University City, Philadelphia, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and pizza takes center stage. From classic New York-style slices to innovative gourmet pies, there's a pizza place in University City to satisfy every craving. This comprehensive guide explores 17 of the best pizza spots, ensuring you find your new favorite slice of heaven. We'll cover everything from casual to upscale, highlighting what makes each unique. This list is perfect for students, faculty, and anyone exploring the diverse food offerings of University City.
Finding the Perfect Pizza in University City: A Guide for Every Taste
Choosing the right pizza can be a daunting task, especially with so many amazing options in University City. To help you navigate this delicious dilemma, we've categorized our top picks based on style, atmosphere, and price point. Whether you're looking for a quick, affordable slice or a celebratory gourmet pizza, this guide will point you in the right direction.
Classic New York Style: Thin Crust and Big Flavor
1. Lorenzo's Pizza: This University City institution is known for its massive, thin-crust pies, perfect for sharing (or not!). Their classic cheese is a must-try, and their specialty pizzas are equally impressive. The consistently high quality and generous portions make Lorenzo's a perennial favorite.
2. Pizzaiola: A bit further down the line, Pizzaiola offers another take on the classic New York style. Their focus on fresh ingredients shines through in every bite. They also offer calzones and other Italian-American staples.
3. Joe's Pizza: A popular late-night option, Joe's provides a reliable, affordable, and quick pizza experience. Perfect for students needing a late-night snack or a quick lunch between classes.
Gourmet and Creative Pies: Stepping Outside the Box
4. Pizzeria Stella: This spot elevates pizza to an art form. They use high-quality, seasonal ingredients, resulting in innovative and delicious pizzas that go beyond the traditional. Their creative toppings and unique flavor combinations are guaranteed to impress.
5. Vetri Cucina: While not strictly a pizza place, Vetri Cucina's pizza is phenomenal. This upscale restaurant features expertly crafted pizzas with inventive toppings and a sophisticated atmosphere.
6. Talula's Garden: This farm-to-table restaurant uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft exceptional pizzas. They often change their menu, ensuring a constant supply of unique and delightful surprises.
Unique Styles and International Flavors
7. Monk's Cafe: This beloved pub also boasts a surprisingly delicious pizza. Their thin crust and unique topping combinations are a perfect match for their extensive beer selection.
8. Apizza Scholls: While technically not in University City, it's close enough for a special occasion! This iconic New Haven-style apizza place is known for its coal-fired, thin-crust pies with a slightly charred crust. It's worth the trip for an authentic apizza experience.
9. Pirogi & Pierogi: This place offers a fun twist with their pierogi-inspired pizzas. They're not your traditional pizza, but they're creative and delicious – a perfect choice for an adventurous palate.
Quick Bites and Casual Spots: Grab-and-Go Pizza
10. Slice Pizza: A popular choice for a quick and affordable slice, Slice Pizza offers a wide variety of classic and specialty toppings. Perfect for a casual lunch or a late-night snack.
11. Campus Pizza: Conveniently located near the University of Pennsylvania campus, Campus Pizza is another go-to spot for students looking for a quick and cheap pizza fix.
12. Little Caesars: A national chain, Little Caesars offers a budget-friendly option for a quick pizza. Not the most gourmet, but a reliable choice when you're on a tight budget.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Discover Your New Favorite
13. Isabella's: A local favorite known for its consistently delicious pizzas and friendly service.
14. Your Local Deli: Many local delis in University City offer surprisingly good pizza. It might not be the most extravagant, but it's a convenient and often tasty option.
15. Domino's/Papa John's: The ubiquitous pizza chains offer reliable delivery when you're too tired to leave the house.
Upscale Pizza Experiences: Celebrating in Style
16. Amada: This Spanish tapas restaurant offers a unique and delicious pizza as part of its menu. The high-quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors make it a truly special experience.
17. Parc: This upscale French bistro also has a high-quality pizza on its menu. Its luxurious atmosphere and sophisticated flavors make it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
Choosing Your Pizza Adventure in University City
This list provides a starting point for your pizza exploration in University City. Remember to consider factors like your budget, desired atmosphere, and preferred pizza style when making your decision. Don't be afraid to try something new – you might just discover your new favorite pizza place! Happy eating!
