10 Best Pizza Places in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio pizza

When it comes to indulging in the unparalleled flavors of pizza, Columbus, Ohio, reigns supreme. With its vibrant culinary scene, the city boasts an array of pizzerias that tantalize the taste buds with their mouthwatering creations. From classic Neapolitan-style pies to innovative gourmet concoctions, Columbus offers an eclectic pizza experience that caters to every palate. Whether you seek a casual dining affair or a memorable culinary adventure, the city’s pizza landscape has something in store for you.

Nestled in the heart of the city’s bustling Italian Village, Forno boasts a reputation for crafting authentic Italian-style pizzas that have captivated food enthusiasts for decades. The pizzeria’s wood-fired oven imparts a smoky, rustic flavor to each pie, while the use of fresh, premium ingredients ensures an unforgettable dining experience. Forno’s extensive menu features a diverse range of pizzas, from the traditional Margherita to the more adventurous Nduja e Miele, which combines spicy Nduja sausage with sweet honey for a captivating taste journey.

Equally renowned for its exceptional pizzas is the award-winning Mikey’s Late Night Slice. This beloved pizzeria has gained fame for its delectable square slices, which are prepared with a carefully crafted dough and topped with a symphony of flavors. Mikey’s signature slice, The Square, is a masterpiece of simplicity, boasting a tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and crispy pepperoni. However, the pizzeria’s menu extends far beyond this classic, offering a tempting array of specialty slices, including the spicy Notorious P.I.G. and the vegetarian-friendly The Herbivore. Whether you prefer to savor your slice at the pizzeria’s lively bar or take it home for a cozy evening, Mikey’s Late Night Slice guarantees a memorable pizza indulgence.

The Perfect Pie: Columbus’ Top Pizza Destinations

1. The Holy Grail: Pizzeria Otto

At Pizzeria Otto, the pursuit of pizza perfection is a culinary crusade. The dough, hand-stretched to a paper-thin canvas, forms the foundation for a symphony of flavors. The wood-fired oven, reaching scorching temperatures, kisses the pizza with a smoky embrace, enhancing its crust with a golden crunch and tender bite. The toppings, a vibrant fresco, are sourced from local farms and artisanal producers, ensuring freshness and authenticity. Each bite of Pizzeria Otto’s pizza is a journey into a realm of culinary enlightenment, where tradition meets innovation and every slice tantalizes the palate with a symphony of flavors.

Must-Try Pizza: The Verdura, a vegetarian masterpiece adorned with roasted mushrooms, artichokes, eggplant, zucchini, and mozzarella, drizzled with a balsamic reduction.

Ambiance: A convivial atmosphere, where the aroma of wood-fired pizza blends with the lively chatter of diners, creating a feast for both the palate and the senses.

Location: 4543 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214

2. The Classic Connoisseur: Natalie’s Coal-Fired Pizza

At Natalie’s Coal-Fired Pizza, the allure lies in the ancient tradition of coal-fired ovens. The intense heat and smoky embrace of the coal impart a distinctive flavor to the pizza, creating a crispy, charred crust that perfectly complements the tender, airy interior. The toppings, from classic combinations to adventurous creations, are carefully chosen and generously applied, satisfying both traditionalists and culinary explorers alike.

Must-Try Pizza: The Margherita, a testament to simplicity and perfection, featuring a San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

Ambiance: A casual, family-friendly atmosphere, where the aroma of coal-fired pizza fills the air and the laughter of diners creates a warm and inviting ambiance.

Location: Multiple locations throughout Columbus

3. The Gourmet Gateway: Harvest Pizzeria

At Harvest Pizzeria, the emphasis is on fresh, seasonal ingredients and culinary creativity. The dough, made from a blend of organic flours, is fermented for 72 hours, resulting in a flavorful and digestible crust. The toppings showcase the bounty of the Midwest, with locally sourced meats, cheeses, and vegetables adorning the pizzas. The menu changes with the seasons, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors that reflects the changing palate of nature.

Must-Try Pizza: The Farmers Market, a seasonal delight featuring a rotating selection of local produce, such as roasted corn, tomatoes, and peppers, paired with house-made mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil.

Ambiance: A bright and airy space, with a rustic farmhouse feel, where the aroma of fresh herbs and the sound of lively conversation create a welcoming and convivial atmosphere.

Location: 421 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201

Pizzeria	Must-Try Pizza	Ambiance	Location
Pizzeria Otto	Verdura	Convivial and lively	4543 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
Natalie’s Coal-Fired Pizza	Margherita	Casual and family-friendly	Multiple locations throughout Columbus
Harvest Pizzeria	Farmers Market	Bright and airy, with a rustic farmhouse feel	421 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201

The Pizza Oven

A beloved institution in the Italian Village neighborhood, The Pizza Oven is renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and authentic flavors. The eatery exudes an inviting ambiance, with cozy brick walls adorned with vintage posters and a wood-fired oven taking center stage. Pizza enthusiasts flock here for a taste of their Neapolitan-style pizzas, prepared according to traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. The dough is meticulously proofed, resulting in a perfect balance of crispness and chewiness. The toppings are carefully sourced and generously layered, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you opt for the classic Margherita, with its vibrant tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella, or the more adventurous Diavola, featuring spicy salami and chili peppers, The Pizza Oven’s pizzas are a culinary masterpiece.

Pizzeria Mozza

Located in the heart of the vibrant Short North Arts District, Pizzeria Mozza has quickly established itself as a culinary destination. The restaurant is a haven for pizza lovers, offering a diverse menu that caters to every craving. From their signature thin-crust pizzas, with toppings ranging from classic to innovative, to their hearty Sicilian-style pizzas, Pizzeria Mozza has something to satisfy every palate. But it is their coal-fired pizzas that truly set them apart. The intense heat of the coals imparts a unique smoky flavor to the crust, creating a pizza experience that is both rustic and refined.

Coal-Fired Pizza Delights

Pizzeria Mozza’s coal-fired pizzas are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to culinary excellence. The process begins with hand-stretched dough made from a blend of artisanal flours. The dough is then topped with a generous layer of imported San Marzano tomatoes, creating a rich and flavorful base. From there, the pizza is adorned with a carefully curated selection of toppings that highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients. Whether you opt for the classic Margherita, with its simple yet elegant combination of mozzarella, basil, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, or the more adventurous Carnevale, topped with spicy soppressata, house-made meatballs, and roasted peppers, every bite is a culinary adventure. The coal-fired cooking method adds an irresistible smoky depth to the pizza, creating a taste experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Pizza	Toppings
Margherita	Mozzarella, basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano
Carnevale	Spicy soppressata, house-made meatballs, roasted peppers
Calabrese	‘Nduja, mozzarella, red onions, chili peppers
Prosciutto Arugula	Prosciutto, arugula, shaved Parmesan, lemon vinaigrette

Columbus’ Pizza Royalty: Unforgettable Pie Experiences

Destination: Borgata Pizza Cafe

Prepare yourself for a pizza-eating adventure like no other at Borgata Pizza Cafe. The atmosphere is unpretentious and cozy, but don’t let that fool you – the flavors that await you are anything but ordinary. The wood-fired pizzas are the stars of the show. With a crispy, charred crust and a perfect balance of toppings, each bite is an explosion of umami.

Must-Try Pies:

Margherita: A classic choice that showcases the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Salsiccia e Friarielli: A savory delight with spicy sausage, sautéed broccoli rabe, and melted mozzarella.
Quattro Formaggi: A creamy, decadent experience with four different cheeses: mozzarella, provolone, parmigiana-reggiano, and gorgonzola.

What Sets It Apart:

Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza: Crafted with imported Italian ingredients, the pizza at Borgata is as close to the real thing as you’ll find in Columbus.
Craft beer and wine selection: Pair your pizza with a refreshing craft beer or a glass of wine from their impressive list.
Spacious and inviting atmosphere: Whether you’re dining with friends or family, the warm and inviting ambiance of Borgata will make you feel right at home.

Crispy Crust and Flavorful Toppings: The Best of Columbus Pizza

Your Guide to Columbus’s Best Pizza Experiences

Columbus, Ohio, is a pizza lover’s dream, boasting an array of pizzerias serving up some of the most mouthwatering slices you’ll ever taste. From classic Neapolitan pies to creative contemporary concoctions, here’s a guide to the best pizza experiences in the city.

4. Donato’s Pizza: For a Taste of Columbus Tradition

Donato’s Pizza is a Columbus institution, serving up delicious pizzas since 1963. Their signature pizza is the “Edge to Edge,” a thin-crust pie with a crispy, golden-brown crust and an abundance of toppings. The Edge to Edge is a crowd-pleaser, but Donato’s offers a wide range of other options as well, including gluten-free and vegan pizzas.

One of the things that makes Donato’s so special is their unique blend of cheeses. They use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, and Parmesan to create a cheesy, flavorful topping that perfectly complements the crispy crust.

Donato’s has several locations throughout Columbus, and they also offer delivery and carryout. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a family-friendly meal, Donato’s is a great choice. And with their unbeatable prices, you can afford to go back for more again and again.

Location	Phone Number	Website
614-224-7400	www.donatos.com

From Classic to Creative: Columbus’ Pizza Experimenters

Classic Pizza Joints for Time-Tested Goodness

From the timeless Margherita to the hearty pepperoni, these pizzerias have mastered the art of traditional pizza. Expect crispy crusts, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings that evoke nostalgic memories.

Neapolitan Pizza: A Taste of Italy in the Midwest

For an authentic Neapolitan experience, head to these establishments that meticulously craft their pizzas using traditional methods and ingredients. From the delicate balance of flavors to the perfect char on the crust, these pizzas transport you to the streets of Naples.

Wood-Fired Pizza: A Smoky, Aromatic Delight

The smoky embrace of wood-fired ovens imparts a distinct flavor that enhances the taste of pizza. These pizzerias specialize in wood-fired creations, offering a range of options from classic to gourmet.

Detroit-Style Pizza: Square and Thick, with a Crispy Edge

Originating in Detroit, this unique pizza is characterized by its thick, square shape and crispy, caramelized edges. Pizzeria Familiar, Red Velvet Pizza, and JT’s Pizza Shop are must-try destinations for this indulgent treat.

From Pizza Samplers to Pie-Sharing Extravaganzas

For those who can’t resist variety, these restaurants offer sampler platters that showcase an array of flavors. From traditional to experimental, these pizzas allow you to embark on a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds. Notable spots include Pizza Rustica, Pieology, and Tommy’s Pizza.

Restaurant	Specialty Pizza
Pizza Rustica	Rustica’s Sampler (featuring multiple pizzas)
Pieology	Create-your-own pizza with endless topping options
Tommy’s Pizza	Tommy’s Pie (a large, customizable pizza)

The Dough Dilemma: Columbus’ Pizza Crust Scene

The Sicilian Sanctuary

For a thick, doughy indulgence, look to the Sicilian-style pizza. This Columbus favorite features a deep, focaccia-like crust that offers a satisfying crunch with a soft, airy interior. Among the top Sicilian spots in the city are:

Mikey’s Late Night Slice for their massive, square-cut slices with a pillowy crust.
Carfagna’s Kitchen for their traditional Sicilian with a crispy bottom and a thick, fluffy middle.
Via Vecchia Winery for their wood-fired Sicilian with a chewy crust and a generous layer of cheese.

The Neapolitan Nirvana

Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with a Neapolitan pizza. This style emphasizes a thin, crispy crust with a slightly charred exterior and a chewy, moist interior. In Columbus, try these places for your Neapolitan fix:

Forno Kitchen + Bar for their classic Margherita with a beautifully blistered crust.
Pizza Rustica for their wood-fired pizzas with a crispy, flavorful crust.
Due Amici for their contemporary Neapolitan pizzas with unique topping combinations.

The Detroit Diaspora

Detroit-style pizza has become a Columbus obsession, offering a thick, focaccia-like crust with crispy edges and a slightly chewy interior. The signature caramelized cheese on the edges adds an extra layer of flavor. Top Detroit-style pizzerias in Columbus include:

Emmett’s Café for their iconic square pizzas with a buttery, crunchy crust.
Detroit Style Pizza Co. for their authentic Detroit-style pizzas with a tangy sauce and plenty of cheese.
Mellow Mushroom for their Motor City Pizza with a crispy, flavorful crust and a generous helping of toppings.

Pizza Style	Crust Characteristics	Notable Pizzerias
Sicilian	Thick, doughy, focaccia-like	Mikey’s Late Night Slice, Carfagna’s Kitchen, Via Vecchia Winery
Neapolitan	Thin, crispy, slightly charred	Forno Kitchen + Bar, Pizza Rustica, Due Amici
Detroit-style	Thick, focaccia-like, crispy edges	Emmett’s Café, Detroit Style Pizza Co., Mellow Mushroom

The Sauce Symphony: Columbus’ Pizza Flavor Profiles

Sweet

These sauces are typically tomato-based and have a slightly sweet flavor. For a unique twist, try the Tomato Cream Dream from Upper Arlington Pizza House. It features a creamy tomato sauce topped with mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh basil.

Spicy

If you like it hot, these sauces will deliver the heat. The Inferno from Mikey’s Late Night Slice features a spicy tomato sauce topped with pepperoni, jalapeños, and ghost peppers. Be prepared for a fiery experience!

Savory

These sauces are rich and flavorful, with a focus on herbs and spices. The Tuscan Tomato from Ray’s Pizzeria is a classic example. It’s made with a blend of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, creating a savory and aromatic flavor.

Tangy

These sauces have a slightly acidic flavor that adds a refreshing touch to your pizza. Try the Lemon-Ricotta from Anthony’s Brick Oven Pizza. It’s a white sauce made with fresh lemon juice, ricotta cheese, and herbs, resulting in a tangy and creamy dream.

Garlicky

If you’re a garlic lover, these sauces are the perfect choice. The White Garlic from Omega Pizza is a white garlic sauce that is both rich and flavorful. It’s topped with mozzarella, parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh garlic.

Buttery

These sauces are made with butter, giving them a creamy and decadent flavor. The Alfredo from Sbarro is a classic Alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a great choice for those who love a rich and creamy pizza experience.

Creamy

These sauces are characterized by their smooth and creamy texture. The Bechamel from Gatto’s Pizza is a classic bechamel sauce, made with butter, flour, and milk. It’s often used as a base for other sauces or as a topping on its own.

The Mozzarella Masterpieces: Columbus’ Cheese-tastic Pizzas

8. Veritas

While Veritas may not specialize in pizza, they certainly know how to craft an unforgettable one. Their wood-fired masterpiece features a blend of fresh mozzarella and house-made ricotta, offering a delicate balance of flavors. Beyond the cheese, Veritas’ pizza also boasts a crispy crust and an assortment of gourmet toppings, elevating it above the ordinary.

The execution is nothing short of meticulous. The crust, meticulously stretched by hand, provides a sturdy foundation for the generous layer of cheese. As it bakes in the wood-fired oven, the cheese bubbles and browns, creating pockets of golden perfection. Each bite transports you to a culinary paradise, with the flavors of the toppings harmoniously complementing the star attraction—the cheese.

At Veritas, pizza is not merely a dish; it is an art form. The chefs employ only the finest ingredients, ensuring that every element contributes to the overall symphony of flavors. From the tangy tomato sauce to the aromatic herbs, each topping is carefully selected to enhance the centerpiece—the luscious mozzarella and ricotta.

Beyond the taste, the atmosphere at Veritas is equally captivating. The warm ambiance and friendly service create an inviting space where diners can fully appreciate the culinary artistry on their plates. For those who seek an exceptional pizza experience, Veritas is a destination not to be missed.

Pizza with Personality: Columbus’ Unique Pie Creations

9. Unique Columbus Pizza Toppings

Columbus pizza pizzerias have taken creativity to the next level when it comes to pizza toppings. Here are some of the most unusual and delicious options you’ll find in the city:

Tater Tots: Crispy tater tots add a crunchy touch to a cheesy pizza at Mikey’s Late Night Slice.

Mac and Cheese: Indulge in a comforting combination of creamy mac and cheese and gooey mozzarella on a pizza from VillaNova.

Pretzels: Salty pretzels provide a unique twist to a pizza at Pizza Rustica, topped with a spicy mustard sauce.

Pork Belly: Savor the richness of crispy pork belly on a pizza from Pizza Cucinova, paired with caramelized onions and Gorgonzola.

Lobster: Elevate your pizza experience with luxurious lobster meat, sautéed in garlic butter and topped on a pizza from Due Amici.

Thai Peanut Sauce: Embrace the flavors of Southeast Asia with a pizza topped with spicy Thai peanut sauce at Used Sardine Can.

Arugula and Figs: Enjoy a fresh and sophisticated combination of arugula and sweet figs on a pizza from Forno, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Pulled Pork: Savor the smoky goodness of pulled pork, topped on a pizza at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, paired with tangy barbecue sauce.

Buffalo Chicken: Experience a spicy twist on pizza with buffalo chicken topped on a pizza from Blaze Pizza, drizzled with ranch dressing.

Columbus’ Pizza Powerhouse: A Dining Destination

A Culinary Mecca for Pizza Lovers

Columbus, Ohio, has emerged as a pizza paradise, captivating taste buds with its delectable slices and innovative creations.

The Top 10 Pizza Joints in Columbus

Condado Tacos: Renowned for its customizable pizzas crafted from scratch, Condado Tacos offers a symphony of flavors.
Pizzeria Otto: A Neapolitan-style gem, Pizzeria Otto transports you to Italy with its authentic flavors and wood-fired delights.
Rimedio: With its unique Roman-style pizzas, Rimedio redefines pizza with its airy crust and delectable toppings.
Mikey’s Late Night Slice: Craving a late-night bite? Mikey’s Late Night Slice serves up the perfect hangover cure with its cheesy, foldable slices.
Giuseppe’s Pizzeria and Grotto: A family-run institution, Giuseppe’s Pizzeria and Grotto has been dishing out timeless Italian flavors for decades.
The Top: Perched atop the Hilton in downtown Columbus, The Top offers stunning city views alongside its gourmet pizzas.
Dave’s Cosmic Subs: Escape the ordinary at Dave’s Cosmic Subs, where their out-of-this-world pizzas feature a kaleidoscope of flavors.
Donato’s: A local legend, Donato’s pizzas are synonymous with Columbus, known for their crispy crust and tangy sauce.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: Surprising but irresistible, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams serves up tantalizing pizzas topped with their legendary ice cream.
Forno Kitchen + Bar: A hub for culinary innovation, Forno Kitchen + Bar offers an exceptional pizza experience with its wood-fired pizzas and sophisticated ambiance.

Forno Kitchen + Bar: A Deeper Dive

Forno Kitchen + Bar is a culinary haven where pizza takes center stage. Its wood-fired oven burns at optimal temperatures, creating a perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness in the crust. The chefs at Forno Kitchen + Bar source local ingredients and craft their pizzas with passion, resulting in a symphony of flavors.

The menu at Forno Kitchen + Bar boasts a diverse selection of pizzas, from classic Margherita to daring creations like the Supreme, topped with premium pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Not to be missed is the White Truffle Pizza, a decadent indulgence that features a blend of white truffle oil, mozzarella, and fresh arugula.

Step into the chic and inviting ambiance of Forno Kitchen + Bar, where the warmth of the wood-fired oven permeates the air. Whether you’re savoring a slice with friends or enjoying a romantic dinner, Forno Kitchen + Bar promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

Rank	Pizza Joint	Style
1	Condado Tacos	Customizable
2	Pizzeria Otto	Neapolitan
3	Rimedio	Roman

Columbus’s Pizza Perfection

In the bustling metropolis of Columbus, Ohio, pizza takes center stage as a culinary masterpiece. From classic pies to innovative creations, the city’s pizzerias offer an unparalleled array of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you crave a traditional Neapolitan pizza with fresh mozzarella and basil or a gourmet pie laden with exotic toppings, Columbus has something to satisfy every pizza craving.

The secret to Columbus’s pizza supremacy lies in its diverse culinary scene. From renowned chefs to artisanal pizza makers, the city’s culinary talents bring their passion and expertise to every pie they create. Using high-quality ingredients, sourdough starters, and wood-fired ovens, they craft pizzas that embody the essence of authenticity and innovation. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures that leaves an unforgettable impression.