Whether you’re a lifelong Buckeye or just passing through Ohio’s capital, there’s one thing everyone agrees on—Columbus knows its pizza. From edge-to-edge toppings on crispy thin crusts to wood-fired artisan pies topped with local ingredients, the city serves up something for every pizza lover. In this guide, we’ll take a slice-by-slice look at the best pizza in Columbus, featuring local favorites, unique flavors, and can’t-miss spots that deliver the goods every single time.
What Makes Columbus Pizza Unique
A Brief History of Pizza in Columbus
Pizza has been a staple in Columbus since the mid-20th century, with the city’s first pizzerias opening in the 1950s. Over the decades, Columbus has developed its own pizza identity, blending traditional Italian techniques with local flair. Today, the city boasts a thriving pizza culture, with spots ranging from family-owned shops to trendy, upscale eateries.
Signature Styles and Toppings
Its signature “Columbus-style” pizza, known for its thin, crispy crust and square-cut slices, sets Columbus apart. This style often features a slightly sweet sauce and a generous layer of provolone cheese, making it distinct from other regional varieties. Local toppings like spicy pepperoni, house-made sausage, and even Ohio-grown vegetables add a unique twist to the classic pizza experience.
Top Local Pizza Shops You Can’t Miss
Mikey’s Late Night Slice
A Columbus original with serious personality. Known for wild flavor combos, clever signage, and spicy “Unicorn Sauce,” Mikey’s is a must. Try the “Cheezus Crust” or their vegan options.
Massey’s Pizza
Founded in 1949, Massey’s is a Columbus-style legend, serving thin crust pizzas cut in squares and loaded with toppings. Their pepperoni is a local icon.
Harvest Pizzeria
Craving gourmet? Harvest offers artisan pies with locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavor combos like fig + prosciutto. Also a top choice for gluten-free diners.
Yellow Brick Pizza
This artsy neighborhood joint dishes out thick-crust, pan-style pies and vegan-friendly options. Their “Firebird” with hot chicken and pickles is a bold standout.
Terita’s Pizza
A hidden gem on Cleveland Ave. Family-run since 1959, Terita’s delivers old-school flavor with edge-to-edge toppings and the kind of crust that keeps locals loyal.
Rubino’s Pizza
If you want classic Columbus thin crust done perfectly, Rubino’s is your spot. No-frills, no delivery, just great pizza in a retro diner setting.
Paulie Gee’s Short North
For Neapolitan lovers, Paulie Gee’s brings wood-fired perfection to the table. Their “Hellboy” with hot honey and soppressata is a flavor explosion.
Best Pizza by Style in Columbus
Best Deep Dish in Columbus: Pies & Pints
Thick, doughy, and heavy on the cheese—this is where you go when you want to dig in with a fork and a napkin.
Best New York Style Slice: East Coast Pizzeria
Big, foldable slices with gooey cheese and tangy sauce. Grab one with a soda and live your NYC-in-Ohio dream.
Best Wood-Fired Neapolitan Pizza: Paulie Gee’s Short North
Bubbled crusts, charred edges, and imported ingredients—this is authentic pizza Napoletana at its finest.
Best Gluten-Free or Vegan Pizza: Fusian Pizza (Pop-Up Series)
Offering rotating vegan crusts and cheese options, Fusian’s collaborations with local chefs are a dream for plant-based eaters.
Late Night & Delivery Pizza in Columbus
Best Pizza for Late-Night Cravings: Mikey’s Late Night Slice
Open late and slinging slices till 2AM (or later on weekends), this spot is a local after-hours tradition.
Top Delivery-Only Pizza Places: Pizza Primo
Not fancy, just solid, fast, and cheesy. Great for a Friday night binge session or impromptu party.
Best Takeout Deals for Families: Donatos Pizza
A Columbus-born chain that still delivers local love. Check out their combo deals and consistently crispy crust.
Where to Get Pizza and a Great Experience
Best Pizza & Brewery Combo Spots: Wolf’s Ridge Brewing + Harvest Pizza (Downtown)
Pair a bold IPA with a slice of fig and goat cheese pizza, and thank us later.
Most Instagrammable Pizza Joints: Paulie Gee’s, Yellow Brick Pizza, Mikey’s
Great pizza + great ambiance = social media gold.
Best Pizza Places with Outdoor Patios: Harvest Pizzeria (Clintonville), Gatto’s Pizza (Upper Arlington)
Enjoy your slice under the sun with a drink in hand—yes, even in Ohio.
Conclusion
Columbus might not have the pizza fame of New York or Chicago, but what it lacks in global hype, it makes up for in flavor, community, and variety. From old-school thin crust legends like Massey’s and Rubino’s to experimental spots like Mikey’s and Yellow Brick, you’re never more than a few minutes away from your next favorite slice.
So whether you’re a crust connoisseur or a cheese lover, the best pizza in Columbus is waiting for you—one delicious slice at a time.
Which pizza place did we miss? Drop your favorite in the comments or tag us on social with your go-to Columbus pie!
