Best Pizza in South Padre Island (Updated Fall 2023)

Though my adventures have taken me all over the world, there’s nothing like a little slice of Italy in sunny Texas. After taking a beach break and a deep breath of sea air, I’m ready to indulge in some serious pizza tasting.

I’ve checked out 6 different pizza places on the island, sampling a wide variety of different toppings and crusts. It’s been a hard job, but someone’s got to do it. Get ready for some hilarious culinary insights as I rate my top picks for the best pizza in South Padre Island!

If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Texas

#1 best pizza place in South Padre Island - The Meatball Cafe

#1 The Meatball Cafe

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9PM
Saturday: 11AM-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Has a kid’s menu
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Has some vegetarian options

Downsides
  • No delivery


I love the atmosphere. It’s great for tourists and out-of-towners like myself – not only do they have a wide variety of wines and spirits, but also a kid’s menu for families. All the options are top notch!

The vegetarian options are great too – no shortage of delicious choices there. The desserts are especially amazing – you won’t find a better dessert anywhere else in town.

Unfortunately, there is no delivery service available, so you’ll have to come to the restaurant to get your pizza fix. But trust me, it’s worth it when you sample some of their best pies! From classic margherita pizzas to big meatball pies, this place has something for everyone.

In short, The Meatball Cafe has some of the best pizza in South Padre Island that you should definitely check out if you’re ever in town!

If you’re willing to go an extra 65 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in McAllen!

#2 best pizza place in South Padre Island - Gabriella's

#2 Gabriella’s

Open Hours
Monday: 3-9PM
Tuesday: 3-9PM
Wednesday: 3-9PM
Thursday: 3-9PM
Friday: 3-10PM
Saturday: 3-10PM
Sunday: 3-9PM

Benefits
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Has a kid’s menu


The atmosphere at Gabriella’s is great; it feels like you’re in an Italian trattoria. The waitstaff are all incredibly friendly and always willing to answer questions about the menu.

Of course, what really matters is the pizza itself, and Gabriella’s definitely delivers! Their thin-crust pizzas have just the right amount of crispiness and their generous toppings maintain the perfect balance between flavor and texture. I especially enjoy the variety of gourmet toppings they offer, such as artichoke hearts, chili-infused tomatoes, and even Gorgonzola cheese!

Overall, I can confidently say that Gabriella’s makes some of the best pizza in South Padre Island! It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in town.

If you’re willing to go an extra 111 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in Corpus Christi!

#3 best pizza place in South Padre Island - Russo's New York Pizzeria - South Padre Island

#3 Russo’s New York Pizzeria – South Padre Island

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-10PM
Tuesday: 11AM-10PM
Wednesday: 11AM-10PM
Thursday: 11AM-10PM
Friday: 11AM-11PM
Saturday: 11AM-11PM
Sunday: 11AM-10PM

Benefits
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)


When I first walked into Russo’s, the ambiance and energy of the restaurant was infectious. The cheerful staff welcomed me with a smile, and the aromas coming from the kitchen were enough to make my mouth water.

The pizza at Russo’s is extraordinary! Their signature thin-crust New York style pizza is cooked in a wood fired oven, giving it an amazing flavor profile. The crust has just the right amount of crunch, while the cheese and toppings are fresh and flavorful.

The real standout at Russo’s however is their variety of specialty pizzas. From traditional Italian favorites like Margherita to modern takes on classic pies like a Thai chicken pizza topped with fresh vegetables and basil pesto, they offer something that everyone will love.

Overall, my experience at Russo’s New York Pizzeria – South Padre Island was outstanding! If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in South Padre Island, look no further than Russo’s!

If you’re willing to go an extra 119 miles, you can get to 8 more pizza places in Port Aransas!

#4 best pizza place in South Padre Island - Pizza Hut

#4 Pizza Hut

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-10:30PM
Tuesday: 11AM-10:30PM
Wednesday: 11AM-10:30PM
Thursday: 11AM-10:30PM
Friday: 11AM-11PM
Saturday: 11AM-11PM
Sunday: 11AM-10:30PM

The first thing I noticed when I arrived was the inviting atmosphere and delicious aroma that filled the room. It’s clear Pizza Hut takes their pizza making seriously, as they have a wide selection of toppings and styles to choose from.

I ordered the classic pepperoni pizza, which was perfectly crisp and had a good balance between cheese and sauce. The dough was also just right – not too thick or thin!

My experience at Pizza Hut was truly special. Not only did I get to enjoy some of the best pizza in South Padre Island, but I had a lot of fun with the friendly staff who really took care to ensure my dining experience was enjoyable.

All-in-all, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza on this side of Texas, definitely check out Pizza Hut!

If you’re willing to go an extra 243 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in San Antonio!

#5 best pizza place in South Padre Island - D Pizza Joint

#5 D Pizza Joint

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-10PM
Tuesday: 11AM-10PM
Wednesday: 11AM-10PM
Thursday: 11AM-10PM
Friday: 11AM-12AM
Saturday: 11AM-12AM
Sunday: 11AM-10PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Has a kid’s menu


Every time I visit, the staff warmly welcomes me and offers me a taste of their latest creations. The pizza crust here is always cooked to perfection, with the right amount of crunch on the outside and the perfect chewiness on the inside. The topping selection is also top-notch, with unique combinations that you won’t find anywhere else.

The best part about D Pizza Joint is that they don’t skimp on quality ingredients. Every pizza I’ve tried has been made with 100% mozzarella cheese and fresh herbs. They also make their own dough daily which always adds a nice flavor.

I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants to try some of the best pizza in South Padre Island. From traditional Italian styles to creative new recipes, you’re sure to find something great here!

#6 best pizza place in South Padre Island - Dolce Roma Cafe

#6 Dolce Roma Cafe

Open Hours
Monday: 9AM-8PM
Tuesday: 9AM-8PM
Wednesday: 9AM-8PM
Thursday: 9AM-8PM
Friday: 9AM-8PM
Saturday: 9AM-8PM
Sunday: 9AM-8PM

Benefits
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Nice tourist spot

Downsides
  • No delivery


The first thing I noticed when I entered the restaurant was its pleasant and inviting atmosphere. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the decor had a nice Italian vibe.

But what really stood out upon my initial visit was the pizza itself! Every slice was cooked to perfection; it had a nice crunch on the outside with a soft, cheesy layer underneath. The flavors were incredibly bold, and there was a right balance between the crispy crust and juicy toppings.

The icing on the cake (or should I say pizza?) was Dolce Roma Cafe’s insanely good dessert options. Whether you’re in the mood for some classic tiramisu or something more adventurous like their smoked chocolate tartufo, you won’t be disappointed by their selection of treats.

Overall I would highly recommend this place if you’re looking for authentic Italian cuisine (and even if you aren’t!). It’s also a great tourist spot if you’re in South Padre Island and want to try something new without breaking your budget. Just keep in mind that they don’t offer delivery services, so if that’s what you’re after then maybe look elsewhere.

To summarize: Dolce Roma Cafe is one of the best places to get pizza in South Padre Island – an absolute must-visit for any traveling food critic!

      Pizza Oven Radar