Raleigh, North Carolina, the vibrant capital of the Tar Heel State, is a culinary haven for pizza enthusiasts. From classic New York-style slices to innovative gourmet pies, the city’s pizza scene is teeming with tantalizing options that cater to every palate. Whether you crave a quick bite or a memorable dining experience, Raleigh has a pizzeria that will satisfy your craving.
One of the most beloved pizza joints in Raleigh is Pizzeria Mercato, a family-run establishment that has been serving authentic Italian pizzas for over two decades. Their signature dish, the Margherita, features a thin, crispy crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Another noteworthy pizzeria is Tony’s New York Style Pizza, known for its hefty slices piled high with an array of toppings. Their classic pepperoni pizza is a testament to New York’s culinary heritage, with its tangy sauce and savory pepperoni.
For those seeking a more upscale pizza experience, Raleigh offers several fine dining options. De Novo Pizzeria & Bistro serves artisanal pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. Their roasted cauliflower pizza with truffle oil and Manchego cheese is an innovative and delectable treat. C. Grace Raleigh is another culinary gem, offering wood-fired pizzas with gourmet toppings such as applewood bacon, roasted pears, and Gorgonzola. With its sophisticated ambience and exceptional pizzas, C. Grace is an ideal choice for a special occasion.
Toppings Triumph: Raleigh’s Most Creative Combinations
4. Pizzeria Toro
Pizzeria Toro is a wood-fired pizza paradise where creativity knows no bounds. Here, pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s an art form. One of their most daring creations is the “Funghi & Truffle.” This tantalizing treat boasts a heavenly medley of roasted oyster mushrooms, earthy black truffles, aromatic rosemary, and nutty Grana Padano cheese. But wait, there’s more! Hidden beneath this flavor-packed ensemble lies a secret truffle cream, adding a layer of umami that will send your taste buds on a culinary adventure.
If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, opt for the “Jester.” This masterpiece is a symphony of sweet and savory, featuring roasted grapes, salty speck, tangy goat cheese, and a drizzle of honey. The contrast between the sweet grapes and the salty speck is simply divine, creating a rollercoaster of flavors that will have you craving more with every bite.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, the “Margherita Classica” is a testament to simplicity done right. This classic beauty features fresh San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil, all harmoniously arranged on a crispy, wood-fired crust.
| Pizza Name | Toppings |
|---|---|
| Funghi & Truffle | Roasted oyster mushrooms, black truffles, rosemary, Grana Padano cheese, truffle cream |
| Jester | Roasted grapes, speck, goat cheese, honey |
| Margherita Classica | San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil |
Ambiance and Atmosphere: Pizza with a View
For those seeking a dining experience that indulges both the palate and the senses, Raleigh boasts an array of pizzerias that offer breathtaking views.
The Bluebird Cafe
Nestled in Five Points, The Bluebird Cafe invites patrons to savor their signature pies beneath the twinkling lights of its enchanting outdoor patio. Overlooking a picturesque courtyard, the ambiance is both intimate and convivial.
Clyde Cooper’s BBQ
Perched atop Downtown Raleigh’s landmark Tower Two, Clyde Cooper’s BBQ offers a panoramic vista of the city skyline. While renowned for its barbecue specialties, the restaurant also serves mouthwatering pizzas that can be enjoyed while admiring the cityscape.
Poole’s Diner
Located in the vibrant Warehouse District, Poole’s Diner boasts a stylish and contemporary interior with floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can gaze out upon the bustling streets and the iconic Durham Freeway while indulging in innovative and artisanal pizzas.
Raleigh Raw
Perched on the banks of the Neuse River, Raleigh Raw offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Its expansive outdoor deck provides panoramic views of the waterfront, creating a tranquil ambiance that complements the fresh and healthy pizzas.
The Pit
Nestled in the charming Cameron Village neighborhood, The Pit offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its cozy outdoor courtyard features inviting twinkling lights, creating an intimate and romantic setting for enjoying wood-fired pizzas.
| Pizzeria | View |
|---|---|
| The Bluebird Cafe | Courtyard |
| Clyde Cooper’s BBQ | City skyline |
| Poole’s Diner | Bustling streets and Durham Freeway |
| Raleigh Raw | Neuse River waterfront |
| The Pit | Cozy outdoor courtyard with twinkling lights |
The Art of Fire: Raleigh’s Wood-Fired Pizza Excellence
6. Pizzeria Toro: A Culinary Symphony
Step into Pizzeria Toro, a haven of wood-fired artistry where flavors dance in harmony. Their signature pizza, the Toro Rosso, is a masterpiece, featuring tantalizing soppressata, spicy pepperoni, and tangy goat cheese. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. The Mangiafuoco, a fiery creation, boasts spicy nduja, sautéed peppers, and fresh mozzarella, offering a bold and unforgettable experience. But the true spectacle lies in the Dexter, a generous pizza adorned with prosciutto, arugula, and shaved Parmesan that transports you to the heart of Northern Italy.
At Pizzeria Toro, the dough is the star. Crafted from a blend of heirloom flours and fermented for an extended period, it boasts an unparalleled lightness and crispness. The wood-fired oven imparts a unique smokiness, enhancing the flavors of every ingredient. Whether you indulge in the classic Margherita, the savory Bianca, or the adventurous Funghi, each pizza is a testament to the culinary excellence that defines Pizzeria Toro.
| Pizza | Description |
|---|---|
| Toro Rosso | Sopressata, pepperoni, goat cheese |
| Mangiafuoco | Nduja, sautéed peppers, mozzarella |
| Dexter | Prosciutto, arugula, Parmesan |
Neighborhood Gems: Uncovering Raleigh’s Hidden Pizza Havens
Village Pizzeria
Nestled in the heart of Raleigh’s historic Oakwood neighborhood, Village Pizzeria enchants diners with its cozy ambiance and exceptional pies crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Their signature thin-crust pizzas offer a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
East End Pizza
Escape the hustle and bustle at East End Pizza, a haven tucked away in the vibrant East Raleigh neighborhood. Their artisanal sourdough pizzas are a work of culinary art, boasting a perfect balance of crispy crust, savory toppings, and mouthwatering sauce.
Lucettegrace
Venture into the trendy Warehouse District and discover the hidden gem of Lucettegrace. This intimate pizzeria serves up innovative pizzas with a Southern touch. Expect unexpected flavor combinations that will leave you craving more.
Paisley Fig
Located in the charming Hayes Barton neighborhood, Paisley Fig offers a sophisticated pizza experience. Their wood-fired pizzas are topped with gourmet ingredients, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your senses.
The Optimist
Step into the vibrant Downtown neighborhood to find The Optimist, a pizza joint that’s all about experimentation and fun. Their rotating menu features unique pizza creations inspired by global cuisines, ensuring a culinary adventure with every visit.
R Pizzeria & Bar
Amidst the bustling North Hills neighborhood, R Pizzeria & Bar elevates the pizza experience with its chic ambiance and top-notch ingredients. Their pizzas are a masterpiece, with perfectly blistered crusts and a generous topping of premium cheeses and meats.
Midwood Smokehouse
Escape the ordinary and head to the eclectic Midwood neighborhood for Midwood Smokehouse. Known for its smoky BBQ pizzas, this spot offers a unique blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a whole new level.
Mellow Mushroom
| Location: Crossroads Plaza | Atmosphere: Family-friendly, laid-back | Specialty: Calzones and gourmet pizzas |
Visit Mellow Mushroom for a casual pizza experience in the Crossroads Plaza neighborhood. Their calzones and gourmet pizzas are renowned for their generous portions and imaginative toppings. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service will make you feel right at home.
Pizza Evolution: Exploring Raleigh’s Innovative Pizza Trends
Raleigh’s Flour-Forward Movement
Flour is the cornerstone of any great pizza, and Raleigh pizzerias are taking it to the next level. From sourdough and whole wheat to locally sourced and milled, the focus on premium flour elevates the pizza experience, creating complex flavors and textures that delight every taste bud.
10 Exceptional Raleigh Pizza Joints Pushing Culinary Boundaries
1. Raleigh Raw: Sourdough crust and farm-fresh toppings define their artisanal pizzas.
2. Pizzeria Toro: Neapolitan-style pizzas with a wood-fired touch, featuring an array of classic and innovative flavors.
3. The Haymakers: Southern-inspired pizzas with hickory-smoked meats, local vegetables, and house-made buttermilk ranch.
4. Sono Woodfire Pizzeria: Authentic wood-fired pizzas with a coastal twist, showcasing seafood, fresh herbs, and seasonal produce.
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5. Slice Pie Raleigh: Detroit-style pizza with a thick, crispy crust, offering creative combinations and specialty pies.
6. Neomonde Pizzeria: Global-infused pizzas with unique flavors from around the world, using fresh and exotic ingredients.
7. Nicky’s Coal Fired: Coal-fired pizzas with a smoky, caramelized crust, offering classic and contemporary toppings.
8. Pie Pushers: Slice slingers on wheels, delivering wood-fired pizzas with a selection of traditional and adventurous options.
9. GonZaga’s Pizza: Family-owned joint serving up traditional Italian-American pizzas with a touch of Southern flair.
10. Vicious Fishes: Seafood-centric pizzas with bold flavors and fresh catches, celebrating the bounty of the Carolina coast.
Best Pizza Places in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina is home to a vibrant food scene, and pizza lovers are in luck. The city boasts an impressive array of pizza places, each offering its unique take on this classic dish. Whether you prefer thin and crispy, thick and chewy, or something in between, you’re sure to find a pizza place in Raleigh that will satisfy your cravings.
Here are some of the best pizza places in Raleigh, NC:
- Napoli Pizzeria is a local favorite known for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas. The pizzas are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
- Lucio’s Pizza is another popular spot for pizza in Raleigh. The pizzas are made with a thin, crispy crust and topped with a variety of fresh toppings.
- Papa Murphy’s is a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal. The pizzas are made fresh and then baked at home, so you can enjoy them hot and fresh out of the oven.
People Also Ask About Best Pizza Places in Raleigh, NC
What is the best pizza in Raleigh?
The best pizza in Raleigh is a matter of opinion, but some of the most popular and highly-rated pizza places include Napoli Pizzeria, Lucio’s Pizza, and Papa Murphy’s.
Where can I find the best Neapolitan pizza in Raleigh?
Napoli Pizzeria is the best place to find Neapolitan pizza in Raleigh. The pizzas are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
What is the best thin-crust pizza in Raleigh?
Lucio’s Pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust pizzas. The pizzas are topped with a variety of fresh toppings, and the result is a delicious and satisfying meal.
