The best pizza in Phoenix, ranked by style

Phoenix has a vibrant pizza scene, offering everything from classic New York slices to artisanal Neapolitan pies and hearty Detroit-style squares. Whether you're craving a crispy, thin crust or a deep-dish delight, the Valley of the Sun has you covered. Planning a meetup with friends or family across the metro area? Finding a great pizza place that's convenient for everyone can be the perfect excuse for a gathering. Let's dive into some of the top pizza joints in Phoenix, categorized by style.

Neapolitan Pizza: True Italian Craftsmanship

Neapolitan pizza is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. Cooked quickly at extremely high temperatures, it features a soft, tender, and slightly charred crust. It’s a delicate art form, and some Phoenix pizzerias have truly mastered it.

Pizzeria Bianco is often cited as one of the best in the country, let alone Phoenix. Chef Chris Bianco is a pioneer of the artisanal pizza movement in the US. His original location in Heritage Square is an absolute must-visit, but be prepared for a wait. The margherita is a classic for a reason, showcasing fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes. Another excellent choice is Cibo Urban Pizzeria Cafe, located in a charming historic bungalow. They offer a fantastic selection of wood-fired pizzas with authentic toppings and a wonderful atmosphere, especially their patio. For those in the East Valley, finding accessible pizza spots can be a challenge, but tools like MidMeetup can help pinpoint great locations between cities.

New York-Style Pizza: The Big Apple's Best in the Desert

New York-style pizza is known for its large, foldable slices with a thin, crispy crust. It’s the perfect pizza for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Phoenix has several spots that do this style justice.

Pizzeria Virtu, while also offering Neapolitan-inspired pies, has some incredible slices that lean towards the New York style with their thin, crisp crusts and generous toppings. Their focus on quality ingredients shines through. Pueblo Pizzeria offers a more casual vibe with delicious, classic New York-style slices. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills option that consistently delivers on flavor. If you're meeting up with someone coming from Tempe, using a pizza meetup calculator can ensure an easy journey for both parties. Consider exploring options in areas like Arcadia or central Phoenix for a good middle ground.

Detroit-Style Pizza: Crispy, Cheesy Squares

Detroit-style pizza is characterized by its thick, rectangular crust, which is crispy on the bottom and edges due to being baked in special blue steel pans. It’s often topped with cheese all the way to the edges, creating a caramelized, cheesy crust. This is a hearty pizza that’s incredibly satisfying.

Dough & Arrow is a fantastic spot for unique and delicious Detroit-style pizzas. They offer creative flavor combinations alongside classic red-top squares. Another highly-regarded option is Corner Slice, known for its authentic take on the style, with a focus on quality dough and toppings. Their crispy, cheesy edges are legendary. Finding a meetup spot that can satisfy both Neapolitan and Detroit-style cravings might seem tricky, but remember that many businesses can be found using a central meeting point.

Sourdough Crust Pizza: A Tangy Twist

Sourdough crust adds a delightful tang and a unique chewy texture to pizza. It’s a more artisanal approach that appeals to those looking for something a little different.

Vito's Pizzeria is well-known for its authentic New York-style pizza, but also offers some excellent sourdough options. The subtle tang complements the rich toppings beautifully. Nello's Pizza, another establishment with a long-standing reputation, also occasionally features sourdough crusts that are worth trying. For those exploring different pizza styles or meeting up with friends who have diverse tastes, it’s always helpful to strategize your meetup location. Thinking about meeting halfway between Phoenix and Scottsdale? A tool to find the midpoint can simplify the process significantly.

No matter your preference, Phoenix's pizza scene is diverse and delicious. Whether you're a purist seeking the perfect Neapolitan Margherita, a fan of the foldable New York slice, or a lover of the cheesy, crispy edges of a Detroit pie, you'll find something to satisfy your craving. Use resources like MidMeetup to make planning your next pizza gathering effortless, ensuring everyone meets at the most convenient spot. Happy pizza hunting!