Locals Keep Going Back To These 10 Pizza Places In Virginia

Virginia has become a surprising hotspot for pizza lovers who crave everything from authentic Neapolitan pies to towering New York slices.

Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Alexandria or catching waves in Virginia Beach, you’ll find pizzerias that have earned fierce loyalty from locals.

These aren’t just places to grab a quick bite.

They’re community gathering spots where families celebrate, friends catch up, and students fuel late-night study sessions.

From wood-fired ovens imported from Italy to recipes passed down through generations, each pizzeria on this list offers something special that keeps Virginians coming back week after week.

What makes these ten spots stand out isn’t just their delicious pies.

It’s the combination of quality ingredients, passionate owners, and that intangible atmosphere that makes you feel at home the moment you walk through the door.

Some have been serving their neighborhoods for decades, while others have quickly risen to cult status with innovative approaches to classic styles.

Get ready to discover the pizza places that have captured the hearts and taste buds of locals across the Old Dominion State.

1. Pupatella (Arlington & Richmond)

Authenticity matters when you’re talking about Neapolitan pizza, and Pupatella has earned certification that proves they’re doing it right.

The wood-fired ovens here reach temperatures that create that perfect balance of charred, bubbly crust and tender, chewy interior.

Locals in both Arlington and Richmond have made this spot their regular Friday night destination.

What sets Pupatella apart is their commitment to traditional Italian techniques combined with genuine hospitality.

You’ll find classic Margherita pizzas with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil that tastes like it was just picked from a garden.

The dough undergoes a careful fermentation process that develops complex flavors you simply can’t rush.

Families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that doesn’t feel stuffy despite the authentic approach.

Kids are just as excited about their pizzas as adults, which says something about how universally appealing truly great pizza can be.

The Arlington location buzzes with energy during peak hours, while the Richmond spot has developed its own devoted following.

Staff members know many customers by name and remember their favorite orders.

This personal touch transforms a simple meal into a genuine dining experience.

Pupatella doesn’t cut corners or compromise on ingredients, which explains why people drive across town specifically for their pies.

The restaurant has become more than just a place to eat.

It’s a destination that represents what happens when passion meets skill.

Address: 5104 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205 (Arlington location)

Whether you’re a pizza purist or just someone who appreciates exceptional food, Pupatella delivers an experience that keeps Northern Virginia residents coming back.

The consistency across both locations means you’ll get the same quality no matter which one you visit.

That reliability has built trust with customers who know exactly what to expect every single time.

2. The Italian Store (Arlington)

Walking into The Italian Store feels like stepping into a neighborhood gathering place that has been serving the community for generations.

This Arlington institution has mastered the art of New York-style pizza alongside their famous sandwiches.

The slices here are substantial, foldable, and exactly what you want when craving that classic pizza experience.

Northern Virginia residents treat this place like their personal kitchen, stopping by for lunch, dinner, and everything in between.

The counter service moves quickly even during rush hours, with staff who work with practiced efficiency.

You can grab a slice and be on your way, or settle in to enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

What makes The Italian Store special is how it balances being both a quick-service spot and a place worth lingering.

The pizza crust achieves that perfect New York texture with a slight crunch on the bottom and enough flexibility to fold properly.

Cheese stretches in long, satisfying strings when you take that first bite.

Regulars have their preferred toppings, but even a simple cheese slice demonstrates the quality of ingredients used here.

The store also functions as a market where you can pick up Italian groceries, which adds to its authentic neighborhood vibe.

This dual purpose means locals can grab pizza for dinner and ingredients for tomorrow’s meal in one stop.

Efficiency meets deliciousness in a way that busy families truly appreciate.

Students from nearby schools flood in during afternoon hours, while professionals grab quick lunches during weekdays.

Address: 3123 Lee Hwy, Arlington, VA 22201

The Italian Store has become woven into the fabric of Arlington life.

People recommend it to newcomers as a must-visit spot, creating a continuous cycle of discovery and loyalty that keeps the tables full year-round.

3. Andy’s Pizza (Alexandria & Tysons)

Awards line the walls at Andy’s Pizza, but what really matters is how locals have embraced this pizzeria as their go-to spot.

The commitment to high-quality ingredients shines through in every pie that comes out of their ovens.

This isn’t pizza made from whatever’s cheapest or most convenient.

Andy’s sources carefully and it shows in the final product.

New York-style pizza done right requires attention to detail that many places overlook.

The crust needs proper structure to support generous toppings without becoming soggy or floppy.

Andy’s has perfected this balance, creating pizzas that satisfy both structural integrity and flavor expectations.

Both the Alexandria and Tysons locations maintain the same standards, which builds confidence among customers.

You know what you’re getting regardless of which location is more convenient on any given day.

That consistency has helped Andy’s become a staple rather than just another pizza option.

Families celebrating kids’ achievements, coworkers grabbing lunch, and couples on casual date nights all find something to love here.

The atmosphere stays relaxed and unpretentious, focusing attention where it belongs: on the pizza itself.

Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, while the sauce strikes that perfect balance between tangy and sweet.

Even simple cheese pizzas taste complex because each component has been thoughtfully selected.

When you add premium toppings, the quality difference becomes even more apparent.

Andy’s has built its reputation slice by slice, pie by pie, satisfied customer by satisfied customer.

Address: 6239 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312 (Alexandria location)

The rapid rise to local favorite status didn’t happen by accident.

It happened because Andy’s delivers authentic NYC-style pizza that respects tradition while meeting modern expectations for quality and service.

4. Benny’s (Multiple Locations)

Size matters when you’re feeding a crowd, and Benny’s understands this better than anyone in Virginia.

Their massive pies have become legendary among college students, families, and anyone who appreciates getting serious value.

The slices here aren’t dainty triangles you finish in three bites.

They’re substantial portions that require two hands and genuine hunger to conquer.

Virginia-style pizza might not be as famous as New York or Chicago styles, but Benny’s has created something worth celebrating.

The sheer scale of their offerings makes them perfect for parties, game days, and gatherings where quantity matters as much as quality.

Students across the state have made Benny’s their unofficial headquarters for late-night study sessions and celebration dinners.

Multiple locations mean you’re never too far from one of their enormous pies.

Each spot maintains the same commitment to generous portions and satisfying flavors.

The atmosphere stays casual and energetic, matching the enthusiastic crowds that fill the restaurants.

What’s impressive is how Benny’s manages to keep quality consistent even with such large pizzas.

The crust holds up under the weight of toppings, and everything cooks evenly despite the massive surface area.

This takes skill and experience that many pizzerias simply don’t possess.

Groups of friends can share a single pie and still have leftovers, which makes Benny’s incredibly economical.

Parents appreciate being able to feed hungry teenagers without breaking the bank.

Sports teams celebrate victories here, knowing everyone will leave satisfied.

Address: Multiple locations throughout Virginia

Benny’s has carved out a unique niche in Virginia’s pizza landscape by going bigger and bolder than competitors.

Their approach resonates with customers who want maximum pizza for their money without sacrificing taste or quality in the process.

5. Stracci Pizza (Alexandria)

Roman-style pizza differs significantly from its Neapolitan cousin, and Stracci has introduced Alexandria to this delicious variation.

The thin, crispy sourdough crust provides a completely different texture experience than traditional pizza.

It’s lighter, airier, and allows toppings to truly shine without being overwhelmed by bread.

Cult followings don’t develop overnight, but Stracci has earned devoted fans who plan their meals around availability.

Long wait times have become part of the experience, a badge of honor that proves you’re willing to be patient for something exceptional.

Smart locals call ahead or arrive during off-peak hours to avoid the longest waits.

The sourdough starter gives the crust complex, tangy notes that complement both simple and elaborate topping combinations.

This isn’t pizza you eat mindlessly while watching television.

It’s pizza that deserves attention and appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

Alexandria residents have embraced Stracci as a special-occasion destination and a regular weeknight treat.

The versatility comes from how the Roman style works equally well for casual dinners and celebratory meals.

Each pizza emerges from the oven with edges that shatter satisfyingly when you bite down.

The interior stays tender while maintaining enough structure to support generous toppings.

This balance takes serious skill to achieve consistently.

Stracci’s popularity has spread through word-of-mouth recommendations from enthusiastic customers who can’t stop talking about their experiences.

Social media posts featuring their distinctive rectangular pizzas have created additional buzz and curiosity.

Address: 2446 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301

First-time visitors often arrive skeptical about whether the wait and hype are justified.

They leave as converts, already planning their return visit and mentally compiling lists of friends who need to experience Stracci’s unique approach to pizza.

6. Mary Angela’s Pizzeria (Richmond)

Carytown’s vibrant neighborhood has many dining options, but Mary Angela’s holds a special place in local hearts.

This is the kind of pizzeria that doesn’t need gimmicks or flashy marketing because the pizza speaks for itself.

Classic New York-style done right never goes out of fashion.

Neighborhood gems like Mary Angela’s become part of the community fabric, places where regulars feel genuine ownership and pride.

The no-frills approach means all energy and resources go into making excellent pizza rather than elaborate decorations or trendy concepts.

Sometimes simple is exactly what people want and need.

Richmond residents consistently recommend Mary Angela’s to visitors and newcomers as an essential stop.

The pizzeria has maintained quality and consistency over time, which builds the kind of trust money can’t buy.

You know what you’re getting, and you know it will be good.

Slices here satisfy that craving for straightforward, delicious pizza without pretension or complications.

The crust has proper chew, the cheese melts perfectly, and the sauce brings everything together with balanced seasoning.

These fundamentals matter more than exotic toppings or Instagram-worthy presentations.

Families grab pies for movie nights, students fuel study sessions, and professionals pick up dinner after long workdays.

Mary Angela’s serves all these customers with equal care and attention.

The pizzeria has witnessed countless celebrations, casual dinners, and spontaneous stops over the years.

Each visit adds to the collective memory bank that makes this place irreplaceable in the neighborhood.

Address: 3345 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221

What Mary Angela’s proves is that you don’t need to reinvent pizza to be successful.

You just need to respect the craft, use quality ingredients, and treat customers like the neighbors and friends they truly are in Carytown’s tight-knit community.

7. ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse (Virginia Beach)

Virginia Beach brings a different energy to the pizza scene, and ShoreBreak captures that coastal vibe perfectly.

The sports bar setting creates a lively atmosphere where friends gather to watch games, celebrate, and enjoy award-winning pizza.

This combination of great food and entertainment keeps the place packed with locals year-round.

Beach communities often struggle with maintaining quality once tourist season ends, but ShoreBreak has earned year-round loyalty from residents.

The pizza stands on its own merits, not relying on captive vacation audiences or seasonal traffic.

That’s how you know a coastal restaurant has truly succeeded.

Multiple screens ensure you never miss important plays while enjoying your meal.

The atmosphere gets energetic during big games but never becomes so loud you can’t have conversations.

Balancing sports bar excitement with dining comfort takes thoughtful design and management.

ShoreBreak’s pizza has won recognition for good reason.

The pies combine quality ingredients with creative combinations that go beyond standard offerings.

You can stick with classics or explore more adventurous options depending on your mood.

Groups of friends find ShoreBreak ideal because everyone can order what they want while sharing the communal experience.

Families appreciate having options that please both kids and adults.

The versatility makes this spot work for various occasions and group compositions.

Location near the beach means you can grab pizza after a day in the sun or before heading out for evening entertainment.

This convenience factor adds to ShoreBreak’s appeal among locals who build it into their regular routines.

Address: 2812 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

ShoreBreak proves that pizza and sports viewing create a winning combination when both elements receive proper attention and quality commitment from ownership and staff.

8. Tony’s NY Pizza (Fairfax & Manassas)

Authenticity sometimes means embracing the gloriously greasy nature of traditional New York pizza, and Tony’s doesn’t apologize for it.

This is pizza that requires extra napkins and leaves your fingers shiny with delicious oil.

Purists appreciate this commitment to the classic experience.

Long-standing favorites earn that status by consistently delivering what customers expect and crave.

Tony’s has been serving both Fairfax and Manassas for years, building generations of loyal customers.

Parents who ate here as teenagers now bring their own children for the same experience.

The traditional approach means Tony’s hasn’t chased every food trend or attempted to modernize unnecessarily.

Sometimes staying true to your original vision matters more than constantly reinventing yourself.

Customers know exactly what they’re getting, and that reliability creates comfort.

Slices here fold perfectly in the classic New York triangle fold, allowing you to eat while walking or standing.

The cheese-to-sauce ratio hits that sweet spot where neither element overpowers the other.

Crust provides the right amount of chew and crunch in perfect harmony.

Both locations maintain the same standards and recipes, so your favorite pizza tastes identical regardless of which Tony’s you visit.

This consistency across locations demonstrates serious quality control and commitment to the brand.

Late-night crowds, lunch rushes, and family dinner hours all bring different energy to Tony’s.

The pizzeria adapts to serve everyone from solo diners grabbing a quick slice to large groups ordering multiple pies.

Address: 10364 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030 (Fairfax location)

Tony’s represents pizza as comfort food, the kind you crave when you want something familiar and satisfying.

No surprises, no complications, just delicious traditional New York-style pizza made the way it should be every single time you visit.

9. Crust Pizzeria Napoletana (Vienna)

High praise doesn’t come lightly when locals claim a pizzeria surpasses what they experienced in Italy itself.

Crust has earned these bold comparisons through unwavering commitment to Neapolitan traditions and wood-fired perfection.

The welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel like honored guests rather than just customers.

Vienna residents have embraced Crust as their special-occasion destination and regular weeknight spot.

The pizzeria works equally well for romantic dates, family celebrations, and casual dinners with friends.

This versatility comes from balancing authentic Italian techniques with warm American hospitality.

Wood-fired ovens create unique flavor profiles impossible to replicate with conventional equipment.

The high heat produces leopard-spotted crusts with slightly charred bubbles that add complexity and visual appeal.

Each pizza becomes a work of edible art emerging from the flames.

Ingredients receive careful selection to ensure everything meets exacting standards.

From the flour used in dough to the tomatoes in sauce, quality never gets compromised for convenience or cost savings.

This dedication shows in every bite.

Staff members demonstrate genuine knowledge about pizza-making traditions and can explain techniques to curious diners.

This educational aspect adds depth to the dining experience without feeling pretentious or forced.

People leave understanding why certain methods and ingredients matter.

Regulars have their favorite pizzas but often experiment with different options because everything on the menu maintains the same high standards.

This consistency encourages exploration and repeat visits.

Address: 179 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180

Crust proves that authentic Neapolitan pizza can thrive in suburban Virginia when approached with passion, skill, and respect for tradition.

The combination of technical excellence and genuine hospitality creates experiences that keep locals returning and recommending Crust to everyone they know.

10. Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie (North Garden)

Some destinations require a deliberate journey, and Dr. Ho’s near Charlottesville falls into this category.

Locals insist the drive is absolutely worth it for pizza that pushes creative boundaries while respecting fundamental techniques.

Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor and quality.

Creative toppings distinguish Dr. Ho’s from more traditional pizzerias on this list.

The menu features combinations you won’t find elsewhere, assembled with thoughtfulness rather than random experimentation.

Each unusual pairing has been carefully considered to create harmonious flavors.

Supporting local farms and producers means ingredients change with seasons, keeping the menu dynamic and interesting.

Regular customers appreciate this connection to the agricultural community surrounding Charlottesville.

You’re not just eating pizza; you’re participating in a local food ecosystem.

The slightly remote location adds to Dr. Ho’s charm rather than detracting from it.

Making the trip feels like discovering a hidden gem, a secret worth sharing with fellow food enthusiasts.

This sense of discovery enhances the overall experience.

Humble Pie lives up to its name with an unpretentious approach that focuses on food quality over flashy presentation.

The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, reflecting the community values of the surrounding area.

People travel from Charlottesville and beyond specifically for Dr. Ho’s unique offerings.

Word-of-mouth recommendations have built a devoted following willing to plan outings around visiting this special pizzeria.

That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about the quality and uniqueness of the experience.

Address: 4069 Red Hill Rd, North Garden, VA 22959

Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie demonstrates that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully when approached with creativity, skill, and genuine respect for ingredients and craft.

The result is pizza worth traveling for, creating memories that extend beyond just the meal itself.