1. Overview
Discover Charlotte’s diverse pizza scene, highlighting a variety of local pizzerias that cater to different tastes and preferences. From traditional New York style to distinct local flavors, there are numerous options to explore.
From NY Style to Chicago Style, Charlotte Has You Covered
Around the Charlotte area, you probably won’t find a food that’s more divisive than barbeque. However, coming quickly after that, the best way to start a good food argument is over pizza.
Charlotte is a region of transplants, meaning everyone brings their own views on the best way to prepare pizza. While one person may love a spot on this list, others may dislike it because it’s not “their” favorite style. Therefore, keep an open mind and check out some of the best pizza the Queen City has to offer.
For this list, I have made an effort to stay away from chain locations. Many pizza enthusiasts would usually turn their noses up at mass-produced, conveyor belt pies, but it’s worth highlighting these unique local joints.
This list isn’t in any particular order, so consider each one of these pizzerias the best in some way!
2. Libretto’s
Libretto’s
Multiple locations around Charlotte
A lunchtime favorite for many Charlotteans, Libretto’s is the perfect place for a quick slice. Their selection of pizza is extensive, and they are happy to make anything fresh to order. Like a few other spots on this list, most anything you get here is going to be good. Moreover, you may hear some say it’s “incredibly authentic NY style” while others claim it’s “not even close” to the real thing. Regardless, whether it’s “really” NY style or not, the pizza here is simply delightful.
3. Hawthorne’s NY Pizza & Bar
Hawthorne’s NY Pizza & Bar
1701 E 7th St
5814 Prosperity Church Rd.
4100 Carmel Rd
7319 Matthews-Mint Hill Road (Mint Hill)
8410 Rea Rd.
Hawthorne’s is another Charlotte spot to get New York “floppy” style pizza. The garlic knots here are among the best in town, so be sure to try them if you’re in the area. Additionally, they offer a nice gluten-free menu if you’re looking for specific meal options. Locations also feature spacious patios that are great for enjoying the surrounding neighborhoods.
4. Intermezzo Pizzeria and Cafe
Intermezzo Pizzeria and Cafe
1427 E 10th St
(704) 347-2626
Intermezzo is a Serbian/European restaurant, offering unique menu options. However, for this list, the focus is solely on their pizza. The pizzas strike a balance between thick and thin crust, prioritizing quality over trend. Everything is made fresh in-house—there’s no freezer or microwave, which enhances the quality. If there’s one spot that consistently gets reviewed as the best pizza in Charlotte, it’s this one.
5. Giacomo’s Pizzeria
Giacomo’s Pizzeria
10230 Berkeley Place Dr.
704-971-7313
For “authentic Italian” pizza, Giacomo’s Pizzeria is a popular spot in Charlotte. Though small, this restaurant fills up quickly, which is a testament to its quality. The pizza style is New York with a thin, floppy crust; the sausage is true Italian and a standout feature. While they pride themselves on pizza, there are also plenty of other excellent Italian options worth exploring.
6. Luisa’s Brick Oven
Luisa’s Brick Oven
1730 Abbey Pl
(704) 522-8782
If you look at reviews for Luisa’s, you’ll find that people constantly rave about the New York style thin crust. The pizza is cooked in a brick oven, and they offer an excellent all-you-can-eat buffet on weekdays.
7. Due Amici
Due Amici
5346 Prosperity Church Rd
(704) 948-1999
New York style is the specialty here at Due Amici, and locals rave that they do it right. The slices and toppings are generous; while it may not be the cheapest place in town, it certainly offers quality worth the cost. This family-owned restaurant features Italian owners hailing from New York City.
8. Pure Pizza
Pure Pizza
255 E 7th St
980-207-003
Pure Pizza takes a fresh approach with local farm-to-table pizza. However, don’t be misled by the healthy terminology; the pizzas are far from bland. They offer three different sizes and two crust options: traditional and sprouted wheat/ancient grain. A unique touch at Pure Pizza is the sample of local honey provided for dipping your crust.
9. Angela’s
Angela’s
9705 Mintworth Avenue
(704) 573-2737
Angela’s offers a fantastic variety of Italian food, but its pizza is a notable highlight. Anything you order is worth the trip to Mintworth. This family-owned neighborhood spot showcases exceptional food quality. Additionally, they frequently host a Frank Sinatra tribute show that is worth experiencing.