistent quality have earned them a loyal following.
Deep Dish Delights: Chicago-Style Pizza in Houston
Chicago deep dish pizza, with its high-rising crust and generous toppings, requires a different approach to pizza-making. Fortunately, Houston has some excellent options.
6. Lou Mitchell's: Chicago Style Done Right
Lou Mitchell's brings the flavors of Chicago's deep dish to Houston. Their deep dish is hearty and satisfying and requires a dedicated appetite.
Gourmet & Unique Pizza Experiences
Houston's pizza scene is diverse, offering many unique and gourmet options beyond the classics.
7-23. [List of 17 other pizza places in Houston, with short descriptions of their unique styles and offerings. Include a variety of styles: Detroit-style, Sicilian, gourmet, etc. For example:]
- 8. The Original Ninfa's: Offers unique pizzas with a Tex-Mex twist.
- 9. Bakersfield: Known for their creative, gourmet pizzas with high-quality ingredients.
- 10. 8th Wonder Brewery: Brewery pizza with a focus on craft beer pairings.
- 11. Pasqually's Pizza & Wings: A family friendly option with fun atmosphere.
- 12. Via Vai: Upscale Italian restaurant with outstanding pizza.
- 13. Good Dog Houston: Hot dog joint with surprisingly good pizza.
- 14. Bellino's: Offers unique pizzas with a variety of crust options.
- 15. Postino: Wine bar with delicious pizzas perfect for sharing.
- 16. Grimaldi's Pizzeria: Coal-fired pizzas with a distinct flavor.
- 17. Little Woodrow's: Casual spot with great beer selection and tasty pizza.
- 18. Midtown Pizza: Quick and convenient with satisfying classic pies.
- 19. Romeo's Euro Cafe: European style pizza in a cozy setting.
- 20. Your Pie: Build-your-own pizza concept.
- 21. Marco's Pizza: Nationally-known chain with consistently good pizza.
- 22. Ciccio's Pizza: Thick crust pizzas with a variety of interesting toppings.
- 23. Mellow Mushroom: Known for its creative and unique pizza toppings.
Finding Your Perfect Slice: A Quick Guide
This list offers a starting point in your quest for the best pizza in Houston. Consider these factors when choosing:
- Your preferred pizza style: Do you prefer thin crust, deep dish, Neapolitan, or something else?
- Your budget: Pizza prices vary widely.
- Location: Choose a pizzeria convenient to your location.
- Atmosphere: Some pizzerias are casual, while others are more upscale.
Conclusion: Houston's Pizza Scene is a Feast for the Senses
Houston's diverse pizza scene offers something for everyone. Whether you crave a classic New York slice or an innovative gourmet creation, this list provides a fantastic starting point for your pizza adventure. So grab a slice (or two!), and enjoy the best of Houston's pizza paradise!
