Buffalo, New York, is renowned for its pizza. Forget the usual pepperoni and cheese; Buffalo pizza is a unique culinary experience, with its own distinct style and traditions. Whether you prefer thin crust, thick crust, or something in between, Buffalo offers a pizza for every palate. This guide explores 24 of the most beloved pizza restaurants in the city, ensuring your next Buffalo pizza adventure is unforgettable. We'll delve into what makes each place special, highlighting their unique offerings and helping you discover your new favorite slice.
The Best of Buffalo Pizza: A Diverse Slice of Life
Buffalo's pizza scene is incredibly diverse, offering a range of styles and flavors. From classic thin crust to thick, Sicilian-style pies, the city has it all. Many establishments have been family-run for generations, passing down treasured recipes and techniques. This dedication to tradition, combined with a willingness to innovate, creates a vibrant and exciting pizza landscape. Let's explore some of the best options, categorized for easier navigation:
Classic Buffalo-Style Pizza Joints
These restaurants represent the heart and soul of Buffalo pizza, often using local ingredients and time-honored methods.
1. Pizza Plant
Known for its consistently delicious, classic Buffalo-style pizza, Pizza Plant is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Their signature thin crust is crispy and flavorful, perfectly complementing their generous toppings.
2. La Nova Pizzeria
A Buffalo institution, La Nova is famed for its incredibly thin crust. It's almost cracker-like in texture, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with their rich tomato sauce. Be prepared for a potential wait during peak hours – it’s a testament to their popularity.
3. Gabriel's Gate
With multiple locations, Gabriel's Gate maintains its high standards across the board. Their pizzas are a testament to the enduring appeal of a simple, well-executed Buffalo-style pie. They also offer a variety of other Italian-American dishes, making it a great option for a full meal.
4. Westside Bazaar
This vibrant food hall showcases a diverse range of culinary offerings, including several excellent pizza options. It’s a great place to sample different styles and find your new favorite. Check their website for current vendors.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Different Pizza Styles
Buffalo's pizza scene extends beyond the traditional thin crust. These restaurants offer unique styles and flavors:
5. Sophia's
Sophia's offers a unique take on the classic, focusing on high-quality ingredients and a slightly thicker crust than the traditional Buffalo style.
6. Taverna Rossa
Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, Taverna Rossa brings a touch of Italian authenticity to Buffalo's pizza scene. Expect a lighter, airier crust and a focus on fresh, flavorful toppings.
7. Roccos
Roccos is a popular spot for its delicious Sicilian-style pizza, characterized by its thick, rectangular crust. Perfect for sharing!
8. Aragona's
Aragona's also offers exceptional Sicilian pizza, offering a great alternative to the thin-crust options.
9. The Black Sheep
Known for its unique and creative pizza toppings, The Black Sheep is a fantastic option for those seeking something a little different.
10. Bar Bill Tavern
Though primarily known for its BBQ, Bar Bill's pizzas are a well-kept secret amongst locals. Their pies are delicious and the perfect complement to their smoky BBQ.
Family Favorites: Generations of Pizza Perfection
These family-run restaurants have been serving delicious pizza to Buffalo for years, often using time-tested recipes.
11. Parise's
This family-run pizzeria is a beloved neighborhood institution, serving up classic Buffalo-style pizza that keeps customers coming back for more.
12. Franco's Pizza
Franco's Pizza is a popular neighborhood pizza place with a dedicated local following.
13. Sinatra's
Sinatra's serves traditional thin crust pizzas and is well-loved by the local community.
Hidden Gems: Discover Your New Favorite
These restaurants might be less well-known, but they consistently deliver excellent pizza.
14. 716 Food and Sport
This is more than just a pizza spot; it's a great place to watch the game and enjoy some amazing food, including their top notch pizza.
15. Danny's Pizza
Danny's Pizza is a local favorite known for its consistently good food and friendly service.
16. Square Pizza
As the name suggests, this establishment specializes in square-cut pizzas, offering a different shape and presentation from the traditional round.
17. Vito's Pizza
A local favorite for its unique take on classic pizza.
Beyond the Traditional: Unique Pizza Experiences
These restaurants offer unique experiences and pizza styles that break from the traditional Buffalo mold.
18. Brick Oven Bistro
This restaurant features a beautiful brick oven, producing pizzas with a unique, slightly smoky flavor.
19. Pizza Amore
A restaurant focusing on a creative take on pizza, using higher end ingredients and a focus on unique flavor combinations.
20. Original Frank's
A favorite for its classic pizza and unique atmosphere.
Pizza with a View: Enjoying Your Slice with a Side of Scenery
These restaurants offer a fantastic atmosphere in addition to their delicious pizza.
21. The Parkside Candy
Enjoy your pizza with a beautiful view of the city.
22. Mozzarella's
Located in a prime location offering great atmosphere and views.
New and Notable: Fresh Faces in the Buffalo Pizza Scene
23. Doughboy's Pizza
A relative newcomer that is quickly gaining popularity for its creative pies and great atmosphere.
24. Formento's
A newer addition to the Buffalo pizza scene, offering its own take on classic and unique pizza options.
Conclusion: Your Buffalo Pizza Adventure Awaits
Buffalo's pizza scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors and styles. Whether you're a seasoned pizza aficionado or a newcomer to the city, this guide offers a starting point for your culinary adventure. Grab a slice (or several!), and explore the best Buffalo pizza has to offer. Remember to check restaurant hours and consider making reservations, especially during peak times. Enjoy!
