12 Best Pizzerias Across Arizona’s Desert Towns and Downtown Blocks
Arizona isn’t just about cacti and sunsets, it’s also home to some seriously amazing pizza.
From wood-fired pies in Phoenix to crispy slices in Tucson, the state’s pizzerias are serving up flavors that could rival any big city.
Whether you’re craving classic Margherita or adventurous toppings, these spots have something for everyone.
1. Pizzeria Bianco
Legendary doesn’t even begin to cover it. Pizzeria Bianco has earned national acclaim for its perfectly charred crusts and obsessively fresh ingredients. Owner Chris Bianco has turned pizza-making into an art form, and every bite proves why people wait hours for a table.
The Rosa—topped with red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and rosemary—is a fan favorite that’ll make you rethink what pizza can be. Simple ingredients shine here because quality always beats quantity. Each pie comes out of the wood-fired oven with a blistered crust that’s both chewy and crispy.
Located in downtown Phoenix, this spot is a must-visit for any pizza lover. Reservations are tough to snag, but the experience is absolutely worth the effort.
2. POMO Pizzeria Napoletana
Certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, POMO takes Neapolitan pizza seriously. Their dough ferments for days, creating a light and airy crust that practically melts in your mouth. Imported Italian ingredients make every pizza taste like a Roman holiday.
The Margherita here is textbook perfection—San Marzano tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil come together in harmony. You’ll notice the leopard-spotted crust, a hallmark of proper Neapolitan technique. Watching the pizzaiolos work their magic is half the fun.
Multiple Phoenix locations mean you’re never too far from an authentic Italian experience.
3. IL Bosco Pizza
Tucked away in a Scottsdale neighborhood instead of Phoenix, IL Bosco feels like stumbling upon a secret Italian hideaway. The wood-fired oven cranks out pies with a smoky flavor that’ll transport you straight to Tuscany. Their commitment to traditional methods shows in every crispy, chewy bite.
Specialty pizzas rotate seasonally, showcasing local produce alongside imported Italian staples. The prosciutto and arugula pizza is a crowd-pleaser that balances salty and peppery flavors beautifully. Don’t sleep on their appetizers—the burrata is absolutely divine.
The cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for date night or a casual dinner with friends. Reservations are recommended because word has definitely gotten out about this gem.
4. CiBO Urban Pizzeria
Urban sophistication meets Italian tradition at CiBO, where inventive pizzas push creative boundaries. Chef Massimo Di Marco brings authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist that keeps diners coming back. The sleek, contemporary space feels equally suited for business lunches and romantic dinners.
Try the Pera pizza—pear, gorgonzola, and honey create an unexpectedly delicious combination that’ll blow your mind. The lunch specials offer excellent value without compromising quality.
CiBO operates a single, beloved downtown Phoenix location, but its popularity makes it feel like a citywide icon. The outdoor patio is especially lovely during Arizona’s cooler months.
5. Pizzeria Bocce
Located in Old Town Cottonwood, Bocce Pizzeria brings artisan, wood-fired pizzas to one of Arizona’s most charming desert towns. Modern and stylish, this spot is known for handcrafted pies topped with fresh local ingredients.
Favorites include the Sausage & Peppers pie and their fig-based creations, which strike a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The patio, surrounded by twinkling lights and historic buildings, adds serious atmosphere.
It’s a must-stop for anyone exploring country or cruising through the Verde Valley.
6. Fratelli Pizza
High in the pines of Flagstaff, Fratelli Pizza serves up hand-tossed, stone-deck oven pizzas. Their crust is crisp on the outside, chewy inside, and generously topped with high-quality ingredients.
Each pie takes about 45 minutes to bake, but the wait is absolutely worth it. The staff keeps you entertained with friendly banter while you sip local drinks. Thin crust options are available too, for those who prefer traditional styles.
Located near Northern Arizona University, it’s a favorite hangout for students and locals alike. The relaxed atmosphere and generous portions make it ideal for group gatherings.
7. Fat Olives
Flagstaff’s Fat Olives combines mountain charm with seriously sophisticated pizza-making skills. Their wood-fired oven produces blistered crusts with just the right amount of char and chew. Fresh, seasonal ingredients mean the menu changes regularly, keeping things exciting for repeat visitors.
The wild mushroom pizza showcases earthy flavors that pair beautifully with Arizona’s high-country setting. Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, making it inclusive for all dietary preferences. Their salads are equally impressive, featuring locally-sourced greens and house-made dressings.
The industrial-chic interior creates a cool, modern vibe without feeling pretentious. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a casual lunch or celebrate something special.
8. Craft 64
Craft 64 is a Scottsdale favorite, known for its wood-fired pizzas topped with house-made mozzarella and locally sourced ingredients.
Try the Honey Bee pizza, a spicy-sweet masterpiece with pepperoni, jalapeños, and honey. The crust is perfectly blistered, thin, and chewy.
Located in Old Town Scottsdale, it’s a lively, community-driven spot ideal for both casual dinners and foodie adventures.
9. Doughbird
Scottsdale’s Doughbird elevates pizza to fine-dining status without the stuffy atmosphere. Their signature sourdough crust ferments for 48 hours, developing complex flavors and incredible texture. Premium ingredients like truffle oil and burrata appear throughout the menu.
The rotisserie chicken pizzas are unique showstoppers that combine two comfort foods brilliantly. Their brunch menu features breakfast pizzas topped with eggs and bacon that’ll change your morning routine.
Located in Old Town Scottsdale, it’s perfect for a night out in Arizona’s trendiest neighborhood. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
10. Pizzeria Virtù
Pizzeria Virtù, by award-winning chef Gio Osso, brings artisanal, wood-fired pizzas to downtown Scottsdale. Though better known for fine Italian cooking, the pizza here is exceptional—thin, blistered crusts topped with ultra-fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors.
The Scamorza pizza, with smoked mozzarella and Calabrian chiles, is a standout. This spot adds a refined, chef-driven option to Arizona’s pizza scene.
Perfect for date night or anyone wanting elevated pizza with gorgeous plating.
11. NiMarco’s Pizza
NiMarco’s brings Flagstaff-style, hand-tossed pizza to the high country, a local favorite since the 1970s. Their dough is made fresh daily, and their signature cheese blend gives each slice a delicious melt that locals swear by.
Grab a slice at lunch or order a whole pie for dinner—either way, you’re getting genuine NYC flavor. The no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus squarely on the food, where it belongs. Prices are reasonable, making it a go-to spot for quick, satisfying meals.
Late-night hours make NiMarco’s a lifesaver when pizza cravings strike after dark. The friendly staff treats everyone like neighborhood regulars.
12. Campo Italian Bistro & Bar
Campo brings upscale Italian dining to Scottsdale with pizzas that are almost too beautiful to eat. Their wood-fired oven produces restaurant-quality pies that complement an extensive menu of Italian specialties. Fresh pasta, seafood, and chops share billing with their impressive pizza selection.
The Quattro Formaggi showcases four cheeses in perfect proportion—rich but not overwhelming. The elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions or impressing out-of-town guests.
Outdoor dining on the patio offers views of Scottsdale’s beautiful desert landscape. Professional service elevates the entire dining experience beyond typical pizzeria fare.