Best Pizzerias Across Minnesota’s Lake Towns And Urban Hotspots
Minnesota’s pizza scene is as diverse as its landscape, stretching from bustling city blocks to quiet lakeside retreats.
Whether you’re craving wood-fired perfection after a day on the water or coal-oven magic in the heart of Minneapolis, the North Star State delivers delicious slices at every turn.
Get ready to explore pizzerias that blend local charm with serious flavor, from beloved neighborhood joints to creative culinary destinations.
1. Pizzeria Lola
Wood-fired magic happens daily at this Minneapolis gem where Korean BBQ meets Italian tradition on a crispy crust. Chef Ann Kim transformed the pizza game by fearlessly blending flavors most folks never dreamed possible.
The Lady Zaza pizza—featuring kimchi and Korean sausage—sounds wild but tastes like pure genius. Every pie emerges from the blazing oven with leopard-spotted char marks and bubbly cheese that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Reservations aren’t accepted here, as Pizzeria Lola operates on a counter-service model, so be prepared for a wait during busy hours. The cozy atmosphere and inventive menu make this spot worth every minute, turning dinner into an unforgettable adventure for pizza lovers seeking something extraordinary.
2. Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza
Coal ovens crank up to scorching temperatures, creating pizzas with impossibly crispy bottoms and perfectly blistered tops. This Minnesota favorite doesn’t mess around when it comes to authentic coal-fired technique, delivering pies that taste like they traveled straight from Brooklyn.
Mushroom-topped pies, classic combinations, and bold flavors all benefit from the smoky depth that only a coal-fired oven can create. Fresh mozzarella stretches for days, and the tangy tomato sauce balances every rich, savory bite.
The inviting, laid-back atmosphere makes it an easy place to enjoy a quick meal or settle in with friends. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or dinner, the casual vibe and serious pizza skills make Black Sheep a must-visit destination.
3. Wrecktangle Pizza
Detroit-style pizza takes center stage here, served in rectangular pans with edges so crispy they could snap like potato chips. The cheese gets caramelized against the pan’s sides, creating a golden, crunchy border that pizza fanatics dream about.
Thick, airy dough rises high and proud, supporting generous toppings without getting soggy. Pepperoni cups up perfectly, forming little grease pools of pure joy that somehow make everything taste better.
The casual, upbeat atmosphere welcomes families, friends, and solo diners who appreciate pizza innovation done right. From classic combos to creative seasonal specials, every square slice delivers big flavor with a satisfying crunch that’ll convert even thin-crust loyalists.
4. Red Wagon Pizza Company
The South Minneapolis neighborhood setting still offers a lively local atmosphere perfect for enjoying wood-fired pies. Fresh ingredients shine through in every bite, from locally sourced vegetables to premium meats that make each pie a celebration of Minnesota’s bounty.
Families gather here after busy days, while couples enjoy romantic sunset dinners with crackling crusts and melted cheese.
Simple combinations often work best—margherita pizzas showcase tangy sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a year-round local or summer visitor, Red Wagon delivers lakeside pizza memories worth repeating.
5. Punch Pizza
Neapolitan tradition meets Minnesota hospitality at this fast-casual chain that refuses to compromise on quality.
The dough ferments slowly, developing complex flavors and that signature chewy-yet-tender texture. Toppings stay simple and fresh—San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil create the classic margherita that converted countless Minnesotans to true pizza believers.
Quick service doesn’t mean sacrificing craftsmanship here, as skilled pizzaiolos work the wood-burning ovens with practiced precision. Multiple locations across the Twin Cities make it easy to grab authentic Italian pizza without hopping on a transatlantic flight.
6. Boludo
Argentinian flair spices up the Minnesota pizza scene at this lively spot where South American traditions collide with Italian classics. Empanadas steal the show alongside pizzas, offering flaky pockets stuffed with savory fillings that’ll transport your taste buds to Buenos Aires.
The pizza menu ventures beyond standard toppings, embracing bold flavors and unexpected combinations that reflect Argentina’s immigrant heritage. Chimichurri sauce makes appearances, adding herbaceous punch to already flavorful pies.
Vibrant energy fills the dining room as plates of colorful food arrive at tables surrounded by friends and family. Don’t skip the appetizers—start with empanadas, then move to pizza for a complete culinary journey through Argentina’s beloved comfort foods.
7. Rosalia
Elevated Italian dining meets wood-fired pizza perfection at this sophisticated Minneapolis destination. Chef-driven creations showcase seasonal ingredients with artistic flair, turning simple pizzas into culinary masterpieces that taste as beautiful as they look.
The crust achieves that elusive balance—crispy outside, pillowy inside—supporting premium toppings like house-made sausage and heirloom tomatoes.
Rosalia accepts limited reservations, but much of the seating is walk-in, so availability may vary depending on the night. Romantic lighting and polished service make Rosalia ideal for special occasions when you want pizza but also crave refinement.
8. Pizza Luce
Quirky creativity defines this Twin Cities institution where vegetarian options shine as brightly as meat-loaded pies. Since 1993, Pizza Luce has been slinging inventive pizzas that push boundaries while respecting the craft.
The Athens pizza loads up hummus, feta, and Mediterranean vegetables for a flavor-packed vegetarian option that even carnivores crave. Vegan cheese melts beautifully here, making plant-based pizzas genuinely satisfying rather than disappointing substitutes.
Late-night hours attract post-concert crowds and night owls seeking quality pizza when most kitchens have closed. Multiple locations mean you’re never far from a Luce fix, whether you’re downtown or exploring neighborhood spots. The funky, welcoming vibe makes everyone feel at home.
9. Vitta Pizza
Authentic Neapolitan pizza finds a Minnesota home at this dedicated pizzeria where tradition guides every decision. Imported Italian flour, hand-crushed tomatoes, and high-temperature ovens combine to create pizzas that would make Neapolitans nod in approval.
The margherita pizza serves as the ultimate test—simple ingredients demand perfection, and Vitta delivers with balanced flavors and textbook execution. The crust puffs up beautifully around the edges while staying tender in the center.
Minimalist decor keeps focus squarely on the pizza, which is exactly where it belongs. Quick bakes mean fresh pies arrive at your table within minutes of ordering, steaming hot and ready to devour before the cheese stops stretching.
10. Rafferty’s Pizza
Small-town charm radiates from this beloved pizzeria where everybody knows your name and your usual order. Generous portions and fair prices make Rafferty’s the go-to spot for families seeking reliable pizza without breaking the bank.
Cheese stretches gloriously across thick crusts that satisfy hearty appetites after days spent fishing or boating.
Kids run around happily while parents relax over pizza, creating the kind of casual atmosphere that defines lake town living. Takeout orders fly out the door on summer weekends as cabin owners stock up for easy dinners. Simple, satisfying, and consistently delicious—that’s the Rafferty’s way.
11. Dave’s Pizza
No-nonsense pizza done right defines Dave’s approach to feeding hungry Minnesotans. Classic toppings get piled high on reliable crusts that never disappoint, creating the kind of satisfying meal that keeps customers coming back for decades.
Dave’s uses traditional flat-cut pepperoni rather than cup-and-char style, but it still delivers great flavor and texture. Garlic bread arrives hot and buttery, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Delivery drivers know the neighborhood routes by heart, bringing Dave’s pizza to doorsteps across town. Whether you’re feeding a Little League team or hosting game night, Dave’s delivers quantity and quality without fancy frills or inflated prices. Sometimes simple is simply the best choice.
12. Sven & Ole’s Pizza
Scandinavian humor meets Italian cuisine at this playfully named pizzeria where Norwegian jokes decorate the walls. The unique theme celebrates Minnesota’s Nordic heritage while serving seriously good pizza that transcends cultural boundaries.
Generous toppings and hearty crusts reflect the region’s appreciation for filling, satisfying meals. The Swedish meatball pizza sounds gimmicky but actually works, combining comfort food traditions in unexpected harmony.
The lighthearted atmosphere makes dining here feel like visiting friends rather than just grabbing dinner. Fun names, serious pizza—that’s the winning combination that keeps folks coming back.
13. Sammy’s Pizza
Thin-crust perfection has been Sammy’s specialty for generations of pizza-loving Minnesotans. The crispy base stays sturdy under generous toppings, delivering maximum flavor with every crunchy bite that crackles satisfyingly.
Old-school vibes permeate the dining room where families gather for birthday celebrations and Friday night traditions. Consistent quality keeps regulars loyal while introducing new generations to classic pizza done right.
Whether you prefer sausage, pepperoni, or veggie-loaded pies, Sammy’s delivers reliable deliciousness without pretension or fuss. Sometimes the best pizza comes from places that have perfected their craft through decades of practice.