10 Simple Pizza Restaurants In Arkansas That Are Totally Worth Visiting
Arkansas might not be the first place you think of when craving pizza, but hidden throughout the state are simple spots where dough, sauce, and cheese come together in unexpectedly perfect harmony.
These restaurants keep things straightforward—no fancy toppings or flashy gimmicks—just honest, comforting slices that hit the spot every time.
Sometimes, simplicity is the secret ingredient, and in Arkansas, these pizzas prove that less really can be more delicious.
1. Deluca’s Pizza: The Holy Grail of Arkansas Pizza
Holy pepperoni, Batman! Deluca’s isn’t just pizza—it’s a religious experience. The owner spent years perfecting his dough recipe, and it shows in every heavenly bite.
What makes this spot magical is their commitment to simplicity: fresh ingredients, hand-tossed crust, and a perfectly calibrated brick oven.
With locations in both Hot Springs and Little Rock, you’re never too far from pizza nirvana.
2. SQZBX Brewery & Pizza Joint: Where Music Meets Mozzarella
Quirky name, serious pizza! SQZBX (pronounced ‘squeeze-box’) combines two of life’s greatest pleasures: craft beer and pizza perfection.
Located in a former accordion repair shop in Hot Springs, this joint keeps the musical spirit alive.
Their sourdough crust has a tangy kick that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Pair your slice with one of their house-brewed beers, and you’ve got yourself the perfect evening.
3. Gusano’s Chicago-Style Pizza: Deep Dish Delight
Craving a slice of the Windy City without leaving Arkansas? Gusano’s has got you covered with their authentic Chicago-style deep dish that’ll make you want to kiss the cook.
These hefty pies require a knife and fork—and probably a nap afterward. With that buttery, flaky crust holding rivers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce, each bite is a Midwestern hug.
Multiple locations across Northwest Arkansas mean you’re never far from Chicago pizza bliss.
4. US Pizza Co.: The Hometown Hero
Remember that first crush who just got better with age? That’s US Pizza Co. for Arkansans. Since 1972, this local legend has been slinging thin-crust pizzas that strike the perfect balance between crispy and chewy.
Their signature honey wheat crust adds a subtle sweetness that’ll have you nibbling every last crumb.
With generous toppings and reasonable prices, it’s no wonder this Central Arkansas staple has expanded to multiple locations while keeping that neighborhood pizza joint feel.
5. Hideaway Pizza: Not-So-Hidden Gem
Forget playing it cool—I literally did a happy dance when Hideaway expanded into Arkansas.
This Oklahoma-born pizzeria brings decades of pizza-making expertise and a playful vibe that’ll make you smile before you even take a bite.
Famous for their “ATW” (Across The World) pizza loaded with nine toppings, Hideaway doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun.
The retro décor and friendly staff create an atmosphere that’s as satisfying as their hand-tossed pies.
6. Nima’s Pizza & More: Small Town, Big Flavor
Tucked away in tiny Gassville (population under 2,000), Nima’s Pizza has put this dot-on-the-map town on the culinary radar.
Owner Nima Cox has competed in world pizza championships in Italy—and brought those skills back to the Ozarks.
The moment you bite into their award-winning creations, you’ll understand why pizza pilgrims make the journey.
Their Mediterranean-inspired specialties feature hand-stretched dough and innovative topping combinations that would make an Italian grandmother nod in approval.
7. Shotgun Dan’s Pizza: Old-School Charm That Hits the Spot
Stepping into Shotgun Dan’s feels like traveling back to the pizza parlors of your childhood—in the best possible way.
The checkered tablecloths, arcade games, and that unmistakable aroma of bubbling cheese create instant nostalgia.
Their thick, pan-style pizzas come loaded with toppings that extend right to the edge of the crust.
Central Arkansas locals have been faithful to this institution for decades, and one bite of their signature “Shotgun Supreme” explains why this no-frills joint continues to thrive.
8. La Torcia Brick Oven Pizza: Flames of Flavor
“La torcia” means “the torch” in Italian—a fitting name for this gem where pizzas emerge beautifully blistered from a 900-degree wood-fired oven.
The intense heat creates that magical combination of crispy exterior and chewy interior that pizza purists crave. The owners are sticklers for authenticity, importing specialty ingredients directly from Italy.
Their Margherita pizza, with its perfect balance of tangy San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, proves that sometimes the simplest things are the most extraordinary.
9. Mellow Mushroom: Groovy Pies in the Ozarks
Far out, man! Mellow Mushroom brings psychedelic vibes and creative pizzas to Northwest Arkansas. Each location sports trippy art and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to hang out long after your meal.
Their stone-baked pies start with spring water dough and get topped with unexpected combinations that somehow totally work.
The “Kosmic Karma” with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, feta, and pesto is mind-blowing good. Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike find their happy place at this funky establishment.
10. Pie Five Pizza: Fast Food That Doesn’t Taste Fast
Speed and quality rarely go hand-in-hand, but Pie Five breaks that rule with personalized pizzas ready in just five minutes.
The build-your-own concept lets you play pizza architect without judgment—want both ranch and marinara? Go wild!
Despite the quick turnaround, these aren’t your typical rushed pizzas. The thin, crispy crust provides the perfect foundation for whatever masterpiece you create.
Multiple Arkansas locations make this a convenient option when pizza cravings hit and patience is low.