Trying to find the best pizza in Denver is a bit like choosing your favorite snowy day—everyone claims one, but it changes by the minute. Denver’s pizza scene covers everything from crackling coal-fired crusts to bubbly Detroit-style rectangles and airy Neapolitan pies. What began for me as a simple search for a late-night bite turned into a borderline obsession. Each spot reveals a distinct flavor, personality, and slice of the city’s eclectic food character.
If you’ve ever debated toppings with a friend, or felt serious joy when pizza lands at your table hot and fragrant, you’re in the right place. This guide slices through the clutter and sorts out Denver pizza worth talking about. Whether your cravings run classic or creative, settle in—by the end, you’ll know exactly where to go for your next favorite slice.
Where to find the best pizza in Denver, CO
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Denver, CO:
- Marco’s Coal-Fired
- Hops and Pie
- Angelo’s Taverna
- Blue Pan Pizza
- Pizza Republica
- Mellow Mushroom Downtown Denver
- Esters Denver
- Atomic Cowboy
- Cart – Driver
- Blue Pan Pizza
1. Marco’s Coal-Fired
If Denver’s pizza had a passport, it would stamp in at Marco’s Coal-Fired. It’s the state’s only pizzeria with the prestigious VPN certification, meaning the pizza here follows true Neapolitan standards—no shortcuts. The oven blisters every crust to smoky perfection, and you can taste the extra love in each bite. During my last visit, the Margherita pizza was pure magic: tangy San Marzano tomatoes, and a layer of creamy mozzarella so fresh, it almost sings.
The menu is direct—no oddball substitutions on the classics, which lets the flavor shine. If you’re tempted to veer off, try the Pistacchio e Salsiccia, for a combination of savory sausage and subtle pistachio notes. The craft here is obvious: pizza, just as it’s done in Naples, but planted firmly in Denver’s heart.
2. Hops and Pie
If you’re chasing comfort in pizza form, Hops and Pie has a way of hitting the spot. This is where serious pizza meets laid-back vibes, and you can feel it from the moment you walk in. My first visit ended in me plotting my return before I’d even finished eating. Their pies are hearty, creative, and always fresh. With a rotating lineup of local beers, the pairings are irresistible.
Go for the Detroit-style pan pizza—it’s thick, airy, and edged with crackly cheese. The signature pie loaded with roasted garlic and ricotta gets my vote for “can’t-stop-eating” status. Flexible options abound: vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, everyone finds their spot at the table without sacrificing flavor.
3. Angelo’s Taverna
Angelo’s Taverna gives classic Italian fare a local twist, right in the heart of Denver. The atmosphere is part neighborhood tavern, part lively trattoria, with friendly staff who treat regulars and newcomers alike like old friends. My evenings here start with pizza and end with contentment—this spot has become my go-to for a casual night out.
The white truffle mushroom pizza steals the spotlight, balancing earthy mushrooms and truffle oil over a chewy, golden crust. For something more traditional, their Margherita shines with bright basil and fresh mozzarella. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are thoughtfully crafted to please every palate. At Angelo’s, quality ingredients and a little flair make every visit memorable.
4. Blue Pan Pizza
Blue Pan Pizza doesn’t just serve Detroit-style pizza—they elevate it. Expect a pie with a crisp, caramelized cheese edge and a pillowy, airy interior that somehow feels both indulgent and light. My search for a perfect square of pizza peaked the first time I tried their Brooklyn Bridge: a masterclass in layering, where pepperoni (beef), ricotta, and red sauce mingle on a sturdy crust.
The “8 Mile High” is a local favorite, loaded with vegetables and just enough bite from tangy sauce. If you’re into classic flavors, stick with the Old School and appreciate just how decadent simplicity can taste. Vegetarian and gluten-free diners have great choices, too. When you’re hungry for something both homey and bold, Blue Pan delivers with every bite.
5. Pizza Republica
Pizza Republica sits at the crossroads of tradition and modern style, bringing wood-fired flavors right into the heart of downtown. The rustic oven and contemporary setting make each meal feel like a special occasion—even if you’re just escaping the lunch rush. I’ve often sat by the windows, enjoying the city energy while devouring a Margherita pizza with its perfect balance of char and chew.
The classic Napoletana is always a winner, but don’t miss the Quattro Formaggi for its bold, cheesy depth. Each crust emerges beautifully blistered, hinting at the chef’s respect for technique. Vegetarians and those looking for gluten-free options are well covered, never feeling like an afterthought in the kitchen’s rotation. A slice here, and you get why Pizza Republica earns repeat visits.
6. Mellow Mushroom Downtown Denver
Mellow Mushroom Downtown Denver is where pizza night gets a creative twist. The menu zigzags from playful classics to unexpected combinations, each pie baked on stone for that signature chewy crust. I’ve settled into a booth here after long city walks, grateful for relaxed energy and staff who know the menu inside out.
The Kosmic Karma stands out, uniting spinach, sundried tomatoes, and creamy feta for a medley that feels both fresh and decadent. You can also build your own, choosing from a wide range of vegetarian and vegan toppings. Gluten-free crust is an option, and every pizza feels like it was made for you. Try a craft soda or local brew on the side and settle in for a colorful pizza experience.
7. Esters Denver
Esters Denver is a neighborhood hangout where pizza feels both elevated and familiar. The vibe is come-as-you-are, filled with families, friends, and solo diners chasing their favorite slice. One rainy evening here convinced me that comfort food—especially their pizza—makes any day better.
The Green Room pizza steals the show, loaded with a garden’s worth of fresh vegetables and a just-right layer of cheese over bubbly crust. Their Buffalo Chicken option brings a subtle kick, balanced perfectly by cool ranch drizzle. Vegetarian and gluten-free options aren’t afterthoughts—they’re front-and-center on the menu. When you want unfussy, reliably delicious pizza in Denver, Esters hits all the right notes.
8. Atomic Cowboy
Atomic Cowboy is more than a pizza joint—it’s where Denver’s late-night cravings find their home. The place hums with energy, slicing up pies until the small hours, making it a lifesaver during midnight hunger pangs. I dropped in after a show and discovered slices big enough to fold, bursting with flavor and just the right balance of sauce and cheese.
Try the classic cheese or the Veggie Supreme; each bite is loaded with fresh toppings and a golden crust that holds up to any topping combination. Atomic Cowboy brings out a playful creativity in their menu, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan possibilities for adventurous eaters. For anyone looking for quality, convenience, and a little late-night joy, Atomic Cowboy delivers, every single time.
9. Cart – Driver
Cart-Driver packs serious flavor into a cozy, bustling spot in RiNo. Every detail—from the wood-fired oven to the tight menu—says quality over quantity. It’s easy to see why there’s always a hum of conversation coming from this converted shipping container. My first slice here was devoured at a shared table, with new friends and laughter blending into the food experience.
The Daisy pizza is the star, light but packed with tangy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a charred crust that keeps you reaching for another slice. Their Bee Sting offers a sweet heat twist, drizzling hot honey over a savory, vegetarian-friendly base. Even the simple margherita feels special thanks to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. When you want something both authentic and inventive, Cart-Driver is a must-visit.
10. Blue Pan Pizza
Blue Pan Pizza’s Congress Park spot proves Detroit-style pizza deserves a seat at the city’s top table. The crust is the first thing you notice—thick, cloud-light, and edged with just enough caramelized cheese to make each bite memorable. I remember sharing slices out of the signature blue pan and being taken in by the easygoing vibe and prompt, friendly service.
The Brooklyn Bridge—or any veggie-topped creation—reminds you how bold flavors can come together in such a simple, square slice. Vegetarian options are well-represented, and the quality never drops, no matter your topping. If you crave a pizza that’s both a little different and deeply satisfying, this Blue Pan location is a neighborhood gem you’ll want to revisit.
More Things to Try in Denver, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is most popular in Denver?
You’ll find everything from thin New York slices to wood-fired Neapolitan and the increasingly beloved Detroit-style, with its thick, crunchy edges. Denver’s pizza scene is a true mix, but Detroit-style and Neapolitan pies are local favorites.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan pizza options in Denver?
Absolutely. Many top pizzerias—like Hops and Pie, Blue Pan Pizza, and Mellow Mushroom—offer creative vegetarian and vegan pies, plus gluten-free crusts for extra flexibility.
Where can I get late-night pizza in Denver?
Atomic Cowboy, Fat Sully’s Pizza, and Cart-Driver keep their ovens warm well into the night. Perfect for a midnight craving or a post-concert bite.
Do Denver pizzerias offer gluten-free pizza?
Yes, several spots specialize in gluten-free options. Just be sure to ask staff about dedicated prep areas if you have allergies.
Which Denver pizzerias have the best atmosphere?
If you want a fun, lively vibe, try Cart-Driver or Mellow Mushroom. For a bustling city experience, Pizza Republica and Marco’s Coal-Fired always deliver a great energy with your meal.