Arizona’s Best Hole-In-The-Wall Pizza Spots You’ve Never Heard Of
I’ll admit it, I used to think real pizza only existed in New York or Chicago. Then I took a wrong turn in Prescott and stumbled into a little brick hut with a chalkboard menu and the smell of garlic and woodsmoke pouring into the street.
I ordered a plain cheese slice on a whim, and halfway through, I stopped walking just to savor it. That moment changed everything. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to hunt down Arizona’s most surprising pizza gems.
The kind of places with no website, maybe just a Facebook page updated once a year, where the owner greets you like family and the sauce recipe’s been in the family since the ’80s.
These aren’t fancy. They’re honest. Warm. Real. And honestly? Some of the best pizza I’ve ever had.
Here are 14 under-the-radar spots across Arizona that deserve your attention-and your appetite.
1. Screaming Banshee Pizza
Tucked away in the historic mining town of Bisbee, Screaming Banshee Pizza serves up pies that’ll make you holler with joy.
Located at 200 Tombstone Canyon Rd, this quirky spot captures the artistic spirit of Bisbee with colorful murals and funky decor that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a pizza-loving artist’s studio.
The crust strikes that perfect balance between crispy edges and a chewy center, while the toppings are piled high with fresh ingredients that change based on what’s available locally.
Vegetarians go wild for the roasted veggie combinations, and meat lovers can’t get enough of the spicy sausage options.
The staff treats everyone like old friends, even if it’s your first time walking through the door. Bisbee sits about 90 minutes from Tucson, making Screaming Banshee Pizza the perfect pit stop for anyone exploring southern Arizona’s quirky small towns.
2. Pizza Shack Slice House
New York-style pizza in the heart of Mesa might sound unlikely, but Pizza Shack Slice House at 7145 E Main St pulls it off with mouthwatering success.
Giant slices that fold perfectly down the middle are the signature here, and the thin crust delivers that satisfying crunch without being too brittle.
Walking in feels like entering a classic East Coast pizzeria, complete with checkered floors and the intoxicating smell of garlic and oregano floating through the air.
The pepperoni curls up into little grease cups when it cooks, which pizza purists know is the mark of quality ingredients.
Prices stay reasonable enough that families can grab dinner without breaking the bank, and the lunch specials make it a popular spot for nearby workers.
Don’t skip the garlic knots either because they’re brushed with butter and sprinkled with parmesan in a way that makes them dangerously addictive.
3. Otto Pizza & Pastry
Authenticity oozes from every corner of Otto Pizza & Pastry, a genuine Italian gem hiding at 804 S Ash Ave in Tempe.
The owner learned his craft in Italy, and you can taste that training in every bite of the Neapolitan-style pies that come out of the wood-fired oven.
Soft, pillowy crusts with those signature leopard spots on the bottom show proper high-heat cooking technique.
I remember stopping here after a long day exploring Tempe Town Lake, exhausted and starving, and that first bite of the Margherita pizza literally made me close my eyes and sigh.
The simplicity lets the quality shine through with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil that tastes like it was picked minutes ago.
Beyond pizza, the pastry case tempts visitors with Italian sweets that pair perfectly with espresso. This spot proves that sometimes the best meals come from the smallest kitchens.
4. Raffaele’s Pizza
Family recipes passed down through generations come alive at Raffaele’s Pizza, located at 7019 N 19th Ave in Phoenix.
This unassuming spot looks like just another storefront from the outside, but step inside and you’ll find pizza that tastes like someone’s Italian grandmother made it with love.
The sauce has a subtle sweetness balanced with herbs, creating a flavor profile that keeps people coming back week after week.
Thick-crust lovers rejoice here because Raffaele’s doesn’t skimp on the dough, giving you substantial slices that actually fill you up.
Combination pizzas come loaded with toppings that extend all the way to the edges, so every bite delivers maximum flavor.
The dining room stays casual and comfortable, perfect for families with kids who might make a mess or groups of friends catching up over a shared pie. Takeout orders stay hot and fresh even after the drive home.
5. Mimi Forno Italiano
Laveen Village hides a treasure at 3624 W Baseline Rd where Mimi Forno Italiano creates pizza magic in a cozy setting. The name translates to oven in Italian, and the wood-burning centerpiece pumps out pizzas that bubble and char in all the right places.
Fresh dough gets made daily, and watching the pizza makers toss and spin it into perfect circles provides free entertainment while you wait.
Specialty combinations push beyond basic pepperoni and cheese, incorporating ingredients like prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze that elevate each slice. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, like visiting a friend’s home rather than just another restaurant.
Portion sizes satisfy without overwhelming, leaving just enough room to consider dessert from the rotating selection of Italian treats. Service stays attentive without hovering, striking that perfect balance that makes dining out actually relaxing.
6. Fatso’s Pizza
Don’t let the playful name fool you because Fatso’s Pizza at 3131 E Thunderbird Rd in Phoenix takes their craft seriously.
Chicago-style deep dish gets the spotlight here, with buttery crusts that climb up the sides of the pan and hold massive amounts of cheese and toppings.
Patience becomes necessary because these thick beauties take longer to cook than thin-crust varieties, but the wait pays off in spades.
One slice could honestly count as a full meal, making it a budget-friendly option despite the generous portions.
My cousin dragged me here last summer, insisting it was worth the drive, and I’ve been grateful ever since because now I have a go-to spot when I’m craving something hearty.
The casual vibe encourages lingering over your meal, and the staff never rushes you out the door. Takeout works great too, though eating it fresh from the oven hits differently.
7. La Grande Orange Pizzeria (LGO)
Trendy Arcadia neighborhood vibes meet exceptional pizza at La Grande Orange Pizzeria, found at 4410 N 40th St in Phoenix. The space feels bright and modern with an open kitchen that lets diners watch the action unfold.
Creative topping combinations push boundaries while still respecting traditional pizza principles, like the fig and prosciutto option that sounds fancy but tastes incredibly approachable.
Salads and appetizers hold up their end too, making LGO perfect for groups where not everyone wants pizza.
The crust achieves that elusive texture that’s simultaneously crispy and chewy, with enough structural integrity to support heavy toppings without going soggy.
Weekend brunch brings different menu items altogether, proving the kitchen’s versatility beyond just dinner service. Prices lean slightly higher than typical pizza joints, but the quality ingredients and neighborhood atmosphere justify the extra few dollars.
8. Bianchi’s Italian
Tucson’s northwest side boasts Bianchi’s Italian at 1110 N Silverbell Rd, where pizza shares menu space with other Italian classics.
This family-run establishment has been serving the community for years, building loyalty through consistency and genuine hospitality.
The pizza crust gets hand-tossed the old-fashioned way, creating irregular edges and air bubbles that add character to each pie.
Sauce recipes remain closely guarded secrets, but whatever magic happens in that kitchen produces a tangy, herb-forward flavor that complements rather than overpowers.
Cheese coverage extends generously across the surface, ensuring every bite includes that satisfying cheese pull.
The dining room feels comfortable and lived-in, with regulars greeting the staff by name and newcomers receiving the same warm treatment. Portions stay true to Italian-American standards, meaning nobody leaves hungry and leftovers often make tomorrow’s lunch.
9. Pizza To The Rescue
Superhero themes decorate the walls at Pizza To The Rescue, located at 2601 E Indian School Rd in Phoenix.
Kids absolutely love the comic book aesthetic, but adults appreciate the seriously good pizza that backs up the fun atmosphere.
Build-your-own options let picky eaters customize exactly what they want, while specialty combinations offer adventurous choices for those feeling bold.
The sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, never tasting too acidic or bland. Crust options include traditional, thin, and gluten-free, accommodating different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
I brought my nephew here for his birthday last year, and he still talks about the pizza shaped like a shield that they made special for him.
That kind of attention to detail makes celebrations memorable. Delivery service covers a wide area, bringing rescue-worthy pizza straight to your door when cooking feels impossible.
10. Vero Chicago Pizza
Queen Creek might seem like an unexpected place for authentic Chicago-style pizza, but Vero Chicago Pizza at 18423 E San Tan Blvd delivers the real deal.
The owners actually hail from Chicago, bringing recipes and techniques perfected in the Windy City to the Arizona desert.
Deep dish pizzas arrive at the table looking more like savory pies than traditional flat pizzas, with layers of cheese underneath the sauce in true Chicago fashion.
Thin crust tavern-style options provide alternatives for those who prefer cracker-crisp bases cut into squares. Italian sausage gets made in-house, giving it a flavor and texture that store-bought versions simply cannot match.
The restaurant fills up quickly during peak hours, so calling ahead for reservations saves frustration. Sports memorabilia from Chicago teams decorates the walls, adding authenticity to the already genuine atmosphere.
11. Rosa’s Pizzeria
Prescott Valley locals guard Rosa’s Pizzeria like a precious secret, tucked away at 2992 Park Ave. The small dining area fills quickly because word has spread about the exceptional quality coming from this modest kitchen.
Dough ferments slowly, developing complex flavors that fast-rise versions never achieve. Toppings get sourced locally whenever possible, supporting nearby farms and ensuring peak freshness.
Rosa herself often works the counter, greeting customers with a smile and remembering orders from previous visits.
The white pizza with garlic, ricotta, and spinach has converted many people who previously claimed they only liked red sauce.
Prices remain refreshingly reasonable, especially considering the quality and care put into each order. Takeout boxes often leave with customers planning their next visit before they’ve even finished their current pizza.
12. Village Inn Pizza Parlor
Yuma’s downtown holds a throwback gem at Village Inn Pizza Parlor, sitting at 41 E 16th St since way back when.
The retro atmosphere transports visitors to simpler times with red vinyl booths and vintage arcade games that actually still work.
Pizza recipes haven’t changed in decades because when something works this well, why mess with success? The cheese blend creates that perfect stretch and flavor combination that keeps generations of families returning.
Stopping here during a road trip through Yuma last spring, I found myself chatting with a server who had worked there for twenty years, and her passion for the place was infectious. She recommended the sausage and mushroom combination, which turned out to be absolutely spot-on.
Lunch buffets during weekdays offer incredible value for anyone passing through town. History and great pizza combine perfectly at this Yuma institution.
13. Fired Pie Social – Mesa
Tucked off 16th Street in Phoenix, Pie Snob feels like a neighborhood secret you stumble upon after chasing a craving.
The cases hold seasonal gems, from tart key lime to brown sugar chess, each slice with buttery, hand‑crimped edges. You will smell toasted pecans and cinnamon before you even see the chalkboard.
Go early because favorites vanish fast, especially the strawberry rhubarb when spring hits. Grab a slice, then take a whole pie for later, because you will regret leaving with just one.
Service is friendly, the vibe is unfussy, and the crust alone is worth a dedicated trip.
The rhythm of calling out orders and greeting regulars makes the room feel like an old friend’s kitchen. Even on busy weekends, staff remembers names and favorite orders, reinforcing that community feel.
Desserts disappear nearly as quickly as the savory pies, especially when folks pair a slice with a local coffee or cold brew.
Rumor has it the monthly special sometimes features a surprise flavor inspired by seasonal produce. By the time you leave, you’ll already be thinking about which pie to try next – and who you’ll bring with you.
14. Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop – Phoenix
Tucked off a busy Phoenix strip, Ziggy’s leans playful, but the slices are serious. Expect thin, foldable crust with a crisp snap, then buttery chew, topped with tangy sauce and cheese that stretches forever, with oregano whispering through each bite.
The vibe here is casual and lively in downtown Phoenix, and the pizza is classic New York‑style by the slice or whole pie at 401 W Van Buren St.
Order a classic pepperoni slice or the spicy honey drizzle if you like sweet heat, and enjoy it with garlic knots or fries from their diverse menu.
Counter staff are quick with a grin and hot pie from the deck oven, and pizza lovers often stop in before or after concerts nearby. Late nights hum here – the shop stays open well into the evening – and you will leave plotting a return for another bite.
Behind a door you might pass by is a quirky bonus: Stardust Pinbar, a pinball bar that adds vintage fun to the experience if you’re looking to hang after your slice.
Locals and visitors alike praise the friendly service, affordable slices, and the perfect post‑show pizza stop that doubles as a neighborhood favorite.