14 Best Pizzerias Across Texas’ Small Towns And Big Cities
There’s a corner of Texas where a full parking lot says it all. In cities and small towns, ovens stay busy, slices hit the counter, and regulars know their order.
Travelers hear about a spot, pull off the highway, and find a crust with real character. Neighborhood shops became traditions, the kind that bring people back week after week.
This list points you to reliable pies, steady hands, and honest ingredients. No fuss, just Texas pizza done right.
1. Via 313, Austin
Detroit-style pizza might sound unusual for Texas, but this place nails it. The thick, square slices come with crispy, cheesy edges that crunch when you bite into them.
Toppings go all the way to the edge, and the sauce sits on top instead of underneath. I tried their Detroiter with pepperoni and jalapeños last spring, and I still think about it.
Lines form quickly during lunch and dinner, so plan ahead. They started in a food trailer and grew into multiple locations because people couldn’t get enough.
2. Home Slice Pizza, Austin
Walking into this spot feels like stepping into a classic New York pizzeria. Giant slices hang over the edge of paper plates, and the smell of baking dough fills the air.
You can order by the slice or grab a whole pie to share with friends. Their white pizza with ricotta and garlic stands out as a customer favorite. The crust stays thin but sturdy enough to fold in half.
Located on Congress Avenue, it draws both locals and visitors looking for a quick, satisfying meal without the fuss.
3. Bufalina, Austin
Simple ingredients make the best pizza here. Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and dough that rises slowly create a pie worth every penny.
The wood-fired oven gives each crust those signature charred spots that add flavor. Their Margherita pizza proves you don’t need fancy toppings to impress.
Everything tastes bright and clean, with basil leaves adding a pop of freshness. Reservations help, especially on weekends when tables fill up fast. The cozy dining room keeps things intimate and relaxed.
4. Pieous, Austin
Creative combinations set this pizzeria apart from the rest. Think pear with gorgonzola or Brussels sprouts with bacon. Each pizza gets stretched thin and baked until the edges bubble and brown.
The menu changes with the seasons, so you might find different toppings depending on when you visit. I brought my sister here last fall, and she couldn’t stop talking about the mushroom pizza with truffle oil.
The casual atmosphere works well for families or a quick meal after work. Don’t skip their salads either.
5. Cane Rosso, Dallas
Authentic Neapolitan pizza takes center stage at this Dallas favorite. The dough ferments for days, creating a light, airy crust that puffs up in the oven.
Toppings stay minimal to let the quality ingredients shine through. Their Honey Bastard pizza combines spicy soppressata with hot honey for a sweet and savory kick.
The dining room gets loud and lively, especially during peak hours. Multiple locations around Dallas make it easy to find one near you. Grab a seat at the bar if tables are full.
6. Partenope Ristorante, Dallas
Old-world Italian tradition guides every pizza made here. The wood-burning oven reaches temperatures hot enough to cook pies in under two minutes.
That quick cooking keeps the crust soft in the middle with a slight char on the outside. Imported Italian flour and tomatoes ensure authenticity in every bite. Their Marinara pizza keeps things simple with just tomato, garlic, and oregano.
The elegant dining room suits date nights or special occasions. Service feels attentive without being pushy, and the staff knows their menu inside and out.
7. Thunderbird Pies, Dallas
Sourdough crust gives these pizzas a distinct tang that regular dough can’t match. The fermentation process takes time but results in a crust that’s easier to digest and full of flavor.
Toppings range from classic pepperoni to more adventurous choices like fig and prosciutto. Their commitment to local ingredients shows in every slice.
The casual vibe works for solo diners or groups. Outdoor seating provides a nice option when weather cooperates.
8. Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana, Houston
Houston’s pizza options grew stronger when this place opened its doors. Traditional Neapolitan methods guide everything from dough mixing to oven temperature. The result is a soft, pillowy crust with just enough chew.
Their Diavola pizza brings heat with spicy salami and red pepper flakes. Fresh basil and quality olive oil finish each pie before it reaches your table.
The space feels modern yet welcoming, with an open kitchen that lets you watch the action. Service moves quickly even during busy dinner hours.
9. Tiny Champions, Houston
This spot earned its reputation by thinking outside the pizza box. Unusual topping combinations work surprisingly well together, like corn with cotija cheese or kimchi with pork belly.
Each pizza gets cut into squares instead of traditional slices. The fun doesn’t stop at the food. Colorful murals cover the walls, and the playlist keeps energy high.
My neighbor raved about their potato pizza with rosemary, so I had to try it myself. She was right. The casual setup encourages sharing multiple pies with your group. Expect a wait on weekends.
10. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana, San Antonio
San Antonio’s pizza landscape improved dramatically when this pizzeria opened. Wood-fired ovens imported from Italy ensure authentic results every time. The dough recipe follows strict Neapolitan guidelines, including specific flour types and fermentation times.
Their Quattro Formaggi pizza layers four different cheeses for a rich, creamy experience. Fresh ingredients arrive daily, and you can taste the difference.
The dining room stays cozy and intimate, perfect for conversation over a shared meal. Friendly service adds to the overall experience without feeling intrusive.
11. Il Forno, San Antonio
Family recipes guide the pizza-making process at this San Antonio staple. Generations of Italian cooking knowledge show in every carefully crafted pie. The crust strikes a perfect balance between thin and sturdy, holding toppings without flopping.
I took my cousin here for her birthday last year, and we split their prosciutto and arugula pizza. The peppery greens paired perfectly with the salty meat.
Their house-made mozzarella adds extra creaminess to every bite. The warm, inviting space feels like eating at a friend’s house. Weekend brunch includes pizza options too.
12. 600 Degrees Pizzeria & Drafthouse, Georgetown
Small-town charm meets serious pizza at this Georgetown spot. The name refers to their oven temperature, hot enough to create the perfect crust in minutes. Local ingredients feature prominently on a menu that changes with available produce.
Their fig and prosciutto pizza balances sweet and salty in ways that surprise first-timers. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to linger over your meal.
Georgetown locals treat this place like their own special secret. The patio offers nice views of the historic downtown square when weather permits.
13. Shorty’s Pizza Shack, Waco
Waco’s pizza options got a serious upgrade when this shack opened for business. New York-style slices fold easily and stay sturdy enough to eat while walking. The no-frills approach focuses on getting the basics right every single time.
Their pepperoni pizza keeps things classic with generous toppings and gooey cheese. College students and families both find something to love here.
The casual counter service means you order, grab your slice, and find a seat. Prices stay reasonable, making it easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
14. Para Llevar, Marfa
Finding excellent pizza in a remote West Texas town might seem unlikely, but this place proves it possible. Wood-fired pizzas emerge from the oven with perfectly charred crusts and creative toppings.
The artistic community of Marfa influences the menu with unexpected but delicious combinations. Their pizza with roasted peppers and local goat cheese captures the spirit of the region.
The small dining area fills quickly, so arrive early or prepare to wait. Desert sunsets provide a stunning backdrop while you eat on the patio. This spot became a destination worth the drive.