Finding good pizza is an art, not a guessing game. Tampa has quietly become a treasure map for those seeking the perfect crust, sauce, and just the right bubbling cheese. I’ve wandered down busy boulevards, tucked into side streets, and spent more late nights than I care to count, searching for the slice that lives up to the hype. What I discovered is that Tampa doesn’t cater to a single taste—it’s a city where thin New York-style, smoky Neapolitan, and creative modern pies all share the spotlight.
This list isn’t based on hearsay. It comes from boots-on-the-ground pizza hunts, from conversations with chefs, and from biting into both the classics and the bold experiments. Whether you’re the purist who measures greatness by the snap of the crust, or a sauce lover always seeking something new, you’ll find your next favorite pie here. Curious which place inspires locals to argue over the “best” title? Keep reading, and let’s put Tampa’s pizza scene on your map.
Where to find the best pizza in Tampa, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Tampa, FL:
- Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
- Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza
- Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar
- Five Star Pizza
- Fabrica Woodfired Pizza
- Tampa Pizza Company
- Bella’s Italian Café
- Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings
- New York New York Pizza – Ybor City
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
1. Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria feels like a little piece of Naples, right in the heart of Tampa. Every pizza here showcases three years of travel and training by founder Dan Bavaro. The crust is paper-thin, with a gentle crisp and a soft center that sets the stage for vibrant, imported ingredients.
Try the classic Margherita—the bright tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella let the wood-fired flavors steal the show. If you love more depth, the Diavola offers a hint of heat with quality toppings and that signature airy crust. I found myself lingering, savoring every last bite.
Homemade pastas and vegan options round out the menu, making it a great pick for mixed groups. Everything is scratch-made, with a proud Neapolitan soul.
2. Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza
Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza has mastered the alchemy of the perfect New York slice. The crust carries just the right chew, and every bite brings a nostalgic city flavor. Rumor has it—they import New York water, which somehow makes the dough unforgettable. During one late-night visit, I watched a line of locals and tourists gather for that signature foldable slice.
The classic Cheese Pizza is hard to beat; it’s simple, bold, and lets the base shine. Feeling adventurous? The White Pizza offers a creamy twist with ricotta and mozzarella that layers flavor without overwhelming. Portions are generous, making this spot a go-to for anyone craving honest, New York energy in downtown Tampa.
3. Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar
Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar strikes the right balance between cozy neighborhood joint and destination dining. Tucked in historic Ybor City, it’s the kind of place friends recommend for the pizza alone. My last visit ended with a vow to return, not just for the food, but for the atmosphere that always feels inviting yet never rushed.
Go for the Margherita or Veggie Pizza—they’re baked with a crisp, flavorful crust and the freshest toppings. Both show off the kitchen’s respect for classics and their knack for bold, garden-fresh flavors. If you lean gluten-free or vegan, those bases are covered, too.
Table service, takeout, and delivery make it easy to enjoy, whether you dine in or want to bring that signature Ybor warmth back home.
4. Five Star Pizza
Five Star Pizza has a reputation for satisfying late-night cravings and game-day crowds without missing a beat. The aroma inside is pure comfort. I once stopped by after a long day, and their classic approach delivered the pick-me-up I needed—hot, fast, and reliably tasty.
The Garlic Chicken Pizza is a house favorite, balancing roasted garlic with tender chicken and melty cheese. For those who like a no-nonsense pie, their plain Cheese or Veggie Pizza comes stacked and crispy. Generous portions mean leftovers are likely—if you can resist eating it all.
Delivery and takeout are quick, so Five Star is a solid pick for a spontaneous pizza night that doesn’t skimp on flavor or freshness.
5. Fabrica Woodfired Pizza
Fabrica Woodfired Pizza knows how to keep things simple while delivering bold flavors. The draw here is the wood-fired oven, turning every pizza into a showstopper with those irresistible charred edges. I remember the first time I bit into their crust—smoky, light, and still chewy, it was a game changer for my pizza standards.
The Margherita here is a staple, packed with fresh basil and rich mozzarella that lets the woodfire shine. If you crave something more adventurous, try the Veggie Pizza—loaded, colorful, and full of vibrant, seasonal picks.
They cater to gluten-free and vegan tastes with ease, making Fabrica a reliable spot for all sorts of pizza lovers meeting downtown.
6. Tampa Pizza Company
Tampa Pizza Company specializes in inclusivity without cutting corners on taste. On my first visit, I noticed the easy-going vibe and the way the menu made everyone feel welcome—whether you’re plant-based, gluten-free, or just craving old-school flavors.
The Vegan BBQ Pizza stands out as a creative triumph, packed with tangy sauce and plant-based cheese that even skeptics rave about. Traditionalists should try the Four Cheese, which keeps things classic and indulgent with simple, honest ingredients.
With gluten-free crusts and vegan toppings available, this spot lets you build a pie that fits your life and appetite. Delivery, table service, and takeout make it easy to enjoy, whether for lunch or a laid-back dinner out.
7. Bella’s Italian Café
Bella’s Italian Café brings together classic Italian comfort and a laid-back Tampa vibe. I’ve met friends here for relaxed dinners, surrounded by warm lighting and the tempting aroma of oven-baked pizza. There’s a sense of tradition, but a willingness to surprise you, too.
The Bianca Pizza is a top pick—garlicky, cheesy, and finished with fresh herbs for extra depth. The Primavera Pizza is another standout, perfect for those who love a colorful mix of vegetables paired with the café’s signature crust. Each pie manages to be both classic and satisfying without feeling heavy.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options make Bella’s a favorite for groups with mixed tastes, ensuring nobody misses out on a great meal.
8. Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings offers a distinctive take on pizza with its bold, smoky crust and intense flavors. When I visited, the coal-fired oven added a depth I didn’t expect, lifting their pies into standout territory. The kitchen’s focus on fresh, quality ingredients was clear from the first bite.
The classic Margherita is always a reliable pick, but the Hot Honey Pizza deserves attention—a sweet and spicy combo that was surprisingly addictive. Both reflect the high-heat, quick-bake style Anthony’s has perfected.
Vegetarian options, pasta, and their signature wing selection make Anthony’s a versatile choice for both pizza aficionados and anyone craving a full Italian-inspired spread.
9. New York New York Pizza – Ybor City
New York New York Pizza – Ybor City brings that classic big-city slice to Tampa with effortless style. The menu is built for variety, offering slices or whole pies, and even late at night, the atmosphere buzzes with people grabbing their favorites. I remember ducking in after a show and finding the energy contagious and the pizza exceptional.
The classic Cheese or Veggie slices here are direct, substantial, and everything a good New York-style pizza should be—perfectly foldable with just the right snap. For something different, the White Pizza with ricotta and spinach is a sleeper hit.
With gluten-free and cauliflower crusts, along with vegetarian choices, everyone gets a chance to jump in on the action.
10. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria captures the timeless spirit of Brooklyn with its coal-fired, brick-oven pizzas. Walking in, you catch a rush of nostalgia—checkered tables, the scent of freshly baked dough, and friendly chatter. My last visit left me with that pleasant dilemma: save a slice for later, or overindulge and finish the whole pie?
The Margherita is a rite of passage here, topped with handmade mozzarella and Grimaldi’s signature sauce. Their Veggie Supreme also impresses, loaded with color and freshness, while the coal-fired crust stays crisp on the outside and tender within.
With vegan and vegetarian options and a menu rooted in tradition, Grimaldi’s delivers a pizza experience that never feels rushed or overdone.
More Things to Try in Tampa, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is most popular in Tampa?
Tampa is known for its diversity, but New York-style and Neapolitan-style pizzas tend to lead the pack. There’s no shortage of spots offering classic, thin-crust pies with foldable slices or wood-fired bubbly crusts.
Are there good vegan or gluten-free pizza options in Tampa?
Absolutely. Many Tampa pizza restaurants serve strong vegan and gluten-free options, including plant-based cheese and gluten-free crusts. Places like Tampa Pizza Company and Fabrica Woodfired Pizza make it easy for everyone to join the party.
What neighborhoods have the best pizza in Tampa?
You’ll find standout pizza in spots like Downtown, Ybor City, South Tampa, and Seminole Heights. Each neighborhood has signature pizzerias worth checking out.
Can I find late-night pizza in Tampa?
Definitely. Many pizza places downtown and in Ybor City, like Eddie & Sam’s NY Pizza and New York New York Pizza, serve slices well into the night.
Is there authentic coal-fired or wood-fired pizza in Tampa?
Yes. Restaurants like Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Fabrica Woodfired Pizza use authentic coal or wood ovens, which adds a distinct smoky flavor and texture you won’t find everywhere.