A search for the best pizza in Columbus, GA isn’t just about crispy crusts and gooey cheese. It’s a journey that slides from neighborhood family joints to quirky college spots, all with their own spin on tradition. I still remember my first slice in the city—a bubbling, hand-tossed wonder from a tucked-away pizzeria that changed my mind about what a pizza could be. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to scout out every oven-fired crust and tangy tomato sauce Columbus has to offer.
Whether you’re craving thin New York-style slices, heaps of fresh toppings, or the satisfying snap of a brick oven base, there’s a spot here with your name on it. Get ready to discover hidden gems and local favorites that make every bite a new story. With this guide, you’ll know exactly where to go, whether you want a quick lunch or a family feast.
Where to find the best pizza in Columbus, GA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Columbus, GA:
- Cerrone’s Brick Oven Pizzeria
- Mellow Mushroom Columbus
- Johnny’s New York Style Pizza
- Your Pie
- Your Pie
- Peluso’s Italian Restaurant
- Peluso’s
- Mr. Pizza Brick Oven and Tap
- Marco’s Pizza
1. Cerrone’s Brick Oven Pizzeria
Tucked into a busy stretch of Veterans Parkway, Cerrone’s Brick Oven Pizzeria feels like Columbus’s answer to the classic Italian family kitchen. With hand-stretched dough and a crackling, wood-fired oven, the aroma alone is enough to pull you in from the parking lot. My first visit was a revelation—a margherita pizza where every bite showcased their house-made mozzarella and tangy sauce.
What sets Cerrone’s apart? It’s their respect for real ingredients and a willingness to go the extra mile for flavor. The crust is perfectly blistered and chewy, holding up under a mountain of fresh toppings. For a real taste of Cerrone’s flair, try the “Sicilian” or “Bianca” pies—each captures the pizzeria’s commitment to quality without any fuss.
2. Mellow Mushroom Columbus
Stepping into Mellow Mushroom Columbus is like wandering into a psychedelic pizza dream, complete with swirling art and a groovy soundtrack. The moment you bite into their stone-baked crust, you’ll understand the cult following. I once spent an afternoon at the bar, savoring a slice of the “Kosmic Karma”—the combination of sundried tomatoes and feta felt wildly original without being over the top.
What sets this spot apart? The creativity is on full display, from the menu design to the ingredients. The dough is unique—chewy and flavorful, with just the right char from their ovens. The “Great White” is a must-try, loaded with ricotta and roasted tomatoes, offering a flavor you’ll remember long after the last bite.
3. Johnny’s New York Style Pizza
Johnny’s New York Style Pizza brings the unmistakable taste of the city to Columbus—a thin, foldable slice with that signature chew. My visit started with their classic cheese pizza, and it hit every standard, from the crisped edges to the balanced sauce and cheese. Nothing fancy, just great flavor and texture that feels utterly authentic.
What makes Johnny’s stand out? Their dough is made fresh each day, never frozen, and you can taste the difference with every bite. The crust holds up, no flopping or sogginess, even under generous toppings. For a definitive Johnny’s experience, order the “Deluxe”—it comes piled with fresh-cut veggies and a true New York blend of cheeses, capturing the spirit of their kitchen.
4. Your Pie
Your Pie is where personal pizza dreams become reality. My first time there, I crafted a pie from scratch, choosing each topping and sauce while watching it bake in the brick oven—it doesn’t get more custom than that. The atmosphere is casual, and the staff has a knack for making you feel like pizza is an art form.
The standout feature? Freedom of choice, paired with top-shelf ingredients. You can take the classic route or load up on vegetables and specialty cheeses. If you want a recommendation, order their “Ischia.” It’s inspired by the owner’s Italian roots and pairs fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a combo that’s simple, light, and packed with flavor.
5. Your Pie
Your Pie on Whitesville Road puts you in charge of your pizza destiny. I remember building my own masterpiece, from the hand-tossed dough to every last topping—watching it bubble up in the oven was half the fun. The staff made the whole process smooth, and there’s something special about eating a pizza that’s built exactly for you.
What truly sets this spot apart? The sheer variety—vegan, gluten-free, loads of veggies, and creative sauces—lets anyone find their perfect pie. Go for the “Southern Heat” if you like a kick; it combines buffalo sauce, fresh mozzarella, and a garden’s worth of veggies. It’s a bold choice that shows off their flair for unforgettable flavors.
6. Peluso’s Italian Restaurant
Walking into Peluso’s Italian Restaurant feels a little like visiting an old friend’s kitchen. There’s a relaxed charm, with aromas of baking crust and classic Italian spices welcoming you from the door. My first slice here was a simple cheese pizza with a crust so light and crisp, I nearly finished the whole pie without realizing it.
What sets Peluso’s apart? The recipes lean classic, and you can taste history in every bite. Their dough is tender, their sauce tangy, and toppings always fresh. If you want a dish that captures their style, order their “Vegetarian” pizza—layers of fresh vegetables, golden cheese, and a crust that’s sturdy but never heavy. It defines comfort food, Peluso’s style.
7. Peluso’s
Peluso’s on Milgen Road delivers the kind of neighborhood pizza that’s both familiar and impossible to replicate at home. I dropped by on a busy Friday night and was struck by how their staff juggled a packed room with warmth and ease. The first slice of their hand-tossed pizza was pure comfort—soft, chewy, and loaded with flavor.
The difference here is all in the details. The crust manages to be both crisp and tender, and the sauce brings a sweet-tart balance without overpowering the cheese. For a real taste of what Peluso’s does best, the “Garden Pizza” is a solid choice—fresh vegetables, just the right melt on the cheese, and a crust that demands a second (or third) slice.
8. Mr. Pizza Brick Oven and Tap
Mr. Pizza Brick Oven and Tap feels like the spot locals try to keep secret, with its laid-back vibe and unmistakable aroma of fresh dough. When I stopped in, the staff had that easy confidence you only find in true pizza pros. Watching my pizza crisp up in the brick oven was almost as satisfying as that first crunchy, chewy bite.
This place specializes in bold, straightforward flavors. They keep the menu focused, letting quality ingredients do the talking. I’d recommend the classic Margherita if you want to taste their style at its purest—fresh basil, perfect cheese, and a crust with just enough char to prove it never saw a conveyor belt.
9. Marco’s Pizza
Marco’s Pizza on Double Churches Road delivers more than just reliability—you get a surprisingly flavorful, craveable pie. My first Marco’s experience involved their “White Cheezy” pizza on a night when only comfort food would do. The creamy sauce and mix of cheeses gave it a richness that felt much more indulgent than your usual takeout.
Marco’s stands out for their generous portions and quality toppings. Every order comes with a crust that’s both airy and sturdy, providing the ideal base for saucy or loaded slices. If you’re exploring the menu, try the “Deluxe.” It’s topped with plenty of veggies, and each bite highlights Marco’s knack for balancing freshness and flavor, showing just why they have such loyal fans around Columbus.
More Things to Try in Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular pizza places in Columbus, GA?
Some local favorites include Cerrone’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, Mellow Mushroom, Johnny’s New York Style Pizza, and Your Pie. These spots consistently earn high marks for taste, service, and atmosphere.
Are there good options for vegetarians or vegans?
Absolutely. Many of the top pizzerias, like Your Pie and Mellow Mushroom, offer vegetarian and vegan pizzas, plus dairy-free cheeses and a variety of fresh toppings.
Where can I find gluten-free pizza in Columbus?
Gluten-free options are available at places like Your Pie and Mellow Mushroom. Call ahead to ensure your favorite spot has what you need—availability may change day to day.
Who makes the best traditional New York-style pizza here?
Johnny’s New York Style Pizza has a great reputation for foldable, thin-crust slices that capture the city’s classic pizza spirit.
Can I get pizza delivered late at night in Columbus, GA?
Many chain pizzerias like Domino’s and Papa John’s offer late-night delivery. Check their current hours for the most up-to-date information.
Which pizza spots are best for families or kids?
Chuck E. Cheese and Cicis Pizza are known for casual, family-friendly dining, while most local pizzerias also offer kid-approved options and welcoming staff.