Finding the best pizza in Monmouth County, NJ can feel like an adventure, and honestly, I’ve had my fair share of detours. One rainy afternoon, stuck in traffic along Route 35, a craving for a slice led me through a chain of unplanned stops. Thick crust, thin crust, cheese that stretches for miles—every spot has its own loyal following. Along the way, debates over what makes a proper pie became both a sport and a rite of passage.
This guide isn’t built on rumors or generic lists. It’s shaped by nights spent with greasy napkins, quiet corners in pizzerias, and some double-takes at pie toppings. If you’re tired of bland recommendations and want the kind of pizza knowledge that can only come from real trial (and a few errors), you’re in the right place. Let’s sort the spectacular from the so-so, one cheesy bite at a time.
1. Gianni’s Pizza
Tucked along Route 34, Gianni’s Pizza in Colts Neck radiates a neighborhood charm that’s hard to miss. You walk in and the scent of crisped cheese and sauce feels like a welcome. My first visit was on a whim, but their classic Margherita turned it into a habit.
What sets Gianni’s apart is its dough—light, never soggy, with a hint of golden crunch. Pies here are generously topped but never weighed down, so every slice tastes balanced. The Grandma Pie is a local legend, topped with tangy sauce and fresh mozzarella, and it doesn’t disappoint.
If you like something heartier, try the Sicilian or a simple pepperoni. Each reflects Gianni’s dedication to fresh ingredients and real flavor.
2. Prima Pizza
Right off Route 34, Prima Pizza is the kind of place where locals linger and newcomers feel in on a secret. From my first visit, the staff made sure I was more than a number—quick with a menu suggestion and a story about their ingredients. That sense of care is woven into everything they serve.
The crust here has a satisfying bite, with tomato sauce that tastes both homemade and timeless. Their Vodka Sauce Pie is a standout: creamy, tangy, and generously portioned with fresh mozzarella. It’s the pie I find myself craving unexpectedly in the middle of the week.
For those who like something classic, the plain cheese is a good measure of their touch. At Prima, every slice feels crafted, not rushed.
3. Gianni’s Pizza-Colts Neck
(732) 431-4733Call
Gianni’s Pizza-Colts Neck sits just up the road and manages to feel inviting every time. My visits there often begin with a quick slice but tend to become full meals thanks to the irresistible aroma the oven kicks out.
This spot delivers a perfect blend of crispy crust and flavorful sauce, with toppings piled high but never messy. Their White Pizza is a top pick—garlicky, rich, and generously layered with ricotta and mozzarella. Each bite has the right balance of creaminess and crunch.
If indecision strikes, the veggie pie is loaded but never soggy. At Gianni’s Colts Neck, it’s not just the pizza—it’s the feeling that every order matters.
4. Orlando Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
What makes Orlando Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria feel a little special is its warm, casual setting in the Colts Neck Shopping Center. My first meal here was on a lazy Saturday, and it took just one bite for the laid-back vibe to translate straight into the food.
The crust here is thin and crisp, made for folding, and never overpowers the toppings. Orlando’s Buffalo Chicken Pizza has a devoted fanbase and for good reason—it’s tangy, creamy, and packs a little heat, perfect for anyone wanting flavor without the fuss.
Try their classic margherita if you’re a purist, or order a few slices for the table and sample each. At Orlando’s, the menu highlights freshness and simplicity in every slice.
5. Delvetto’s Restaurant
(732) 922-3775Call
Delvetto’s Restaurant in Neptune is that spot where longtime regulars always seem to know one another—and after a few visits, you feel like part of the club. My usual routine is grabbing a booth near the windows and settling in for a long, leisurely meal.
The appeal is simple: pizzas baked with crisp edges, gooey cheese, and a sauce that actually tastes like tomatoes. Their Delvetto’s Special brings together all the classic pizza toppings but keeps every bite distinct—nothing muddled or overwhelming.
Try a plain pie here to appreciate the foundation or mix things up with their signature veggie. Delvetto’s nails that balance between hearty and straightforward, which is a tough act to follow.
6. Tony’s Pizzeria
Tony’s Pizzeria in Farmingdale is a classic small-town spot with all the charm you’d hope for. My first slice here was handed over by Tony himself, who didn’t hesitate to recommend his favorites or share a laugh.
The crust strikes the right balance—chewy but with that hint of crisp along the edges. You can tell the sauce gets special attention. The Grandma Pie is a real standout: thin, square, layered with fresh mozzarella and basil, and just the right amount of olive oil.
If you’re a fan of traditional pies, the plain cheese will win you over with its simplicity. At Tony’s, the focus is on honest flavors and quality, every single time.
7. The Original Attilio’s Pizza
Stepping into The Original Attilio’s Pizza in Tinton Falls is like joining a decades-old Jersey Shore tradition. My first visit landed me at a table surrounded by chatter, the walls hinting at stories from generations of pizza lovers. It’s family-owned, with recipes kept true to their roots.
Attilio’s sets itself apart with the quality of its ingredients—real Grande mozzarella, sturdy dough, and that signature old-world style. The Special Sicilian Pizza here is legendary: thick yet airy, with a crispy base and a punchy tomato sauce. Each bite is the right blend of comfort and flavor, never greasy and always satisfying.
If you want something different, the calzones echo the same attention to tradition. The menu is sprawling, but every classic pizza delivers on what matters most—genuine, memorable taste.
8. Guidos Pizza
(732) 389-8989Call
Guido’s Pizza in Eatontown knows exactly what it means to be a local legend. I wandered in on trivia night, drawn by stories of their monster-sized pies, and left with leftovers that actually made me look forward to lunch the next day.
This spot stands out because of its fresh dough, made each morning, and those massive 18-inch pizzas that can easily handle a crowd. The crust lands somewhere between chewy and crispy—sturdy enough for the generous toppings, especially on their famed plain cheese and veggie pies.
Guido’s earned its “famous” title by keeping things simple and crowd-pleasing. If you’re feeding a family or hungry friends, order the biggest pie you can—it’s a guarantee for smiles (and second helpings).
9. Oakhurst Pizza and Restaurant
(732) 531-4478Call
Oakhurst Pizza and Restaurant sits quietly in the Towne Shopping Center, but its reputation buzzes far beyond those doors. I remember dropping by on a busy Friday night, greeted by the hum of families and the constant door swing of regulars picking up pies.
Their pizza has a local following thanks to a crust that’s thin yet chewy and toppings that taste freshly prepped. The Eggplant Parmigiana Pizza is a must for anyone who thinks vegetables can’t steal the show. The slices are hearty, the flavors balanced, and the pies never shy on cheese.
Oakhurst also does the classics right—try the plain or mushroom. If you need a meal that feels like a neighborhood tradition, this is the stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What styles of pizza can I find in Monmouth County, NJ?
You’ll spot everything from classic thin-crust and Sicilian to grandma pies and inventive gourmet slices. Most pizzerias offer both traditional and specialty options.
Are there good options for vegetarians?
Absolutely. Many spots have a range of veggie pies featuring mushrooms, spinach, eggplant, and more—some even have vegan cheese on request.
Which pizza place is best for large groups or parties?
Guido’s Pizza is known for its oversized pies, ideal for sharing. Many restaurants also offer catering and party trays.
Can I get gluten-free pizza in Monmouth County?
Yes, several pizzerias offer gluten-free crusts. Be sure to call ahead since availability and preparation methods vary.
Is delivery widely available?
Most pizza places in Monmouth County offer delivery, and many also have easy online ordering or curbside pickup.