Finding the best pizza in San Antonio is a bit like searching for treasure. The choices are scattered across the city, each spot defending its slice with loyal fans and bold flavors. I once lost track of time comparing Neapolitan crusts to deep-dish slabs, fueled by curiosity and the simple pleasure of a good pie. After too many slices (no regrets), I learned that San Antonio’s pizza scene surprises you whether you’re after chewy, wood-fired dough or classic, cheesy comfort.
If you think pizza is just a backup dinner plan, you’ll change your mind after tasting what this city has to offer. From century-old family recipes to new spins with local ingredients, each pizzeria has a story. Here’s a guide for both the curious and the hungry, crafted from first-hand experience and too many napkins. Dive in, and get ready for San Antonio’s top spots for a memorable slice.
Where to find the best pizza in San Antonio, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in San Antonio, TX:
- Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
- Big Lou’s Pizza
- Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
- Stella Public House
- Guillermo’s
- Luciano Express
- Pizzarita’s
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
- Il Forno
- Trilogy Pizza & Wine Bistro
1. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
Dough Pizzeria Napoletana has a way of raising your pizza standards in a single bite. Their wood-fired oven works its magic at over 900 degrees, giving each pie a fragrant, chewy crust that’s hard to forget. On my first visit, I timed how quickly a pizza could cook—and yes, it really does take just 90 seconds.
The house-made mozzarella is a draw on its own, creamy and bright against the rich tomato sauce. I still dream about their Margherita, where every element balances perfectly and the basil sits vibrant atop the molten cheese.
What makes Dough special is the clear attention to detail. Most ingredients are imported from Italy or sourced locally, which you can taste in every bite. Try the Margherita or the Prosciutto Arugula; both showcase why Dough is a local favorite.
2. Big Lou’s Pizza
Big Lou’s Pizza is where you realize size really does matter. The first time I saw their massive 42-inch pie, I questioned my appetite—and my table. Sharing one of these legendary pizzas with friends is a true San Antonio experience, and there’s always a crowd ready for the challenge.
The crust manages to stay crisp, even with the mountain of cheese and sauce stretching across every oversized slice. The veggie options are no afterthought; they’re piled high and just as generous as the classics.
Standouts include the classic cheese or the veggie combo. If you’re not ready for the full 42 inches, their smaller pies deliver the same flavor and fun. Big Lou’s makes pizza night memorable in more ways than one.
3. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
+1 210-227-2900
See Menu
Dough Pizzeria Napoletana, at the crossroads of Alamo and Cesar Chavez, brings an authentically Neapolitan taste to downtown. The first time I dined here, I was struck by the aroma drifting from their wood-fired brick oven. You can see the commitment to tradition, from their daily hand-stretched mozzarella to flour flown straight from Italy.
The Margherita pizza, with its simple but bright flavors, carries a little taste of Naples in every bite. Vegetarians and vegans are well looked after, with plenty of options that actually shine on their own.
The Prosciutto Arugula or classic Margherita are the perfect showcases for their style: thin, charred crust, rich sauce, and top-tier cheese. It’s a lesson in pizza done right, surrounded by that lively downtown energy.
4. Stella Public House
Stella Public House takes the “farm to table” idea and gives it a wood-fired twist. Nestled in the Blue Star Arts Complex, it’s the spot where locally-sourced ingredients meet an imported Italian oven—and the results are delicious. I remember being drawn in by the scent of oak and pecan wood as soon as I walked through the door.
The crust comes out with just the right char, bubbling and chewy. Their seasonal pizzas change with what’s fresh, but you can always count on the Margherita to wow with hand-pulled cheese and local basil.
Order the Bee’s Knees pizza if it’s on the menu; the touch of local honey is a perfect contrast to the rich cheese and tangy sauce, showing off Stella’s creative streak.
5. Guillermo’s
Guillermo’s charms right from the start, tucked inside a pair of century-old homes that seem to hum with stories. I grabbed a seat on their shady patio, and within minutes, the scent of fresh dough had me committed to pie over anything else on the menu.
This is where you find pizza with Texas roots—bold, generous, and packed with flavor. The owner’s attention to detail is clear in everything from the hand-tossed crust to the fresh, local toppings.
Try the Veggie Supreme for a colorful, crisp bite, or the Margherita if you want something classic but never boring. Guillermo’s captures San Antonio’s vibrant spirit, and every pizza feels like a new reason to linger just a little longer.
6. Luciano Express
+1 210-226-7295
Luciano Express is what you want when you’re craving pizza with no time to spare. I stumbled in after a River Walk stroll, expecting something hurried, but ended up surprised by the quality and warmth in a quick-service setting.
The counter is always buzzing, but service stays friendly and fast. Their pizzas have a thin, crisp crust and a satisfying melt of cheese—ideal for when you need flavor on the go. Vegetarian and vegan eaters will find plenty to love.
The spinach and cheese slice makes a great pick for a light meal, while their classic veggie pie is both filling and fresh. Luciano Express is proof that fast doesn’t have to mean ordinary.
7. Pizzarita’s
Pizzarita’s sits just off bustling Commerce Street, serving handmade pies in a way that balances speed and personal touch. My first time here was all about customization—from sauce choice to creative veggie toppings, every order came out exactly as imagined.
The crust has just the right crunch, and each pizza carries that oven-fresh taste you want from a local spot. Staff keep the mood upbeat, making even a quick lunch feel like a break.
Build your own for a personalized experience, or try their Margherita for classic simplicity done right. Pizzarita’s is the reliable go-to for pizza in the heart of downtown, where speed never comes at the cost of flavor.
8. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria brings a bit of Brooklyn tradition to San Antonio, with coal-fired ovens delivering that signature crisp yet tender crust. My visit here started with the sound of the oven and ended with laughter and empty plates. There’s a comforting ritual in watching the staff stretch dough by hand.
Every pie emerges from the oven with a charred finish that seals in smoky flavor. Their “secret recipe” sauce and handmade mozzarella are what stay with you long after the last slice.
Order the traditional Margherita to appreciate Grimaldi’s classic approach, or the veggie option for a fresh twist on a timeless style. Grimaldi’s stands out by making old-school pizza in a way that keeps people coming back.
9. Il Forno
Il Forno is the kind of spot pizza fans whisper about when they talk crust. I walked in expecting the usual, but the aroma of the wood-fired oven had me rethinking everything. Their sourdough crust hits the perfect note—chewy, with enough char to add character but never overpowering.
This is a place that lets the basics shine: bright tomatoes, fresh herbs, and lots of seasonal touches. I always end up with flour on my hands and no regrets after finishing a whole pie solo.
The Margherita is the favorite for a reason, but the Veggie pizza, piled high with whatever is freshest, shows off Il Forno’s love for local ingredients and genuine flavor.
10. Trilogy Pizza & Wine Bistro
Trilogy Pizza & Wine Bistro delivers on its name, giving you a world tour of pizza styles in one lively spot. My first visit here was pure exploration—trying Neapolitan, New York, and California-style pies all at once felt like a pizza passport stamp in every bite.
What stands out is the dedication to variety and consistency. Each style stays true to its roots, right down to the hand-stretched dough and careful baking. The vegetarian and vegan options aren’t just afterthoughts; they’re creative and satisfying.
The Margherita Neapolitan brings out the beauty of Trilogy’s technique, while the Veggie California packs freshness and color into every slice. You’ll leave both full and inspired to branch out even further on your next visit.
More Things to Try in San Antonio, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pizza place in San Antonio, TX?
It depends on what you’re craving. For authentic Neapolitan, try Dough Pizzeria Napoletana. If you want a massive group pie, Big Lou’s is legendary. Fans of crispy, coal-fired crust love Grimaldi’s.
Are there any good vegetarian or vegan pizza options in San Antonio?
Absolutely. Many top spots—like Il Forno, Trilogy Pizza & Wine Bistro, and Stella Public House—offer creative vegetarian and vegan pizzas. Most places are happy to accommodate dietary needs.
Is gluten-free pizza available at most San Antonio pizzerias?
Yes, several establishments including Dough, Grimaldi’s, and Stella Public House provide gluten-free crusts. Always call ahead to confirm or ask your server about preparation practices.
Where can I find quick pizza near the River Walk?
Luciano Express and Pizzarita’s offer fast, freshly made pizza right near the River Walk, ideal for a quick lunch or late-night bite.
Which pizzerias are best for large groups or families?
Big Lou’s Pizza is famous for its giant pies that feed a crowd. Guillermo’s and Pizza Classics are also great for casual gatherings, with space and options for all kinds of eaters.
Do restaurants in San Antonio offer pizza delivery or takeout?
Most do. Options like Trilogy Pizza, Grimaldi’s, and Pizza Classics provide delivery and takeout along with dine-in, making it easy to get your pizza fix at home or on the go.