Indiana’s pizza scene offers some incredible local gems that locals can’t stop raving about. From traditional wood-fired pies to creative gourmet combinations, these hometown pizzerias have won the hearts of Hoosiers with their quality ingredients and dedication to craft. Whether you’re craving a classic slice or something adventurous, these nine beloved pizza spots showcase the best of what Indiana has to offer.
1. The Wooden Peel – Bremen
Hidden in the small town of Bremen, The Wooden Peel serves up artisanal wood-fired pizzas that rival big-city offerings. Their handcrafted dough ferments for 48 hours, creating a perfect chewy-yet-crisp texture that locals drive miles to experience.
Family-owned since 2010, this cozy spot sources ingredients from nearby farms whenever possible. Their signature Bremen Special combines locally-made sausage with caramelized onions and fresh herbs.
Weekend evenings often mean a wait, but regulars insist it’s worth it for their seasonal specialty pies that showcase Indiana’s agricultural bounty.
2. Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza – Indianapolis/Greenwood
What started as a neighborhood pizzeria has blossomed into an Indianapolis institution with multiple locations. Jockamo’s thin crust pizzas feature unexpected topping combinations that somehow work perfectly together.
The Slaughterhouse Five – topped with pepperoni, ham, sausage, bacon and ground beef – pays homage to Indiana author Kurt Vonnegut. Their commitment to creative recipes extends to seasonal specialties featuring ingredients like butternut squash and local goat cheese.
Beyond great pizza, Jockamo’s warm atmosphere makes it a gathering spot where families celebrate milestones and friends catch up over craft beers.
3. King Dough – Indianapolis
From humble beginnings in Bloomington to their current trendy Holy Cross neighborhood spot, King Dough has earned royal status among pizza aficionados. Their leopard-spotted Neapolitan crusts emerge from 900-degree wood-fired ovens with just the right amount of char.
Owners Adam and Alicia Sweet bring passion to every pie, balancing traditional techniques with modern creativity. The Destroyer – featuring hot soppressata, hot honey, and basil – has developed an almost cult-like following.
On summer evenings, their patio buzzes with energy as friends share pizzas, natural wines, and craft cocktails in what feels like Indianapolis’s most delicious backyard party.
4. Futuro – Indianapolis
“Life-changing” is how locals often describe their first bite of Futuro’s Detroit-style pizza. The rectangular pies with caramelized cheese edges have turned this small spot into a destination for pizza pilgrims from across the Midwest.
Starting as a pop-up before finding a permanent home, Futuro combines traditional techniques with boundary-pushing flavor combinations. Their Hot Honey Pepperoni has converted even the most conservative pizza purists.
Recently named the second-best pizza joint in the Midwest by Yelp, this small but mighty establishment proves that Indiana’s pizza scene deserves national attention.
5. Pangea Kitchen – Evansville
At Pangea Kitchen, authentic Neapolitan pizza meets global cuisine in an unexpected culinary haven in southern Indiana. Owner Randy Hobson studied pizza-making in Naples before bringing his expertise back to Evansville, where he installed a custom-built Italian oven.
The restaurant’s name reflects its philosophy – bringing together diverse culinary traditions under one roof. Their pizzas feature imported Italian flour and San Marzano tomatoes alongside locally sourced toppings.
Beyond pizza, Pangea offers house-made gelato and pasta, making it a complete Italian experience that has transformed Evansville’s food scene and earned regional acclaim.
6. Crafters Pizza & Drafthouse – Carmel
Beer lovers and pizza enthusiasts unite at this north suburban hotspot where craft brews and artisanal pies share the spotlight. Crafters’ hand-tossed crusts strike the perfect balance between chewy and crispy, providing the foundation for their creative combinations.
Located in Carmel’s bustling Midtown area, this family-friendly establishment offers a rotating selection of 30+ local and regional beers on tap. Their Buffalo Chicken pizza – topped with house-made buffalo sauce and blue cheese – pairs surprisingly well with hoppy IPAs.
During warmer months, the garage-door walls open to create an indoor-outdoor space where neighbors gather to enjoy Crafters’ welcoming community vibe.
7. I Tre Mori – Fishers
Authenticity reigns supreme at I Tre Mori, where the Morettini family brings generations of Italian pizza-making tradition to the Indianapolis suburbs. Their classic Margherita – with its perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil – transports diners straight to Naples.
Named after the Three Moors of Italian folklore, this unassuming strip mall gem surprises first-time visitors with its extraordinary flavors. The family imports specific ingredients directly from Italy while sourcing others locally.
Regulars know to save room for their tiramisu, made daily according to a closely guarded family recipe that completes the authentic Italian dining experience.
8. Magoo’s California Pizza – Avon
California dreaming meets Hoosier hospitality at this west suburban favorite that’s been satisfying pizza cravings for over two decades. Unlike traditional Midwest pizza joints, Magoo’s brings West Coast flair with their lighter, herb-infused crusts and farm-fresh toppings.
The BBQ Chicken Pizza – a California pizza staple – gets a uniquely Indiana twist with locally sourced chicken and house-made barbecue sauce. Owner Mike “Magoo” McGowan personally greets regulars, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps families coming back.
Their commitment to quality extends to gluten-free and vegetarian options that never feel like afterthoughts, earning them a diverse and loyal following.
9. Bazbeaux Pizza – Indianapolis
A pioneer of Indianapolis’s gourmet pizza scene since 1986, Bazbeaux has achieved legendary status among multiple generations of Hoosiers. Named after a medieval court jester, this local institution began in Broad Ripple before expanding to Mass Ave and Carmel.
Their signature thick, crunchy crust serves as the foundation for creative combinations like the Tchoupitoulas – featuring andouille sausage, shrimp, and Cajun spices. Vegetarians celebrate their extensive meat-free options that never sacrifice flavor.
The original location’s charming patio remains one of the city’s most sought-after dining spots during summer, where longtime fans introduce newcomers to their first Bazbeaux experience.
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