After sampling twelve pizzas from the most popular eateries in the historic Tampa neighborhood, I’ve identified the best pies in town.
My tour of Ybor’s pizza scene was a delicious one. From old-school Italian staples to modern twists on classic flavors, I tasted it all – and it was mighty tasty!
In this article, I’m sharing my reviews of each pizza place so you can make an informed decision about where to satisfy your cravings. With tongue firmly planted in cheek, these musings will provide some humorous insight into what really makes these pizzas special – and why Ybor City is definitely worth a visit for any pizza aficionado!
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of Florida
#1 Lee’s Grocery
- Serves alcohol
When I first walked into Lee’s Grocery, I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was like a little slice of Italy in the middle of Tampa! The walls were decorated with pictures of old-time Ybor City and the smell of fresh pizza baking in the ovens filled the air.
The menu was simple – just pizza in all sizes, but with an amazing selection of fresh toppings to choose from. After ordering a pepperoni pizza, I sat down and waited while they made it. Let me tell you, it was worth the wait!
The crust was to die for – light, crisp and fluffy on the inside, covered in flavorful sauce and cheese that had melted into every bite. And those pepperonis! Big, juicy slices that were cooked just to perfection. Needless to say, I devoured every last bit – so much that I had to order another one for later!
Overall Lee’s Grocery is a must-visit if you’re looking for the best pizza in Ybor City (or anywhere else). You won’t be disappointed by their delicious pizzas and friendly service. A true hidden gem!
If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Tampa!
#2 Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Great place to watch sports
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
The experience starts with a warm welcome from the friendly staff. As I entered the restaurant, I was struck by the cozy atmosphere and inviting decor. Plus, there is a fantastic selection of Italian dishes to choose from – great for anyone looking to try something new!
The pizza itself is outstanding. The crust is thin and crispy, and each slice has just enough cheese and sauce so that it melts in your mouth. There are plenty of different options when it comes to topping combinations, so you can really customize your own delicious creation.
But what really sets Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar apart is their unique “Build Your Own Pizza” feature. You can select your own dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings – making this spot one of my favorites for going all out!
Overall, I highly recommend Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Ybor City. The atmosphere is inviting and the food is outstanding. Plus with their Build Your Own Pizza feature, you can truly create an unforgettable dining experience!
#3 Santoro’s Pizzeria
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol
What sets this pizzeria apart from other establishments, is that their pizza is made with the freshest and most authentic ingredients available. Not only that, but their signature pizzas are cooked to perfection in their wood-fired oven.
When I visited Santoro’s I was immediately taken by the inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. The staff was extremely knowledgeable about the different menu items and did an amazing job helping me choose the right pizza for me.
The pizza that I decided on was the Baked Potato Pie and it was absolutely delicious! The crust was thin enough to be crispy and still have a nice chewy texture. The toppings were fresh, flavorful, and unlike anything I’ve ever had before.
Overall, my experience at Santoro’s Pizzeria was excellent and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for some of the best pizza in Ybor City!
#4 Fabrica Pizza
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol
My experience started off with a friendly greeting from their staff—I could instantly tell this wasn’t going to be your average pizza joint. Then I tried their pizza, and boy was it good! From the perfectly-cooked crust, to the unique blend of sauce and cheese—this was truly a one-of-a-kind pizza experience.
But that’s not all this place has to offer. They also serve delicious appetizers such as garlic knots and other creative pizzas that showcase some of their unique flavors. Plus, the portions are generous, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth here.
All in all, I would highly recommend Fabrica Pizza for anyone looking for the best pizza in Ybor City. If you’re not up for pizza, they even have salads and desserts too! For a truly unforgettable meal, this is definitely the place to go!
#5 Eddie And Sam’s N.Y Pizza
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
The pizza is fresh and delicious. The crust is thin and crisp, while the sauce is flavorful and plentiful. The cheese was melted perfectly, allowing it to stretch from edge-to-edge of the pizza.
The toppings are truly unique for a pizza joint. You won’t find any pre-shredded cheese or generic pepperoni here; instead you’ll get jalapeños, feta, roasted chicken, anchovies, and more.
Service was also worth noting. I found all of the staff to be friendly and attentive – they genuinely wanted me to have a great experience with their food!
All in all, if you’re looking for an unforgettable pizza experience in Ybor City then Eddie And Sam’s N.Y Pizza should definitely be your go-to spot!
#6 Palazzo Pizza
- Offers dessert
The atmosphere was cozy enough that I felt like I had stepped into an Italian villa. The waitstaff were incredibly welcoming and friendly, adding to the comfort level of the experience.
The menu was incredibly vast, with a wide variety of options ranging from classic pizza combinations to more creative varieties. When I ordered, I went with the personal-sized Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza – and it was one of the best pizzas I’ve ever tasted! The subtle yet flavorful combination of prosciutto, arugula, tomatoes, and onions had me in culinary heaven.
Not only was their pizza top-notch but their house made Gelato also lived up to its reputation. I had the Pistachio flavor and it was so creamy and delicious!
In conclusion, my visit to Palazzo Pizza has proven why it’s widely known as the best pizza in Ybor City. They exceeded my expectations on all fronts – from food quality to service – making for an unforgettable dining experience.
#7 Hampton Station Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Great place to watch sports
- No delivery
I had to check it out for myself, and let me tell you; this place is worth a visit. The pizza was delicious, perfectly cooked with just the right amount of cheese and sauce.
As a food critic, I noticed other things that make Hampton Station Pizzeria stand out from the rest. For starters, they serve alcohol! Now there’s no need to have separate stops when the whole crew is looking for something to eat and drink. They also offer some vegetarian options, so everyone can enjoy their meal equally. Plus, it’s a great place to watch sports while you eat!
The only downside is that they do not offer delivery at this time, but in my experience, it’s worth the trip to get there in person! All-in-all, Hampton Station Pizzeria hits all the marks of a great pizza spot – and I can confidently say that their pizza is the best in Ybor City!
If you’re willing to go an extra 4 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Tampa!
#8 ABC Pizza House
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
I’ve been to some of the finest pizzerias in Italy, France, and the USA – but nothing compares to the delicious pies served up at ABC Pizza House! The crust is always perfect – just the right amount of crunch on the outside and a delightful softness inside. Each pie comes out with that perfect hint of char, making it obvious that it was cooked in a real wood-fired oven.
The toppings are always fresh and flavorful, from traditional favorites like pepperoni and sausage to more exotic meats like roasted duck or lamb. I even encountered a few inventive vegetarian options during my visits. Every time I bite into the various pies I’m easily reminded why ABC Pizza House has such a devoted following.
If you’re looking for an authentic, delicious pizza experience that will leave you wanting more – then look no further than ABC Pizza House. This is hands-down one of Ybor City’s best restaurants, and it deserves all the praise that it receives!
#9 Cappys Pizzeria
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol
The first thing that I noticed was the warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor is a perfect blend of modern and rustic Italian vibes, with a few humorous touches thrown in for good measure. Not only does it look great, but it smells amazing too – filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh-baked dough.
The menu at Cappys Pizzeria is full of delicious options. They have all the classic pizzas you would expect, as well as some interesting specialty pies. The ingredients they use are top-notch and definitely contribute to the exceptional taste of their pizza.
But what really sets Cappys Pizzeria apart is the staff. Everyone is super friendly and helpful, making sure that each customer has a great experience while they’re there.
All in all, I’d give Cappys Pizzeria my highest rating — it’s definitely the best pizza in Ybor City! If you’re ever in town, go check them out — you won’t regret it!
#10 New York New York Pizza
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
From the moment I opened the door and got a whiff of that delicious pizza in the oven, I knew this place was special. The atmosphere inside was warm and inviting, and the staff were friendly and welcoming.
The pizza itself was simply amazing. They used only the freshest ingredients to create truly unique combinations of flavors that left me wanting more! The crust was light and fluffy, while the toppings were cooked to perfection each and every time. One pizza that stands out in my mind is their signature New York style – it has pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, jalapeños and onions all piled on top of a perfectly cooked crust. It’s truly one of a kind!
Overall, my experience at New York New York Pizza was outstanding – the service was impeccable, the atmosphere inviting and comfortable, and the pizza delicious! If you’re ever looking for some of the best pizza in Ybor City (or anywhere for that matter!) make sure you check out New York New York Pizza – you won’t be sorry.
#11 Tampa Pizza Company
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- Has a kid’s menu
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol
I was instantly impressed by the incredible selection of pizzas on the menu. From classic cheese and pepperoni to more adventurous varieties like prosciutto and broccoli, you will never be bored with their offerings.
The pizza crust is a thing of beauty – perfectly crispy with just enough char to give it a beautiful smoky flavor. Topping wise, they really use premium ingredients that really make each bite explode with flavor. Whether it’s spicy pepperoni, savory sausage, or caramelized onions, every topping is executed with precision and perfection.
Another aspect I loved about Tampa Pizza Company was the atmosphere. Even though it’s casual enough for an everyday family dinner, the decor still gave it a slightly upscale vibe that always enhances my experience.
At the end of my visit I was certain – Tampa Pizza Company has some of the best pizza in Ybor City! If you’re looking for quality pizza made with top-notch ingredients and served in a pleasant setting then look no further than Tampa Pizza Company – you won’t regret it!
#12 Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
- Nice tourist spot
- Has insanely good dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
When I arrived at Bavaro’s, I knew I was in for something special. The restaurant has a long history of family recipes that dates back to the late 1800s. The ambience is cozy and inviting, with large windows that look out onto the street. And the smells…oh, the smells! The minute I entered the door, my mouth was watering.
The pizza itself is truly remarkable. It’s wood-fired and made with the freshest ingredients available. You can definitely taste the difference as soon as you take your first bite. The crust is slightly crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside, while the toppings are perfect — not too much or too little. And let me tell you, it’s some of the best sauce I’ve ever tasted!
I also had a chance to try some of Bavaro’s pastas. Every dish was cooked perfectly al dente and packed with flavor; no matter how full I was getting, I just couldn’t stop eating!
All in all, Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria earned itself a spot on my list of favorite places to eat pizza around Ybor City. If you want to experience one of the best pies this side of Naples (or more realistically Tampa!), this is definitely worth checking out!
Best Deep Dish Pizza – Cappys Pizzeria
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Does not accept reservations
From the moment I walked into Cappys, I knew I was in for a treat. The smell of freshly baked pizza dough mingled with the aroma of melted cheese and savory toppings. And let’s not forget the best part – they serve alcohol! Nothing pairs better with a delicious slice of pizza than a cold, refreshing beer. Cheers to that!
But the benefits don’t stop there. Cappys also offers a delectable selection of desserts. I mean, who can resist ending their pizza feast with a slice of tiramisu or a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake? It’s as if they knew I needed something sweet to balance out all that cheesy goodness.
And did I mention that Cappys is a nice tourist spot? With its cozy, rustic interior and friendly staff, it’s the perfect place to indulge in some local flavor. Plus, it’s located in the heart of Tampa, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists alike.
However, there is one downside to Cappys. They don’t accept reservations. So, if you’re planning a pizza night with a large group of friends, be prepared to wait. But trust me, the wait is worth it. Just think about all that cheesy, deep-dish goodness waiting for you at the end of the line.
So, if you find yourself in Tampa and craving some mouthwatering deep dish pizza, look no further than Cappys Pizzeria. With its delightful combination of delicious pizza, refreshing drinks, and sweet treats, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of pizza connoisseurs like myself. Bon appétit!
Best Thin Crust Pizza – Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
- Great place to watch sports
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The smell of freshly baked dough wafted through the air, beckoning me to the nearest table. As I perused the menu, I couldn’t help but marvel at the variety of toppings available. They had everything from classic margherita to adventurous combinations like BBQ chicken and bacon.
Now, I consider myself somewhat of a pizza aficionado, so I take my crust very seriously. And let me tell you, Grimaldi’s knows how to do thin crust right. It had the perfect balance of crispy edges and a chewy center, with just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven. It was like biting into a slice of heaven.
And let’s not forget about the toppings! Each ingredient was fresh and bursting with flavor. The tomato sauce was tangy and robust, the cheese was gooey and melty, and the meats were perfectly seasoned. Every bite was a delightful explosion of taste in my mouth.
The service at Grimaldi’s was equally as impressive. The waitstaff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that my glass of water never went empty. They even had a sense of humor, cracking jokes and engaging in lighthearted banter with the customers.
All in all, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is a definite must-visit for any pizza lover in Tampa. Their thin crust pizza is a work of art, and their friendly atmosphere only adds to the experience. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Best Wood Fired Pizza – Wood Fired Pizza Wine Bar
- Has insanely good dessert
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
When I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked dough mixed with the smoky scent of a wood-fired oven. It was like walking into a pizza lover’s paradise.
I couldn’t help but chuckle at their clever names for pizzas. Who would have thought a pizza called The Woodchuck could be so delicious? It was loaded with toppings like caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and gooey mozzarella cheese. And the crust! It was thin, yet perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I could almost hear the crust whispering, Eat me, Edward!
The service was just as entertaining as the food. The servers had a great sense of humor, cracking jokes and making my dining experience unforgettable. One server even juggled pizza dough while singing an Italian opera. It was truly a sight to behold.
But let’s not forget the wine bar. The selection was extensive, with options to suit every palate. I took the liberty of sampling a few different wines to enhance my pizza experience. Hey, it’s all in the name of research, right?
In conclusion, if you’re in Tampa and craving wood-fired pizza, Wood Fired Pizza Wine Bar is the place to be. From the mouthwatering pizzas to the lively atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time to book my next flight to Tampa for another slice of heaven.