Cleveland’s pizza scene is a true reflection of the city’s diverse culinary spirit, offering everything from classic Italian-American pies to creative wood-fired specialties.
Whether you crave a traditional slice or an innovative pie topped with the unexpected, these five standout pizzerias represent the best that Cleveland has to offer for pizza lovers.
1. Il Rione
Why It’s a Must-Try: Il Rione consistently ranks as the top pizza destination in Cleveland thanks to its winning mix of old-school neighborhood atmosphere and perfectly crafted pies.
Specializing in New York-style pizza with a touch of Neapolitan influence, Il Rione’s crust is crisp yet chewy, their sauce punchy, and the cheese blend just right.
Signature pies, like the classic Pepperoni or the “Bianca” (a white pizza with ricotta and garlic), are baked with a golden edge and deliver a memorable pizza experience every time .
2. Cent’s
Why It’s a Must-Try: Cent’s is known for its creative flair and obsession with quality ingredients.
Their naturally leavened dough ferments for days, resulting in a uniquely flavorful, airy crust.
Toppings are seasonal and bold—the “Spicy Mortadella” and “Wild Fennel Sausage” are local favorites.
The stylish, compact setting and innovative sheet-pan pizzas make Cent’s a must for pizza lovers looking for something different .
3. Harlow’s
Why It’s a Must-Try: Harlow’s brings artisan craftsmanship to Cleveland’s pizza scene, quickly earning a devoted following with its sourdough crust, charred just right in a wood-fired oven.
Each pie—especially their inventive “Hot Honey Pepperoni” and classic Margherita—features thoughtfully sourced local ingredients and a distinct, smoky finish.
The cozy vibe and well-curated drink list make this an ideal spot for a laid-back night out .
4. Citizen Pie
Why It’s a Must-Try: Citizen Pie serves some of Cleveland’s finest thin-crust, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas.
Their blistered, airy crust and punchy San Marzano tomato sauce create the perfect foundation for simple, high-quality toppings such as fresh mozzarella and house-made sausage.
Their “Spicy Pepperoni” and “Amatriciana” pies are legendary locally, offering intense flavor in every bite .
5. Dewey’s Pizza
Why It’s a Must-Try: Popular with both families and foodies, Dewey’s delivers reliably excellent pizzas with a soft, chewy crust and crowd-pleasing combinations.
Their “Ryan’s Inferno” (buffalo chicken pizza) and “Green Lantern” (loaded with veggies and pesto) are just two standouts on a menu full of creative and customizable options.
With a reputation for friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere, Dewey’s is a great choice for gathering with friends or family .
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