11 Pizza Places In Virginia That Locals Consistently Rate The Best

Virginia pizza lovers know that the best slices don’t always come from national chains.

From the bustling streets of Northern Virginia to the coastal charm of Virginia Beach, local pizza spots have earned their reputation through quality ingredients, creative recipes, and a passion for authentic taste.

Whether you crave classic New York-style thin crust, hearty Detroit-style deep dish, or certified Neapolitan pies straight from Italian tradition, Virginia delivers exceptional options that keep locals coming back.

These independently owned pizzerias have built loyal followings by focusing on what matters most: fresh dough, flavorful sauce, and toppings that make every bite memorable.

1. Pizzoco Pizza Parlor (Winchester)

Stepping into Pizzoco Pizza Parlor feels like discovering a hidden treasure in Winchester.

The building itself tells a story, transformed from an old gas station into one of the most beloved pizza destinations in the region.

Locals have embraced this spot not just for its unique setting but for the consistently outstanding pies that emerge from its ovens.

Every ingredient here speaks to quality and care.

The dough is made fresh daily, creating a thin crust that balances chewiness with just the right amount of crispness.

When you bite into a slice, you immediately notice the attention to detail that sets Pizzoco apart from ordinary pizza joints.

The hot honey pepperoni pizza has become something of a local legend.

Sweet heat mingles with savory pepperoni, creating a flavor combination that keeps customers ordering it again and again.

But the menu extends well beyond this signature offering, with creative seasonal specials and classic combinations executed to perfection.

What makes Pizzoco truly special is the atmosphere that owner and staff have cultivated.

The renovated space retains industrial charm while feeling welcoming and comfortable.

Families gather here for weeknight dinners, friends meet for casual lunches, and pizza enthusiasts make regular pilgrimages from surrounding areas.

The restaurant’s commitment to community shows in every interaction.

Service is friendly without being intrusive, and the kitchen takes pride in delivering each pizza at peak freshness.

Located at 2951 Valley Avenue in Winchester, Pizzoco has become more than just a restaurant.

It represents what happens when passion for great food meets creative vision and genuine hospitality.

For anyone exploring Northern Virginia’s pizza scene, this converted gas station deserves a spot at the top of your list.

2. Andy’s Pizza (Multiple Locations)

Walk into any Andy’s Pizza location and you’ll immediately understand why this name appears repeatedly in conversations about Virginia’s best pizza.

The aroma of baking dough and bubbling cheese fills the air, while the sight of perfectly charred crusts emerging from ovens confirms you’ve found something special.

Andy’s has mastered the art of New York-style pizza with locations in Fairfax, Richmond, and beyond.

Each slice showcases the hallmarks of authentic NYC pizza: thin, crispy crust that folds perfectly without becoming soggy, generous but balanced cheese coverage, and sauce that hits all the right notes of tangy and savory.

The recognition from Food Network didn’t happen by accident.

Through its sister restaurant Wiseguy Pizza, Andy’s earned acclaim as serving some of Virginia’s finest slices, a distinction that reflects the consistent quality across all locations.

Freshness defines the Andy’s experience.

Ingredients arrive regularly, dough gets prepared in-house, and nothing sits around waiting to be served.

This commitment to quality shows in every bite, whether you order a simple cheese slice or venture into specialty territory with loaded toppings.

The restaurants themselves maintain a casual, no-frills atmosphere that lets the pizza take center stage.

Counter service keeps things moving efficiently, while the open kitchen design allows you to watch skilled pizza makers stretch dough and construct pies with practiced precision.

What started as a single location has expanded because locals demanded it.

Word spread quickly about the quality, and now multiple communities enjoy access to these exceptional pies.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice for lunch or ordering a whole pie for family dinner, Andy’s delivers consistency that builds trust.

The success of Andy’s proves that doing one thing exceptionally well never goes out of style.

In a world of endless pizza options, this straightforward approach to classic New York-style pizza continues winning over Virginia residents one slice at a time.

3. Pupatella (Fairfax and Richmond Areas)

Authenticity matters when it comes to Neapolitan pizza, and Pupatella takes this responsibility seriously.

Certified by Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani, this restaurant meets the strict standards required to claim true Italian heritage in its pizza-making process.

Such certification isn’t handed out casually.

It requires adherence to specific techniques, ingredient sourcing, and preparation methods that have defined Neapolitan pizza for generations.

Pupatella’s commitment to these traditions means every pizza reflects centuries of Italian culinary wisdom.

The difference shows immediately when your pizza arrives at the table.

The crust features the characteristic leopard spotting from high-heat cooking, with a soft, pillowy edge that contrasts beautifully with the slightly charred bottom.

San Marzano tomatoes provide the sauce base, while fresh mozzarella melts into creamy perfection.

Multiple locations across Fairfax and Richmond make Pupatella accessible to pizza lovers throughout Virginia.

Each restaurant maintains the same exacting standards, ensuring your experience remains consistent regardless of which location you visit.

The atmosphere blends modern design with rustic Italian touches.

Wood-fired ovens serve as focal points, their intense heat visible through viewing windows as pizzas cook in mere minutes.

Seating arrangements encourage both intimate dinners and larger group gatherings.

Beyond pizza, the menu explores other Italian favorites, but the Neapolitan pies remain the stars.

Classic Margherita pizzas showcase the simplicity that defines great Italian cooking, while creative variations incorporate seasonal ingredients and regional Italian flavors.

Staff members demonstrate genuine knowledge about the food they serve.

They can explain the certification process, discuss ingredient sourcing, and guide you toward pizzas that match your preferences.

This expertise enhances the dining experience without feeling pretentious.

For those seeking authentic Italian pizza without boarding a plane to Naples, Pupatella offers the real thing right here in Virginia.

4. The Italian Store (Arlington)

Some places build their reputation on a single specialty, but The Italian Store has achieved something remarkable by excelling at multiple things simultaneously.

Located at 3123 Lee Highway in Arlington, this establishment has become legendary for its sandwiches.

Yet locals consistently point to the New York-style pizza as equally deserving of attention and praise.

Walking through the door feels like stepping into a classic Italian deli from decades past.

The smell of cured meats, fresh bread, and baking pizza creates an intoxicating welcome.

Display cases show off imported Italian products, while the pizza counter bustles with activity as orders flow steadily throughout the day.

The pizza itself honors New York traditions with thin, foldable slices that deliver satisfying crunch and chew.

Cheese stretches perfectly when you pull away a slice, and the sauce provides balanced flavor without overwhelming the other components.

Toppings get applied with generous but thoughtful portions.

What makes this pizza particularly special is the context in which it exists.

Surrounded by authentic Italian ingredients and prepared by people who understand Italian-American food traditions, each pie benefits from genuine expertise and quality standards.

The casual ordering process fits perfectly with the deli atmosphere.

You can grab a slice to go, order a whole pie for takeout, or find a spot to enjoy your pizza alongside other Italian specialties from the deli counter.

Flexibility makes The Italian Store work for quick lunches or relaxed meals.

Arlington residents have supported this business for years because it consistently delivers on its promises.

The pizza never disappoints, the sandwiches remain spectacular, and the imported goods provide a taste of Italy without the transatlantic flight.

In an area with countless dining options, The Italian Store stands out by maintaining quality across everything it offers.

The pizza alone would make it worth visiting, but discovering the full range of Italian specialties available here makes each trip even more rewarding.

5. Jackleg Pizza Company (Warrenton)

Hidden gems often provide the most memorable dining experiences, and Jackleg Pizza Company exemplifies this truth perfectly.

Tucked away in Warrenton, this pizzeria has earned passionate devotion from locals who recognize exceptional quality when they taste it.

Sourdough crust sets Jackleg apart from the competition immediately.

The fermentation process creates complex flavors and improved digestibility while producing a texture that balances crispy exteriors with tender interiors.

Each bite reveals the care taken in dough preparation, with subtle tang complementing rather than competing with toppings.

Ingredient selection demonstrates serious commitment to quality.

Vegetables arrive fresh and get prepared properly, meats come from reputable sources, and cheeses melt into creamy perfection.

Nothing about the toppings feels like an afterthought or a cost-cutting measure.

The restaurant space itself maintains a relaxed, welcoming vibe that encourages lingering over your meal.

Seating arrangements accommodate various group sizes, and the open layout creates a sense of community among diners.

You can watch pizza makers work their craft, adding an element of entertainment to the dining experience.

Reviews from locals consistently use words like seriously good and perfect when describing Jackleg’s pizzas.

Such enthusiastic praise doesn’t come easily in an era when countless pizza options compete for attention.

The fact that this relatively small operation generates such loyalty speaks volumes about what happens here.

Creative topping combinations show that Jackleg doesn’t simply follow standard pizza formulas.

While classics remain available, the menu ventures into more adventurous territory with seasonal specials and unique flavor pairings that work surprisingly well together.

Located at 28 Diagonal Street in Warrenton, Jackleg Pizza Company rewards those willing to seek it out.

The drive becomes worthwhile the moment you taste that sourdough crust and realize you’ve discovered something truly special.

For Virginia pizza enthusiasts willing to venture beyond the most obvious choices, this place delivers rewards that justify the journey.

6. Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie (North Garden)

Family-owned restaurants carry a special quality that chain establishments can never quite replicate.

Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie embodies this truth, operating just outside Charlottesville at 4916 Plank Road in North Garden with a warmth and creativity that keeps customers returning regularly.

The name itself hints at the personality you’ll encounter here.

There’s nothing pretentious about Dr. Ho’s, despite the exceptional quality of food emerging from the kitchen.

Instead, you find genuine hospitality and a menu that balances familiar comfort with inventive twists.

Pizza options here venture beyond standard combinations into territory that surprises and delights.

Creative topping selections show a willingness to experiment while maintaining the fundamentals that make pizza satisfying.

Each pie demonstrates thoughtful construction, with ingredients chosen to complement rather than overwhelm each other.

Generous portions have become something of a trademark.

Nobody leaves Dr. Ho’s hungry, as the kitchen believes in providing real value alongside quality.

This approach has built fierce loyalty among locals who appreciate getting their money’s worth without sacrificing taste.

The ranch dressing deserves special mention, having achieved near-legendary status among regular customers.

Homemade and perfectly seasoned, it pairs beautifully with pizza crusts and adds another dimension to the dining experience.

Small details like this separate good restaurants from truly memorable ones.

The location outside Charlottesville proper means you’re making a deliberate choice to visit.

Yet customers consistently make this journey, drawn by food that justifies the drive and an atmosphere that feels like visiting friends rather than just another restaurant.

Inside, the space reflects the humble pie philosophy with comfortable seating and decor that prioritizes function and friendliness over flashy design.

You can relax here, take your time, and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed or out of place.

Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie proves that exceptional pizza doesn’t require a big-city location or massive marketing budget.

Quality ingredients, creative thinking, and genuine care for customers create success that speaks for itself through word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat visits.

7. Secret Squares (Richmond)

Richmond’s Church Hill neighborhood has discovered something special at 306 North 29th Street.

Secret Squares brings Detroit-style pizza to Virginia with results that have locals lining up for those distinctive thick, crispy crusts and creative topping combinations.

Detroit-style pizza differs significantly from its New York and Neapolitan cousins.

The dough gets pressed into rectangular pans, creating a thick base that develops incredibly crispy edges where cheese meets pan.

Toppings go on in reverse order, with cheese directly on dough and sauce applied last, often in stripes across the top.

The result is unlike anything else in the pizza world.

That super crispy bottom and edge provide textural contrast to the soft, airy interior crumb.

Cheese caramelizes against the pan sides, creating what Detroit pizza enthusiasts call frico, those lacy, crunchy cheese edges that many consider the best part.

Secret Squares embraces both traditional Detroit approaches and creative innovations.

The rainbow slice has become particularly popular, showcasing how this format works beautifully with adventurous topping combinations.

Colors and flavors layer together in ways that surprise first-time visitors while keeping regulars constantly interested.

The Church Hill location fits perfectly with the neighborhood’s blend of historic charm and contemporary energy.

Inside, the space balances casual comfort with just enough style to make dining here feel special without being stuffy.

Service moves efficiently while maintaining friendliness that makes customers feel welcome.

For those unfamiliar with Detroit-style pizza, Secret Squares provides an ideal introduction.

The quality execution showcases what makes this format special, while the creative menu demonstrates its versatility.

Even pizza purists who initially approach with skepticism typically leave as converts.

Richmond’s food scene continues growing and evolving, and Secret Squares represents the kind of focused, quality-driven concept that elevates the entire city’s dining landscape.

By doing one specific thing exceptionally well, this pizzeria has carved out a devoted following that continues expanding as word spreads about those incredible squares.

8. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue (Charlottesville)

Sometimes the most unexpected combinations create the most memorable experiences.

Ace Biscuit & Barbecue proves this point beautifully at 600 Concord Avenue in Charlottesville, where Southern soul food meets inventive pizza in ways that shouldn’t work but absolutely do.

Character defines this place from the moment you arrive.

The off-the-beaten-path location adds to the sense of discovery, while the interior reflects a personality all its own.

Nothing here feels generic or corporate, instead offering the kind of authenticity that comes only from genuine passion and creative vision.

Barbecue forms the foundation of the menu, with slow-smoked meats prepared according to time-honored Southern traditions.

Biscuits provide another specialty, fluffy and buttery in ways that make you understand why Southern baking has such devoted fans.

But the pizza offerings demonstrate how creative minds can blend traditions into something entirely new.

Imagine barbecue flavors translated onto pizza crusts, or Southern ingredients arranged in ways that honor both pizza and soul food traditions.

These aren’t gimmicks but thoughtful creations that respect both culinary approaches while creating something distinct and delicious.

Locals adore this place not despite its unusual combination but because of it.

The willingness to break rules and try new approaches results in food that surprises and satisfies in equal measure.

Each visit might reveal new menu items or seasonal specials that continue pushing creative boundaries.

The atmosphere encourages relaxation and enjoyment without pretension.

You can come as you are, order what sounds good, and trust that the kitchen will deliver something worth your time and money.

Service reflects the same down-to-earth approach that defines the menu.

Charlottesville diners appreciate having options beyond standard restaurant formats.

Ace Biscuit & Barbecue fills a unique niche by offering exceptional food that doesn’t fit neatly into conventional categories.

The pizza alone would make it noteworthy, but combined with amazing barbecue and Southern specialties, this place becomes something truly special that deserves recognition among Virginia’s best pizza destinations.

9. Benny’s (Multiple Locations)

Size matters when it comes to New York-style pizza slices, and Benny’s understands this fundamental truth.

With locations spanning Roanoke, Blacksburg, Richmond, and beyond, this pizzeria has built its reputation on serving massive slices that deliver on both quantity and quality.

The first time you see a Benny’s slice, your eyes widen.

These aren’t dainty triangles but substantial portions that require two hands and a healthy appetite.

Yet the size never comes at the expense of taste, as each oversized slice maintains the quality standards that keep customers coming back.

New York-style pizza depends on getting several key elements right simultaneously.

The crust must be thin enough to fold but sturdy enough to support toppings without becoming soggy.

Cheese needs proper coverage and melt, while sauce provides flavor without creating a watery mess.

Benny’s achieves this balance consistently across all locations.

The popularity with local crowds speaks to more than just generous portions.

College students in Blacksburg, families in Roanoke, and Richmond residents all find reasons to make Benny’s their go-to pizza choice.

Affordability combined with quality creates value that resonates across different demographics and occasions.

Each location maintains its own character while delivering the same core pizza experience.

Some spots cater more to late-night crowds, others focus on family dining, but all share the commitment to those signature massive slices.

The menu extends beyond pizza to include other Italian-American favorites, though the slices remain the main attraction.

You can build a complete meal here or simply grab a slice or two for a satisfying quick bite.

Flexibility makes Benny’s work for various dining needs.

Counter service keeps things casual and efficient.

You order, pay, and either take your pizza to go or find a seat to enjoy it on-site.

The straightforward approach eliminates unnecessary complications and keeps focus where it belongs on the pizza itself.

For Virginia residents seeking reliable, delicious, and generously sized pizza slices, Benny’s delivers exactly what it promises across multiple convenient locations.

10. High Street Pizza & Pour House (Portsmouth)

Portsmouth’s dining scene gets a significant boost from High Street Pizza & Pour House at 501 High Street.

This Hampton Roads favorite has earned its reputation by focusing on Detroit-style deep dish pizza executed with the kind of quality that builds loyal followings.

Detroit-style pizza requires specific techniques and equipment to achieve properly.

The rectangular pans, high-temperature baking, and ingredient layering all contribute to the distinctive result.

High Street Pizza & Pour House has mastered these requirements, producing pies that honor Detroit traditions while adding their own touches.

The deep dish format provides substantial satisfaction.

Thick, airy dough supports generous topping amounts without becoming heavy or overwhelming.

That characteristic crispy bottom and caramelized cheese edges deliver textural variety that keeps each bite interesting.

Quality ingredients make the difference between decent and exceptional pizza.

High Street sources carefully, ensuring that vegetables taste fresh, meats provide proper flavor, and cheese melts into the right consistency.

These details might seem minor individually but combine to create noticeably superior results.

The pour house aspect adds another dimension to the experience.

While the focus remains firmly on pizza, the establishment offers a social atmosphere that encourages gathering with friends and family.

The space accommodates both quick meals and longer visits where you can relax and enjoy the environment.

Local favorite status doesn’t happen overnight or by accident.

High Street has earned its position through consistent delivery of quality pizza combined with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.

Hampton Roads residents know they can count on this spot for satisfying meals that meet expectations every visit.

The Portsmouth location serves the broader Hampton Roads area, making it accessible to communities throughout the region.

For those living in or visiting coastal Virginia, High Street Pizza & Pour House represents an essential stop for anyone serious about exploring the state’s best pizza offerings.

Detroit-style pizza continues gaining appreciation nationwide, and High Street demonstrates why this format deserves attention alongside more traditional pizza styles.

11. Pizza Chapel (Virginia Beach)

Quirky personality can elevate good pizza into a memorable experience, and Pizza Chapel delivers both at 637 10th Street in Virginia Beach.

This highly-rated spot has developed a devoted local following thanks to creative offerings and a distinctive character that sets it apart from conventional pizzerias.

The Chapel Pie has achieved legendary status among Virginia Beach residents.

Featuring Buffalo chicken as the star ingredient, this pizza combines tangy heat with creamy coolness in ways that create addictive flavor profiles.

Locals swear by it, often introducing newcomers to Pizza Chapel specifically to try this signature creation.

Buffalo chicken pizza isn’t unique to Pizza Chapel, but the execution here elevates the concept.

Proper spice levels provide kick without overwhelming, while the chicken stays tender and the cheese balances everything perfectly.

Getting this balance right requires skill and attention that many places skip.

The quirky atmosphere adds character that makes dining here feel like more than just another meal.

From the name itself to the interior design choices, Pizza Chapel embraces personality rather than following generic restaurant formulas.

This approach resonates particularly well in Virginia Beach, where beach culture appreciates individuality and fun.

Beyond the famous Chapel Pie, the menu offers various other options that showcase similar creativity and quality.

Traditional pizzas get executed well for those seeking familiar flavors, while more adventurous choices reward customers willing to try something different.

The location near the oceanfront makes Pizza Chapel convenient for both residents and visitors.

Whether you’re spending a day at the beach or live in the area year-round, stopping here for pizza fits naturally into Virginia Beach life.

High ratings don’t accumulate without reason.

Pizza Chapel earns its reputation through consistent quality, creative menu items, and an atmosphere that makes customers want to return.

The combination proves that pizza restaurants can succeed by embracing unique identities rather than following cookie-cutter approaches.

For anyone exploring Virginia Beach’s dining scene, Pizza Chapel represents the kind of local gem that makes discovering new places so rewarding.