8 Ohio Pizzerias Locals Think Rival New York’s Best

Ohio may not be the first place people think of for pizza, but the state has developed its own strong traditions. Regional chains, many of them family-founded, have built loyal followings over decades. Some focus on thin, foldable slices similar to East Coast styles, while others lean into Midwestern approaches with square-cut or thicker crusts.

For locals, these chains aren’t just convenient, they’re trusted spots that many argue stand up to better-known New York slices.

1. Donatos Pizza

Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that leave the most lasting impressions. Donatos Pizza, founded in 1963 in Columbus, built its reputation on thin crusts and toppings that reach every corner of each square-cut slice. The experience is unmistakably Ohioan, yet the crispness and foldability of the slices make comparisons to New York’s best inevitable.

Edge-to-edge coverage means every bite delivers a distinct texture along with ample toppings, a trait that has become Donatos’ signature. While families crowd the spacious dining rooms, many customers recall their first bite as the moment they associated pizza night with Donatos’ generous portions.

Unlike most chains, the ingredients and consistency have remained reliable across decades of expansion. Their original pepperoni pizza continues to win fans, and with locations spreading far beyond their Central Ohio roots, Donatos is now a familiar sight for travelers and locals alike. Regional pride runs deep, but so does the appreciation for a slice that never leaves the crust bare.

2. LaRosa’s Pizzeria

For many Cincinnati families, LaRosa’s Pizzeria is more than just a dinner option, it’s an ongoing tradition. Founded in 1954, this pizzeria has woven itself into the routine of Southwest Ohio, famous for its hand-tossed pies and sweet, herby tomato sauce.

LaRosa’s signature cheese blend, heavy on provolone, gives each slice an unmistakable aroma as soon as the pizza hits the table. Their ‘Deluxe’ pizza, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and banana peppers, is a strongly recommended choice among regulars.

The warm atmosphere offers a sense of nostalgia to anyone who grew up with it, while newcomers are often drawn in by the reputation that precedes each pie. Every visit feels like a small celebration, whether you’re a lifelong patron or a first-timer sampling a slice that’s stood the test of time.

3. Marion’s Piazza

At Marion’s Piazza, pizza night takes on a uniquely communal feel. Since 1965, this Dayton institution has specialized in ultra-thin crusts, with pizzas cut into small, shareable squares. The spacious, banquet-style dining rooms foster a sense of togetherness that’s rare in chain settings.

Many locals recall birthday parties and celebrations held at Marion’s, where the crisp, almost cracker-like crust won over even skeptics of Midwestern pizza. The simple menu lets the crust, sauce, and toppings shine without distraction.

Consistency is a hallmark of Marion’s approach; guests know exactly what to expect from each visit, with flavor and texture almost unchanged across generations. In a region with plenty of pizza options, Marion’s has managed to maintain a special place in Dayton’s culinary culture, consistently drawing both loyalists and curious newcomers.

4. Cassano’s Pizza King

Cassano’s Pizza King has a story baked into nearly every slice. Founded in 1953, this Dayton-based chain is known for its distinctly thin, crispy crust and light approach to toppings. The result is a textural contrast that sets Cassano’s apart from both regional and national competitors.

For many, the slightly salty dough conjures memories of after-school gatherings or late-night cravings. The chain’s long-standing commitment to tradition is visible in its unchanged recipes and classic storefronts.

Cassano’s continues to resonate with customers who appreciate pizza that doesn’t rely on excess cheese or thick crust. Instead, the focus remains on a snappy bite and balanced flavors. With locations dotted across Dayton and its suburbs, Cassano’s occupies a unique niche in Ohio’s pizza landscape.

5. Wedgewood Fernando’s Pizza

Youngstown’s pizza heritage often flies under the radar, but Wedgewood Fernando’s, also known simply as Wedgewood Pizza, is a local highlight. This family-run chain is best known for hearty pizzas with a thicker, airy crust and robust toppings. Each order is generously portioned, making it well-suited for sharing among groups.

Wedgewood’s loyal following swears by the blend of cheeses and the signature tomato sauce, both of which have remained virtually unchanged since the shop’s early days. Friday nights often find the dining room bustling, with pies emerging hot and bubbly from the ovens.

For those curious about Ohio’s pizza traditions, Wedgewood offers a flavorful introduction to the Mahoning Valley’s particular tastes. Its influence stretches beyond Youngstown, as former residents routinely stop in when visiting home to relive the flavors of their youth.

6. Antonio’s Pizza

Cleveland’s pizza scene is more competitive than ever, but Antonio’s Pizza founded in 1967 in Parma, has stood out for decades. Balancing New York-style foldable slices with the heartiness favored by local customers, Antonio’s offers a distinctive hybrid that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Regulars appreciate the well-developed crust, slightly crisp at the edge yet easy to fold, as well as the flavorful sauce. The menu includes both classic and creative topping combinations, giving each visit a sense of discovery.

What keeps Antonio’s relevant is its commitment to quality and consistency, traits that have ensured its popularity across generations. With locations across Northeast Ohio, it remains a mainstay in the region’s dining culture.

7. Flyers Pizza & Subs

Flyers Pizza & Subs stands out for its unpretentious, community-oriented charm. Founded in 1976 in West Jefferson, this Columbus-area chain is known for its reliably thin-crust pizza, cut into manageable slices for easy sharing. The aviation-themed dining rooms nod to the city’s history, adding a whimsical touch to each meal.

Customers often remark on Flyers’ consistency, a quality attributed to its ongoing family ownership. The pizzas focus on balanced flavor, with just enough cheese and sauce to avoid overwhelming the crust.

Flyers’ loyal customer base is drawn to its straightforward approach. The chain has managed to preserve its reputation as a dependable neighborhood pizzeria even as it has expanded across Central Ohio, making it a favorite for both quick bites and casual gatherings.

8. Gionino’s Pizzeria

Gionino’s Pizzeria is an example of how regional chains can establish a strong identity. Headquartered in Tallmadge since 1989, Gionino’s is celebrated not only for its pizzas but also for its signature fried chicken, a rare pairing in the pizza world that has its own cult following.

The pizza features a slightly thicker, doughy crust, supporting ample layers of cheese and a well-seasoned tomato sauce. This combination has earned a devoted following, especially among those seeking a heartier alternative to thin-crust options.

With dozens of locations across Northeast Ohio, Gionino’s has rooted itself in local communities. The mix of fried chicken, pizza, and family-friendly service has helped the brand maintain its status as a go-to for group meals and neighborhood traditions.