13 Best Pizzerias Across Massachusetts’ College Towns And Historic Streets
Massachusetts has a pizza culture that rivals any state in the nation. College students cramming for exams and history buffs exploring cobblestone streets all share one thing: a love for exceptional pizza.
These pizzerias bring together crispy crusts, bubbling cheese, and toppings that make every bite memorable.
My standards for pizza are very difficult to meet, but these places even managed to surpass them.
1. Regina Pizzeria – Boston (North End)
Walking into Regina Pizzeria feels like stepping back in time to 1926, when this legendary spot first opened its doors.
The brick oven creates a charred, crispy crust that holds up perfectly under generous layers of sauce and cheese.
Their signature giambotta pizza combines pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, and onions in a flavor explosion that keeps locals coming back.
I remember my first visit here during college, squeezing into a tiny table while tourists snapped photos. The wait can stretch beyond an hour on weekends, but watching the pizzaiolos work their magic makes time fly.
2. Santarpio’s Pizza – East Boston
Santarpio’s has been serving no-frills pizza since 1903, and they refuse to change what works. The thin crust gets perfectly crispy, and the tangy tomato sauce balances beautifully with whole milk mozzarella.
Beyond pizza, their lamb skewers and sausages grilled right at the bar create an intoxicating aroma that fills the entire space.
This spot sits in a residential neighborhood, so many first-timers drive right past it. The cash-only policy and lack of fancy decor might surprise visitors, but one bite explains why this place has survived over a century.
Grab extra napkins because things get deliciously messy here.
3. Galleria Umberto – Boston (North End)
Lines snake around the block before Galleria Umberto even opens at 11 a.m., and by 2 p.m., they often sell out completely.
Their Sicilian-style pizza features a thick, fluffy base topped with simple tomato sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. The arancini and calzones also deserve attention, but pizza remains the star attraction that brings crowds daily.
Expect zero ambiance at this cafeteria-style joint where you order at the counter and eat standing up. Cash only and no reservations mean you need patience and small bills.
Still, the rock-bottom prices and authentic flavors make every minute of waiting worthwhile for budget-conscious pizza lovers.
4. Pinocchio’s Pizza & Subs – Cambridge (Harvard Square)
Harvard students have fueled late-night study sessions with Pinocchio’s Sicilian slices since 1966. The thick, rectangular pieces come loaded with cheese and toppings that satisfy even the most demanding appetites.
Their signature tomato basil slice keeps things simple yet flavorful, while specialty options like buffalo chicken attract adventurous eaters.
I spent countless nights here during exam week, watching the counter staff slide massive sheet pans from the oven. The slices are huge, so one piece often constitutes a full meal for most people.
Prices remain student-friendly, and the location right in Harvard Square makes it convenient for tourists exploring Cambridge’s academic heart.
5. Area Four – Cambridge (Kendall/Tech Square)
Area Four combines a bakery, bar, and pizzeria under one roof, creating a versatile space that transitions smoothly throughout the day. Their sourdough pizza crust ferments for days, resulting in complex flavors and perfect chewiness.
Toppings range from classic margherita to inventive combinations featuring local produce and artisanal cheeses that reflect seasonal availability.
The open kitchen lets diners watch pizzas emerge from the custom-built oven with leopard-spotted crusts. Breakfast pastries and coffee draw morning crowds, while pizza takes center stage during lunch and dinner.
The tech-industry professionals working nearby pack this place during weekday lunches, so timing matters if you want to avoid the rush.
6. Leone’s Sub & Pizza – Somerville
Leone’s operates from a modest storefront that locals have treasured since 1954 for consistently excellent pizza.
The crust strikes a perfect balance between crispy and chewy, supporting a generous layer of tangy sauce and quality mozzarella.
Their Greek-style pizza features feta cheese, olives, and spinach that transport taste buds straight to the Mediterranean without leaving Somerville.
Delivery drivers constantly stream in and out, a testament to how many people order from home. The staff knows regular customers by name and remembers their usual orders.
Prices stay reasonable despite rising costs elsewhere, making Leone’s a reliable choice when you need comfort food that does not break the bank.
7. Pino’s Pizza – Brighton (Cleveland Circle)
Boston College students consider Pino’s an essential part of their education, cramming into this tiny spot after games and late-night adventures. The thin crust develops crispy edges while maintaining a slight chew in the center.
Toppings pile high without making slices soggy, a technical achievement that many pizzerias struggle to master consistently.
I once watched a group celebrate a birthday here, the entire restaurant joining in an off-key rendition of the traditional song. The atmosphere stays lively and unpretentious, perfect for casual gatherings and quick bites.
Slices come out fast, so this spot works well when hunger strikes and patience runs thin after exploring the neighborhood.
8. Antonio’s Pizza – Amherst
Antonio’s serves slices so large they barely fit on standard plates, making this a favorite among University of Massachusetts students seeking maximum value.
The variety astounds first-time visitors, with dozens of specialty slices rotating daily behind the glass counter. Options range from classic pepperoni to wild combinations like mac and cheese or buffalo chicken that push pizza boundaries.
Late-night hours keep the place buzzing until 2 a.m. on weekends when crowds spill onto the sidewalk. The staff works with impressive speed, reheating slices and ringing up orders in a choreographed dance.
Prices remain shockingly affordable considering the generous portions, and the central downtown location makes it easy to stumble upon after exploring Amherst’s college town charm.
9. Joe’s Cafe & Spaghetti House – Northampton
Joe’s has anchored downtown Northampton since 1938, serving generations of families and Smith College students. Their pizza arrives on metal pans with a medium-thick crust that provides substance without heaviness.
The simple topping combinations let quality ingredients shine, particularly the house-made sauce that carries subtle herb notes and perfect acidity.
Beyond pizza, the Italian-American menu offers comfort classics that pair well with pies for family-style dining. The vintage decor and checkered tablecloths create a nostalgic atmosphere that feels increasingly rare.
Portions run large, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home in the classic white boxes that have become a Northampton symbol.
10. Volturno Pizza Napoletana – Worcester
Volturno brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to Worcester using a wood-fired oven imported directly from Italy. The crust puffs dramatically around the edges while remaining thin and slightly charred in the center.
Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil create the classic margherita that serves as the benchmark for evaluating any serious pizzeria.
The restaurant earned certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, confirming their commitment to traditional techniques.
I appreciated watching the pizzaiolo stretch dough by hand and slide pies into the blazing oven with practiced precision.
The upscale-casual atmosphere suits date nights and special occasions while remaining welcoming enough for families exploring Worcester’s growing culinary reputation.
11. Red Rose Pizzeria – Springfield
Red Rose has served Springfield’s diverse community since 1963, becoming a gathering place that transcends generations.
Their pizza features a slightly sweet sauce that distinguishes it from competitors, paired with a golden crust that crunches satisfyingly.
The grinders and calzones also draw loyal fans, but pizza remains the menu item that built this restaurant’s sterling reputation.
Family photos and community awards cover the walls, telling the story of decades spent feeding neighbors and friends. The staff treats everyone like regulars, even first-time visitors exploring Springfield’s historic downtown.
Parking can be challenging during peak hours, but the nearby streets usually offer spots within a short walk of this beloved institution.
12. TreMonte Pizzeria Restaurant & Bar – Lowell
TreMonte elevates pizza to an art form using ingredients sourced from local farms and specialty purveyors. The menu changes seasonally to highlight peak-season produce, resulting in combinations that surprise and delight adventurous eaters.
Their margherita pizza demonstrates technical mastery, while creative options like fig and prosciutto showcase the chef’s culinary vision and willingness to experiment.
The modern interior contrasts sharply with Lowell’s historic mill buildings visible through large windows. Craft options pair excellently with pizza, and knowledgeable servers guide diners through flavor combinations.
Reservations help secure tables during busy weekends when locals pack the dining room to celebrate special occasions in this revitalized industrial city.
13. Bambolina – Salem
Bambolina brings Italian authenticity to Salem’s historic streets using traditional techniques and premium ingredients. The Neapolitan-style pizza emerges from a wood-fired oven with a tender, slightly chewy crust that folds perfectly for eating.
Seasonal vegetables and house-made sausage top many pies, creating flavor profiles that change throughout the year based on what local farms provide.
The cozy space fills quickly, especially during Salem’s busy tourist season when visitors explore the city’s famous witch trial history. I loved the attention to detail, from the carefully selected olive oil to the fresh basil that arrives just before serving.
The pasta dishes also impress, but pizza remains the reason most diners make reservations at this charming neighborhood spot.