Buffalo, New York, isn't just known for its wings; it boasts a vibrant pizza scene that's earned it a place in pizza lovers' hearts. From thick, deep-dish styles to thin crusts, Buffalo's pizza diversity is a testament to its rich culinary heritage. This guide dives into 24 of the most beloved pizza joints, ensuring your next Buffalo pizza adventure is truly unforgettable. This exploration covers various styles, locations, and price points, guaranteeing a pizza experience perfectly tailored to your taste.
Iconic Buffalo Pizza Styles: Understanding the Variety
Before we jump into the list, let's briefly explore the pizza styles that make Buffalo's pizza scene so unique. You'll encounter variations on several styles:
- Thin Crust: A classic, crispy, and often slightly charred bottom, perfect for those who prefer a lighter pizza.
- Thick Crust: Heartier, with a fluffy interior and a sturdy crust that holds up well under a generous topping load.
- Deep Dish: Similar to Chicago-style, featuring a high-sided pan, a thick crust, and layers of cheese and toppings. Less common in Buffalo, but still present.
- Specialty Pizzas: Buffalo pizza places are known for creative, unique pizzas with locally sourced ingredients and interesting flavour combinations.
Understanding these styles will help you navigate our list and choose the perfect pizza for your cravings.
24 Must-Try Pizza Restaurants in Buffalo
This list isn't ranked, as each pizzeria offers a unique and delightful experience. We've categorized them loosely to aid in your decision-making.
Classic Thin Crust:
- Pizza Plant: Known for its consistently excellent thin crust and fresh ingredients.
- La Nova Pizzeria: A Buffalo institution, La Nova is famous for its thin crust and simple, yet delicious pizzas.
- Westside Bazaar: This vibrant food hall features several pizza vendors, each offering a unique take on thin crust pizza. Check out the variety!
- Sophia's: A long-standing favorite offering a reliable thin crust experience.
Thick Crust Champions:
- Tavern on the Creek: Their thick crust pizzas are legendary, often paired with their famous local craft beers.
- Gabriel's Gate: A gastropub with a menu featuring elevated takes on classic thick crust pizza.
- Rocca Pizzeria Napoletana: While offering Neapolitan style, their crusts possess a satisfying thickness that contrasts the typical thinness.
Deep Dish Delights (less common but worth seeking out):
- Square Pizza: While not strictly deep dish, their square-cut pizzas feature a thicker, more substantial crust than most thin crusts.
Unique & Specialty Pizzas:
- Coalfire: Known for their coal-fired pizzas, offering a unique smoky flavor and char.
- Bar George: Offers inventive pizza toppings and pairings, elevating the pizza experience.
- The Black Sheep: This spot regularly introduces exciting seasonal pizza specials with unexpected flavor profiles.
- Bacio's Italian Restaurant: While known for other dishes, their pizzas are a well-kept secret and delicious.
Family-Friendly Favorites:
- Donatos Pizza: While a chain, their local Buffalo franchise is consistently well-reviewed for its family-friendly atmosphere and quality pizzas.
- Marco's Pizza: Another national chain with strong local support, Marco's consistently delivers reliable quality.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
- Parkway Pizza: A beloved neighborhood spot known for its friendly service and delicious pizzas.
- DiPasquale's: This spot offers up a classic, family-friendly vibe with a simple, effective approach to pizza.
- Zaffiro's: A long-standing Buffalo favorite offering classic styles with a loyal following.
- Frank's Pizza: Known for simple, high-quality ingredients, Frank's delivers a satisfyingly classic pizza.
Beyond the Traditional:
- Blaze Pizza: A fast-casual option allowing for customization; a good choice for picky eaters.
- MOD Pizza: Similar to Blaze, MOD offers a customizable experience in a fast and efficient setting.
Upscale Pizza Experiences:
- The Dapper Goose: This gastropub provides an elevated pizza experience with carefully sourced ingredients.
- Yalleys: This restaurant serves unique and creative pizzas with high-quality ingredients.
For a Quick Slice:
- Mighty Taco: Though not primarily a pizza place, Mighty Taco offers surprisingly good pizza slices.
- various Gas Stations/Convenience Stores: While not always high-quality, these provide quick and easy slices in a pinch.
Choosing Your Perfect Buffalo Pizza Experience
This extensive list provides a starting point for your Buffalo pizza adventure. Remember to consider your preferred crust style, desired atmosphere, and price range when making your selection. Don't be afraid to explore beyond the popular choices – sometimes, the hidden gems offer the most memorable experiences. Happy eating!
Further Research & Resources
To enhance your pizza exploration:
- Check online reviews: Websites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews offer valuable insights from other diners.
- Explore local blogs and publications: Buffalo's food scene is well-documented; searching for "best pizza Buffalo" will yield many helpful articles.
- Ask locals: Buffalo residents are passionate about their pizza; asking for recommendations is a great way to uncover hidden gems.
Enjoy your delicious Buffalo pizza journey!
