I recently went on a pizza-tasting tour of the city, trying out 12 places in all. I’m not about to give away my favorite place just yet, but you can be sure I found some interesting, unique pies that were worth writing home about.
From local pizzerias to popular chains, no stone was left unturned in my hunt for the best pizza Raleigh had to offer. Read on to discover the crème de la crème of Raleigh’s pizza scene.
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of North Carolina
#1 Oakwood Pizza Box
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
The atmosphere at Oakwood Pizza Box was warm and cozy. The staff was friendly and eager to answer questions. I was really impressed with their knowledge about the different pizzas and toppings.
The pizza itself was delicious! It had the perfect balance of crust, sauce, and cheese. I especially liked the traditional pepperoni pizza—the slices were huge! The fresh vegetables added a nice crunch to each bite.
It’s clear that Oakwood Pizza Box takes pride in serving quality food. They offer something for everyone: from classic New York-style pies to gourmet white pizzas with roasted garlic and mushrooms. My favorite thing about them is that they take special requests, which makes it easy for me to customize my order when I want something unique.
There’s no doubt in my mind that Oakwood Pizza Box has some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC. If you’re looking for great pizza at an affordable price, this is definitely the place to go!
If you’re willing to go an extra 10 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in Cary!
#2 DeMos Pizzeria & Deli
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol
- Offers dessert
The first time I visited DeMos, it was love at first bite. The pizza dough is perfectly thin and crunchy, and the combination of fresh ingredients creates an unbeatable flavor. The pepperoni slices are always cooked to perfection and the sauce is just spicy enough to give you a nice kick. Every single time I visit DeMos, I’m never disappointed!
From the warm hospitality of the staff to the amazing pizza they serve up, DeMos Pizzeria & Deli is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best pizza in Raleigh NC. Oh, and don’t forget to try their deli sandwiches before you leave – they’re simply divine!
#3 Capital Creations Gourmet Pizza
Their menu ranges from traditional toppings to unique and creative combinations. On my recent visit, I decided on a Mediterranean pizza with feta, olives, roasted peppers and red onions.
The crust was cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. The toppings were fresh and flavorful – they really did create an Italian masterpiece!
The service was great too – my server was very friendly, informative, and accommodating.
My only complaint? That I couldn’t try more of their fantastic pizzas! But based on this experience alone I would highly recommend Capital Creations Gourmet Pizza for anyone looking for the best pizza in Raleigh NC!
#4 Avent Ferry Pizza
From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I could tell this was a place where pizza connoisseurs go to get some serious satisfaction. The bright and inviting atmosphere set the scene for an enjoyable meal.
The cook greeted us with a friendly smile and was happy to answer any questions we had about the menu items or ingredients. The waitstaff were also very attentive and helpful with our order, ensuring that we felt comfortable throughout our visit.
When it came time to try the pizza, I wasn’t disappointed! The crust was perfectly crisp and flavorful, while the toppings were fresh and varied. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita or something more adventurous like their “Monster” specialty pizza—there’s something here for everyone!
I’d recommend Avent Ferry Pizza to anyone seeking out some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC. You won’t be disappointed!
#5 Gino’s Pizza
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
I start with the crust: a perfect balance of crunchy and chewy. The sauce has the right amount of sweetness, and the cheese is just the right amount of gooey. Plus, they have all sorts of unique toppings – everything from pepperoni to jalapenos.
The atmosphere at Gino’s is relaxed and inviting. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they always seem happy to help you make your pizza just how you like it.
All in all, Gino’s Pizza is an excellent place to get some delicious pizza! If you ever find yourself in Raleigh NC looking for some good pizza – be sure to check out Gino’s!
#6 Mike’s Pizza
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Has a kid’s menu
- Offers dessert
It’s hard to beat their thin crust pizzas, which are cooked to perfection in their brick oven. The sauce is the perfect combination of spicy and sweet, and the cheese melts just right on top. Plus, Mike’s offers tons of toppings for you to choose from.
One of my favorite things about Mike’s Pizza is that they always offer something new – from white pizza with mozzarella and ricotta cheese to deli-style creations, there’s always something delicious coming out of the kitchen.
The atmosphere at Mike’s is also great – it’s cozy but casual – and they have a nice selection of microbrews on tap if you’re looking for something to go with your pizza. Plus, the staff are friendly and helpful.
Overall, I highly recommend Mike’s Pizza if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC!
#7 Manhattan Pizza
- Has some vegetarian options
- Great place to watch sports
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol
As soon as I walked in the door, I knew that this was a place to take pizza seriously. From the inviting atmosphere to the friendly staff, I had a great first impression.
The menu was extensive and offered everything from classic pizzas to unique creations like the ‘Taco Pizza’ (which really caught my eye). However, being an Italian pizza purist, I decided on their traditional Margherita pizza.
I have to say, it didn’t disappoint! The crust was crispy and bubbly with just the right amount of char; the cheese was creamy and flavorful; and the tomatoes were fresh and sweet – it all worked together perfectly. Plus, the owner even came out to chat with me about their ingredients and history! How often can you find that kind of personalized service?!
Manhattan Pizza is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for the best pizza in Raleigh NC. In my opinion, it’s definitely at least top three!
#8 NY brooklyn original slices
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
I’m not kidding. I’ve had a lot of pizza, from Chicago-style deep dish to Napoletana thin crust, and nothing compares to the slices at NY brooklyn original slices. The thin crust is crispy and perfectly cooked each and every time. The toppings are always fresh and plentiful, with plenty of cheese to top it off.
The atmosphere is also great! The restaurant itself has an old-school New York feel that really makes you feel like you’re eating in a classic Italian pizzeria. Plus, the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
To top it all off, the price is right too. You can get great quality pizza without breaking the bank.
Overall, I have to say that NY Brooklyn Original Slices is one of the best pizza joints in Raleigh NC! It’s worth checking out if you’re ever in town!
If you’re willing to go an extra 13 miles, you can get to 26 more pizza places in Wake Forest!
#9 Mellow Mushroom Raleigh
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has a kid’s menu
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
I’m so glad I chose to stop by Mellow Mushroom for a bite! The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was instantly impressed. The decor was fun and funky—perfect for my laid-back North Carolina vacation. They even have a jukebox!
My pizza came out hot and fresh, looking better than anything else I’d tasted on my travels. The crust was the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy. It had just the right amount of cheese and sauce, not too much or too little. It was also loaded with flavorful toppings that complemented each other perfectly.
In all, it’s easy to see why locals rave about Mellow Mushroom. If you’re in Raleigh, seeking out some of the best pizza in NC, this place should be your go-to!
#10 Cristo’s Ristorante & Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Has insanely good dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
I’ve enjoyed some of the most delicious gourmet pizza in the world, so when I heard about Cristo’s, I was very excited to try it out. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The crust is perfect – thin and crunchy, but not too flimsy or greasy. The sauce is a rich and flavorful tomato sauce with just the right amount of herbs and spices. My favorite topping has to be their pepperoni; it was cooked to perfection – crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. All of these flavors come together wonderfully with each bite. It was truly a heavenly experience!
In addition to the quality of the food, I really appreciate the atmosphere at Cristo’s Ristorante & Pizzeria. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and they have an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with any pizza combination you can think of.
Overall, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC, Cristo’s Ristorante & Pizzeria should be your choice!
#11 Poole’side Pies
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
The atmosphere is quite pleasant and the staff was friendly and helpful. I especially liked that they had a selection of craft beers to accompany the delicious pies.
I started off with an order of their Cheese Pockets, which are essentially like calzones stuffed with cheese, pepperoni, and mushrooms. They were delicious! I followed that up with a large slice of their “Sicilian” pizza. It was very well-made – thick yet crispy crust, amazing sauce and plenty of cheese. The toppings were appropriately distributed throughout the pizza and cooked to perfection.
Overall, Poole’side Pies is an excellent place for you to get your pizza fix! They have a great selection of unique creations as well as traditional staples like the Sicilian slice I tried. If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC then look no further than Poole’side Pies!
#12 Trophy Brewing & Pizza
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
The restaurant itself has a nice atmosphere, with great seating. They even have a bar for those that want to enjoy a beer with their pizza. I was delighted when I visited and saw the diverse menu they offered. There are traditional pizzas, vegan pizzas, and they also offer unusual topping combinations so you can really get creative with your pizza order!
I ordered the Mediterranean pizza, which was topped with feta, fresh tomatoes, kalamata olives and spinach. The dough was cooked to perfection and the flavors all blended together perfectly. It’s really one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had!
The service at Trophy Brewing & Pizza is also top-notch. Everyone was really friendly and helpful during my experience there, making sure my visit was enjoyable from start to finish.
If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Raleigh NC then make sure to visit Trophy Brewing & Pizza – you won’t be disappointed!
Best Deep Dish Pizza – Big Cheese Pizza Raleigh
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Does not accept reservations
From the moment I walked into Big Cheese Pizza Raleigh, I could smell the cheesy goodness in the air. As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised to find a range of vegetarian options on their menu. I started with the classic Margherita pizza, and oh boy, it was like taking a trip to Italy without leaving my seat. The crust was perfectly fluffy, and the sauce had just the right amount of tanginess, making this pizza a slice of heaven.
But wait, there’s more! Big Cheese Pizza Raleigh doesn’t just cater to our savory cravings; they also satisfy our sweet tooth. Their dessert menu is a delight, with mouthwatering options like Nutella pizza and cinnamon sugar doughnuts. I couldn’t resist trying them both, and let me tell you, I didn’t regret it for a second. The Nutella pizza was a chocolatey dream, and the doughnuts were warm, fluffy pillows of sugary goodness.
However, I should note one downside: Big Cheese Pizza Raleigh does not accept reservations. So be prepared to wait, especially during peak hours. But let me assure you, the wait is absolutely worth it. Trust me, I’ve been all over the world tasting pizza, and this place definitely takes the cake, or should I say, the pie.
In conclusion, if you’re in raleigh nc and craving the best deep dish pizza, head over to Big Cheese Pizza Raleigh. The delightful vegetarian options, delectable desserts, and incredible flavors will have you coming back for more. Just be patient with the wait – I promise, it’ll be worth every bite.
Best Thin Crust Pizza – Pieology Pizzeria North Hills
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
As soon as I stepped foot into Pieology Pizzeria North Hills, I knew I was in for a treat. The smell of fresh dough being tossed in the air infused the air with a delicious aroma that made my mouth water. The menu offered a plethora of toppings, from the classic pepperoni to the more adventurous pineapple and jalapenos. And let me tell you, they did not skimp on the toppings. Each bite was a flavor explosion in my mouth, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how perfectly balanced the flavors were.
But let’s talk about the crust, shall we? The thin crust at Pieology Pizzeria North Hills was so thin, it could double as a spider web. It was the kind of crust that was so delicate, it practically melted in your mouth. Each bite left me with an overwhelming sense of joy and a craving for more.
And the best part? You can customize your own pizza! This means you can go wild with your toppings, creating a pizza masterpiece that is uniquely your own. I felt like an artist as I carefully selected my ingredients, envisioning the masterpiece that would soon grace my taste buds.
So, if you find yourself in Raleigh, North Carolina, and you’re in the mood for the best thin crust pizza around, look no further than Pieology Pizzeria North Hills. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Best Wood Fired Pizza – Brixx Wood Fired Pizza + Craft Bar
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Great place to watch sports
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Does not accept reservations
As a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, I take my saucy adventures very seriously. So when I stumbled upon this gem, it was like finding the pepperoni to my pizza, the cheese to my crust, the pineapple to my controversial toppings.
First things first, they serve alcohol! And not just your run-of-the-mill beer and wine, oh no! They have hard liquor! I’ll take a cocktail with a side of pizza, please. Cheers to that!
Now, while I may be a meat-lover through and through, I appreciate that Brixx also offers vegetarian options. It’s like they’re speaking to my herbivore alter ego. And let’s not forget about dessert! Their sweet treats are like little slices of heaven that make my taste buds sing.
The fact that it’s a popular tourist spot is no surprise to me. I mean, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a delicious pizza while taking in the sights of Raleigh? It’s like a vacation for your taste buds.
But wait, there’s more! This place is also great for sports enthusiasts. You can cheer on your favorite team while munching on a perfectly charred pizza. It’s like a win-win situation.
However, I do have to mention one downside. They don’t accept reservations. So if you’re planning a pizza party, be prepared to wait. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? And believe me, this pizza is worth every minute.
In conclusion, Brixx Wood Fired Pizza + Craft Bar is a slice above the rest. So go ahead, grab a drink, enjoy the vegetarian options, indulge in dessert, and get your sports fix. You won’t be disappointed.