Finding great pizza in Boston isn’t just a hobby—it borders on an art form. The city delivers everything from iconic North End slices to wood-fired marvels hiding in unassuming corners. There have been times I’ve ducked out of a chilly Fenway game for something piping hot, or wandered Hanover Street, following that unmistakable scent of crust baking in old brick ovens. These experiences only deepened my conviction: Boston understands good pizza.
If you’re searching for a new go-to slice or plotting your own pizza crawl, you’re about to discover something special. This guide is crafted after many nights of crisp doughs, tangy sauces, and the endless debate over thin or thick crust. You won’t need to wonder if you’re missing out or second-guess your choices. Read on to uncover where in Boston your next pizza obsession is hiding.
Where to find the best pizza in Boston, MA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Boston, MA:
- Galleria Umberto
- Regina Pizzeria
- Ernesto’s Pizza
- Picco Restaurant
- Santarpio’s Pizza
- The Salty Pig
- Benevento’s
- Quattro
- Brewer’s Fork
- Locale Boston
1. Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto is a North End staple where the lines speak louder than billboards. The atmosphere buzzes with the energy of a place loved for decades. On my first visit, I slid a tray over the counter, paper plate in hand, and was met with some of the crispiest Sicilian pizza in Boston.
The square slices here crackle at the edges, holding up rich tomato sauce and a layer of bubbling cheese. Don’t miss the classic Sicilian cheese slice—it’s simple, hearty, and perfectly balances flavor with texture. Pair it with an arancini for a full North End experience.
Cash only and lunch hours only, so plan your trip right. The wait is worth every minute.
2. Regina Pizzeria
Regina Pizzeria has a legacy you can taste in every bite. Nestled in the North End, this iconic spot feels like a walk back in time – and the legendary brick oven always seems to be working overtime. I once watched the staff toss dough while waiting in line, catching the aroma of blistering crust and melting cheese.
The classic Margherita is a crowd favorite, with vibrant tomato sauce and a satisfying chew. Crunchy edges and charred bubbles on the crust hint at Regina’s old-world methods. Vegan and vegetarian options mean there’s something for everyone.
Open well into the night, it’s a beacon for pizza seekers. Don’t leave without trying a slice straight from the oven – that’s where Regina’s magic lives.
3. Ernesto’s Pizza
Ernesto’s Pizza is where pizza cravings meet serious satisfaction. One look at their signature oversized slices and you know lunch just got interesting. I remember snagging a seat by the window, the aroma of fresh dough and bubbling cheese putting any thoughts of salad aside.
Every slice at Ernesto’s feels like a small celebration, but their veggie pie wins special mention. Piled with peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, it balances freshness and flavor on a crust that stays crispy, even under a mountain of toppings.
Ordering is easy, whether you want to dine in or grab a takeout box for a North End stroll. Ernesto’s punches above its weight in the city’s pizza scene.
4. Picco Restaurant
Picco Restaurant is South End comfort wrapped in the aroma of slow-baked dough. My first bite of their pizza on a rainy Boston afternoon flipped the script on what I thought pizza could be. Each pie arrives with a perfectly charred crust, a signature of their unique oven technique.
The Margherita pizza here is a lesson in balance—tomato, basil, and mozzarella unite on a thin, blistered canvas. For something bolder, go with the Alsatian, which blends sweet onion and potato for a twist that lingers in memory.
Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diners will find real options, not just afterthoughts. At Picco, every topping feels deliberate and every bite, a revelation.
5. Santarpio’s Pizza
Santarpio’s Pizza sits beneath the glow of old neon, a no-frills classic with real Boston swagger. My first visit was a rite of passage—elbow-to-elbow with regulars, in a spot that buzzes day and night. The charm here is all about tradition, from the worn booths to the shuffle of pizza trays.
The cheese pizza sets the bar for East Boston slices, balancing crispy crust with just the right tang of sauce. The pepper-and-onion combo is another go-to, each ingredient fresh and flavorful atop a hearty foundation. You can taste decades of experience with every bite.
Open late with table service and easy takeout, Santarpio’s proves that simple, expertly executed pizza never goes out of style.
6. The Salty Pig
The Salty Pig matches Back Bay’s energy with pies that feel anything but ordinary. My favorite seat is near the open kitchen, where you can watch dough being stretched and ovens firing on all cylinders. There’s an approachable vibe, but the menu travels far beyond basics.
The White Pizza here wins high marks—light on sauce, heavy on cheese and fresh herbs, with a crisp crust that handles any topping. Vegetarian and gluten-free diners won’t feel left out, thanks to clever menu swaps and creative pies.
Late hours mean you don’t have to rush. Whether sharing a pie or sampling a few, The Salty Pig’s pizzas nail the balance between whimsy and substance, cementing their place on Boston’s pizza map.
7. Benevento’s
Benevento’s sits right at the pulse of the North End, where every table feels like a friend’s invitation. I once wandered in on a whim and left convinced that their stone-fired pies could turn anyone into a regular. The space buzzes, yet the service always feels unrushed and genuine.
Their signature thin-crust pizzas showcase crisp edges and generous toppings, striking a fine balance between comfort and creativity. The Margherita stands out, bright and honest, but for something richer, the quattro formaggi adds a layer of indulgence with every slice.
Options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free eaters abound, so everyone’s in on the experience. Benevento’s warmth and quality keep it in the city’s top pizza circle.
8. Quattro
Quattro brings a bit of modern Italian flair to Hanover Street, making every meal feel like a special occasion. When I first stepped inside, the open kitchen instantly caught my attention—chefs twirling dough and jazz floating through the air. The energy sets the stage for the main event: pizza.
Thin, wood-fired crusts are Quattro’s specialty, and the Margherita here arrives blistered and vibrant. For a switch-up, the vegetarian primavera is loaded with fresh seasonal vegetables that pack plenty of flavor without weighing down the slice.
Plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options make it inclusive. Quattro’s knack for balancing tradition with bold flavor earns it a deserved spot among Boston’s pizza favorites.
9. Brewer’s Fork
Brewer’s Fork is the Charlestown spot where inventive pizza meets a welcoming neighborhood vibe. My favorite memory here starts with a seat on the patio, the scent of smoldering oak drifting over from the open kitchen. Every pie feels like a collaboration between chef and fire.
The wood-fired crust is the star—slightly charred, pleasantly chewy, and nuanced with smoky notes. If you crave novelty, the “Funghi” delivers earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs, while classics like the Margherita uphold tradition with style.
Options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diners mean all are covered. Brewer’s Fork takes pizza seriously, without ever taking itself too seriously, making each visit both memorable and relaxed.
10. Locale Boston
Locale Boston sits near the heart of the North End, blending classic Italian comfort with a touch of modern flair. My first slice here arrived still steaming, crust slightly blistered from the oven, and I knew I was in good hands. There’s a sense of care in every detail, from the crust right down to the olive oil drizzle.
Their Neapolitan pizzas take center stage, with a light, chewy base and fresh toppings that pop. The “Patata” pizza, layered with potato, rosemary, and smoked mozzarella, is a revelation—rich and earthy, distinct from typical Boston pies.
Vegetarian options abound, and the welcoming staff rounds out the experience. At Locale, pizza feels both familiar and exciting, an easy choice for the discerning pizza hunter.
More Things to Try in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is Boston known for?
Boston is best known for its variety, from classic Neapolitan and Sicilian slices to creative, wood-fired options. Many spots offer a blend of Italian tradition and local twists, ensuring there’s a style for everyone.
Are there good vegan or vegetarian pizza options in Boston?
Absolutely. Many top pizzerias in Boston, including Locale and Picco, offer vegan and vegetarian pies packed with fresh, flavorful ingredients. Just check the menu or ask the staff—they’re always happy to help with customizations.
Which neighborhoods are best for finding great pizza in Boston?
The North End is a must for anyone on the hunt, followed closely by South End, Back Bay, and Charlestown. You’ll find legendary classics along with hidden gems in almost every corner.
Can I find gluten-free pizza in Boston?
Yes, several pizza spots like Benevento’s and Quattro offer gluten-free crusts without sacrificing taste or texture. Gluten-free diners have plenty of delicious choices.
What’s the average price for a pizza in Boston?
Expect to pay about $10–$25 for a whole pie, depending on the style and location. Slices tend to run $3–$6. Most places are casual, so you get quality without needing a formal tablecloth.