From the shores of Lake Erie to the bustling downtown streets and across every neighborhood, pizzerias proudly showcase Cleveland’s deep-rooted passion. The city’s thriving Italian-American heritage and diverse regional styles shine through in its dynamic, ever-evolving pizza landscape. There’s no single Cleveland pizza experience—it’s a delicious mosaic of thin-crust traditions, loaded deep-dish creations, and innovative toppings that tell the city’s story in every slice.
Jake’s Pizza
$ | (216) 505-5008 | WEBSITE
Jake’s Pizza, among the hustle and bustle of Cleveland’s dining scene, is similarly popular, but more straightforward. The New York-style pizza is no less delicious, with a menu that satisfies all cravings. Pepperoni slices lathered in a tangy tomato sauce pave the way for the restaurant’s signature Philly Cheese Steak pizza. Our go-to topping for these simultaneously crispy and chewy pies is barbecue chicken.
Ordered alongside a spicy buffalo chicken slice or Jamaican Beef Patty, you could call it a day and be more than satisfied. But options like wings with perfect tenderness, as well as the lunch special turn a quick bite into a feast.
27 Club Coffee
$ | (216) 727-0027 | WEBSITE
27 Club Coffee is a world away from the typical downtown Cleveland coffee shop, but this small spot delivers a slice of punk rock culture. Like many music-themed cafes on a Saturday morning, bright pink decor and MGK memorabilia surround solo visitors and groups of friends sipping colorful lattes, with the atmosphere growing more relaxed as the morning stretches on. The standout items are 27 Club’s signature drinks, for good reason.
It’s impossible to capture the appeal of these beverages in so few words, especially the Lucky Charms coffee. When you finish the accompanying PBR waffles, you might find yourself tempted to order another round. For a quick afternoon treat, the pink cinnamon rolls, creatively inspired by and reminiscent of classic pastries with a vibrant punk twist, will satisfy your sweet tooth until dinner.
Georgio’s Oven Fresh Pizza Co
$ | (216) 341-2030 | WEBSITE
Georgio’s Oven Fresh Pizza Co’s compact, brightly lit space in Cleveland is a far cry from the sprawling pizzerias that dot the city. But this spot continues to deliver quality like no other pizza joint in town, using owner Georgio’s commitment to freshness as a base for creating consistently satisfying pies. There are flavors and textures you’ll want to savor, be it a perfectly crisp thin crust or a pepperoni slice with extra cheese.
It’s easy to see where this consistency comes from when the staff greets regulars by name, with smiles, quick service, and recommendations from the straightforward menu.
Citizen Pie
$ | (216) 417-2742 | WEBSITE
It’s impossible not to fall under the spell of the pizzaiolo, the skilled artisan behind Citizen Pie. After perfecting his craft with wood-fired ovens, he opened across from an old music venue. The neighborhood, with its cozy vibe and welcoming feel, fosters community, and although Citizen Pie isn’t a huge space, the warmth and hospitality create a charming atmosphere. There’s a focused, well-curated menu, and those craving bold flavors should get the smoked pep pizza.
The wood-fired pie comes topped with perfectly balanced ingredients, a charred crust with a delightful chew and subtle burnt edge that pizza lovers dream about.
Don Gi’s Pizzeria
$ | (216) 739-0880 | WEBSITE
Don Gi’s Pizzeria, nestled in Cleveland’s pizza scene, is the quintessential neighborhood spot—unassuming storefront, families streaming in and out, and a buzz that builds as the evening rolls on. But when that buzz hits, you’re in for a treat. On any given night, the kitchen churns out piping hot pies with that standout crust everyone raves about. Servers bring out plates of the popular Buffalo chicken pizza and seafood pizza, both highlights. The club sub and fried chicken are also must-tries.
Kids aren’t an afterthought, with a dedicated meal available. Between the fresh, tasty crust that holds up even reheated and the special sauce that’s not too sweet or spicy, no one will leave disappointed.
Arcade Pizza
$ | (216) 441-5647 | WEBSITE
Head to Arcade Pizza in Cleveland if you’ve got a pizza craving on the cards. In the evenings, the cozy spot hums with activity while plates of their signature pies fill tables. Arcade Pizza serves good versions of classics like pepperoni pizza and garlic wings. But it’s worth getting specialties like the pepperoni on top of the cheese, a beloved local twist that customers rave about. The crust is praised as ‘to die for’—crispy, crunchy, and perfectly executed.
Like you would a trusted friend for dining advice, ask the friendly staff for their best pairing recommendations—be it extra garlic sauce, a side of wings, or just another slice. It’s a cash-only spot with easy curbside access, making it accessible despite the limited parking. While it may be pricey, it’s worth it for the quality that has stood the test of time, becoming part of family traditions and neighborhood memories.
Mimi’s Pizza
$ | (440) 545-1157 | WEBSITE
Mimi’s Pizza, a Cleveland local favorite, delivers a genuine homemade food experience with outstanding value. Each slice, be it the classic cheese, the meatball-topped bomb pizza with hot sauce, or a fresh complimentary offering, comes with genuine care. The one slice and salad combo, a popular choice, even comes with Mimi’s own warm conversation. The menu stays consistent, but you can always expect crisp-crusted pizzas with generous toppings that satisfy.
Any thoughts that a takeout-focused spot may mean a rushed experience are immediately put to ease by the clean, bright space and the amazingly kind staff, who often provide complimentary dishes like sausage and peppers or a fresh slice. Overall, it’s the type of delicious meal with impressive service that makes you want to come back and tell everyone you know.
Carmino’s Pizza
$ | (216) 398-9365 | WEBSITE
Pizza places, even when ordering for the whole family, tend to focus on one main attraction—the pie itself, with maybe a side of wings or breadsticks. But Carmino’s combination of classic pizza with unexpected fried chicken excellence is too good to overlook. Be it their great pizza, their surprisingly amazing wings, or their top-notch Stromboli.
The dinner menu is highlighted by the fried chicken dinner with jojos and potato salad that turns a simple pickup order into a memorable, satisfying meal. The Old Brooklyn spot’s pleasant staff and reliable service will make you feel taken care of whether you’re grabbing a quick family dinner or planning a casual weekend feast.
Athens Pizzeria
$ | (216) 476-1944 | WEBSITE
Athens Pizzeria has been a cornerstone of Cleveland’s pizza scene for what feels like forever. As other spots have popped up and faded away, Athens stands as steady as the city’s iconic Terminal Tower. It’s a testament to the quality of food that has kept regulars coming back for decades and their knack for introducing classic pizza to Cleveland’s evolving neighborhoods. We recommend starting with the garlic bread with cheese or the meatballs, then diving into their nostalgic 70’s-style pizza.
The latter, which includes options like half cheese and pepperoni, is anchored by their excellent stromboli. Desserts like the cherry cheesecake and tiramisu are excellent too. Let the evening unwind, with a cold beer in hand, in the warm, family-friendly dining room where the staff makes everyone feel at home.
Maxi’s Bistro
$$ | (216) 421-1500 | WEBSITE
Maxi’s Bistro is a Cleveland institution, as beloved by locals seeking authentic Italian cuisine as it is by visitors exploring the city’s vibrant food scene. For years, Clevelanders have headed to this cozy patio spot before concerts or neighborhood strolls to experience its welcoming atmosphere. Attentive, kind waitstaff serve Italian classics like seafood pasta, lobster pasta, and the legendary calamari pasta—described as out of this world—on simple, rustic plates.
Our forks usually remain busy, though, as we savor house specialty calamari dinner with its perfect sauce, alongside caprese salads that pair beautifully with summer cocktails. There’s a magical energy on the patio during summer evenings, where families enjoying dinner sit side by side with concert-goers seeking a delicious, relaxed meal before the show.
Joe De’s Brick Oven Pizza
$ | (216) 661-1990 | WEBSITE
Joe De’s Brick Oven Pizza describes itself as a family-owned restaurant and dishes have a neighborhood charm, but its Italian-American roots are hard to miss and everything has a comforting familiarity. The 12-inch pizza with pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage will please traditionalists with a perfectly crispy underside and generous, well-balanced toppings. Chicken options are as satisfying as you could imagine from a place that prides itself on hearty, family-style meals.
Joe De’s version of Chicken Parm is a dream for comfort-food lovers as the tasty chicken is paired with good spaghetti and sauce alongside great garlic bread with cheese. Just make sure to come hungry—everyone else does.
Fabio’s Pizza Cleveland
$ | (216) 939-7777 | WEBSITE
Pizza in Cleveland mostly represents a familiar slice of the city’s culinary landscape. Fabio’s Pizza is representative of a different tradition, one even distinct from many local pizzerias, which often stick to classic American-Italian styles. An homage to the owners’ blended heritage, Fabio’s signature pies are a portal into Italian and Romanian recipes. Real dough is made fresh daily, and the pizza is unrivalled.
The Margherita, meatball-topped slices, or crowd-favourite Chicken Parmesan sandwiches are crafted with care, baked to perfection, and neatly boxed for takeout. There’s a location near downtown venues and freeway access. The spot has some seating so the piping-hot pizza comes straight from the oven to your table.
Beach Club Bistro
$$ | (216) 731-7499 | WEBSITE
There isn’t an officially designated Little Italy or Little Naples in Cleveland, but Beach Club Bistro’s unassuming storefront on a quiet street corner is high on the list. Among casual storefronts, coffee shops, and local businesses, its warm glow and welcoming patio beckon like a beacon. On the way to the counter to order, you’ll pass solo diners and whole families, both with a spread of hearty dishes that you would find in a classic American bistro.
Burgers are bolstered with thick, juicy patties made to order, and the ‘Uncommon’ fish comes breaded to perfection and served with crisp vegetables or golden fries. Get the mozzarella and tomato appetizer, a simple, satisfying starter featuring creamy fresh cheese; the crowd-pleasing pizza with its crisp crust and generous toppings; and a refreshing cocktail from their well-curated drink selection.