There’s something magnetic about the scent of dough baking, cheese bubbling, and herbs lingering in the air. Santa Fe may be famous for its sunsets and chile, but its pizza scene stands up to scrutiny. Each slice across the city tells a different story, from crisp wood-fired crusts to classics crowned with green chile. Finding the best pizza in Santa Fe is both a joy and a mission, especially if you want a spot that goes beyond the ordinary.
I’ve wandered through adobe-lined neighborhoods and modern corners, sampling pies both celebrated and hidden. Along the way, I’ve learned that the best pizza in Santa Fe means more than crust and toppings; it’s about who’s making it, what’s fresh out of the oven, and the conversations at each cozy table. If you’re searching for your next favorite slice, you’re in good hands—let’s explore every delicious detail together.
Where to find the best pizza in Santa Fe, NM
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Santa Fe, NM:
- Upper Crust Pizza
- IL Vicino Wood Oven Pizza
- Pizzeria Da Lino
- Back Road Pizza
- Pizza Centro
- Pizzeria Espiritu
- Restoration Pizza
- Dion’s Pizza
- Bruno’s Pizzeria
1. Upper Crust Pizza
Upper Crust Pizza sits just off the Plaza, where old Santa Fe charm meets golden, cheesy comfort. Locals and travelers find it hard to resist the thin, chewy crust baked to perfection. One bite of their Green Chile Pizza pulls you into the local flavor—rich, roasted chile zips through melted cheese in a way you only find in New Mexico.
From my table by the window, I watched the oven’s glow while the staff built each pie by hand. Their menu is a lifeline for anyone seeking vegan or gluten-free options without sacrificing taste.
Order the Rio Grande Pizza for a bold, classic experience. The toppings are always fresh, the vibe cozy, and the crust, well, that’s why Upper Crust keeps topping Santa Fe lists.
2. IL Vicino Wood Oven Pizza
IL Vicino Wood Oven Pizza brings a slice of Italy to downtown Santa Fe with a cozy, welcoming vibe. The scent of baking dough from their wood-fired oven makes you hungry before you’ve read the menu. I remember savoring a slice here while watching dough twirl and flames dance along the oven’s walls.
The crust is light, blistered, and deliciously chewy—everything you want from a classic Neapolitan-style base. IL Vicino offers inventive vegetarian and vegan pizzas, as well as gluten-free crusts, which is great if you’re looking for options.
The Pizza Margherita here is a must-try for its simplicity—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are layered perfectly, and the freshness shines through. IL Vicino stands out for turning simple ingredients into memorable meals.
3. Pizzeria Da Lino
Pizzeria Da Lino captures both the heart of Italy and the spirit of Santa Fe in its inviting, old-world dining room. The aroma from the wood oven greets you at the door, drawing you closer to pies topped with the freshest local ingredients. On a cool afternoon, I enjoyed a slice while gazing at artwork that felt as thoughtfully chosen as each pizza topping.
Their hand-tossed dough is a standout—lightly smoky with a perfect chew. The menu also features well-crafted vegan and gluten-free choices, so everyone feels welcome around the table.
Try the Quattro Formaggi for a true showcase of their cheese and crust expertise. Each bite proves why Pizzeria Da Lino is quietly beloved among Santa Fe pizza fans.
4. Back Road Pizza
Back Road Pizza delivers local flavor and a casual, friendly atmosphere. The signature here is their thin crust dusted with cornmeal, which gives each bite a satisfying crunch and a taste unique to Santa Fe. I still remember waiting for my slice in a lively game of Galaga, surrounded by neighbors and regulars who treat the place like a second home.
They take pride in sourcing ingredients from nearby farms, and their housemade sauces and dough set the bar high for pizza in town. Even the gluten-free crust is made fresh from scratch, so it doesn’t feel like an afterthought but a centerpiece in its own right.
Try their Green Chile Veggie Pizza for a true New Mexico spin—the blend of roasted local veggies and bold chile flavors feels like Santa Fe on a plate.
5. Pizza Centro
Pizza Centro proves that you don’t have to travel far for real New York–style pizza in Santa Fe. Their thin, foldable slices transport you straight to Manhattan, but with a Santa Fe twist. I once grabbed a pie here before a hike and found the leftovers just as good miles later—never a soggy crust in sight.
The menu covers gluten-free, vegan, and veggie-friendly options, so no one at your table is left out. They keep things simple and classic, yet fresh ingredients keep every slice interesting.
Order the Centro Special if you’re ready for everything: layers of vibrant veggies and just the right spice. It’s a New York-style favorite that lets Santa Fe’s flair shine through.
6. Pizzeria Espiritu
Pizzeria Espiritu just feels classic, with its cozy booths and checkered tablecloths—like a neighborhood spot you stumble into and never want to leave. The kitchen uses old world recipes that make each meal feel authentic and memorable. I remember lingering over a late lunch here, savoring a slice straight off the pizza paddle, crisp and piping hot.
The menu offers plenty for vegetarians, vegans, and those needing gluten-free options, so you never have to compromise. The staff always greet you like an old friend, which is half the charm.
Order the Primavera Pizza. It’s loaded with fresh vegetables and bright flavors—proof that Pizzeria Espiritu knows exactly how to celebrate the best of both Italy and Santa Fe.
7. Restoration Pizza
Restoration Pizza is one of those places where the relaxed, friendly vibe makes you want to linger long after your last slice. The outdoor patio and airy dining room feel fresh and inviting, perfect for a casual meet-up or a solo pizza break. On a quiet afternoon, I found myself chatting with locals at the bar while savoring a slice straight from the hot oven.
This spot stands out for crisp crusts and creative topping combinations that manage to surprise and delight with every visit. There’s a balance here: classic pizza comfort, but with a Santa Fe touch in every bite.
Try the Southwest Pie if you want the true Santa Fe spirit—a perfect blend of roasted green chile, savory cheeses, and fresh, local veggies. Restoration Pizza gives everyone a spot at the table and a slice worth talking about.
8. Dion’s Pizza
Dion’s Pizza feels like a spot made for gathering—a place where the pies are quick, satisfying, and always consistent. Families and friends settle into roomy booths, catching up over slices stacked with cheese and colorful veggies. I stopped here once after a soccer game, and the energy matched the aroma of fresh pizza.
Dion’s is known for its classic approach: sturdy crusts, even toppings, and fast, friendly service. Vegetarian options abound, and the menu is simple without being boring.
Order the Veggie Pizza or go for the Spinach & Tomato—these are brimming with flavor and always feel fresh. Dion’s offers the kind of pizza that brings people together in the best possible way.
9. Bruno’s Pizzeria
Bruno’s Pizzeria serves up a true New York experience in the heart of the Railyard District. The secret is their family dough recipe—handed down for generations and wood-fired in a blazing oven. On my last visit, the aroma of pizza baking drew a crowd before the first slice landed on the counter.
Every pizza is cooked at 900 degrees, giving the crust a signature char and chew. The staff are passionate, quick, and happy to recommend something new.
Order a Moon Slice if you’re hungry and not afraid of a challenge. It’s giant, full of flavor, and distinctively Bruno’s—a perfect balance between tradition and Santa Fe’s bold tastes.
More Things to Try in Santa Fe, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most popular pizza style in Santa Fe?
Most places serve a mix of New York– and Neapolitan-style crusts, but you’ll find a Santa Fe twist—think green chile toppings and local cheeses.
Can I get gluten-free or vegan pizza in Santa Fe?
Definitely. Many local spots offer gluten-free crusts and vegan cheese, so you can enjoy pizza your way without missing out on flavor.
Are there any must-try pizzas unique to the region?
Look for pizzas topped with green chile, a true local favorite. Many pizzerias create pies that celebrate Santa Fe’s iconic flavors.
Do Santa Fe pizzerias offer delivery or takeout?
Yes, most pizza restaurants in Santa Fe offer both delivery and takeout, so you can get your fix whether you’re staying in or heading out for a picnic.
Which spots are best for a family pizza night?
Places like Dion’s, Back Road Pizza, and Upper Crust are known for their welcoming atmosphere and menu choices fit for all ages.