Have you tried the BEST pizza in Charlotte, NC? Okay, everyone. Let’s try to all stay friends. But we need to talk about something: The. Best. Pizza. In. The. Charlotte. Area. Whether you want meat or veggies (or both!) or if you like yours thin or ooey-gooey, there are several savory joints around town to satisfy your ‘za cravings! Here is MY list of personal faves:
- Bisonte Pizza Co., Matthews: Two brothers from Buffalo turning out amazing pizza like none other in the area. Lots of food bloggers are saying Buffalo pizza is the next big trend. Find out why! Try a simple pie with Margherita pepperoni for the full Buffalo experience. 1381 Chestnut Lane, Matthews NC 28104
- Doffer’s Pizzeria, Belmont: Taking over the old Johnny B’s location, Doffer’s is slinging outstanding, creative pies and sandwiches. And don’t miss the chili-lime wings! 106 N. Main Street, Belmont, NC 28012
- TRUE Crafted Pizza, Ballantyne: Using fresh ingredients to turn out a dizzying array of pizzas and flatbreads, TRUE has become a favorite spot before and after movies at the theater nearby. Try the Bacon & Egg pie for a real treat. 7828 Rea Rd. Ste. F, Charlotte NC 28277
- Inizio Pizza Napoletana, Dilworth: San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and handmade crust are the hallmarks of Neapolitan style pizza, and it’s done right here! Don’t go for too many toppings … simplicity can be a good thing! 2230 Park Rd., Charlotte, NC 28203
- Pure Pizza, Plaza Midwood: Describing themselves as “farm-lovin’ pizza freaks,” Pure Pizza has positioned itself as the place to go for homegrown toppings and crusts made from ancient grains. The Mediterranean pie is a flavor explosion! 1911 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC 28205
- Benny Pennello’s, Noda: With a small menu of topping and combo options, this might not seem like the best pizza place in the world, but then you see the “Virginia slice” servings and the dizzying array of local beers available and suddenly it all becomes clear. 2909 N. Davidson St. #100, Charlotte, NC 28205
- Hawthorne’s New York Pizza & Bar, Uptown: The New York slice is one of the most divisive issues among pizza lovers, but if you love your pie big and foldable, Hawthorne’s is the place to be. The Classic White pizza is a must-try, as is the Elizabeth Special. 1701 E. 7th St., Charlotte, NC 28204
- Matt’s Chicago Dog, Lake Norman: Speaking of divisive pizza, Matt’s dishes up the Chicago deep-dish pie with panache. Bring your appetite … and maybe an extra dose of Lipitor. 19732 One Norman Blvd., Ste. 330, Cornelius, NC 28031
- Libretto’s, Woodlawn: With four crust options (including gluten-free) and a wide array of specialty pies and ingredients, Libretto’s has something for just about any palate. Don’t miss the fried calamari with cherry peppers before you dig into your pie. 1600 E. Woodlawn Rd., Charlotte, NC 28209
- Papa Sammy’s Pizza, Mount Holly: This small, family-owned spot in Mt. Holly might be the best place around for a family pizza feast. There are giant Uno cards, chess and checker boards painted on the tables and tons of other games to make you put away your phones and connect. After your pizza, don’t miss the chocolate cake with grandma-style boiled frosting. 140 E. Central Ave., Mount Holly, NC 28120
- Luisa’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, Montford: Pack your appetite for this hidden gem near the Park Road Shopping Center. The lunch buffet is one of the best deals in town, with $9 getting you at least 10 great pies (be sure and try the Luisa), pasta, salad and a drink. 1730 Abbey Place 28209
- Taste of Buffalo, Huntersville: On Sundays during football season, Bills fans congregate here to cheer for their team, but it’s busy the rest of the week turning out Buffalo-style sheet pizza, outstanding wings and cold Labatt’s on tap. Try the Crown Poutine if you’re feeling especially hungry! 9610-B Sherrill Estates, Huntersville 28078
- House of Pizza, Plaza Midwood: This little neighborhood joint cranks out great pies. Be sure and try one with Alfredo sauce. If you’re more in a sandwich mood, the Greek sub will leave you far more full than you’d planned. 3640 Central Ave. 28205
- Pizzeria Omaggio, Plaza Midwood: If you like to feel refined and have a gourmet experience while eating your pizza, Omaggio is your new home. With seasonal pies that include ingredients like walnuts, poached lemon and smoked prosciutto, the menu is fiercely creative and well-executed. 1055 Metropolitan Ave. #130 28204
If you are looking for some great restaurants, click here to contact me on my recommendations.