Philadelphia, PA - The perfect slice of pizza isn't hard to track down in Philadelphia if you know where to go. But, if your in need of some help, check out PhillyBite’s round-up of where to find the best pizza in Philadelphia.
A Slice of Philly: Exploring the City's Top Pizza Havens
Philadelphia, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, also boasts a thriving pizza scene that caters to every taste and craving. From old-school pizzerias steeped in tradition to innovative newcomers pushing culinary boundaries, Philly's pizza landscape is as diverse as the city itself. Here's a curated list of ten exceptional pizza places that showcase the best of what Philadelphia has to offer:
1. Angelo's Pizzeria South Philly: This unassuming neighborhood gem is a true testament to the enduring appeal of classic pizza. Angelo's serves up thin-crust pies with just the right balance of crispy and chewy, topped with a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. While their pizzas are undoubtedly the star of the show, Angelo's also offers a tempting selection of classic and creative sandwiches, fried snacks, and breakfast options, making it a go-to spot for any time of day. 736 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
2. Tacconelli's Pizza: A true Philadelphia institution, Tacconelli's has been serving its legendary thin-crust tomato pie for decades. This no-frills pizzeria is a pilgrimage site for pizza purists, drawn by the allure of their signature pies cooked to perfection in a brick oven. The crust is thin and crackly, the sauce is tangy and bright, and the cheese is perfectly melted, creating a symphony of flavors that has captivated generations of Philadelphians. 2604 E Somerset St, Philadelphia, PA
3. PIZZA Shackamaxon: This Fishtown favorite is a haven for lovers of big, floppy pizzas with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their tomato pie is a standout, featuring a thick, focaccia-like crust topped with a vibrant tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. PIZZA Shackamaxon also offers a rotating selection of creative pies with unique topping combinations, ensuring there's always something new to discover. 115 E Girard Ave #3907, Philadelphia, PA 19125
4. Wm. Mulherin's Sons: This rustic Italian-influenced restaurant offers a refined take on the classic pizza experience. Their wood-fired pizzas are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring a perfectly charred crust, seasonal toppings, and artisanal cheeses. The menu also includes a selection of wood-fired dishes, showcasing the versatility of their impressive oven. With its warm ambiance and inviting atmosphere, Wm. Mulherin's Sons is the perfect spot for a leisurely meal with friends and family. 1355 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
5. Stina Pizzeria: This South Philadelphia gem specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their pizzas are cooked to perfection in a blazing hot oven, resulting in a light and airy crust with a slightly charred edge. Stina also offers a tempting selection of Mediterranean-inspired small plates, making it a great choice for a well-rounded dining experience. 1705 Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
6. Rione: This casual pizza shop brings the flavors of Rome to the heart of Philadelphia. Rione specializes in Roman-style pizza al taglio, which is sold by the slice and features a thick, rectangular crust with a variety of toppings. Their pizzas are baked in a special electric oven that mimics the effects of a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust with a light and airy interior. With its quick service and delicious pizza, Rione is a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. 102 S 21st St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
7. Kosmo Pizza & Grille: This family-owned pizzeria is a neighborhood favorite, known for its friendly service and delicious, no-frills pizzas. Kosmo offers a wide variety of classic and specialty pizzas, along with a selection of Italian-American comfort food favorites. Their pizzas are generously topped with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection in a traditional pizza oven. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Kosmo is a great place to enjoy a casual meal with family and friends. 1347 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
8. Blaze Pizza: This fast-casual pizza chain offers a customizable pizza experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and speedy service. Blaze allows you to create your own pizza with a wide variety of toppings and sauces, all for one set price. Their pizzas are cooked in a blazing hot oven, resulting in a thin and crispy crust with a slightly charred edge. With its convenient location and customizable options, Blaze is a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal. 1100 W Montgomery Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19122
This list is just a starting point for exploring Philadelphia's vibrant pizza scene. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect pizza to satisfy your cravings. So grab a slice, and experience the delicious diversity of Philly's pizza culture!
Bill Zimmerman