Virginia's Best Pizza Joints: A Cheesy Delight
Every state across the country claims to have the best pizza joint. It turns out that Virginia is home to some of the very best. From Nutella pizza (yes, you read that right!) to 28-inch monster specials, pizza lovers will find plenty to chow down on in the Commonwealth. Let the cheesiness commence!
Rocco’s Pizza, Leesburg, VA
Last year’s “Best Pizza” winner as voted on by Yelp! users is Rocco’s Pizza in Leesburg. Yelper Vivky L. says, “If you love authentic pizza—not something from a chain—then you’ll be very happy here. A thin, chewy crust, cheese that is drippy and gooey (in a very good way), and sauce that hits all the right notes.” Hand me a slice.
Regino’s Italian Restaurant, Norfolk, VA
One can’t order pizza in Norfolk without at least considering Regino’s, winner of last year’s Virginian Pilot taste test. Regino’s has served pizza and other Italian favorites since 1948, and although the building has changed, its flavors remain authentic and delicious. One bite, and you’ll be coming back for more.
Dough Boys Pizza, Virginia Beach, VA
Since 1989, Dough Boys Pizza has been a staple of Virginia Beach, offering locals and visitors alike scrumptious pizza. Its beachy atmosphere is an inviting complement and pays homage to local surf and beach community. For over 30 years, Dough Boys Pizza has provided guests with a delightful pizza experience.
Anna’s Brick Oven, Williamsburg, VA
Anna’s Brick Oven in Williamsburg offers a warm, familial atmosphere directly from Italy. The owners, Anna and her brother Sal Liguria opened Anna’s in 1974 after moving to Virginia from New York, where Anna ran other Italian restaurants. Since then, they’ve continued to serve delicious Italian dishes, welcoming new and old customers alike as if they are part of the family.
Crozet Pizza, Crozet and Charlottesville, VA
Crozet Pizza, established in 1977, is a two-seater in the little town of Crozet near Charlottesville (where a second location has recently opened). For the last 30 years, Crozet Pizza has focused on baking the best pizza possible, and has been recognized by “National Geographic” with the “Best in World” award, Foder’s Travel Guide “Best in State” and “Best in USA” accolades, and as a “Destination Restaurant” by The Washington Post. The pizzas are unique, the toppings varied, and the taste, remarkable.
Osteria Marzano, Alexandria, VA
Chef Carmine Marzano and his daughter Elena Pouchelon have taken their combined six decades of hospitality experience to the next level in Osteria Marzano. While Mrs. Pouchelon worked with architects and designers to create their dream restaurant, complete with a granite bar, walnut accent walls, and golden whirlwind fabric ceiling panels, Chef Marzano brings his Italian heritage to bore in this D.C.-area favorite. Their handmade pastas, pizzas, and breads are incredible takes on Italian classics, but their dessert pizza is regionally renown. The two-person Nutella pizza has pistachio, sea salt, whipped mascarpone, baby marshmallows, and, of course, Nutella.
We, The Pizza, Arlington, VA
Do you watch “Top Chef?” If you do, then you’ll remember the charismatic season four and All-Star contestant Spike Mendelsohn. Then you’ll need to try his pizza. We, The Pizza is one of Mendelsohn’s restaurants, and by all accounts, it’s “Top Chef” good. Each pie comes in slices, medium or large. The Cast Iron pies are delicious and well worth the trip, even if you aren’t a Top Chef fan.
Fire Works Wood Fired Pizza, Arlington and Leesburg, VA
Fire Works Wood Fired Pizza in Arlington and Leesburg offers pizzas baked in a five-ton wood fired oven. It was the 2014 Best Business of the Year award recipient from the Arlington Chamber of Commerce. Sixteen different pizzas adorn the menu, along with a create-your-own option and gluten free add-ons. Options range from the traditional Cheese & Herb pizza to the more adventure Black Sheep pizza, which includes feta, lamb sausage, and a balsamic glaze.
Waterstone Pizza, Lynchburg, VA
Waterstone Pizza in Lynchburg offers fire-roasted pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches in an urban loft. Waterstone has a hip character to it, and a sly coolness that makes you want to spend time at one of the booths. Pizza enthusiast favorites are on the menu next to the blackened shrimp and mango pizza, which includes ginger sauce, mango, and scallions. If you’re not feeling adventurous enough for a spicy Thai pizza, fear not: The barbeque chicken, margarita, and garden pizzas are perfect for you.
Benny Marconi’s, Multiple locations
Benny’s boastful slogan is “Home of the Virginia Slice,” and in this case, it’s apt with locations in Blacksburg, Roanoke, Radford, Harrisonburg, Smith Mountain Lake, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, and Lynchburg, it’s likely any college student has had a taste of Benny’s. Check your local Benny’s branch for the monthly special, and don’t forget they’re open until 3 a.m. on weekends — perfect timing for those late-night Saturday “study” sessions.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Virginia is home to some of the best pizza joints in the country.
- Rocco's Pizza in Leesburg was voted the "Best Pizza" winner by Yelp! users.
- Regino's in Norfolk won the Virginian Pilot taste test.
- Dough Boys Pizza in Virginia Beach has been a staple for over 30 years.
- Anna's Brick Oven in Williamsburg offers a warm, familial atmosphere.
- Crozet Pizza near Charlottesville has received numerous awards for its unique pizzas.
- Osteria Marzano in Alexandria is known for its dessert pizza with Nutella.
- We, The Pizza in Arlington is owned by "Top Chef" contestant Spike Mendelsohn.
- Fire Works Wood Fired Pizza in Arlington and Leesburg offers a variety of pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven.
- Waterstone Pizza in Lynchburg offers fire-roasted pizzas in an urban loft setting.
- Benny Marconi's has multiple locations across Virginia and is known for its "Virginia Slice."
