Salt Lake City has developed a diverse and vibrant pizza scene that offers something for every preference. Whether you are looking for a traditional wood-fired Neapolitan pie, a massive New York-style slice, or a thick Detroit-style crust, the city provides numerous high-quality options. This guide explores the most reliable pizzerias in Salt Lake City to help you find exactly what you are looking for.
Understanding the Salt Lake City Pizza Scene
The pizza landscape in Salt Lake City is characterized by a mix of long-standing local institutions and modern artisanal shops. While the city was once known primarily for standard delivery chains, it now hosts several award-winning pizzerias that focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Many of the most popular spots are concentrated in the Downtown and Sugar House neighborhoods. However, excellent options can also be found in the surrounding areas of the Salt Lake Valley, including South Salt Lake and the University district.
Top-Rated Pizzerias in Salt Lake City
When searching for the best pizza in Salt Lake City, several names consistently appear at the top of local rankings. These establishments are known for their consistency, flavor, and unique approach to the craft.
The Pie Pizzeria
The Pie Pizzeria is a local icon, particularly the original location located underground near the University of Utah. It is famous for its thick, heavy crust and generous amounts of cheese and toppings.
- Style: Traditional American / Thick Crust.
- Best For: Large groups, students, and those who prefer a very filling meal.
- Signature Item: The “Apocalyptic” or the classic Pepperoni.
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana
Located in the heart of Downtown, Settebello was one of the first pizzerias in the United States to be certified by the Vera Pizza Napoletana (VPN) association. This means they follow strict traditional guidelines for authentic Neapolitan pizza.
The pizzas are cooked in a wood-burning oven at very high temperatures, resulting in a soft, charred crust and a moist center. These pizzas are typically personal-sized and intended to be eaten with a knife and fork.
Este Pizza
For those seeking a true New York-style slice, Este Pizza is a reliable destination. They offer large, thin-crust pies with a crisp bottom and foldable slices.
Este is also well-known for being accommodating to different dietary needs. They offer an extensive vegan menu, including vegan cheese and meat substitutes, making it a popular choice for mixed groups.
Regional Styles Available in Salt Lake
Salt Lake City is not limited to just one style of pizza. In recent years, several specialized shops have opened to bring regional American styles to the valley.
Detroit-Style Pizza
Bricks Corner on 700 East has popularized Detroit-style pizza in Salt Lake City. This style is baked in rectangular blue steel pans, which creates a thick, airy crust with caramelized cheese edges.
The sauce is often placed on top of the cheese, and the toppings are layered to ensure every bite is flavorful. It is a hearty option that has quickly become a local favorite.
New Jersey and New York Style
Villaggio Pizzeria in South Salt Lake offers what many consider the most authentic New York/New Jersey style pizza in the state. The owner brings East Coast traditions to the kitchen, focusing on the specific texture of the dough and the quality of the deck-oven bake.
Creative and Modern Pies
Nomad East provides a more modern, chef-driven approach to pizza. Their menu features creative topping combinations, such as corn, honey, or specialized cured meats. The crust is a hybrid style that is both light and crispy.
Pizza by Neighborhood
If you are looking for a convenient spot based on your current location, here is a quick breakdown of where to go in specific neighborhoods.
Downtown Salt Lake City
Downtown is the best area for a variety of styles. The Pie Hole is a popular choice for a quick slice, especially late at night. For a sit-down experience, Free Wheeler Pizza offers a reliable local delivery feel with a long history in the city.
Sugar House
Sugar House features Pizza-Pazza, which specializes in authentic Italian flavors. You can also find Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria, which offers a polished atmosphere suitable for families and date nights.
The Avenues and University
This area is dominated by The Pie Pizzeria, but you can also find Ti Amo Pizzeria nearby in Eagle Mountain/Bountiful (a short drive) which is frequently cited as one of the most authentic family-run Italian spots in the region.
Dietary Options: Vegan and Gluten-Free
Salt Lake City is very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Most major local pizzerias offer at least one alternative for those who cannot have gluten or dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Most establishments, including The Pie and Zest Kitchen (for plant-based options), offer gluten-free crusts. Always ask if they use a dedicated oven if you have a severe allergy.
- Vegan: Este Pizza and Pie Hole are leaders in vegan offerings. Many Neapolitan spots like Settebello can also make a “Marinara” pizza which is naturally vegan (no cheese).
Practical Tips for Ordering Pizza in Salt Lake City
To ensure you have the best experience, keep these practical tips in mind when ordering pizza in the SLC area.
Peak Times and Reservations
Most Salt Lake pizzerias do not take reservations for small groups. On Friday and Saturday nights, popular spots like Settebello or The Pie can have wait times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. If you are ordering delivery, expect longer lead times during local sporting events or snowstorms.
By the Slice vs. Whole Pie
Not all pizzerias offer slices. If you are looking for a quick individual lunch, The Pie Hole, Este Pizza, and Villaggio are your best bets for walk-in slices. Most Neapolitan-style restaurants only serve whole personal pies.
Alcohol Laws
If you wish to have a beer or wine with your pizza, check the license of the establishment. Some smaller pizza shops are classified as restaurants, meaning you must order food to be served alcohol. Others may only have a limited beer license.
Enjoying Local Pizza Culture
Salt Lake City’s pizza culture is friendly and accessible. Many locals enjoy taking a pizza to one of the city’s many parks, such as Liberty Park or Sugar House Park, during the warmer months. Most pizzerias are well-equipped for takeout and provide sturdy packaging for transport.
Whether you are a resident or just passing through, exploring the different pizzerias is an excellent way to experience the local flavor of the city. Each shop offers a different atmosphere, from the dark, brick-walled basement of The Pie to the bright, modern interior of Nomad East.
Finding the right pizza in Salt Lake City depends on your personal taste and the occasion. By choosing one of the highly-rated spots mentioned in this guide, you are likely to find a high-quality meal that satisfies your craving. For more helpful guides on local dining and lifestyle tips, explore our other articles on SearchAndHelp.com.