In my quest to find theabsolute best pizza in the downtown area of Music City, I visited 12 different establishments and tried their pies. It was quite an adventure – one that involved lots of cheesy toppings, tasty sauces, and mouth-watering crusts.
But there could only be one winner! So get ready to find out which pizza place I found to have the tastiest slices in Downtown Nashville.
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Tennessee
#1 Manny’s House of Pizza
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I was impressed by the warm, inviting atmosphere and the delicious smells of pizza being cooked. The staff were all friendly and helpful, making sure that my dining experience was nothing short of perfect.
When it came to the menu, there was something for everyone – whether you’re looking for classic favorites or something more creative! The ingredients are always fresh and never frozen, which is reflected in the amazing flavor of Manny’s pizzas.
I tried the house special – a combination of pepperoni, sausage, olives, mushrooms, onions and peppers – and it did not disappoint. Every single bite was an explosion of flavor! The crust was perfectly crispy yet still light and fluffy on the inside.
Needless to say that after trying Manny’s House of Pizza I knew that I had found the best pizza in Downtown Nashville. If you’re ever in this area and looking for a delicious meal then definitely give Manny’s a try – you won’t be disappointed!
If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Nashville!
#2 Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria (North Nashville)
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
The atmosphere of the place is welcoming and bright. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to our needs.
The menu offers a wide range of delicious pizza recipes, from classic cheese and pepperoni to inventive specialties like Thai Chili Chicken and Veggie Supreme. We ended up trying the latter which had a fantastic flavor with just the right amount of spice!
My favorite part about Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria is that they offer unique toppings such as fried chicken rinds, bacon bits, and even pickles! I mean how often do you see that on a pizza? They also offer vegan options for those looking for plant-based pizzas.
And the best part? They gave us free beverages with our order too!
I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for some of the best pizza in downtown Nashville.
#3 Emmy Squared Pizza: Germantown – Nashville, Tennessee
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has a kid’s menu
- Has some vegetarian options
- Great place to watch sports
- Offers dessert
The restaurant is cozy and inviting, with an open kitchen where you can see the chefs crafting their delicious pies. As for the pizza itself, it’s truly a work of art! The crust is thick and chewy, just how I like it. The toppings are fresh and flavorful, and each bite is like a little burst of happiness on my tongue!
I’m always sure to try something new on each visit, but my favorite has to be their famous “Detroit-style” pizza. It features a double layer of cheese with pepperoni baked right into the dough – trust me, it’s heavenly! And if you’re feeling adventurous, they also offer some unique creations such as the Brussels Sprout Pizza.
To top it all off, they have great beer selections and amazing desserts too. Overall, Emmy Squared Pizza: Germantown – Nashville, Tennessee offers some of the best pizza in Downtown Nashville – hands down!
#4 TailGate Brewery Music Row
- Serves alcohol
The atmosphere was great and the people were friendly, so it felt like a great place to settle in for a slice or two. The menu offered a huge selection of pizza choices; I decided to go with their signature, TailGate Supreme with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms and onions. It was delicious! Every bite was filled with gooey cheese and juicy toppings that blended together perfectly.
What really impressed me most was the crust. It was light and airy, yet still crunchy when bitten into. And there were so many varieties to choose from too – thick, thin, stuffed… you name it!
The service was top-notch too. The staff were attentive and helpful throughout my meal. Plus they had some pretty cool music playing in the background which added some enjoyable vibes to the experience.
If you’re ever looking for the best pizza in Downtown Nashville then look no further than TailGate Brewery Music Row – you won’t be disappointed!
#5 Desano Pizzeria
- Nice tourist spot
- No delivery
The atmosphere at Desano is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a tourist to enjoy an authentic Italian pizza experience. The staff are friendly and eager to assist you in finding the best-suited topping combination for your pizza as well as suggeting their own specialty pies.
My personal favorite on the menu was the De Julio. It’s a margherita base topped with garlic, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes – really a must-try if you’re visiting! The crust of the pizza was cooked perfectly with a nice, slightly charred edge and just enough chewiness without being too dense or soggy. And let’s not forget that glorious melted cheese!
Even though I would have liked to take my pizza home with me to enjoy later, unfortunately that isn’t an option at Desano – they don’t do delivery. This is definitely one of the downsides here but it’s easy enough to make up for by eating in-house and taking in all the sights and smells of this lovely place.
Overall, I’m happy I visited Desano Pizzeria during my stay in Downtown Nashville; this place definitely serves up some of the best pizza around!
#6 Emmy Squared Pizza: The Gulch – Nashville, Tennessee
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has a kid’s menu
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Great place to watch sports
The atmosphere of the restaurant was warm and inviting, with an open-concept kitchen so we could see our pizzas being made. We tried the signature Detroit-style square pizza and it was absolutely delicious! The crust had a chewy texture and was perfectly charred – it felt like a hug for my taste buds. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, from the pepperoni to the mozzarella cheese.
I also liked that they had a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, which is not always easy to find in a pizza place. They have creative topping combinations like their “Cleveland Caviar” which has black olives, tomatoes, feta cheese, pesto, capers, spinach & red onions on sourdough crust.
We also sampled some of their crafted cocktails – their Moscow Mule was especially tasty! All in all this restaurant exceeded my expectations in every way. If you’re looking for a great pizza spot in downtown Nashville, Emmy Squared Pizza should definitely be your first choice!
#7 DeSano Pizza Bakery
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, not to mention the pizzas are made with top-notch ingredients. The staff was very knowledgeable and they even gave me a tour of their kitchen while I waited for my pies.
When it finally came time to try their pizza, I was blown away! The dough was cooked perfectly – crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, and the cheese was melted just right.
The best part of my experience at DeSano Pizza Bakery may have been the size of the pizzas. They were huge! I had enough leftovers for breakfast the next day, which is always a nice bonus when you’re eating out.
If you’re looking for great pizza in Downtown Nashville, DeSano Pizza Bakery is definitely worth checking out. You won’t be disappointed!
If you’re willing to go an extra 2 miles, you can get to 27 more pizza places in Nashville!
#8 Bella Napoli Pizzeria
- Has insanely good dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
This pizzeria, which I stumbled upon while walking around town, has quickly become one of my favorites. From the moment I stepped inside, I was amazed by the authentic Italian atmosphere. The decor is simple yet inviting, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
The pizza itself? Simply delicious! The dough is light and fluffy, and they use only the best ingredients to make their pies. They also have a huge selection of toppings, so you can customize your pizza just how you like it.
To top it off, the prices are more than reasonable for both dine-in and takeaway orders. Overall, Bella Napoli Pizzeria deserves 10 out of 10 stars for their delicious pizza and great value for money! I’ve tried a lot of pizzas all over town, but none compare to this one—it’s definitely the best pizza in Downtown Nashville.
#9 Jonathan’s Grille
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
- Great place to watch sports
I was immediately struck by the inviting atmosphere of this restaurant; the decor has a modern yet classic feel to it, and the staff were friendly and attentive.
My pizza of choice was the Italian Sausage and Red Pepper Pie – which definitely did not disappoint. The crust had a distinct flavor of garlic and herbs that was unlike any other pizza I’ve ever had! Plus, the toppings were cooked perfectly and the flavors blended together harmoniously.
To top it all off, I washed down my meal with an ice cold beer from their impressive selection of craft ales. Overall, Jonathan’s Grille is an excellent spot for a delicious pizza in downtown Nashville – I would highly recommend it!
#10 Mellow Mushroom
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
I was utterly impressed with their expansive menu options – from the classic Hawaiian to their signature Mighty Meaty, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the vegan-friendly pizzas are just as delicious as the traditional ones!
The restaurant itself is laid back but vibrant, making it a great spot to grab lunch with friends or a quick bite to eat after work. The atmosphere is perfect for game day watching, family dinners, and late night hangouts.
Speaking of pizza…the crust is crisp on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, making every bite such an indulgence. Every topping was fresh and flavorful – you can definitely tell these guys use only quality ingredients!
Bottom line: if you want one of the best pizza experiences in Downtown Nashville, make sure you stop by Mellow Mushroom!
#11 Bella Nashville Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
I had the pleasure of visiting this charming little pizzeria for lunch and I was blown away. Right when I walked in I was greeted by a staff that were friendly and welcoming. From the outset, it was clear that they took great pride in their pizza-making craft.
The atmosphere at Bella Nashville is unique and inviting. There’s plenty of seating areas to choose from and each table is decorated with some nice blue tiles. The walls are adorned with pictures of famous Italian landmarks, giving it an authentic feel.
I decided to go with their classic Margherita pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and a few other ingredients. After my first bite, I knew why people flock to this place; it’s simply delicious! The crust is perfectly cooked without being too crunchy or overdone, allowing all the flavors of the toppings to shine through.
On top of all that, the pricing is quite reasonable, particularly for such high quality food. All in all, Bella Nashville Pizzeria gives you quality ingredients combined with friendly service at a great price – what more could you want? If you’re looking for the best pizza in downtown Nashville then look no further than Bella Nashville Pizzeria!
#12 Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol
Here’s why: Their pies are absolutely divine. The crust is perfectly crisp and crunchy, making a delightful contrast to the incredible toppings. Choose from creative combinations like classic cheese, Southwest Fiesta Gumbo, or even a “Soul Pizza” – a unique concoction of chicken, collard greens, BBQ sauce and more!
Speaking of toppings, Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria definitely does not skimp on them. Every single pie was generously covered in delicious ingredients, which made eating each slice a flavor adventure. And don’t even get me started on their sauces. I’ve never had such an amazing combination of savory tomato sauce and sweet garlic cream sauce that will leave you wanting more!
The atmosphere inside Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria was also great – it’s fun yet relaxed at the same time. There were plenty of cozy booths to sit in for groups as well as high-tops for smaller parties. The waitstaff were friendly and accommodating to our every need.
Overall I highly recommend visiting Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria next time you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Downtown Nashville! You won’t regret it!
Best Deep Dish Pizza – 312 Pizza Company
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Great place to watch sports
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Nashville? Deep dish? Are you out of your mind, Edward? But trust me, I was just as skeptical as you. I mean, Nashville is known for its hot chicken, not its pizza. But oh boy, was I in for a delicious surprise.
Walking into 312 Pizza Company, I was immediately greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked dough and melted cheese. The place had a cozy, Chicago-style feel to it, complete with sports memorabilia and a jukebox that played everything from Sinatra to Taylor Swift.
Now, let’s talk about the main event: the pizza. Each slice is a glorious mountain of crust, filled to the brim with gooey cheese and your choice of scrumptious toppings. I opted for the classic pepperoni because sometimes you just can’t beat a classic. And wow, was it a cheesy delight! The crust had the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness, and the sauce was tangy and full of flavor.
But it wasn’t just the pizza that won me over. The staff at 312 Pizza Company were an absolute riot. They had me laughing so much that I almost forgot I was there for the food. They even let me try their hilarious Doughnut Pizza, which sounds crazy but surprisingly worked. Who knew that pizza and doughnuts could be such a great combo?
So, if you find yourself in Nashville craving a taste of the Windy City, head on over to 312 Pizza Company. It truly is a slice of pizza heaven in Music City. Trust me, I’m an expert.
Best Thin Crust Pizza – Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Does not accept reservations
What’s not to love about a place that combines my two favorite things: pizza and beer? I walked into Slim & Husky’s with high hopes, and boy, did they deliver (pun intended).
The moment I stepped in, I was hit with the smell of freshly baked dough and the sound of laughter from happy customers. The rustic ambiance and friendly staff made me feel like I was at a cozy neighborhood joint rather than a tourist spot.
Now let’s talk about the pizza. Oh, the pizza! The crust was so thin and crispy, it practically melted in my mouth. The toppings were generous and the sauce was packed with flavor. I could taste the love and dedication that went into making each pie.
As a vegetarian, I was delighted to find a decent selection of veggie options on the menu. The Garden Party pizza was a delightful mix of fresh veggies and tangy cheese. I scarfed it down faster than you can say mozzarella.
And if that wasn’t enough, they even had dessert! I indulged in their decadent Nutella calzone, and trust me, it was worth every calorie.
Now, here’s the downside: they don’t accept reservations. So if you’re a planner like me, be prepared to wait. But hey, good things in life are worth waiting for, right?
So if you find yourself in Nashville, make sure to stop by Slim & Husky’s for a slice of heaven. Your taste buds will thank you, and your waistline might hate you, but hey, YOLO.
Best Wood Fired Pizza – Bella Nashville Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Does not accept reservations
The aroma hits you as soon as you walk in the door, and it’s like being hugged by a warm, doughy embrace. Trust me, this place is no crusty disappointment. Their wood-fired oven, which I suspect is fueled by magical pizza-making unicorns, creates a crust so perfectly charred and chewy that I seriously contemplated stealing the chef’s secret pizza dough recipe and making millions.
Now, let’s talk toppings. Bella Nashville Pizzeria knows how to cater to vegetarians. They have an impressive selection of fresh, locally sourced vegetables that would make any herbivore weep tears of joy. I could almost hear the veggies saying, Thank you for not just offering us as a sad side salad option, Bella. You recognize our true potential!
But, here’s the catch: Bella Nashville doesn’t accept reservations. So, if you don’t want to sit around twiddling your thumbs for hours, you better arrive early or be prepared to fight off other pizza enthusiasts for a spot at the table. I suggest bringing a distraction, like a deck of cards or a puppet show, to entertain yourself while waiting.
Overall, Bella Nashville Pizzeria is a must-visit for pizza lovers and city explorers alike. Just be ready to battle for a seat and revel in the taste of wood-fired deliciousness. Anyway, I’m off to hunt down a pizza unicorn, wish me luck!