6 Ohio Pizza Chains That Locals Enjoy & 6 They Absolutely Crave
When it comes to pizza, Ohioans truly know their stuff, and the Buckeye State’s passion for a perfect pie often surprises outsiders.
Over the years, I’ve toured from Toledo to Cincinnati, sampling countless slices, and I can confidently say Ohio’s pizza scene is one of the country’s most underrated treasures.
Family-owned shops proudly serve recipes refined over generations, while beloved regional chains offer flavors that rival, and often surpass, the big national names. What makes it special isn’t just the crust or toppings—it’s the fierce hometown pride. Locals defend their favorite pizzerias with unmatched loyalty, turning pizza into a tradition.
1. Donatos Pizza – The Edge-to-Edge Legend
My first Donatos experience literally changed how I judge all other pizzas. Founded in Gahanna back in 1963, their signature Columbus-style thin crust comes absolutely loaded with toppings from edge to edge – no wasted space here!
What makes Donatos special isn’t just their generous toppings. Their pepperoni pizza features over 100 pieces of pepperoni per large pie! The family-owned vibe somehow survived even after being briefly owned by McDonald’s.
When I bring out-of-state friends to Ohio, this is always our first stop. That perfectly crispy crust combined with their proprietary smoked provolone blend creates pizza magic that’s quintessentially Ohioan.
2. LaRosa’s Pizzeria – Cincinnati’s Pizza Royalty
Cincinnati folks get downright defensive about LaRosa’s, and after my first bite, I understood why. Since 1954, this family operation has been serving up pies with that distinctive sweet-tangy sauce that divides pizza purists but unites Queen City natives.
The LaRosa family recipe hasn’t changed much in nearly 70 years. Their signature provolone cheese blend creates the perfect gooey stretch when you pull a slice away.
Nothing beats watching a Bengals game with a steaming LaRosa’s pie. Despite expanding to 65 locations, each restaurant maintains that neighborhood pizzeria feel that makes you forget you’re eating at a chain.
3. Marco’s Pizza – Toledo’s Global Ambassador
Who knew a pizza joint born in Toledo would conquer the world? Founded by Italian immigrant Pasquale Giammarco in 1978, Marco’s has exploded to over 1,000 locations while staying true to its Ohio roots.
Their dough made fresh daily creates that perfect chewy-yet-crisp texture I crave. My personal obsession is their signature Pepperoni Magnifico with old-world and classic pepperoni plus their special sauce.
Despite the massive growth, Marco’s hasn’t compromised quality. The founder’s commitment to authentic Italian recipes means no frozen dough or pre-shredded cheese shortcuts. Toledo locals beam with pride seeing their hometown pizza succeed internationally.
4. Marion’s Piazza – Dayton’s Thin Crust Treasure
The first time I walked into Marion’s, I felt like I’d stepped into a pizza time capsule. Since 1965, this Dayton institution has been serving what locals fiercely defend as the definitive version of thin-crust pizza.
Marion’s unique square-cut “tavern style” pies come on trays to your table in their cafeteria-style restaurants. The slightly sweet sauce and perfectly crisp edge pieces have sparked family arguments over who gets the corners.
Celebrities and presidents have made pilgrimages here, with signed photos covering the walls. Marion’s consistently ranks as America’s second-highest grossing independent pizza chain, proving Dayton-style pizza deserves national recognition.
5. East of Chicago Pizza – Lima’s Pan Pizza Pioneer
The aroma hit me before I even opened the door. East of Chicago’s buttery, caramelized crust pan pizza has been Lima’s gift to Ohio since 1982. The first bite reveals what makes their signature pies different – that rich, almost pastry-like crust.
Unlike chains that try to be everything to everyone, East of Chicago perfected one style before expanding their menu. Their “Pizza Buffet” has saved countless family dinner debates and office lunch outings.
What started as a single Lima location has grown to 80+ restaurants across three states. Yet somehow when you walk in, it still feels like you’re discovering a local secret that only Ohioans truly appreciate.
6. Gionino’s – Cleveland’s Broasted Chicken Pizza Paradise
Cleveland winter nights were made for Gionino’s. This Northeast Ohio treasure combines two comfort food obsessions – exceptional pizza AND incredible broasted chicken – creating a combo that’s practically required eating during Browns games.
Their thick, chewy crust provides the perfect foundation for generous toppings. The cheese blend stretches for days with that Instagram-worthy pull that makes pizza lovers weak at the knees.
What truly sets Gionino’s apart are their spicy jojo potatoes. These seasoned potato wedges alongside their broasted chicken make this more than just a pizzeria. Cleveland transplants living elsewhere regularly beg visiting friends to bring Gionino’s on their travels.
7. Rubino’s Pizza – Columbus’ Time Machine Pizzeria
Walking into Rubino’s feels like stepping back to 1954. This cash-only Columbus institution hasn’t changed their ovens, recipes, or even their prices much since opening day. The paper-thin crust practically disappears beneath the weight of their toppings.
No delivery, no website, no modern marketing – just consistently perfect pizza that locals willingly wait in line for. Their sausage pizza with extra cheese remains my definition of comfort food perfection.
The vintage wood paneling and formica tables complete the experience. While tourists flock to trendy spots downtown, Columbus natives know Rubino’s represents the authentic taste of the city’s Italian heritage, preserved perfectly in their Clintonville time capsule.
8. Terita’s Pizza – Columbus’ Hidden Neighborhood Gem
Some of my fondest childhood memories involve waiting at Terita’s counter while my grandfather chatted with the owners. Since 1959, this family-operated North Columbus institution has been quietly perfecting the art of neighborhood pizza.
Their hand-tossed crust strikes that magical balance between chewy and crisp. The house-made sausage recipe remains a closely guarded secret that’s inspired countless imitation attempts.
Terita’s survived the pizza chain explosion by focusing on quality over expansion. Each pie tastes like it was made specifically for you by a family member. Columbus natives living elsewhere make Terita’s their first stop when visiting home, often buying extras to freeze and stretch out that hometown flavor.
9. Panzera’s Pizza – Grandview Heights’ Sweet Sauce Secret
My grandparents had their first date at Panzera’s back in the 1960s, making this Grandview Heights landmark part of our family story. Operating since 1957, their signature slightly sweet sauce has sparked heated debates about what makes the perfect pizza base.
The restaurant feels frozen in time in the best possible way. Red-checkered tablecloths and vintage booths set the scene for pizza that tastes exactly as it did decades ago.
Their hand-tossed dough creates the perfect texture – substantial enough to hold generous toppings but never doughy. While Columbus’ pizza scene continues evolving, Panzera’s steadfastly maintains traditions that have kept generations of families returning for their weekly pizza fix.
10. The Original Josie’s Pizza – Downtown Columbus’ Pastry Crust Pioneer
The first bite of Josie’s unique pastry-like crust transports me straight back to childhood downtown adventures with my dad. This Columbus institution serves up rectangular slices with a distinctive flaky texture unlike any other pizza in Ohio.
Their signature “The Works” has remained unchanged for generations. The perfect balance of tangy sauce, quality meats, and that unmistakable crust creates pizza nostalgia that newer artisan places can’t replicate.
The downtown location maintains its authentic charm despite the area’s massive development. True Columbus natives measure other pizzas against the Josie’s standard. When I return home, the distinctive aroma walking through their door signals I’m truly back in Columbus.
11. JT’s Pizza & Pub – Columbus’ Creative Flavor Laboratory
JT’s transformed my understanding of what pizza could be. This unassuming neighborhood pub became Columbus’ pizza innovation headquarters when owner Joe Hartnett started experimenting with unconventional flavor combinations.
Their Buffalo chicken pizza with homemade ranch changed my life. The perfectly balanced heat, that scratch-made ranch drizzle, and their signature crust create flavor fireworks that keep locals coming back weekly.
Unlike the vintage spots, JT’s represents Columbus’ new wave of pizza creativity. The cozy pub atmosphere makes sampling their latest creations feel like you’re in on a delicious secret. Their willingness to push boundaries while respecting pizza traditions embodies Ohio’s evolving food scene.
12. DiCarlo’s Pizza – Ohio Valley’s Controversial Masterpiece
My first DiCarlo’s experience left me utterly confused. Cold cheese and toppings on a hot crust? But that first bite revealed why this Ohio Valley-style pizza inspires such passionate devotion among Steubenville natives.
The process is unique – square crust baked first, then topped with sauce and cold provolone cheese right before serving. The textural contrast between crispy crust and cool, unmelted cheese creates something completely different from traditional pizza.
Eating DiCarlo’s feels like joining a secret club. You either become an immediate convert or remain perpetually puzzled by its popularity. Their expansion into Columbus introduced this regional style to new audiences, sparking heated debates about whether it qualifies as “real pizza.”