Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul have long been celebrated for their vibrant culture, diverse communities, and thriving food scene that encompasses a wide range of cuisines. In the heart of this culinary wonderland, pizza stands as an enduring symbol of comfort and indulgence, capturing the hearts and palates of both locals and visitors. From traditional New York-style slices to artisanal wood-fired creations, the Twin Cities boast a pizza scene that is as diverse as it is delectable. In this gastronomic journey through the urban heart of Minnesota, we embark on a quest to uncover the absolute best pizza spots in the Twin Cities. Whether you’re a passionate pizza connoisseur or just someone looking for a comforting slice of cheesy heaven, this article is your definitive guide to savoring the finest pizzas these two cities have to offer.
What are the Best Pizza Spots in the Twin Cities?
- Pizza Lucé
- Cossetta’s
- Red Wagon Pizza Company
- Black Sheep
- Pizzeria Lola
- Hello Pizza
- Young Joni
- Rocco’s Pizza
- Nino’s Pizzeria
- Mesa Pizza
- Skinner’s
- Pi-Wood Fired Pizza
- Donatelli’s
- Grand Pizza
- Pizza Man
- Sarpino’s Pizzeria
- Red’s Savoy
- Pino’s Pizza and Pasta
- Pig Ate My Pizza
- Slice
- Wrecktangle Pizza
1. Pizza Lucé
Pizza Lucé is one of the Twin Cities’ most renowned pizza spots. The first store started in 1993 and has expanded rapidly since then. Currently, there are nine neighborhood locations in the Twin Cities and Duluth.
Pizza Lucé offers creative pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, and more. The extensive pizza menu features unique combinations like the “Shrimp Al Pesto”. There are also gluten-free and vegan options. The restaurant uses only fresh ingredients. Behind-the-scenes, you’ll find skilled pizzaiolos perfecting dough, crafting house-made sauces, and adding toppings with precision.
The Minneapolis Downtown location has a vibrant atmosphere with a full bar. The artistic décor and friendly staff make it a great pizza spot. The restaurant also offers a wide range of beverages, including craft beer.
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2. Cossetta’s
Cossetta’s is an Italian market and pizzeria located in St. Paul. It’s famous for its authentic Italian cuisine. Located in the heart of St. Paul, Cossetta’s has a lively marketplace atmosphere. Diners can choose between the upscale Louis Ristorante & Bar or the more casual, self-service Pizzeria. The enormous, expansive three-story structure is ideally located two blocks from the Xcel Energy Center at the intersection of north Chestnut Street and 7th Street west.
Cossetta’s is known for its classic Italian pizza. They use the finest ingredients, including imported cheeses and house-made sauces. The Margherita pizza is a must-try. Cossetta’s prides itself on traditional pizza-making techniques, from hand-tossing the dough to wood-fired baking.
The restaurant offers a full Italian dining experience, from antipasti to dessert. The Louis Ristorante & Bar has an extensive wine list to complement your meal.
3. Red Wagon Pizza Company
Next on our list of the best pizza spots in the Twin Cities is the Red Wagon Pizza Company. Red Wagon Pizza Company is a food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant that has earned a reputation for its artisanal pizzas prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Located in the charming neighborhood of Longfellow, the restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with an open kitchen.
Red Wagon Pizza Company’s menu showcases seasonal ingredients and creative combinations. The “Bianca” pizza with garlic cream, mozzarella, and prosciutto is a standout. The skilled chefs hand-stretch the dough and cook the pizza in a wood-fired oven, giving it that perfect crispy crust. Red Wagon also offers a range of craft beers and wines to pair with your pizza, and they often host special events and collaborations with local breweries.
4. Black Sheep
Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza has made its mark in the Twin Cities with a unique approach to pizza-making. They specialize in coal-fired pizzas, resulting in a distinctive flavor and texture. You can watch the fascinating coal-fired pizza-making process. The 900-degree coal-burning oven ensures a crisp crust and perfect char.
The restaurant, located in the trendy North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis, has a modern and chic ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
Black Sheep’s menu offers a range of creative coal-fired pizzas. The “Spicy Honey and Soppressata” pizza is a local favorite, showcasing a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The restaurant offers an extensive drink menu, including craft cocktails and an excellent selection of wine and beer to complement your pizza.
5. Pizzeria Lola
Pizzeria Lola, located in South Minneapolis, is known for its creative pizzas prepared with locally sourced ingredients. With its rustic décor and friendly staff, the restaurant exudes a warm and welcoming vibe. Lola is perfect for a family dinner or a casual night out.
Lola’s menu features inventive pizza creations like the “Sweet Italian” with fennel sausage and honey. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options. You can pair your pizza with one of their craft beers or signature cocktails.
The chefs at Pizzeria Lola craft their pizzas with precision, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The wood-fired oven imparts a delightful smokiness.
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6. Hello Pizza
Hello Pizza, located in Edina, brings a nostalgic twist to the Twin Cities pizza scene. It’s a throwback to the classic pizzerias of the past, with a modern twist. The restaurant has a cozy, retro atmosphere reminiscent of old-school pizza joints. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a taste of nostalgia.
Hello Pizza’s menu includes classic pizza options like the “Margherita” and the “Pepperoni.” They focus on using quality ingredients and traditional techniques. The expert pizza makers hand-toss the dough and cook it to perfection in their gas-fired deck ovens, creating that perfect blend of chewy and crispy.
Enjoy your pizza with a soda fountain drink or one of their craft beers on tap. The vintage charm and delicious pizza keep patrons coming back.
7. Young Joni
Young Joni is an acclaimed restaurant located in the heart of Northeast Minneapolis. It’s known for its wood-fired cooking and inventive pizzas. The restaurant features a warm and inviting ambiance with a rustic yet modern design. The wood-burning ovens are at the heart of the dining experience, giving it a cozy feel.
Young Joni’s menu offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas, including the “Lady ZaZa” with house-made kimchi. They also have a delectable dessert pizza for those with a sweet tooth. The restaurant offers an excellent selection of craft cocktails, wine, and beer, making it an ideal spot for a night out or a special celebration.
8. Rocco’s Pizza
Rocco’s Pizza has been serving up delicious pies to the Twin Cities for decades. It’s a neighborhood institution known for its classic, no-frills approach to pizza. With multiple locations in the Twin Cities, Rocco’s maintains a simple and unpretentious atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Rocco’s menu features traditional pizza options like pepperoni and sausage. They focus on providing consistent, delicious pizza that locals have come to love. Behind the counter, you’ll find the dedicated staff rolling out dough, spreading sauce, and loading up toppings before baking to perfection.
Rocco’s is all about delivering great pizza quickly. It’s a go-to spot for those craving classic, comforting slices without any fuss.
9. Nino’s Pizzeria
Nino’s Pizzeria, located in the heart of Maplewood, is a family-owned gem known for its commitment to using fresh ingredients and serving up delicious pizza. The restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with friendly service. It’s a great place for family gatherings or a casual night out.
Nino’s menu includes a wide range of pizza options, from classic pepperoni to gourmet choices like the “Prosciutto and Arugula.” They also offer gluten-free crust. The skilled pizza makers at Nino’s work their magic in the kitchen, crafting each pizza with care and attention to detail. Enjoy your pizza with a cold beer or a glass of wine. Nino’s dedication to quality and flavor shines through in every bite.
10. Mesa Pizza
Mesa Pizza, located in Dinkytown near the University of Minnesota, has been a favorite among students and locals for its late-night pizza offerings and unique flavor combinations. The restaurant is known for its laid-back vibe, which is perfect for grabbing a slice or two with friends, especially during late-night hours.
Mesa’s menu boasts an array of creative and unconventional pizza slices, including mac ‘n’ cheese pizza and dessert options like “Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar.” Behind the counter, you’ll find the friendly staff reheating slices and serving them up quickly for hungry customers.
While Mesa Pizza may not offer a formal sit-down experience, it excels in providing satisfying and unique slices, making it a go-to spot for those seeking late-night indulgence.
11. Skinner’s
Though Skinner’s isn’t your standard “pizza joint,” their menu includes delectable, warm, greasy pizzas. Skinner’s Pub & Eatery in St. Paul is a neighborhood staple known for its classic pub fare, including pizza, in a friendly and casual setting. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming pub atmosphere with friendly service. It’s a great place to unwind with friends and enjoy a meal.
Skinner’s menu features a variety of pizza options, from classic pepperoni to specialty pizzas like the “Skinner’s Deluxe.” They also offer other pub favorites like burgers and sandwiches. The kitchen at Skinner’s prepares pizzas using fresh ingredients and bakes them to perfection, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. You can enjoy your pizza with a cold beer from their selection of taps.
12. Pi-Wood Fired Pizza
Next on our list of the best pizza spots in the Twin Cities is the Pi-Wood Fired Pizza. Located in Rochester, it is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts looking for a unique wood-fired pizza experience. The restaurant has a rustic and welcoming atmosphere with an open kitchen, allowing you to watch the pizza-making process in action. Witness the skilled pizzaiolos crafting your pizza with precision and cooking it to perfection in their wood-fired oven.
Pi-Wood Fired Pizza’s menu showcases a variety of wood-fired pizzas, including the “Fennel Sausage & Roasted Red Pepper” pizza. They also offer gluten-free options.
Pi-Wood Fired Pizza offers a selection of wine and craft beers to complement your meal, making it an ideal spot for a delightful culinary experience.
13. Donatelli’s
For 42 years straight, this Italian eatery has been a mainstay in Minnesota. The menu at Donatelli’s is extensive, and so are the serving sizes. The restauarant has a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Donatelli’s menu features classic Italian and American dishes, including a variety of traditional and specialty pizzas, such as the “Donatelli’s Deluxe.” In the kitchen, skilled chefs create their pizzas from scratch, using fresh ingredients and baking them to perfection in their ovens.
Donatelli’s offers an extensive wine list, cocktails, and a welcoming environment that makes it a fantastic choice for a night out with loved ones.
14. Grand Pizza
Grand Pizza, located in St. Paul, has earned a reputation for its delicious, hand-tossed pizzas prepared with high quality ingredients. The restaurant has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Grand Pizza’s menu offers a wide range of pizza choices, from classic options to inventive creations like the “Grand Veggie.” They also have gluten-free crusts. The dedicated kitchen staff at Grand Pizza prepares each pizza with care, using quality ingredients and traditional methods. You can pair your pizza with a cold beer or wine from their selection.
15. Pizza Man
Pizza Man has been a mainstay business in Minnesota and Wisconsin for about 45 years, with over thirty distinct locations in the region. Every Pizza Man you encounter will be a little bit unique. Despite the fact that Pizza Man is regarded as a chain, all of these are independently owned and run.
Pizza Man’s uncomplicated, unhurried environments and menus provide for an easy meal at a reasonable cost. No two Pizza Man locations have the same menu offerings. The menu includes classic pizza options, such as pepperoni and sausage, made with fresh ingredients and a commitment to flavor. Find the Pizza Man location closest to you to enjoy one of Minnesota’s best pizza options.
16. Sarpino’s Pizzeria
Sarpino’s Pizzeria, a popular chain, has a strong presence in the Twin Cities and is known for its wide variety of pizza options and quick delivery service. While Sarpino’s primarily focuses on delivery and takeout, some locations offer a cozy dine-in experience with a focus on convenience.
Sarpino’s menu is vast, featuring a plethora of pizza choices, from classic margherita to specialty pies like the “Sarpino’s Super Supreme.” The skilled kitchen team ensures that each pizza is prepared with care and is ready for quick delivery or pickup. While Sarpino’s isn’t your traditional sit-down pizzeria, it excels in providing a diverse range of pizzas delivered right to your doorstep.
17. Red’s Savoy
Red’s Savoy, a local chain with several locations across the Twin Cities, has been serving up its iconic, square-cut pizzas for decades. The restaurant has a casual and welcoming atmosphere, making it a comfortable spot for groups and families.
Red’s Savoy is known for its unique pizza style, featuring square slices with a distinctive sweet and tangy sauce. The “Sausage and Green Olive” is a standout. Pair your square slices with a soda or beer, and savor the one-of-a-kind taste that locals have cherished for generations.
18. Pino’s Pizza and Pasta
The proprietor of Pino’s Pizza and Pasta is the brother of the proprietor of Nino’s Pizzeria. Pino’s Pizza and Pasta, located in Woodbury, is a family-owned Italian restaurant known for its authentic Italian cuisine and, of course, delicious pizza. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Pino’s menu includes a variety of classic and specialty pizzas, such as the “Pino’s Deluxe.” They also offer gluten-free crusts for those with dietary preferences. Pair your pizza with a glass of wine from their selection or enjoy one of their Italian specialties.
19. Pig Ate My Pizza
Pig Ate My Pizza, located in Robbinsdale, is not your typical pizza place. It’s a creative culinary haven known for its innovative pizzas. The restaurant has a trendy and eclectic atmosphere with an open kitchen, allowing guests to observe the culinary magic in action. Watch as the culinary team pushes the boundaries of pizza-making, experimenting with flavors and textures to deliver unforgettable culinary experiences.
Pig Ate My Pizza’s menu is a testament to creativity, featuring unconventional pizza creations like the “Kim Jong-Yum” with kimchi and bulgogi. Their menu is ever-evolving. Pair your unique pizza with a craft beer from their rotating selection.
20. Slice
Slice, located in St. Paul, is a neighborhood pizzeria with a focus on quality and flavor, offering a variety of classic and specialty pizzas. The restaurant provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for family gatherings and casual dining.
Slice’s menu includes a range of pizza options, from timeless favorites like pepperoni to specialty pies like the “Buffalo Chicken.” Enjoy your pizza with a soda or beer.
21. Wrecktangle Pizza
Last but not least on our list of the best pizza spots in the Twin Cities is the Wrecktangle Pizza. Located in Minneapolis, this restaurant is known for its creative pizza offerings, innovative toppings, and fun approach to pizza-making. The restaurant has a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or a fun night out with friends.
Wrecktangle Pizza’s menu is all about pushing boundaries, featuring unconventional pizza toppings and combinations, such as the “Korean BBQ Pork.” Pair your adventurous slice with a craft beer or cocktail.
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Conclusion
The Twin Cities’ pizza scene has something for everyone. There are several remarkable pizzerias in the Twin Cities, each with its unique charm and flavor. Therefore, selecting the best pizza spots is no easy task. We hope with this guide, you can narrow down your choices and embark on your own pizza adventure.