Quick answer
Austin's pizza scene is a delicious testament to its unique blend of tradition and innovation, offering everything from classic New York slices to gourmet Neapolitan pies. The city, known for its dynamic food trucks, world-class BBQ, and Tex-Mex, has quietly cultivated a pizza culture that rivals some of the nation's best, drawing in both local aficionados and curious food tourists.
- Best overall
- Home Slice Pizza
- Top pick
- Home Slice Pizza
Top verdicts
- Home Slice Pizza: Anyone craving a quintessential New York slice experience in a lively, bustling Austin setting.
- Via 313 Pizzeria: Deep-dish enthusiasts and anyone looking for a unique, cheesy, square slice experience with a strong local beer selection.
- Bufalina Due: Neapolitan pizza purists and those seeking a slightly more upscale yet relaxed dining atmosphere with excellent wine pairings.
The journey of pizza in Austin mirrors the city's growth, evolving from humble neighborhood joints serving comforting classics to sophisticated establishments pushing the boundaries of artisanal craft. This evolution reflects a broader trend of culinary excellence, where local chefs and pizzaiolos embrace high-quality ingredients and diverse techniques, all while maintaining that laid-back Austin vibe.
Visitors and locals alike can explore a remarkable range of pizza styles here. Whether you're searching for the crispy, foldable crust of a New York slice, the deep-dish indulgence of a Detroit-style square, the delicate char of a Neapolitan pie baked in a wood-fired oven, or even innovative craft pizzas paired with local brews, Austin delivers an impressive array of choices to satisfy every craving.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Home Slice Pizza | New York | mid | South Congress |
| 2 | Via 313 Pizzeria | Detroit | mid | East Austin |
| 3 | Bufalina Due | Neapolitan | mid | East Austin |
| 4 | Pinthouse Pizza | Craft | mid | South Austin |
| 5 | Sammataro | Neapolitan | mid | South Austin |
| 6 | Little Deli & Pizzeria | New York | budget | Crestview |
| 7 | The Backspace | Neapolitan | mid | Downtown |
| 8 | Side Piece Pizza | New York | budget | South Austin |
| 9 | DeSano Pizza Bakery | Neapolitan | budget | North Austin |
| 10 | Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza | Wood-fired | mid | Cedar Valley |
1Home Slice Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving a quintessential New York slice experience in a lively, bustling Austin setting.
- Strengths
- South Congress
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Home Slice is an Austin institution, renowned for its authentic New York-style pizzas, massive slices, and vibrant atmosphere. It's the go-to for a classic, foldable crust pie and a true taste of old-school pizzeria charm.
- What to order
- The 'Pepperoni and Mushroom' pizza is a timeless classic, or grab a giant 'New York Slice' for a quick, satisfying meal.
🕐 Opening hours
2Via 313 Pizzeria
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Deep-dish enthusiasts and anyone looking for a unique, cheesy, square slice experience with a strong local beer selection.
- Strengths
- East Austin
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Via 313 brought authentic Detroit-style pizza to Austin, featuring thick, rectangular pies with a perfectly caramelized, crispy cheese crust. It’s a rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying experience for those who love deep-dish goodness.
- What to order
- The 'Detroit Red Top' is legendary for a reason, or try the 'Omnivore' if you want a hearty meat topping.
🕐 Opening hours
3Bufalina Due
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Neapolitan pizza purists and those seeking a slightly more upscale yet relaxed dining atmosphere with excellent wine pairings.
- Strengths
- East Austin
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Bufalina Due consistently delivers top-tier Neapolitan pizzas, baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Their commitment to high-quality, often imported, ingredients ensures an authentic and refined pizza experience.
- What to order
- The 'Margherita' is a perfect example of their craft, or for something with a kick, try the 'Calabrese' with spicy salami.
🕐 Opening hours
4Pinthouse Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Beer lovers and groups seeking a fun, relaxed atmosphere with top-notch brews and creative pizza combinations.
- Strengths
- South Austin
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Pinthouse Pizza is where craft beer excellence meets delicious, inventive pizzas. Their unique dough and thoughtful toppings, paired with an extensive list of award-winning, house-brewed beers, make it a lively and popular spot.
- What to order
- Pair a 'Hazy IPA' with their famous 'Ranch Hand' pizza, featuring spicy ranch, chicken, and bacon.
🕐 Opening hours
5Sammataro
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those who appreciate artisan-level Neapolitan pizza with a unique sourdough tang and a cozy, stylish ambiance.
- Strengths
- South Austin
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Sammataro brings a fresh take on Neapolitan-style pizza with its sourdough crust and expertly sourced ingredients. Their commitment to craft results in pizzas that are both rustic and refined, perfect for a discerning palate.
- What to order
- The 'Spicy Sausage' is a standout, or try the 'Nduja' for a rich, flavorful experience.
🕐 Opening hours
6Little Deli & Pizzeria
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families, casual diners, and anyone seeking an authentic, unpretentious slice of classic East Coast pizza.
- Strengths
- Crestview
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- A beloved neighborhood gem, Little Deli offers fantastic New York and New Jersey-style pizzas and subs in a casual, family-friendly setting. Their thin, crispy crusts and classic toppings make for a truly satisfying and affordable meal.
- What to order
- A large 'Cheese' or 'Pepperoni' pizza to share, or grab their 'Reuben' sandwich if you're feeling adventurous.
🕐 Opening hours
7The Backspace
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Couples or small groups looking for an elegant dining experience with exceptional Neapolitan pizza and a refined wine list.
- Strengths
- Downtown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Tucked away downtown, The Backspace offers an intimate and upscale Neapolitan pizza experience. Their pizzas are crafted with precision and the finest ingredients, making it perfect for a date night or a sophisticated meal.
- What to order
- The 'Diavola' for a spicy kick or the 'Prosciutto e Rucola' for a fresh, savory combination.
🕐 Opening hours
8Side Piece Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Beer garden enthusiasts, casual diners, and anyone craving a satisfying, foldable New York slice with a great vibe.
- Strengths
- South Austin
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Side Piece Pizza serves up fantastic New York-style slices and whole pies, operating out of Meanwhile Brewing. It's the perfect stop for a casual, delicious slice or a whole pie to pair with a cold beer in a lively outdoor setting.
- What to order
- A classic 'Pepperoni Slice' with a local craft beer from Meanwhile Brewing.
🕐 Opening hours
9DeSano Pizza Bakery
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Neapolitan lovers seeking speed without sacrificing authenticity, ideal for a quick, high-quality lunch or family dinner.
- Strengths
- North Austin
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- DeSano Pizza Bakery offers truly authentic Neapolitan pizza baked in massive, imported Stefano Ferrara wood-fired ovens. While fast-casual in style, the quality and taste are uncompromising, delivering a genuine Italian experience.
- What to order
- The 'San Gennaro' with sausage and peppers, or a simple yet perfect 'Bianca' (white pizza).
🕐 Opening hours
10Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a scenic drive and a relaxed, family-friendly outdoor dining experience with excellent wood-fired pizza.
- Strengths
- Cedar Valley
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country just outside Austin, Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza offers delicious wood-fired pies in a charming, rustic outdoor setting. It's an experience as much as it is a meal.
- What to order
- The 'Hill Country Pie' with prosciutto and goat cheese, or their classic 'Pepperoni' for a hearty option.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What kind of pizza is Austin most known for?
Austin is incredibly diverse, but it's particularly well-regarded for its authentic New York-style pizzerias like Home Slice and Little Deli, and it's also a major hub for excellent Detroit-style pizza thanks to Via 313. Neapolitan-style is also very popular, with many wood-fired options throughout the city.
Are there good gluten-free pizza options in Austin?
Yes, many Austin pizzerias offer gluten-free crusts. Places like Via 313, Pinthouse Pizza, and DeSano Pizza Bakery often provide gluten-free alternatives, though it's always best to call ahead and confirm their current offerings and cross-contamination policies if you have severe allergies.
Can I find vegan pizza in Austin?
Absolutely! Austin is a very vegan-friendly city. Many pizzerias offer vegan cheese substitutes and a variety of vegetable toppings. Some spots, like Pinthouse Pizza, are known for their creative vegan-friendly specialty pizzas, and most places can accommodate by omitting cheese and adding extra veggies.
Is Austin pizza expensive?
Pizza prices in Austin vary widely depending on the style and establishment. You can find budget-friendly slices for $4-6 at places like Little Deli or Side Piece, while full gourmet Neapolitan or Detroit-style pies at more upscale spots can range from $20-35 per pizza, equating to $20-40 per person for a full meal.
What's the best pizza spot for families with kids in Austin?
Home Slice Pizza (both South Congress locations) is a top choice for families due to its lively atmosphere and classic crowd-pleasing pizzas. Pinthouse Pizza and Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza also offer spacious, family-friendly environments with outdoor seating and diverse menus that appeal to all ages.
Do Austin pizzerias offer delivery?
Most Austin pizzerias partner with third-party delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Favor. Some, especially larger chains or long-standing local spots like Home Slice, might offer their own in-house delivery. Check their websites or preferred delivery apps for availability in your area.
What's the parking situation like at Austin pizza places?
Parking can be challenging, especially in popular areas like South Congress, Downtown, and East Austin, where street parking might be limited or require payment. Many suburban locations or those in shopping centers (like DeSano or some Pinthouse locations) offer dedicated parking lots. Consider ridesharing or public transport when visiting central locations.
Are there any food truck pizzerias worth checking out?
While many started as food trucks and have transitioned to brick-and-mortars (like Via 313 and Sammataro), Side Piece Pizza operating within Meanwhile Brewing is an excellent example of a fantastic food truck pizza operation. Austin's food truck scene is always evolving, so keep an eye out for new pop-ups!