After months of touring the world’s best pizza places, I found myself back in Seattle and eager to explore the local scene. I was determined to find the best pizza in Ballard so I put on my food critic hat and sampled slices from a dozen different establishments.
From my culinary travels it was proven that there’s no one-size-fits all definition for great pizza, so I scoured Ballard for many types of pies to try. With an open mind and an empty stomach, join me on this tour as I reveal some delicious finds!
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Washington
#1 Vespucci Pizza
- No delivery
The pizza here is loaded with flavor, from the gooey mozzarella to the savory sauce and freshly baked crust. And of course, the toppings are always fresh and delicious. I was especially impressed with the ‘Vespucci Special’, which had all my favorite ingredients – pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers and onions.
The staff at Vespucci’s were very friendly and accommodating – even offering me a slice of their famous garlic knots without me asking! They also have an interesting selection of craft beers that pair nicely with their pizzas.
Overall, Vespucci Pizza has become one of my all-time favorite spots for great tasting pizza. The only downside I can think of is that they don’t offer delivery (I guess you can’t have it all). Nonetheless, if you’re in Ballard looking for the best pizza around, then look no further – Vespucci is the place!
If you’re willing to go an extra 8 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Seattle!
#2 Pizzeria La Rocca
- Serves alcohol
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, not too loud or crowded. As I started to look at the menu, I could tell this place was serious about pizza. They had all kinds of unique ingredients, ranging from vegan and gluten-free options to traditional Italian favorites like pepperoni and sausage.
I decided to order a classic Margherita pizza, which they delivered to my table piping hot. The crust was golden brown and slightly chewy – absolutely delicious! The sauce had the perfect amount of tanginess, while the mozzarella cheese was gooey and flavorful. It was so good that I almost considered ordering another one!
The prices are quite reasonable for what you get. Pizzeria La Rocca also offers delivery, which makes it easy to enjoy their best pizza in Ballard from anywhere in town.
If you’re looking for a great pizza experience without having to leave your house, then Pizzeria La Rocca is definitely the place to go!
#3 Cornuto Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has insanely good dessert
- No delivery
The first time I visited Cornuto Pizzeria, I was immediately impressed. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with lots of room to sit and enjoy your pizza. Plus, they serve alcohol! Including hard liquor! That’s not something you find in every pizzeria.
As for the pizza itself, it’s simply delicious. The crust is perfectly cooked and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. They have some vegetarian options too, so even meat-free eaters can indulge in their scrumptious pies. And when you’re ready for dessert, prepare to be blown away by the insane selection at Cornuto Pizzeria – from panettone bread pudding to sfogliatelle with orange marmalade sauce – you won’t be disappointed!
The only downside to this place is that they don’t offer delivery. But if you can manage to get there (and trust me, it’s worth it) then you won’t regret it – Cornuto Pizzeria serves up some of the best pizza in Ballard!
#4 Italio Pizza & Pasta
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
From the moment I stepped in, it was clear that this pizza joint meant business. The restaurant had a modern and inviting atmosphere, which paired perfectly with the delicious aromas emanating from the kitchen.
I took my seat at the counter and was greeted by an incredibly friendly staff member who asked me what kind of pizza I wanted to try. After much deliberation I settled on their signature Italio Pizza with sausage, pepperoni and extra cheese.
When the pizza arrived, it blew me away! The crust had a perfect blend of crispiness that melded perfectly with its fluffy center. The cheese was gooey yet still held together nicely while offering just enough pull in every bite; and don’t even get me started on the sauces–they were amazing! Not too sweet or salty, but just right.
The flavors across all ingredients were well balanced making this one of the best pizzas I’ve ever tried. Even though the prices are a bit higher than most places, you definitely get what you pay for here! All in all, Italio Pizza & Pasta goes above and beyond when it comes to serving up quality pizza – they’re definitely deserving of their ‘best pizza in Ballard’ title!
#5 Lupo
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Lupo, and I was thrilled with what I found. The pizza was simply divine and cooked to perfection!
The crust had a nice crunchy texture and a slight sweetness that really set it apart from anything else I’ve tried. The sauce was rich and flavorful, while the toppings were just fresh enough.
The atmosphere is great too – the staff were friendly and welcoming, and the restaurant itself feels cozy yet modern. They even have an outdoor seating area, so you can enjoy your pizza al fresco on a lovely day.
Most importantly however, was the overall taste of their pizza. It’s without a doubt some of the best tasting pizza in Ballard! So if you’re looking for an exquisite Italian meal, be sure to make a stop at Lupo. You won’t regret it!
#6 Delancey
- Has insanely good dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- No delivery
I came to this conclusion after my most recent visit to Delancey and, I can honestly say, their pizza was really something special.
The crust was light and crunchy, making it the perfect vehicle for the delicious toppings. The marinara sauce had a great balance of acidity and sweetness that paired perfectly with each bite. Then there’s the cheese – oh, man! It was sinfully good – perfectly melted and with just the right amount of stretchiness. They even had vegetarian options on their menu if you’re avoiding meat. And last but not least, their desserts were insane! The cakes and pies were some of the best I’ve ever had in my life – definitely worth trying out!
What’s more is that Delancey serves alcohol (and hard liquor!) so you can enjoy your favorite beer or cocktail while munching down on your pizza. The only downside is that they don’t offer delivery services – but trust me when I say it’s worth going there in person!
So at the end of it all, I’d highly recommend Delancey for anyone looking for the best pizza in Ballard. Whether you’re a carnivore or a veggie fan, they’ve got something great for everyone – and of course their desserts are unbeatable!
#7 Windy City Pie
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- No delivery
I had heard great things and I was eager to try the crusty Chicago-style pies and the zing of their homemade sauce. And I wasn’t disappointed – the flavor was just delicious! The crust was light and crispy, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.
What really made Windy City Pie stand out, though, was its unique atmosphere. Not only do they serve alcohol (and hard liquor!), but they also have some vegetarian-friendly options, something you don’t always find at a pizza joint.
The downside? They don’t offer delivery. But that’s okay; it’s worth the trip. The staff is friendly, so you feel welcome from the minute you walk in the door. Plus if you decide to stay for a while and enjoy your pizza with an adult beverage, there are plenty of TVs to keep up with sports or any shows you follow.
In short: if you want some of the best pizza in Ballard, then check out Windy City Pie!
If you’re willing to go an extra 8 miles, you can get to 27 more pizza places in Seattle!
#8 MOD Pizza
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Has a kid’s menu
After trying countless slices, I can honestly say that MOD Pizza has the best pizza in Ballard. Every slice is full of flavor and just melts in your mouth. Their crusts are perfectly thin and chewy. The quality of their ingredients is top-notch!
What really sets MOD Pizza apart from other pizza restaurants is their unique toppings. From tasty roasted garlic to freshly chopped basil, you’ll find something for everyone. And their famous sauce — oh my goodness — it’s so good it could put a smile on even the grumpiest of faces!
The atmosphere at MOD Pizza is also great. It’s always buzzing with people talking and laughing, which makes for a pleasant dining experience. The staff is also friendly and always willing to go the extra mile to help out customers.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Ballard, you have to check out MOD Pizza!
#9 Ristorante Picolinos
- Has a kid’s menu
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has insanely good dessert
- No delivery
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, which is perfect for this quaint Italian restaurant. The waitstaff are friendly, helpful, and keep their customers in mind.
The menu offers something for everyone – there’s a kid’s menu, vegetarian options, and of course a great selection of pizzas. You can even order hard liquor to go along with your pizza!
But the real kicker is the desserts – they are absolutely insane! They offer up all manner of cakes, tarts, and pastries that will leave you wanting more. Just make sure you save room for some pizza afterwards!
My only complaint about Ristorante Picolinos is that there’s no delivery option. Still, the prices are very reasonable and it’s worth going out to try it out. It may be a bit of a drive, but trust me – you won’t regret it!
#10 Pagliacci Pizza
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
The first thing that caught my eye was the cozy atmosphere. The brick walls and checkered tablecloths made me feel like I was dining in Italy!
When my pizzas arrived, I was stunned! The crust was cooked perfectly, the cheese had a great flavor, and the toppings were fresh and delicious. Words can’t describe how much I enjoyed this pizza.
The service at Pagliacci Pizza is top-notch too. The staff was friendly and really knowledgeable about their menu. They also gave me some great recommendations for future visits.
Overall, Pagliacci Pizza is one of the best places to get pizza in Ballard! If you’re looking for an amazing evening out with some truly delicious pizza then this should be your go-to spot!
#11 Stoneburner
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
- Has insanely good dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- No delivery
The moment I stepped into Stoneburner, I knew I had to review it. The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting. Not to mention they serve alcohol (and hard liquor!) which adds a great touch to the experience.
I was impressed with the options they offer for vegetarians. They have some pies that are perfect for those looking to avoid meat. Plus, their desserts were insanely good! It was hard not to get lost in their delectable and creative flavors.
Even though the pizza at Stoneburner is top-notch, there’s one downside: no delivery. That means you have to drive or take a bus or taxi over if you’re not from nearby Ballard. On the plus side, this restaurant is great tourist spot if you’re visiting Seattle!
Overall, Stoneburner has some of the best pizza in Ballard. You won’t regret dropping in for a pie or two!
#12 Ridge Pizza
- Great place to watch sports
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
When I first walked in, the atmosphere was inviting and had a great family-friendly vibe. There was even a live band playing some cool tunes. I could tell right away that this place was something special.
The menu selection had everything I could want from a pizza joint! They had a variety of delicious specialty pizzas, innovative salads, and even some amazing dessert options. All of the ingredients are fresh, flavorful, and locally sourced whenever possible.
I admit that I might have gone a little crazy on my order – it included two gourmet pies (one with roasted peppers and feta cheese, the other with mushrooms and olives) as well as two large salads to share with my dining companions. The flavors were out of this world! It’s like they took all of my favorite ingredients and put them together for one epic meal.
The staff at Ridge Pizza went above and beyond to ensure our experience was top notch. They were attentive and ensured our drinks were always full despite how busy it was. They even recommended some fantastic local beer pairings for us too!
Overall, I’d highly recommend Ridge Pizza to family and friends alike who are looking for the best pizza in Ballard or just a casual evening out with friends.
Best Deep Dish Pizza – Delfino’s Chicago Style Pizza
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Does not accept reservations
As a nomadic food critic, I have practically eaten my way through every corner of this planet in search of the perfect pie. And let me tell you, Delfino’s Chicago Style Pizza did not disappoint!
First off, let’s talk about the ambience. Delfino’s is not just a pizzeria, it’s a tourist destination! The walls are adorned with quirky Chicago memorabilia, making it feel like a mini trip to the Windy City. Plus, they serve alcohol! Who doesn’t enjoy a cold brew to wash down those cheesy delights?
Now, onto the main attraction – the pizza! The deep dish will blow your mind, and potentially your belt buckle. Each slice is a small treasure chest overflowing with cheese, fresh toppings, and a tomato sauce so rich it could make an opera singer blush. The crust is sturdy enough to support the weight of Mount Vesuvius, and the flavors are an explosion of deliciousness.
But here’s the kicker: Delfino’s also caters to vegetarians! You don’t have to be an herbivore to appreciate their delectable veggie options. Who knew you could have a deep dish pizza piled high with roasted veggies and still feel like you’ve been transported to pizza paradise?
However, there is one hiccup worth mentioning – Delfino’s does not accept reservations. So, if you’re a planner like me, be prepared to wait. But fear not, fellow pizza lovers, the wait is well worth it.
In conclusion, Delfino’s Chicago Style Pizza is not only a must-visit for pizza aficionados, but it’s also a prime spot for tourists seeking a slice of Chicago in the heart of Seattle. So grab your elastic-waist pants and get ready for a pizza experience like no other!
Best Thin Crust Pizza – Serious Pie Downtown
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
As soon as I stepped foot into Serious Pie Downtown, my taste buds knew they were in for a treat. The aroma of fresh dough and melted cheese filled the air, making it impossible for me to resist ordering an entire pie for myself.
Now, let’s talk about the crust. Oh, that heavenly, crispy, thin crust! It had just the right amount of chewiness, allowing the toppings to shine without overwhelming the palate. I could tell this crust had been crafted with love and expertise, unlike the many lackluster imitations I’ve encountered on my pizza adventures.
And speaking of toppings, Serious Pie Downtown knows how to play with flavors. The combinations were out-of-this-world. From classic margherita to the more adventurous yukon gold potato with rosemary, each bite was a burst of happiness. They even dared to put Brussels sprouts on a pizza, and let me tell you, it was surprisingly delicious!
Now, let’s not forget the cheese. It was as if Serious Pie had tapped into some secret cheese vault because each slice was generously coated in a perfect, melty layer of pure cheesy joy. It was like a cheesy explosion in my mouth, and I couldn’t get enough.
To top it all off, the service was outstanding. The staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and had a great sense of humor. It was clear that they were as passionate about pizza as I am, and it was refreshing to see.
So, if you find yourself in Seattle craving the best thin crust pizza, look no further than Serious Pie Downtown. Trust me, it will take your taste buds on a joy ride that you won’t soon forget.
Best Wood Fired Pizza – Serious Pie Downtown
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with the smell of the heavenly wood burning oven that immediately transports you straight to pizza paradise. The crust is perfectly charred and just the right amount of crispy. I could spend all day just watching the skilled pizza makers effortlessly stretch and toss the dough – it’s like a mesmerizing pizza ballet!
Now, let’s talk toppings. Serious Pie Downtown doesn’t mess around when it comes to flavor combinations. They take their ingredients seriously (hence the name), but they also throw in a delightful twist. Who would have thought that Brussels sprouts and pancetta could be a match made in pizza heaven? Well, they did. And boy, does it work!
As a self-proclaimed cheese enthusiast, I must say that the selection at Serious Pie Downtown is drool-worthy. From the classic mozzarella to the rich and creamy fontina, they’ve got it all. And let’s not forget about the tangy goat cheese that adds that extra oomph to their white pizza creations. Each bite is a delightful surprise of cheese-induced happiness.
The staff at Serious Pie Downtown also has the perfect balance of friendliness and expertise. They’re always there to make recommendations and answer any pizza-related questions you may have. Plus, their jokes are cheesier than their pizzas – and I mean that in the best way possible!
So, if you find yourself in Seattle craving some seriously good wood fired pizza, look no further than Serious Pie Downtown. Your taste buds will thank you, and your pizza-loving soul will be forever grateful. Bon appétit!