San Antonio is a city rich in culture and flavor, and its pizza offerings are no exception. Over the years, I’ve tasted pizzas from numerous spots, each bringing its own unique twist to this beloved dish. Whether it’s a cozy local joint or a well-known chain, there’s something here for every pizza lover.
In this article, I will guide you through the 15 best pizza restaurants in San Antonio. Each of these spots has been chosen for its quality, taste, and overall dining experience. Find your next favorite pizza place right here in the heart of Texas.
1) Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
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Dough Pizzeria Napoletana is one of San Antonio’s most popular pizza spots. They specialize in making genuine Neapolitan pizza. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Their wood-burning ovens, named “Il Cuore” and “Scintilla,” bake pizzas quickly at over 900 degrees.
Doug and Lori started this pizzeria in 2007. They have since opened two more locations: another one in San Antonio and one in Plano, Texas. They also connect with Goldbelly to ship their pizzas across the country.
The restaurant offers a unique option, “Dough on the Go!” This is a pizza trailer that caters for events. It allows you to enjoy their delicious pizzas anywhere. They are proud of their commitment to simple, balanced, and high-quality pizza.
Rating: 4.4 (3300 reviews)
Location: 6989 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216
Contact: (210) 979-6565
2) Il Forno
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Il Forno is well-known for its scratch-made pizzas. They use house-made meats like coppa, prosciutto, and pepperoni. They also offer a “not pizza” menu with diverse options. The focus on quality extends to their veggies, which they source from local farmers.
The dining experience at Il Forno can be both indoor and outdoor. They also have a wide selection of local beer and wine. This gives diners plenty of choices to enjoy with their meal.
It’s worth noting that while they are working on online ordering, they currently take orders by phone for pick-up.
Rating: 4.7 (1000 reviews)
Location: 122 Nogalitos St, San Antonio, TX 78204
Contact: (210) 616-2198
3) Pizzeria Vesuvio
Pizzeria Vesuvio is a standout spot for pizza lovers in San Antonio, TX. Located in the heart of the city, this local restaurant is known for its delicious pies. They offer a variety of options, including custom pizzas and specialty choices like the Vesuvio, Bianco, and Capri pizzas.
The menu doesn’t stop at pizza. It also features appetizers, salads, wings, pasta, and desserts. Their marinara sauce and cheese combination is a crowd favorite. For those who wish to dine at home, takeout and delivery are available through Slice.
Their service is exceptional, making it a great place for both lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is welcoming perfect for enjoying a meal with friends and family. Be sure to check for deals and coupons before ordering to get the best value.
Rating: 4.7 (843 reviews)
Location: 1110 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78210
Contact: (210) 245-7478
4) Maar’s Pizza & More
Maar’s Pizza & More is a family-owned restaurant that first opened its doors in 2011. The name “MAAR” comes from the initials of the family members’ first names: Martha, Alison, Ashley, and Rene. This personal touch is reflected in their warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Their menu features a variety of options, including pizza, pasta, wings, and salads. They pride themselves on the quality and taste of their food, aiming to provide excellent customer service. You can dine in, opt for curbside pickup, or get delivery through services like DoorDash, Uber, or Grubhub.
If you visit from Wednesday to Sunday between 11 AM and 9 PM, you’ll find them open and ready to serve. They’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Their commitment to quality and their convenient dining options make them a popular choice.
Rating: 4.6 (2000 reviews)
Location: 14218 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247
Contact: (210) 599-7400
5) Stella Public House
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Stella Public House is a standout pizza spot in San Antonio. It features a unique “farm to pizza” concept. This means the ingredients come from local farms and ranches. The pizzas are baked in an Italian Modena oven using oak and pecan wood.
Besides pizza, they offer shared plates, house-made cheeses, and fresh salads. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh and tasty dishes all year round. They also have comfort foods made with locally sourced ingredients.
For drinks, Stella Public House has 20 rotating taps of craft beers. These come from different parts of the country. They also offer a diverse wine list with selections from around the world.
Rating: 4.4 (1200 reviews)
Location: 1414 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78210
Contact: (210) 277-7047
6) Pizza Classics
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Pizza Classics has been family-owned since 1986. Located near Brackenridge Park, this restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious pizza. They offer a variety of options, including calzones and a special Buy One Get One Free deal for pick-up orders.
Many customers praise the quick service and friendly staff. Reviews on Yelp highlight the good quality of the pizza, noting that it often arrives hot and tasty when delivered.
I enjoy the flexibility at Pizza Classics. They offer catering for events like birthdays, weddings, and corporate gatherings. It’s easy to order online if I don’t feel like cooking.
Rating: 4.5 (3000 reviews)
Location: 3440 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
Contact: (210) 225-3356
7) Guillermo’s
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Guillermo’s is a top spot for pizza in San Antonio. This place has been around for 23 years and has a great reputation. The food here is special, with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The atmosphere is relaxed. You can enjoy your meal indoors or on the outdoor patio. If you have a dog, you can bring them too. They cater to events and have a private dining room called the 1836 Room.
The staff at Guillermo’s is friendly and ready to help. They want to make sure you enjoy your meal. There is also plenty of free parking, which is convenient.
Rating: 4.4 (3000 reviews)
Location: 618 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
Contact: (210) 223-5587
8) Florio’s Pizza Inc.
I have to mention Florio’s Pizza Inc. when talking about great pizza in San Antonio. This place stands out for its delicious NY-style pizza, which feels like a slice of New York right in Texas.
The crust is thin and crispy, with the perfect balance of cheese and toppings. You can taste the quality in every bite. The atmosphere is casual and makes you feel at home.
The staff is always friendly and willing to go the extra mile. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, you won’t be disappointed.
Rating: 4.5 (781 reviews)
Location: 7701 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Contact: (210) 805-8646
9) Julian’s Italian Pizzeria & Kitchen
Julian’s Italian Pizzeria & Kitchen is a well-known spot for Italian food in San Antonio. The family-owned place prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, with a history that spans three generations. From thin, crispy pizza crusts to homemade sauce, they focus on delivering the best flavors.
The restaurant has three locations in San Antonio, making it easily accessible no matter where you are in the city. Whether you visit the West Avenue, Alamo Heights, or Bulverde Road location, you’ll be greeted by a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.
Julian’s offers a variety of Italian dishes, but their pizza is a standout. They use whole milk mozzarella cheese and the freshest toppings to make each pizza delicious. The owners, Julian, Kara, Hannah, and Cole, often interact with customers, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.
Rating: 4.4 (1200 reviews)
Location: 13444 West Ave Suite 300, San Antonio, TX 78216
Contact: (210) 496-3500
10) Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
Dough Pizzeria Napoletana makes authentic Neapolitan pizza using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. They bake their pizzas in wood-burning ovens named “Il Cuore” and “Scintilla,” which cook the pizzas in just 90 seconds at over 900 degrees. The result is perfectly balanced, simple, and high-quality pizza.
Opened by Doug and Lori in San Antonio on November 22, 2007, Dough Pizzeria has grown to include locations in Plano, Texas, and another one in downtown San Antonio. Their downtown location is near the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center at Hemisfair. They have become a well-loved place for locals and visitors alike.
In addition to their restaurant dining, Dough Pizzeria partners with Goldbelly to offer nationwide shipping of their pizzas. This means you can enjoy their famous Neapolitan pizza no matter where you are in the country. They also have a pizza trailer, “Dough on the Go!,” that caters private events.
Rating: 4.6 (1500 reviews)
Location: 518 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Contact: (210) 227-2900
Understanding San Antonio’s Pizza Scene
San Antonio offers a diverse range of pizza styles influenced by various cultures, making it a unique destination for pizza lovers. Each pizzeria adds its own twist to traditional recipes, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Regional Pizza Styles
In San Antonio, you’ll find a blend of different pizza styles. One popular style is Brooklyn-style pizza, known for its thin, crispy crust and simple yet flavorful toppings. Grimaldi’s, located at 15900 La Cantera Pkwy, is a great place to experience this style.
Another favorite is Neapolitan pizza, characterized by its soft, flexible crust and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Flume Pizzeria on 200 S. Alamo St. combines this style with local Texan flavors to create what they call Texapoletana.
Lastly, the city offers New York-style pizza served by places like Trilogy Pizza at 8522 Broadway #105. This style is famous for its large, foldable slices and a perfect balance between cheese and sauce.
Cultural Influences
San Antonio’s vibrant culinary scene is deeply influenced by its diverse cultures. This is evident in the fusion cuisines offered by many pizzerias. For example, you’ll find Tex-Mex influences in some pizzas, incorporating ingredients like jalapeños, chorizo, and even taco toppings.
Family-owned establishments, such as those started by Buffalo NY natives, bring authentic northeastern flavors to the city. Their expertise ensures every pie tastes just like it would back in New York.
Live music and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of many local joints reflect the community-oriented culture of San Antonio. Places like Fralo’s not only serve great pizza but also offer a venue for local artists, creating a dining experience that’s as cultural as it is culinary.
Common Ingredients and Local Flavors
Pizza in San Antonio is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offers unique toppings that highlight the city’s cultural diversity.
Local Sources and Freshness
San Antonio’s pizza restaurants often prioritize fresh ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers. This focus on local sources ensures high quality and flavor. It’s not uncommon to see menus featuring organic vegetables, locally-grown basil, and farm-fresh cheeses.
For example, many places use tomatoes grown in Texas for their sauces. These tomatoes are known for their rich taste. Additionally, meats like sausage and pepperoni are often sourced from regional butchers, guaranteeing freshness and supporting local businesses.
Unique Toppings
San Antonio’s pizza scene stands out with its diverse and creative toppings. Beyond traditional pepperoni and mushrooms, you can find options like brisket, jalapeños, and even barbecue sauce.
Some places feature Tex-Mex-inspired toppings, adding a unique flair to their pizzas. For instance, you might find a pizza topped with elote (Mexican street corn) and cotija cheese or a combination of chorizo and avocado. These distinctive toppings reflect San Antonio’s rich cultural tapestry and offer flavors that are both bold and satisfying.
Specialty pizzas might also include ingredients like grilled chicken, roasted garlic, and a variety of fresh herbs, ensuring every bite is an exciting experience.
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Pizza Restaurant
When choosing a pizza restaurant, it’s essential to look beyond the menu. Paying attention to reviews and ratings, as well as considering the ambiance and service, can make your dining experience truly enjoyable.
Reading Reviews and Ratings
I always start by checking reviews and ratings online. Websites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews provide a wealth of information. By reading multiple reviews, I get a good idea of the quality of the pizza, consistency, and overall customer satisfaction. Reviews often highlight specific pizzas that are especially good or note if the crust and toppings are fresh.
Another useful tip is to look for patterns in the feedback. If many people mention great service or complain about long wait times, it’s likely a common experience. Ratings can directly reflect the popularity and reliability of the spot. A higher average rating with numerous reviews usually indicates a consistent experience. While a single bad review might not be a deal-breaker, repeated issues should be taken seriously.
Considering Ambiance and Service
The atmosphere of a restaurant can significantly impact the dining experience. I always consider the ambiance to ensure it matches the occasion. Whether I’m looking for a cozy, laid-back setting for a casual evening or a lively place to celebrate with friends, the restaurant’s vibe should fit my needs.
Service is another crucial aspect. Welcoming staff can make the experience more enjoyable, while poor service can ruin it. I pay attention to reviews that mention whether the service staff is friendly and attentive. Additionally, I consider the cleanliness of the establishment, both in the dining area and online images.
A well-kept restaurant with a pleasant atmosphere and excellent service levels often indicates a great overall dining experience.
Conclusion
San Antonio’s pizza scene is truly something special, offering a wide range of options that cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Neapolitan pies to unique Tex-Mex-inspired creations, the city’s pizzerias showcase a blend of creativity and quality.
Next time you’re in the mood for a slice, be sure to check out these top spots. Each one brings its own flavor and charm, ensuring that you’ll find a new favorite. Enjoy exploring the diverse and delicious pizza options that San Antonio has to offer!