Tucson, Arizona may be famous for its Sonoran hot dogs and Mexican cuisine, but its pizza scene is equally impressive. Whether you’re a fan of crispy New York-style slices, deep-dish comfort, or artisanal wood-fired pies, Tucson has something for every pizza lover. In this article, we’ll explore the best pizza spots in Tucson that are stealing the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and tourists alike.
Why Tucson’s Pizza Culture Excels
Tucson’s vibrant culinary culture and locals’ passion for strong flavors are expressed in some incredibly distinctive and memorable pizzas. The reason Tucson is so unique is the diversity of pizzerias—everything from classic Italian eateries to cool, farm-to-table restaurants.
Top 10 Best Pizza Joints in Tucson
1. Zio Peppe
Location: 6502 E Tanque Verde Rd Specialty: Italian-American fusion pizza Zio Peppe blends Tucson’s regional ingredients with classic Italian technique. Try their “Elote Pizza,” featuring fire-roasted corn and chipotle crema.
2. Brooklyn Pizza Company
Location: 534 N 4th Ave Specialty: New York-style slices Brooklyn Pizza has been dishing up authentic, foldable NY-style pizza with crispy crusts and fresh ingredients for over two decades. The college students appreciate their late-night offerings.
3. Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria
Location: 3011 E Speedway Blvd Specialty: Gourmet thin-crust pizza Fresco is the pick of this area for using such unique and interesting toppings like goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto drizzle. With its wood oven, every bite offers the perfect char.
4. Empire Pizza & Pub
Location: 137 E Congress St Specialty: Slice of pizza & craft beer Empire, in downtown Tucson, has enormous slices, decent beer, and a chill vibe. Spicy pepperoni and sausage is a local favorite.
5. Vero Amore
Location: 2920 N Swan Rd & 12130 N Dove Mountain Blvd Specialty: Neapolitan-style pizza Vero Amore is Tucson’s first VPN-certified pizzeria, serving authentic Neapolitan pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. Their Margherita D.O.C. is the epitome of simplicity.
6. Rocco’s Little Chicago Pizzeria
Location: 2707 E Broadway Blvd Specialty: Deep-dish pizza If you’re craving gooey, thick-crusted Chicago-style pizza, Rocco’s is your best bet. Their sausage and green chile deep-dish is an Arizona-Chicago fusion.
7. Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink
Location: 101 E Pennington St Specialty: Artisan pizza with craft cocktails Reilly balances high-end atmosphere with tasty creativity in pies such as the “Truffle Shuffle” and “Bee Sting” (with spicy soppressata and honey).
8. Serial Grillers
Location: Several locations in Tucson Specialty: Killer-named gourmet pizzas they’re famous for giving pizzas names of serial killers (yes, seriously), so this dark pizzeria features intense flavor combinations such as the “Bundy” with jalapenos, bacon, and BBQ drizzle.
9. Tino’s Pizza
Location: 6610 E Tanque Verde Rd Specialty: Old-school pizza with a family atmosphere Tino’s is a beloved local institution for its no-frills but tasty pies. The sauce is full and garlicky, and the crust is airy and golden.
10. Fiamme Pizza Napoletana
Location: 4706 E Sunrise Dr. Specialty: Traditional wood-fired pizza Fiamme specializes in Neapolitan pizza with an attention to imported ingredients and classic preparation. The crust is just right with its chew and char.
What to Look for in a Great Tucson Pizza
- Crust Texture: Thin and crispy to thick and doughy, Tucson boasts them all.
- Fresh Ingredients: A lot of pizzerias work locally and seasonally.
- Ambience: Family-friendly, trendy and chic, you’ll get the atmosphere that’s just right for you.
- Innovative Toppings: Search for special local flavors such as green chiles, cactus, and Mexican cheeses.
Tips for the Ultimate Tucson Pizza Tour
- Begin with Zio Peppe for local flavor.
- Go downtown to Empire for after-hours slices.
- Skip no deep-dish spot at Rocco’s.
- Cap it off with cocktails and pizza at Reilly Craft Pizza.
Tucson Pizza Delivery: Best Companies for Quick & Fresh Pies
Hungry for pizza without getting up from the couch? Try these top-rated delivery services in Tucson that are known for speed and quality:
1. Magpies Gourmet Pizza
With a generous selection of toppings, crusts, and even vegan cheese, Magpies is a favorite among locals who need gourmet pizza delivered hot.
2. Zio Peppe
A collaboration between a James Beard-nominated chef and a local pizza expert, Zio Peppe brings a gourmet flair to Tucson pizza delivery with combinations like chorizo and calabrian chili.
3. Domino’s & Papa John’s
If you’re looking for chain consistency, both offer reliable delivery with frequent coupons and app ordering.
Authentic Italian Pizza Tucson: Taste of Naples in the Desert
For those seeking the real deal — hand-tossed dough, imported ingredients, and wood-fired ovens — Tucson’s got a slice of Italy for you.
1. Pizzeria Vivace
This upscale Italian spot serves traditional Neapolitan pizza with ingredients flown in from Italy. Expect thin, chewy crusts with blistered edges.
2. Caffe Torino
In Oro Valley, it provides Italian-style thin crust with a gourmet twist — ideal for date nights or celebrations.
3. Locale Neighborhood Italian
Locale is a local favorite with its Margherita pizza and artisanal way of doing Italian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and handmade dough.
Conclusion
Tucson’s pizza culture is a Southwest culinary map gem. From Neapolitan hand-stretched classics to daring pies loaded with regional flavors, every craving is satisfied with a slice. Be you tourist or native on a pizza mission, these top-spotted eateries promise an unforgettable dining experience.
FAQs
Rocco’s Little Chicago Pizzeria is the top pick for authentic, cheesy deep-dish pizza in Tucson.
Vero Amore and Fiamme Pizza Napoletana both serve certified Neapolitan-style pizzas with wood-fired crusts.
Yes! Places like Fresco Pizzeria & Pastaria and Reilly Craft Pizza offer gluten-free crust options.
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