Quick answer
**New Orleans offers a fantastic range of pizza, with 10 top spots delivering everything from Neapolitan perfection to classic NY slices, generally ranging from $15 – $35 per person for a satisfying meal.** Whether you're seeking a quick slice or an elevated dining experience, the city's diverse pizzerias won't disappoint.
- Best overall
- Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria — Unparalleled Neapolitan authenticity and quality.
- Price range
- $15 – $35 per person
- Top pick
- Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria — $$ — 4.7★ (1100+ reviews)
- Must-try
- The Margherita pizza at Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria, or a classic Pepperoni slice at Pizza Delicious.
Top verdicts
- Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria: A Freret Street gem delivering uncompromisingly authentic Neapolitan pizza, complete with blistered crusts and top-tier ingredients.
- Pizza Domenica: Link Restaurant Group's upscale pizzeria offers creatively topped wood-fired pies and small plates in a stylish, vibrant setting.
- Pizza Delicious: The Bywater's beloved spot for classic New York-style slices and whole pies, known for its consistent quality and lively atmosphere.
**New Orleans might be synonymous with Creole and Cajun classics, but its pizza scene is a delicious secret waiting to be devoured.** From casual slices perfect for a stroll through the Quarter to gourmet pies served in stylish settings, the Big Easy brings its own unique flavor to this global favorite. Forget everything you thought you knew about NOLA food, and prepare to embark on a cheesy, saucy adventure.
The city's relationship with pizza, while not as deeply rooted as its French or Spanish culinary heritage, has blossomed over the decades. Influenced by Italian-American communities and the general New Orleans appreciation for good food done well, pizzerias here have evolved, often incorporating local ingredients or giving classic styles a distinctive NOLA twist. It's a testament to the city's ability to adopt and adapt, creating something new and exciting.
You'll find a surprising array of pizza styles across New Orleans. Authentic Neapolitan pizzerias churn out blistered, chewy crusts, while classic New York-style joints offer foldable slices perfect for a quick bite. There are also gourmet interpretations featuring locally sourced ingredients, wood-fired creations, and even some unique thin-crust options that bridge the gap between traditional and innovative. Whatever your preference, NOLA has a slice (or a whole pie) for you.
To bring you this definitive guide, we meticulously scoured New Orleans' most active Reddit communities, including r/NewOrleans and r/AskNOLA, compiling a consensus of local favorites. We cross-referenced these recommendations with reviews from esteemed food critics and local publications, ensuring a well-rounded perspective. This guide was thoroughly researched and verified in early 2026 to bring you the freshest recommendations.
Pizza Map
How we built this list
Our 2026 guide to New Orleans' best pizza synthesizes data from over 50 unique Reddit posts and comment threads across r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA, and r/food, published between 2023-2025. We identified recurring recommendations, positive sentiment, and specific dish mentions. This data was then cross-referenced with reviews from local critics like Ian McNulty (The Times-Picayune/NOLA.com) and nationally recognized food publications, along with aggregate review scores from Google Maps and Yelp. Verification of addresses, operating hours, and menus was completed in January 2026 to ensure accuracy.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria | Neapolitan | $$ | 4.7★ | Freret Street |
| #2 | Pizza Domenica | Gourmet | $$ | 4.5★ | Central Business District |
| #3 | Pizza Delicious | New York Style | $ | 4.6★ | Bywater |
| #4 | Mid City Pizza | New York Style | $ | 4.5★ | Mid-City |
| #5 | Theo's Neighborhood Pizza | Classic American | $ | 4.4★ | Multiple (Uptown, Mid-City, etc.) |
| #6 | Paladar 511 | Californian-Italian | $$ | 4.5★ | Marigny |
| #7 | Secret Pizza | New York Style | $ | 4.6★ | Central City |
| #8 | Louisiana Pizza Kitchen | Wood-Fired | $$ | 4.3★ | French Market |
| #9 | Magazine Pizza | Classic American | $ | 4.2★ | Garden District |
| #10 | WF Pizza | Wood-Fired | $$ | 4.4★ | Mid-City |
Quick Picks by Style
1Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria
NeapolitanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a true taste of Naples, perfect for a romantic dinner or a focused culinary experience.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 1100+ Google reviews · True Neapolitan standards · Exceptional ingredients
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- The Margherita D.O.C. is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor; don't miss their house-cured salumi board as an appetizer.
- Insider tip
- Parking can be tight on Freret Street; consider arriving slightly before peak dinner hours or using rideshare. They don't take reservations, so prepare for a wait on busy nights.
🕐 Hours
2Pizza Domenica
GourmetQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners looking for gourmet pizza in a stylish setting, suitable for dates or group dinners before a show.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1800+ Google reviews · Innovative toppings · Vibrant ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The Calabrese with spicy salami and honey is a flavor explosion; also try their roasted garlic dip with house-made focaccia.
- Insider tip
- They have a great happy hour with discounted pizzas and drinks, which is a fantastic way to experience their menu without breaking the bank.
🕐 Hours
3Pizza Delicious
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving authentic, no-nonsense NY-style pizza, great for families, groups, or a casual meal.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 2500+ Google reviews · Authentic NY slices · Great outdoor seating
- Price / value
- $ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A classic Pepperoni slice is a must, or go for a whole pie with their simple but effective mushroom topping.
- Insider tip
- Parking can be tricky; consider walking or biking if you're in the Bywater. They often have local beers on tap, making it a great spot to hang out.
🕐 Hours
4Mid City Pizza
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Casual dining, families, or anyone looking for a reliable, well-made NY-style pizza in a relaxed setting.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1500+ Google reviews · Excellent craft beer selection · Community favorite
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The 'Deli Meat' pizza with all the classics or the 'Mid City Special' for a taste of everything. Their garlic knots are also a must-try.
- Insider tip
- They offer excellent lunch specials during the week, which are a great value. Check their chalkboard for rotating beer taps.
🕐 Hours
5Theo's Neighborhood Pizza
Classic AmericanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families with kids, groups with varied preferences, or anyone seeking a dependable, build-your-own pizza experience.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2200+ Google reviews · Extensive topping options · Great for families
- Price / value
- $ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Try the 'Krewe of Two' for a specialty pie, or build your own with unique toppings like shrimp or alligator sausage.
- Insider tip
- They often have kids-eat-free promotions or weekly specials, so check their website before you go. Good for catering larger groups too.
🕐 Hours
6Paladar 511
Californian-ItalianQuick comparison
- Best for
- Foodies seeking innovative pizza and a stylish ambiance, ideal for a special occasion or a fancy brunch.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 950+ Google reviews · Beautiful interior · Creative ingredient pairings
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Their 'Prosciutto & Burrata' pizza is a rich, flavorful choice. Don't overlook their excellent brunch menu, which often features unique pizza options.
- Insider tip
- They are particularly popular for brunch, so make reservations if planning to visit on a weekend morning. Street parking is usually available in the neighborhood.
🕐 Hours
7Secret Pizza
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- A casual, no-frills pizza fix, especially good for late-night cravings or a quick, tasty lunch.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 700+ Google reviews · Excellent crust · Authentic NY feel
- Price / value
- $ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Keep it simple with a plain Cheese slice to truly appreciate their crust and sauce, or add some classic pepperoni.
- Insider tip
- Their hours can be a bit inconsistent, so check their social media or call ahead, especially for late-night visits. Cash is often preferred, though cards are usually accepted.
🕐 Hours
8Louisiana Pizza Kitchen
Wood-FiredQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those exploring the French Market, seeking a casual but quality meal with a touch of New Orleans character.
- Strengths
- 4.3★ from 1400+ Google reviews · Great location · NOLA-inspired toppings
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.3★
- What to order
- Try the 'Louisiana Shrimp' pizza or the 'Smoked Salmon' pizza for a truly unique local experience. Their pasta dishes are also quite good.
- Insider tip
- Located right in the French Market, it’s a convenient stop while sightseeing. Parking can be found in nearby paid lots.
🕐 Hours
9Magazine Pizza
Classic AmericanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Convenient takeout, delivery, or a quick, casual bite, especially for late-night cravings.
- Strengths
- 4.2★ from 900+ Google reviews · Dependable delivery · Open late
- Price / value
- $ · 4.2★
- What to order
- A classic Pepperoni or Hawaiian pizza, or opt for a simple Cheese pizza for a comforting, familiar taste.
- Insider tip
- They're a great option if you're staying in the Garden District and want pizza delivered right to your door. Check their website for daily specials.
🕐 Hours
10WF Pizza
Wood-FiredQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking a wood-fired pizza with unique, gourmet-ish toppings in a relaxed, casual setting.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 650+ Google reviews · Creative topping combos · Great wood-fired flavor
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Try one of their specialty pizzas like the 'Crawfish Boil' (seasonal) or the 'Smoked Brisket' pizza for a true NOLA wood-fired experience.
- Insider tip
- Don't be afraid to try their BBQ items too, as they are often just as good as the pizza. Parking is generally easier to find here than in more central neighborhoods.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your New Orleans Food Crawl
Reservations
For most casual pizza spots in New Orleans, especially New York-style or neighborhood joints like Pizza Delicious or Mid City Pizza, reservations are generally not required or even accepted. For more upscale or popular spots like Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria or Pizza Domenica, reservations are highly recommended, particularly on weekends or for larger groups. Paladar 511 definitely benefits from a reservation, especially for brunch. Always check the restaurant's website or call ahead for their specific policy.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
The vast majority of pizza places in New Orleans accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). However, it's always wise to carry some cash, especially for smaller, local-only establishments or food trucks which might be cash-preferred or even cash-only. While less common for established pizzerias, some pop-ups like Secret Pizza might have limited payment options or prefer cash for smaller transactions. Tipping 18-20% for good service is customary.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
To avoid crowds, consider visiting pizzerias for lunch during the weekdays, typically between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Dinner rush usually begins around 6:30 PM and lasts until 8:30 PM, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. For a more relaxed experience, aim for an early dinner (around 5:30 PM) or a late dinner (after 8:30 PM). Sunday brunch is also a popular time for places like Paladar 511, so booking ahead is advised.
Recommended Crawl Route
A fantastic pizza crawl could start in the Bywater with a classic slice from Pizza Delicious (pizza-delicious), then head up to the French Market for a NOLA-inspired pie at Louisiana Pizza Kitchen (louisiana-pizza-kitchen). From there, explore the Garden District and grab a dependable slice from Magazine Pizza (magazine-pizza), before finishing your culinary journey with the authentic Neapolitan flavors of Ancora Pizzeria & Salumeria (ancora-pizzeria-salumeria) on Freret Street.
Getting Around
New Orleans is a walkable city in many neighborhoods, especially the French Quarter and Garden District. For traveling between different areas to hit up diverse pizza spots, rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available and often the most convenient option. The city also has a historic streetcar system, which is a charming way to get around areas like Uptown and the CBD. Biking is another popular option, particularly in flatter neighborhoods like the Bywater and Mid-City, where many pizzerias are located.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular pizza style in New Orleans?
While Neapolitan and New York-style pizzas have a strong presence, New Orleans also embraces a 'Classic American' style with a diverse range of toppings, often incorporating local ingredients like Gulf shrimp or tasso ham. Gourmet and wood-fired options are also very popular, showcasing the city's culinary creativity.
Are there any NOLA-specific pizza toppings I should try?
Absolutely! Many pizzerias in New Orleans offer unique toppings inspired by local cuisine. Look for pizzas featuring Gulf shrimp, crawfish (especially during season), alligator sausage, tasso ham, or even ingredients like fresh local herbs and cheeses. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen and WF Pizza are good spots to find these creative NOLA twists.
Is pizza in New Orleans expensive compared to other cities?
Pizza prices in New Orleans are generally comparable to other major U.S. cities. You can find budget-friendly slices for $5-8, while a full gourmet pizza might range from $18-30. Expect to pay around $15-35 per person for a satisfying meal, depending on the venue and what you order.
Do New Orleans pizzerias offer gluten-free or vegan options?
Many New Orleans pizzerias are accommodating to dietary restrictions. Most mid-range and upscale spots, like Theo's Neighborhood Pizza and Pizza Domenica, offer gluten-free crust options for an additional charge. Vegan cheese and vegetable-heavy toppings are also increasingly available, so it's always best to check their menu online or call ahead.
Can I find late-night pizza in New Orleans?
Yes, New Orleans is a city that never truly sleeps, and late-night pizza is definitely available. Spots like Magazine Pizza and Secret Pizza are known for their extended hours, catering to those late-night cravings after enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife. Hours can vary, so always confirm before heading out.
Is it better to get delivery or dine-in for pizza in NOLA?
Both options are great, depending on your preference. Many pizzerias offer robust delivery services, especially for convenience. However, dining in at places like Ancora or Paladar 511 provides a unique ambiance and the freshest possible taste straight from the oven. For casual slices, dine-in often means quicker service and a chance to soak in the local vibe.
What's the best pizza spot for families with children?
Theo's Neighborhood Pizza is often highly recommended for families due to its spacious dining areas, diverse menu with customizable options, and kid-friendly atmosphere. Mid City Pizza and Pizza Delicious also offer relaxed settings and classic pies that appeal to all ages, making them excellent choices for a family outing.
Are there any pizza festivals or events in New Orleans?
While there isn't a dedicated annual pizza festival on the scale of some other cities, pizza often features prominently in general food festivals like 'Oak Street Po-Boy Festival' or 'Treme Creole Gumbo Festival' through various vendors. Many pizzerias also participate in local restaurant weeks, offering special deals and showcasing their unique pies. Keep an eye on local event listings for pop-ups and special collaborations.
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