The 11 Best Places to Get Pizza in Louisville, Kentucky
Pizza is a staple of most American diets, and it’s no surprise that Louisville has a ton of that savory, cheese pie we call pizza. And while we may be famous for a certain papa who shall not be named, we have plenty of local places that take the cake, er, pie, of the best pizza in Louisville!
If you’re from up north where family-owned Greek and Italian restaurants are king, learning the ins and outs of Midwest pizza can take some time. But after seven years and six Pizza Week Passports (what? This isn’t a national holiday where you are from?) I finally feel qualified to help you find the best pizza in town.
The great thing about Louisville’s food scene is that it is constantly growing. We have so many good options, whether you are looking for something fancy, pizza by the slice, or just the best darn pizza pies Louisville has to offer. So let’s check out the best pizza in Louisville!
Check out a few of these other posts:
- The 45 Best Places to Eat in Louisville, Kentucky
- The 8 Best Louisville Ice Cream Shops: from Cones to Sundaes (& more)!
- The Best Louisville Breweries: the Ultimate Local’s Guide (& Southern Indiana, too)
- The Best Burgers in Louisville: 14 Thick & Juicy, Diner-Style, & Exotic Meat Burgers!
Best Fancy Pizza in Louisville
Per advice from Regina George, you may or may not be on an all-carb diet at least four times a year. A big fluffy crust that might as well be an entire loaf of handmade sourdough bread. A spread of all the favorite Italians – Ricotta, Gorgonzola, and of course Mozzarella. All nestled beside Prosciutto, truffles, and maybe even a homemade balsamic drizzle for the crown of pique fanciness. This is the best fancy pizza in Louisville.
Coals Artisan Pizza
True to its name, Coals Artisan Pizza is your go-to for that smoky flavor that is unique to pizza cooked over an open coal fire. If you have ever tossed a pizza on your charcoal grill at home, you are approximating the crisp, lightly charred crust and perfectly-seared-on-the-outside veggies that Coals is known for. Noted for being the best artisanal pizza in Louisville, this is where you go when you want pizza and you also want to be a little fancy.
The menu includes 12-inch artisanal pizzas named for different neighborhoods in Louisville. I recommend the Bardstown, a classic white pizza with salty bacon that mingles nicely with the spicy kick of arugula sprigs. The spice is tempered by dollops of creamy ricotta and juicy slices of roast chicken. The final touch is a scattering of perfectly golden caramelized onion that wraps the flavors together in a combination as original as the community it is named for.
There is also a wide selection of soups, salads, and other Italian dishes for those that are not in the mood for pizza. With two convenient locations in St. Matthews and Middletown, and one very convenient location inside the airport terminal, if you are flying out of Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Pizza Lupo
Started by members of the indie rock band Murder by Death, Pizza Lupo opened its doors in the heart of the Butchertown Neighborhood. The 1860s building is a tad tucked away on a side street that connects Frankfort Ave and Story Ave. Parking may be a little tight (there is a satellite parking lot), but trust me this is a little slice of heaven.
Lupo specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan pizza made with fresh local veggies and ingredients. These pizzas are artistically designed, with those wonderful puffy crusts that are well done on the outside, but burst with air pockets on the inside.
Menu items change frequently based on what’s in season, but right now I am loving the Sting Like a Bee. Referring of course to the late Louisville native, Muhammad Ali. This pizza is rich and fresh with cupped pepperonis, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil, topped with extra virgin olive oil and a house hot honey.
If you happen to visit on a Monday-Thursday you have to get the Pizza Fiore! The shareable star-shaped pizza is an Italian cheese lover’s dream, that will make you melt. Ricotta-stuffed crust, Mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, tomato sauce, basil and topped with arugula and Burrata.
Not sure what Burrata is? Take my word for it – you’re gonna love it. It’s basically balloons of cheese-filled cheese. Just remember the Pizza Fiore is only available Mon-Wed.
Don’t be afraid to ask about a wine pairing too. Pizza Lupo has really made a name for itself locally as a curator of natural wine. Not sure what natural wine is? It’s basically the indie rock of the wine world – organic and simple – and Lupo carries a beautiful selection that is active, vibrant and a little funky.
Can’t visit in person? They also run their own delivery service online!
MozzaPi
MozzaPi is not so much a pizzeria as much as it is like a full gluten lover’s dream. Priding themselves on being Louisville’s only millers, bakers, and pizza makers, they’re probably the only people in this city that can match my love for bread and bread accessories.
The flour is milled in-house using ancient grains, and is a true example of a labor of love. Here pizza is merely just an extension of their dough skills. In addition to the wood-fired oven crust, MozzaPi makes fresh corn cookies, Focaccia bread and buttery pastries like flaky croissants.
Flour may be their first passion, but man do they know how to create a full artisanal pie. The Sweet Onion Marmalade showcases just how seriously they take the full craft. The plump rolled crust is covered in browned caramelized onions, fresh mozzarella, pungent blue cheese, slightly spicy Andouille sausage, contrasting tart bourbon cherries, and a beautiful aroma of sprigs of rosemary.
MozzaPi is located in Anchorage and has a new location inside Ten20 Craft Brewery.
Square Cut
Square Cut pizza is distinct for not only their square-cut shape, but for bringing delicious Roman-style pizza to Louisville. Roman-style pizza is proofed three times, and typically baked in the tray to create a slight crunch on the bottom but still be soft in the middle. This kind of pizza is a perfect size to split among two people, that is assuming you both can agree on just ONE of the delicious choices.
The modern European dining room is sleekly elegant, with white brick walls, cross-back chairs, and a front patio with a view of Shelby Street. This might be the fanciest pizzeria in the city.
And when we say fancy, we’re not kidding. What could be fancier than a clam pizza? The Clams pizza is covered in Formaggio, spinach, and garlic confit, and is rich with indulgence. Almost too fancy to be a pizza – almost!
And while we’re talking about fancy things, let’s talk about charcuterie. Square Cut has its own house-made charcuterie for the richest way to start your evening. The duck prosciutto, cured pork belly Pancetta, and red wine braised liver pate will make you want to grab your ball gown – but don’t worry, they’re much chiller than that! Street wear is totally acceptable here.
The best part of Square Cut has to be the Brunch Party Pizza. This 3-in-1 pizza is larger than their other offerings, and feeds about 3-4 people. The wide rectangle pizza has three distinct sections to give the full brunch experience. Starting along the left side with a Bacon Potato pizza, the center as a poached egg Margherita pizza, and on the outer right edge a Nutella ricotta pizza. A perfect journey from savory to sweet. Brunch is only served on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.
Square Cut is open 7 nights a week, with a service industry night on Monday that includes drink specials in addition to their Happy Hour on Saturdays from 3-5.
The 45 Best Places to Eat in Louisville, Kentucky
Best Pizza by the Slice in Louisville
Growing up I was fortunate enough to learn the teachings of some of the greats. Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo, and of course Leonardo. I am of course referring to the artistry of a slice of pizza so indulgent it drips with mozzarella.
These four crime-fighting turtles taught me there is no better time to treat yourself to a slice of pizza than after a hard day’s work crime fighting – or in my case after some light spring cleaning. This is where I go for the best pizza by the slice in Louisville.
The Post
For a classic long and foldable New York-style pizza that brings me right back to my childhood, I head straight for The Post. For the uninitiated, the key to a good slice of New York-style pizza is the thin crust and a light coating of sauce that allows the cheese and toppings to take the spotlight.
At The Post, you can expect the perfect combination of a thin and doughy crust (for optimal folding by on-the-go New Yorkers), a light layer of tart sauce (New Yorkers don’t have time for spills), and a layer of cheese and toppings that will practically ooze off the plate (stains are all the rage in New York).
Rest assured, it is not just my hunger for nostalgia that leads me to rave about The Post. In 2018, The Food Network awarded The Post the Best Pizza Slice in the state of Kentucky. It has also become a staple in the Germantown neighborhood and beyond.
Built in the former Lone Wolf VFW Post, the building has retained the spirit of a special comradery. In a tip of the hat to the building’s history, menu items have names as colorful as their toppings.
The Lone Wolf, a carnivore’s dream with bacon, sweet ham, sausage, pepperoni, and finished with onion, peppers, and kalamata olives. The best news is, if you can’t decide on just one, it’s one of the only places in Louisville where you can buy pizza by the slice. So, if you find yourself in Germantown late at night with a $5 bill burning a hole in your pocket, stop by the Post for a giant slice of pizza and a cold beer.
Luigi’s Pizzeria
You know when you have been busy all day learning about baseball bats, sampling bourbon, and doing science when all of sudden you realize it’s lunchtime and you are famished? Well, Luigi’s Pizzeria located downtown has you covered.
A destination in its own right, Luigi’s is known as the home of a to-die-for slice of New York-style pizza. The slices may be cut for the Yankees, but one bite and you’ll feel like you’re in Italy, which makes sense because the owner, Luigi is Italian and has brought his pizza-making skills right here to Louisville.
Create personalized slices with prime Italian proteins, like salty anchovies, black pepper pastrami, and of course the almighty classic pepperoni. Also, anything with their sausage, which is known for being fresh and tasty, is a must.
Pizza is also available by the pie and you can feed a family of four for around $25, making it the perfect lunch spot for a day around town.
Located on Main Street within walking distance of tourist hotspots such as Michter’s Distillery, The Kentucky Science Center, and the Frazier Museum. Luigi’s is closed on Sundays.
Spinelli’s Pizzeria
You cannot talk about pizza in Louisville without talking about Spinelli’s. The graffiti-tastic dining room, seductive Burt Reynolds Mural and indoor convertible car booth are practically Louisville icons.
The slices are big and flat like a traditional New York Style, but designed in what I lovingly like to call munchie pizza. The pie designs can be a bit creative and kinda greasy – but you know greasy pizza just pairs really well with Deep Fried Oreos.
Aside from the classics, Spinelli’s serves completely indulgent options, like the Chicken & Waffles. A sweet sauce base, fried chicken, maple syrup and of course waffles, all topped with signature mozzarella.
Which is perfect because they’re open suppa late! Seven days a week from 11am to 5am. Ideal for when you close down the bar at 4am (yeah our bars are open pretty late ya’ll) and get the munchies for crazy concoctions that hit just right after a night out. Especially with a slice of the Buffalo Chicken. Gooey mozzarella, cooling ranch Sauce, spicy hot sauce, crispy breaded chicken and for a twist Fritos chips.
Spinelli’s has 3 locations in Louisville, Baxter Ave, Shelbyville Rd, and 5th St. And one location is randomly located in Tempe, AZ!
Best Pizza Pies in Louisville
Philosophically speaking, isn’t pizza just an excuse to transport cheese into your mouth? We dress it up with fancy doughs and creative topping combinations. It’s a perfect platform to layer all of your favorite things in one bite.
So dine-in, carryout, or delivery, pizza cravings are an essential part of the human experience. Just remember to tip your driver. Keep the change ya filthy animal.
Parlour Pizza
Another newcomer to Louisville’s pizza paradise, Parlour Pizza has made waves along the waterfront. Opening their first location in Jeffersonville, Indiana, right at the foot of the Big Four Bridge. They currently operate 2 locations in Louisville located respectively on Frankfort Avenue and Liberty Street. On the Indiana side, they have also opened a restaurant in New Albany.
Louisvillians have crossed the bridge for years to treat themselves to Parlour Pizza. The crust is fairly thick, but still has a nice crispy texture that stands up well to toppings.
I recommend the Caprese. Melted mozzarella medallions, pristine basil leaves that taste like they were just plucked from the plant, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar reduction, this pizza transports you to the Gulf of Naples with each bite.
Another great option if you are looking for something a little funkier is the Buffalo Chicken Pizza. A standard at most pizza joints these days, Parlour has really captured everything that is great about this new classic and perfected it. Lean chicken coated in a mild, yet flavorful, buffalo sauce is cradled in a bed of mozzarella cheese. To contrast, a splash of blue cheese dressing provides a pungent bite that makes this a pizza you will not want to pass up.
Parlour is a great place to visit any time of year, but you are really in for a nice night if you visit during the warm weather. Their Jeffersonville location has an amazing outdoor patio complete with fire pits and cornhole. With a variety of events, including music bingo, it makes for a great evening out with friends.
Wick’s Pizza Parlor
The original Wick’s Pizza Parlor is located on Baxter Avenue in the heart of the Highlands, a neighborhood that is intent on preserving the artsy, close-knit community that residents and visitors to Louisville adore. In Louisville, we love small businesses that are committed to keeping our city diverse – and weird! Whether they are hosting or simply supporting one of the many events that the Highlands is known for, Wick’s has been a great neighbor over the years.
Wick’s is known for their hand-tossed crust, made with dough that is made fresh in-house daily. Also, an absolute refusal to skimp on toppings on pizzas ranging in size from 8″ lunch pizzas to 16″ pizzas!
The Spinach Alfredo pizza is absolutely superb. With rich alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and the assertive, yet earthy flavor of cooked spinach topped with mozzarella and provolone cheeses. This pizza is a must for visitors who enjoy a white pizza.
Love meat? Throw caution about your cholesterol into the oven along with a Mighty Meaty Wick pizza. With close to an inch of zesty Italian sausage, succulent hamburger, ham slices gently curled at the edges, and a boisterous punch of salty flavor from the bacon and pepperoni, this pizza will speak to the carnivore in you.
If you love tie-dye, community spirit, and pizza, give Wick’s a try. They have two locations on Baxter Avenue and Hikes Lane. You can even join their rewards program for deals and discounts!
Wick’s is also one of the few restaurants around that still manages their own deliveries. So, if you already took your pants off for the day but don’t want to give money to those pesky 3rd party delivery services, Wick’s has you covered.
DiOrio’s Pizza & Pub
A little-known fact about Louisville is that it has a thriving indie music scene. Pre-pandemic, you could find an open mic virtually any night of the week, and now there is room to be optimistic about the return of these great local events. As an indie musician, I can’t write a piece about great spots for pizza without giving props to DiOrio’s Pizza & Pub, a restaurant that is about more than just a supreme slice.
DiOrio’s strives to provide delicious handmade New York Style pizza made with fresh ingredients at a fair price. Here in town, they are also known as the home of the 30-inch pizza! Order one of these bad boys, and you’ll be leaving out the special extra wide exit door, because the box doesn’t fit through the main entrance.
The most unique pizza is probably Aaron’s Heat and Sweet – a masterpiece featuring a pesto base with spicy sausage, fragrant pineapple, jalapenos (trust me, they pack a punch!), tangy red onion, pepperoni, and basil smothered in a luscious layer of mozzarella cheese.
They also have huge pizza by the slice and are open until 4am on Friday and Saturday, so you know what to do! In addition to pizza, DiOrio’s has an extensive drink menu and a wide selection of appetizers, salads, and other entrees. If you are really looking for a non-pizza treat, try Martha’s Homemade Lasagna. You won’t regret it! You can find two DiOrio’s locations in St. Matthew’s and the Highlands.
Mac’s @ Mile Wide
Beer and pizza go together like, well, beer and pizza! Located inside of Mile Wide Beer Co. on Barret Ave. Many folks come to Mile Wide looking for a great beer – and trust me, it is really good beer – only to find the treasure that is Mac’s Pizza.
This literal hole in the wall serves 10-12 inch, hand-tossed, Neapolitan-style pizzas. Mac’s is perfect if you love a pizza that has a thin, crispy crust with lightly browned pockets that is heavy on the tomato sauce, and covered with mounds of gooey mozzarella cheese.
My favorite is the Potato Rosemary, an absolute dream of a pizza featuring potatoes, savory bacon, and a mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses garnished with rosemary for that woody, piney flavor.
I have also really enjoyed the Marinera pizza. This is a great choice for people that have issues with lactose or are just not fans of cheese. Tough to imagine a pizza without cheese? It actually reminds me a lot of traditional focaccia; you start by painting the crust with a thin layer of olive oil and then add crushed tomatoes and chunks of garlic. To finish it off, sprinkle oregano over the top and you have a potent delicacy that will please your taste buds, and displease everyone else that has to talk to you the rest of the night.
I would be remiss if I wrapped up this blog post without mentioning Mac’s decadent Nutella and fruit dessert pizza. With enough rich, chocolatey, warmth it rivals what you will find at any upscale bakery. Not to mention it is probably as close to eating the magic chocolate in Harry Potter as any muggle can get.
About the Author: Mallory is a medical student at the University of Louisville. In her free time she enjoys creating music, going on side-quests to avoid the most important thing she is supposed to do for the day, and pretending she is a runner. She is a mom to four cats and a snail.
What pizza in Louisville do you want to try? Did we miss any of your favorites? Drop us a comment below!
Before you go, be sure to check out these other posts:
- The 45 Best Places to Eat in Louisville, Kentucky
- The 8 Best Louisville Ice Cream Shops: from Cones to Sundaes (& more)!
- The Best Louisville Breweries: the Ultimate Local’s Guide (& Southern Indiana, too)
- Where to Get Tacos in Louisville, Kentucky: The 8 Best Tacos in Louisville
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Louisville’s not in the midwest, which is an obsolete moniker leftover from the early years of our country to describe the Great Lakes region, of which Louisville is not, which at that time was the “midwest”. This was before the Louisiana purchase of the early 1800’s and before westward expansion reached the Pacific. No, our fair city is and has always been squarely located in the southeast and its unique, cuisine incl. the pizza, reflects this. Although I do love Jet’s Detroit style deep dish, of which Louisville has many locations to choose from.
That’s an interesting insight, I had not heard that. Thanks for sharing :)!
Really? No mention of Danny Macs?