**Buffalo, NY isn’t just famous for wings. It’s a city that’s quietly obsessed with pizza, cranking out some of the boldest, bubbliest pies in the Northeast. Maybe it’s something in the water. Maybe it’s the neighborhoods—the kind where everyone seems to know a shortcut to a legendary slice. My first real Buffalo pizza experience was a greasy box from an old corner joint, devoured in the backseat of a parked car amid a sudden lake-effect snowstorm. The cheese stretched for miles, the crust crackled perfectly, and the sauce tasted like someone’s Italian grandmother was in the kitchen. I still remember thinking, “How is this not nationally famous?”
Finding great pizza in Buffalo is a personal quest. People love to claim their favorite spot is “the best,” but—like a good sauce—they all have secrets. I’ve explored rooftop patios, narrow alleys, and cozy pubs, each promising the most memorable pie you’ve ever had. Whether you’re a local, fresh from a Sabres game, or just passing through, you’ll want to know which places actually live up to the hype. This guide is the result of hundreds of slices, a few napkin stains, and an open mind. Ready to explore the most satisfying pizza Buffalo has to offer? Let’s get started.
Where to find the best pizza in Buffalo, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Buffalo, NY:
- Hydraulic Hearth Restaurant & Brewery
- Frankie Primo’s +39
- Brick Oven Bistro & Deli
- Daniela
- Roost
- Bocce Club Pizza
- Picasso’s Pizza
- La Nova Wing Incorporated
- Zahz Pizza
- Imperial Pizza
1. Hydraulic Hearth Restaurant & Brewery
Hydraulic Hearth Restaurant & Brewery brings together local flavor and creative flair in Buffalo’s Larkinville district. The place always feels lively, especially when the beer garden fills up on warm nights. Last time I dropped in, a jazz band played as diners dug into wood-fired pizzas and pints brewed on-site.
The pizzas here capture what Buffalo does best: approachable, satisfying, and made with care. The chewy, charred crust delivers a gentle crunch, while inventive toppings set each pie apart. Try the Margherita for that pure, fresh basil and mozzarella balance, or the Roasted Mushroom if you crave earthy richness. There are also gluten-free and vegan pies that don’t cut corners on taste.
Everything feels crafted with a personal touch—easy to love even if you’re just stopping by.
2. Frankie Primo’s +39
Frankie Primo’s +39 blends the energy of downtown Buffalo with the heart of traditional Italian cooking. The dining room pulses with conversation, and the open kitchen offers a front-row seat to dough being tossed and pies sliding into the oven.
One lunch break, I found myself sharing slices of the classic Margherita with colleagues. The crust was thin yet sturdy, with just enough chew to hold up the San Marzano tomato sauce. The balance of fresh basil and bubbling mozzarella even sparked a friendly debate over who had the best slice.
If you crave variety, try the Primavera pizza—it’s loaded with colorful vegetables and drizzled with olive oil. Options for gluten-free and vegan diners make this spot easy to revisit with friends.
3. Brick Oven Bistro & Deli
Brick Oven Bistro & Deli is where South Buffalo comes for comfort and creativity, all in one bite. My first visit was on a chilly afternoon—walking inside felt like stepping into a friend’s kitchen. Soft lighting and brick walls set the mood, and it only got better when the pizza arrived.
The oven’s smoky heat gives each pie a crisp, airy base with just the right touch of char. Go for the Margherita or the White Pizza; both showcase fresh toppings and a balance of flavors. The vegetarian options, like the Mediterranean-inspired pies, come loaded with veggies and just the right amount of cheese.
The menu caters to classic tastes and adventurous eaters alike, making Brick Oven an easy favorite.
4. Daniela
Daniela is the kind of spot where you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. Tucked away on Forest Avenue, it has a welcoming vibe that draws a loyal crowd. Stopping by during lunch, I watched as Daniela herself moved from table to table, greeting everyone by name.
The pizza here is as genuine as it gets—thin, crisp crust and quality toppings in every bite. The Margherita is a standout, with bright tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. For something different, try the Pesto Pizza. It’s loaded with flavor and comes out bubbling from the oven.
What makes Daniela special is the personal touch in every pie—homemade, heartwarming, unforgettable.
5. Roost
Roost turns pizza into an adventure with its ever-changing menu and bold approach. Every visit feels new; I once discovered a seasonal pie featuring roasted squash and spiced ricotta that lingered in my memory for weeks.
The pizzas here are rustic, generously portioned, and wood-fired to a perfect char. Try the classic Margherita if you want comfort, or dive into a specialty pie like the Potato Pizza—crispy, creamy, and truly unique. Roost’s creative streak shows in its vegan and gluten-free options, each crafted with the same care as the classics.
From brunch to dinner, Roost’s inventive spirit shines through. It’s the place to go when you want a little surprise with your slice.
6. Bocce Club Pizza
Bocce Club Pizza is a true Buffalo institution, blending family history with classic flavor. The legacy stretches back to the 1940s and every slice carries that sense of tradition. My first box of Bocce was shared with friends after a late game at UB—its aroma alone made everyone pause in anticipation.
The dough is hand-stretched each day, topped with a zesty secret sauce and plenty of whole milk mozzarella. The result? Pillowy crust with just the right edge of chew. Go for the classic Cheese and Pepperoni, a perfect introduction to Buffalo’s signature pizza style. Their Veggie pie, loaded with mushrooms, peppers, and olives, is never an afterthought.
If you want to taste Buffalo pizza history in each bite, Bocce Club is an unbeatable stop.
7. Picasso’s Pizza
Picasso’s Pizza brings a playful edge to Buffalo’s pizza scene—each pie is crafted as both art and comfort food. I first tried their pizza after a friend’s rave review, expecting the usual, but the burst of flavor and pillowy dough caught me by surprise. Sitting around a kitchen table, everyone agreed: Picasso’s is memorable.
Their sauce is tangy and bold, the kind you want to savor with every bite of stretchable mozzarella. Order their White Pizza—a local legend for its creamy ricotta, roasted garlic, and a golden, crispy crust. The Veggie Pizza piles on the freshness with colorful peppers and broccoli.
For takeout nights or big gatherings, Picasso’s delivers consistent quality that never feels ordinary.
8. La Nova Wing Incorporated
La Nova Wing Incorporated is where late-night cravings and pizza ambitions meet. My first visit was a spur-of-the-moment run after a movie, and the aroma from the kitchen pulled everyone in. The energy here feels electric, no matter the hour.
The pizza stands out for its robust crust and generous layers of gooey cheese. The classic Cheese and Veggie pies deliver on flavor and satisfying texture. For a twist, order the Spinach & Tomato pizza—fresh, bright, and a perfect example of how La Nova keeps things interesting.
La Nova makes it simple to grab a great slice any time, any day. It’s a reliable favorite in Buffalo’s pizza lineup.
9. Zahz Pizza
Zahz Pizza is a local favorite that puts its heart into every pie. The first time I tried Zahz, it was a quick pick-up on a busy weeknight. What caught me was how fresh everything tasted, from crust to sauce to toppings.
Zahz’s dough is soft but never soggy, providing a solid stage for their signature tangy sauce and generous layer of cheese. The Veggie Pizza, piled high with crisp vegetables, is always spot-on. If you’re looking for something different, their White Pizza shines for its garlicky richness and hint of herbs.
With speedy service and reliable flavor, Zahz Pizza is the kind of spot you go back to when you want something familiar but made with care.
10. Imperial Pizza
Imperial Pizza has a strong claim in the Buffalo pizza scene, known for big flavors that win over locals and visitors alike. My introduction to Imperial came after a long day, when only a hot, gooey slice would do. The crust had just the right amount of crunch and chew, setting it apart from the start.
The Cheese Pizza here is a Buffalo classic—generous with cheese, bold with sauce, and cut into square pieces for sharing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their Veggie Pizza, loaded with fresh mushrooms and green peppers. It’s just as hearty as the classics but offers a different twist.
Imperial’s old-school charm and consistent quality make it a staple in any Buffalo pizza quest.
More Things to Try in Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is Buffalo known for?
Buffalo pizza features a thick yet airy crust, plenty of cheese that reaches to the edge, and tangy, slightly sweet sauce. It’s usually cut into square pieces and known for its satisfying chew.
Where can I find vegetarian or vegan pizza options in Buffalo?
Many top pizzerias like Hydraulic Hearth, Roost, and Frankie Primo’s +39 offer vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten-free pizzas. Always check menus or call ahead for details.
Is there a local pizza spot that’s open late?
La Nova Wing Incorporated, among others, stays open late, making it a go-to place for a late-night slice or takeout.
What’s the must-try pizza topping in Buffalo?
Pepperoni reigns supreme here, often curling into crispy little cups. Veggie pies are also popular and generously loaded.
How does Buffalo’s pizza compare to New York- or Chicago-style?
Buffalo pizza stands out with a thicker, airier crust than New York but isn’t as deep as Chicago’s. You’ll get a cheesy bite every time, thanks to its edge-to-edge approach.