Tucson combines desert heritage, Mexican influences, and university energy in this distinctive Southwestern city.
These five pizzerias represent Tucson’s best in 2025.
1. Rocco’s Little Chicago Pizzeria
Bringing authentic deep-dish tradition to the desert since 1998, Rocco’s creates legendary Chicago-style pies with buttery crust, cheese-loaded interiors, and chunky tomato sauce on top.
Founded by a Chicago native seeking to introduce proper deep dish to Tucson, their commitment to authenticity has earned passionate loyalty from Midwestern transplants and converts alike.
Beyond deep dish, their thin-crust “tavern style” cut in squares offers a lighter alternative equally rooted in Chicago tradition.
The casual space decorated with Chicago memorabilia and University of Arizona partnerships creates a distinctive atmosphere that bridges Tucson’s diverse communities.
By successfully translating Windy City tradition to the Sonoran Desert, Rocco’s has created a unique cultural exchange that enriches Tucson’s food landscape.
2. Anello
This artisanal favorite creates Neapolitan-inspired wood-fired pies with locally-milled heritage grains and seasonal desert ingredients.
Their naturally leavened dough develops complex flavor through extended fermentation, while their commitment to quality extends to house-made mozzarella and thoughtfully sourced local produce.
The “Sonoran” with desert honey and regional chiles demonstrates how Italian traditions can embrace Southwestern ingredients.
The intimate space with visible wood-burning oven creates a connection between diners and the intensive craftsmanship involved.
Regular collaborations with local farmers and producers strengthen community relationships while creating unique limited offerings.
By balancing rigorous technique with Arizona character, Anello delivers sophisticated pizza experiences that celebrate Tucson’s distinctive terroir.
3. Brooklyn Pizza Company
Serving the University of Arizona community since 1996, Brooklyn Pizza delivers authentic New York-style slices with thin, foldable crusts and traditional toppings.
Available both by the slice and as whole pies, their pizza provides reliable satisfaction at student-friendly prices.
The bustling atmosphere near campus makes Brooklyn a social hub for university life, while solar power and sustainability initiatives reflect Tucson’s environmental consciousness.
Their commitment to quality fundamentals rather than gimmicks has maintained consistent excellence through decades of serving hungry students and faculty.
By providing authentic East Coast pizza in a distinctly Tucson setting, Brooklyn Pizza bridges culinary traditions while creating a beloved campus institution.
4. Pionic Pizza & Pasta
This Tucson-born concept pioneered the fast-casual pizza model with unlimited toppings on individually sized pies cooked in high-temperature ovens.
Their approach combines customization with quality ingredients and efficient service, creating pizza that satisfies contemporary dining preferences.
Beyond traditional offerings, options including cauliflower crust and plant-based proteins accommodate diverse dietary needs common in health-conscious Tucson.
The bright, modern spaces at multiple locations welcome families and professionals seeking quick, personalized meals.
5. Falora Pizza & Espresso
Located in the historic Broadway Village, Falora combines wood-fired pizza excellence with coffee culture in a distinctive Tucson setting.
Their minimalist approach focuses on perfectly executed crust with carefully selected toppings that showcase quality rather than quantity.
The “Catalina” named for the nearby mountains features seasonal ingredients from Sonoran Desert producers, while their commitment to simplicity honors Italian traditions.
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