Quick answer
Indianapolis has quietly, yet definitively, become a surprising hotbed for exceptional pizza. While often overshadowed by its Midwest neighbors, the Circle City boasts a burgeoning pizza scene that caters to every conceivable craving, from crispy tavern-style slices to artisanal Neapolitan masterpieces.
- Best overall
- King Dough
- Top pick
- King Dough — Consistently praised for its authentic Neapolitan style and vibrant atmosphere.
Top verdicts
- King Dough: Those seeking a true Neapolitan pizza experience in a lively, modern setting, perfect for dates or group outings.
- Napolese Pizzeria: A sophisticated dining experience with authentic, high-quality Neapolitan pizza, perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion.
- Bazbeaux Pizza: Those looking for a uniquely Indianapolis pizza experience with creative, high-quality ingredient combinations and a lively, artistic vibe.
The city's pizza heritage is a delightful blend of immigrant traditions and American ingenuity. Early Italian immigrants brought their culinary roots, establishing foundational pizzerias that served classic thin-crust and New York-style pies. Over the decades, local entrepreneurs infused their own Hoosier spirit, leading to unique regional variations and a competitive drive to create the ultimate slice.
Today, you can find a global array of pizza styles across Indy's neighborhoods. Craving the charred crust of a Neapolitan pie? Or perhaps the deep-dish decadence of a Detroit-style square? Maybe a classic New York foldable slice or a distinctively gourmet, locally sourced creation? Indianapolis offers it all, ensuring that pizza lovers are spoiled for choice.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | King Dough | Neapolitan | mid | Fountain Square |
| 2 | Napolese Pizzeria | Neapolitan | mid | Meridian-Kessler / Broad Ripple |
| 3 | Bazbeaux Pizza | Gourmet Thin Crust | mid | Mass Ave / Broad Ripple |
| 4 | Pearl Street Pizzeria & Pub | Pub Style | mid | Downtown |
| 5 | Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza | Specialty | mid | Irvington / Greenwood |
| 6 | Brozinni Pizzeria | New York Style | budget | Southport / Noblesville |
| 7 | Ale Emporium | Tavern Style | mid | Castleton / Fishers |
| 8 | Greek's Pizzeria | Classic American | budget | Broad Ripple / Downtown / Various |
| 9 | Byrne's Pizza | Classic American | budget | West Side |
| 10 | Puccini's Smiling Teeth Pizza & Pasta | Gourmet Thin Crust | mid | Various |
1King Dough
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a true Neapolitan pizza experience in a lively, modern setting, perfect for dates or group outings.
- Strengths
- Fountain Square
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- King Dough stands out for its commitment to authentic Neapolitan pizza, featuring perfectly blistered, chewy crusts from their wood-fired oven and high-quality, often local, ingredients. It's a vibrant and bustling spot that consistently delivers a superior pizza experience.
- What to order
- The 'Pepperoni Pie' with its perfect balance of spicy pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of spicy honey is a must-try. Pair it with a craft beer.
🕐 Opening hours
2Napolese Pizzeria
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A sophisticated dining experience with authentic, high-quality Neapolitan pizza, perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion.
- Strengths
- Meridian-Kessler / Broad Ripple
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Napolese offers an elevated pizza experience with its refined take on Neapolitan classics, emphasizing premium ingredients and a sophisticated ambiance. It's the ideal spot for a date night or a more upscale casual meal, complemented by an excellent wine selection.
- What to order
- The 'Prosciutto e Rucola' is a classic for a reason, with its fresh arugula and savory prosciutto added post-oven. Don't skip their artisan salads and perhaps a glass from their thoughtfully curated wine list.
🕐 Opening hours
3Bazbeaux Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a uniquely Indianapolis pizza experience with creative, high-quality ingredient combinations and a lively, artistic vibe.
- Strengths
- Mass Ave / Broad Ripple
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- An Indianapolis staple since 1986, Bazbeaux is celebrated for its gourmet thin-crust pizzas featuring an imaginative array of fresh, high-quality toppings. Each location offers a unique, art-filled ambiance, making it a beloved local institution.
- What to order
- Try the 'Cajun' with its spicy sausage and creole seasoning, or the 'Smoked Salmon' for something truly unique. Don't forget their flavorful house salad with the signature dressing.
🕐 Opening hours
4Pearl Street Pizzeria & Pub
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A casual and lively spot to enjoy good pizza and a wide selection of craft beers, especially before or after downtown events.
- Strengths
- Downtown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Nestled just off Washington Street downtown, Pearl Street Pizzeria offers a cozy pub atmosphere with excellent craft beer and reliably delicious pizzas. It's a favorite for locals and visitors alike seeking a casual meal near Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
- What to order
- Their 'Buffalo Chicken Pizza' is a local legend, but for a classic, try the 'Pearl Street Special'. Pair it with one of their many local craft beers on tap.
🕐 Opening hours
5Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those who appreciate unique and creative pizza combinations in a relaxed, family-friendly setting with options for various dietary needs.
- Strengths
- Irvington / Greenwood
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Jockamo is renowned for its inventive and generously topped pizzas, offering a wide array of specialty options that go beyond the ordinary. With a warm, inviting atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for families and groups looking for creative flavors.
- What to order
- The 'Slap Yo' Mama' pizza with garlic cream sauce, bacon, and jalapenos is a bold choice, or the 'Bar-B-Que Chicken' for a savory classic. Don't overlook their garlic knots!
🕐 Opening hours
6Brozinni Pizzeria
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Fans of classic New York-style pizza who appreciate large, foldable slices and a no-frills, family-friendly dining experience.
- Strengths
- Southport / Noblesville
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Brozinni Pizzeria brings authentic New York-style pizza to Indianapolis, known for its large, foldable slices, classic toppings, and a vibrant, casual atmosphere. It's a fantastic choice for a hearty, unpretentious pizza fix.
- What to order
- Stick to the classics here: a large 'Pepperoni' or 'Cheese' pizza will satisfy. Their garlic knots are also a fan favorite.
🕐 Opening hours
7Ale Emporium
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Casual dining and sports enthusiasts looking for a thin-crust pizza alongside legendary wings in a lively pub setting.
- Strengths
- Castleton / Fishers
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- While famous for its Hermanaki wings, Ale Emporium also serves up fantastic tavern-style pizzas with a thin, crispy crust, making it a beloved local sports bar. It's an energetic spot perfect for catching a game.
- What to order
- Definitely get the 'Hermanaki Chicken Pizza' – it incorporates their famous wing sauce. Of course, you must get an order of Hermanaki wings too!
🕐 Opening hours
8Greek's Pizzeria
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families and those seeking a traditional, comforting American-style pizza with a unique, slightly sweeter crust that's been a local favorite for generations.
- Strengths
- Broad Ripple / Downtown / Various
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Greek's Pizzeria has been a Hoosier tradition for decades, offering a distinctively delicious crust and generous toppings that embody classic American pizza. With numerous locations, it's a reliable choice for a comforting, familiar meal.
- What to order
- Their classic 'Pepperoni' or 'Supreme' pizza is a solid choice. Many rave about their 'Garlic Bread with Cheese' as a starter.
🕐 Opening hours
9Byrne's Pizza
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pizza purists seeking a taste of old-school Indianapolis, who appreciate tradition, simplicity, and a no-fuss, cash-only experience.
- Strengths
- West Side
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Byrne's Pizza is a true blast from the past, serving up no-frills, delicious classic American pizzas since 1957. Known for its distinct square-cut slices and cash-only policy, it offers a nostalgic taste of old Indianapolis.
- What to order
- A simple 'Pepperoni' or 'Sausage' pizza here is all you need to experience their enduring charm. Their crust is distinct and crispy.
🕐 Opening hours
10Puccini's Smiling Teeth Pizza & Pasta
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those who appreciate a reliable, high-quality gourmet thin-crust pizza with plenty of customizable options and a good family dining atmosphere.
- Strengths
- Various
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Puccini's is a popular local chain known for its consistently good gourmet thin-crust pizzas with a vast selection of specialty combinations and fresh ingredients. They also offer a wide array of pasta dishes and subs.
- What to order
- Their 'Pesto Chicken' pizza is a favorite, or build your own with their extensive list of toppings. Their 'Spaghetti with Meat Sauce' is also surprisingly good.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular style of pizza in Indianapolis?
Indianapolis has a diverse pizza scene, but Neapolitan and gourmet thin-crust styles are particularly popular and highly praised. However, you'll also find strong contenders in New York-style, Detroit-style, and classic American pies, reflecting the city's varied culinary tastes and historical influences. The 'tavern style' with its thin, crispy, square-cut crust is also a local favorite, especially in more traditional spots.
Are there good gluten-free pizza options in Indianapolis?
Yes, many pizzerias in Indianapolis offer excellent gluten-free crust options. Places like Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza and Puccini's Smiling Teeth Pizza & Pasta are especially known for their high-quality gluten-free choices that don't compromise on flavor or texture. Always inform your server about any dietary restrictions when ordering.
Which Indianapolis pizza places are best for families with kids?
Several pizzerias cater well to families. Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza, Brozinni Pizzeria, and Greek's Pizzeria are often cited as being very family-friendly, offering welcoming atmospheres, diverse menus, and generally more casual dining experiences that appeal to all ages. Pearl Street Pizzeria & Pub also has a relaxed vibe suitable for families before evening events.
Do any Indianapolis pizzerias offer vegan or dairy-free options?
Absolutely! Indianapolis is increasingly vegan-friendly. Many pizzerias offer vegan cheese substitutes and a wide array of vegetable toppings. It's best to call ahead, but places like Bazbeaux Pizza and Puccini's Smiling Teeth are often flexible with customizations to accommodate vegan and dairy-free diets, ensuring you can still enjoy a delicious pie.
What's the price range for a typical pizza meal in Indianapolis?
The price for a pizza meal in Indianapolis can vary widely. For a casual, budget-friendly experience, you might spend $15-25 per person, especially at places like Brozinni Pizzeria or Greek's. Mid-range spots like King Dough or Bazbeaux are typically $20-35 per person. Upscale options like Napolese Pizzeria might push to $25-40 per person, especially if including appetizers or drinks. A large pizza usually ranges from $18 to $30.
Where can I find New York-style pizza in Indianapolis?
For authentic New York-style pizza, Brozinni Pizzeria is widely regarded as one of the best in Indianapolis. They're known for their large, foldable slices and classic flavor profile that transports you straight to the streets of Brooklyn or Manhattan. Many locals swear by their traditional cheese and pepperoni pies.
Are there any historic or iconic pizza places in Indianapolis?
Yes, Indianapolis boasts a few iconic pizzerias with rich histories. Bazbeaux Pizza, established in 1986, is a beloved institution known for its gourmet thin-crust pizzas and unique ambiance. Byrne's Pizza, operating since 1957, offers a nostalgic, old-school experience with its classic square-cut pies and cash-only policy, providing a true taste of old Indianapolis.
What are some lesser-known pizza gems in Indianapolis worth trying?
Beyond the top picks, consider exploring places like Arni's Restaurant for its distinct 'cracker-thin' crust, or try the deep-dish style at South of Chicago Pizza and Beef for a different regional flavor. For a truly local, neighborhood feel, many smaller taverns and pubs also offer surprisingly good pizza that often goes overlooked by larger guides.