Top Buffalo Pizzerias That Rank Among New York State’s Finest

Buffalo might be famous for its wings, but the pizza scene deserves just as much attention. Local pizzerias combine New York traditions with unique Buffalo flair, creating distinctive pies that rival those from NYC.

From char-cupped pepperoni to creative toppings, these Buffalo pizza spots have earned their place among New York State’s elite pizza destinations.

1. Bocce Club Pizza: The Legendary Cornerstone

Family-owned since 1946, Bocce Club defines authentic Buffalo-style pizza with its signature puffy, airy crust and crispy bottom.

The star attraction? Those iconic cup-and-char pepperoni slices that curl into crispy, oil-filled cups when baked. Their house-made mozzarella stretches for days, creating those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls pizza lovers crave.

2. Lovejoy Pizza: Neighborhood Charm In Every Slice

Hidden gem status? Earned. Lovejoy has been feeding loyal Buffalonians since 1979 without fancy marketing or gimmicks.

The magic happens in their decades-old ovens that impart distinctive flavor to their cheese-forward pies. Don’t miss their specialty crusts-the garlic butter version transforms an already delicious pizza into something transcendent that locals line up for on Friday nights.

3. Macy’s Place Pizzeria: Where Innovation Meets Indulgence

“That’s not a pizza, it’s an event!” exclaim first-timers at Macy’s Place. Owner Nick Argy pushes boundaries with creations like the viral Taco Pizza and the notorious ‘In Your Feelings’ pie topped with flaming hot Cheetos.

Their stunt pizzas actually taste as good as they look on social media. The kitchen somehow balances outrageous concepts with technical pizza-making excellence that keeps food critics surprisingly impressed.

4. Imperial Pizza: South Buffalo’s Crowning Glory

Generations of South Buffalo families have celebrated milestones with Imperial’s hefty square-cut pies. Their dough creates a foundation that supports generous cheese layers without collapsing.

A true Buffalo experience means ordering their pizza alongside beef-on-weck rolls and wings. The friendly staff still remembers regulars’ orders, maintaining that neighborhood connection even as their reputation has grown beyond city limits.

5. La Nova Pizzeria: The Wing-Pizza Powerhouse

What began as a humble West Side pizzeria in 1957 has evolved into Buffalo’s pizza ambassador to the world. La Nova’s perfect union of exceptional pizza and award-winning wings created a combo that’s now standard Buffalo fare.

Their secret weapon? A sweet-tangy sauce that complements rather than competes with toppings. The Todaro family’s operation now ships nationwide, introducing Buffalo’s distinctive pizza style to curious eaters everywhere.

6. Picasso’s Pizza: Artistic Approach To Buffalo Tradition

Canvas: hand-tossed dough. Palette: sweet tomato sauce and premium toppings. Picasso’s creates edible masterpieces that honor Buffalo pizza traditions while adding their signature flourishes.

Their crust achieves the perfect balance-crispy exterior yielding to a chewy interior that pizza aficionados treasure. The generous cheese-to-sauce ratio satisfies both purists and those seeking something slightly different from standard Buffalo fare.

7. Brick Oven Bistro & Deli: Gourmet Pizza With Local Soul

Half upscale bistro, half neighborhood deli, this South Buffalo treasure elevates pizza to culinary art. Their stone hearth imparts rustic charm to artisanal pies topped with locally-sourced ingredients.

The must-try specialty? Their beef-on-weck pizza, a brilliant fusion of Buffalo’s famous sandwich and traditional pizza. Slow-roasted beef, horseradish aioli, and caraway seeds create an only-in-Buffalo experience that perfectly represents the city’s innovative food culture.