Denver, known for its vibrant culinary scene, is a haven for pizza enthusiasts seeking an authentic slice. From wood fired to New York style, the choices are vast, and they are usually accompanied with a craft beer in a cool, corner pub vibe. While national chains have their place, it’s the locally owned pizza joints that truly capture the essence of Denver. Here are 10 pizza places in Denver worth trying.
10 Local Pizza Places to Try in Denver
Bar Dough
Bar Dough is an Italian kitchen that has an elevated take on traditional cuisine in a cozy neighborhood setting. Acclaimed chef Russell Stippich’s menu of inventive small plates, traditionally prepared meats and fish, handmade pasta & wood fired pizza has drawn rave reviews locally and nationally. The pizza is a smaller part of their menu, but most definitely worth ordering. This is a great date night spot!
Blue Pan Pizza
Nestled in the West Highlands and Congress neighborhoods, as well as a new location in Golden, Blue Pan Pizza has made a name for itself with its Detroit-style pizza. The caramelized crust, achieved by using a unique blend of brick, white cheddar, and whole milk mozzarella cheeses has helped owner, Jeff “Smoke” Smokevitch win multiple international awards for its quality product. “The Brooklyn Bridge” pizza is always a crowd favorite, and the key to their blue ribbon success at competitions. New York style or thin crust is also available for those wanting to switch it up, and they are equally as delicious.
Cart-Driver
Pizza and oysters are not typically found on the same menu, but at Cart-Driver (RiNo District and LoHi), the farm-to-table approach is modeled after purveyors in Southern Italy who specialized in providing the freshest vegetables, seafood and cured meats to small villages throughout the Italian countryside. Their wood fired approach, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients with simple ingredients is what sets them apart. That along with their great service and relaxed patio, make it a popular stop.
Famous Original J’s
If New York style is your jam, then Famous Original J’s is where you should head. Walk up to the window and order from a choice of four different pizzas, and enjoy their outdoor only seating. Enjoy a custom creation, or grab one of their giant slices. It’s open for lunch dinner, and late night cravings.
Hops & Pie
The sourdough crust of Hops and Pie is what makes the establishment worth visiting. Well, it’s craft beer selection is pretty great too. Oh, and don’t forget its rotating sandwich of the week special. Okay, the $7 Detroit-style cheese pizza special on Thursdays doesn’t hurt either.
Joy Hill
Joy Hill boasts their pizza is topped with hand-pulled, house made mozzarella, with an option to add fresh burrata for an up charge. Need I say more? The product is a high-quality pie, accompanied by a full service bar, and a great rooftop to enjoy on a nice day. Don’t forget to ask for a side of green chille ranch to dunk those slices.
Pizzeria Leopold
It’s got an Italian deli, a come as you are atmosphere and scratch made food worth visiting over and over again. Pizzeria Leopold serves options to satisfy everyone’s tastes, with their clever and cheeky names. Always opt to take a fresh focaccia loaf home to enjoy the next day.
Pizzerie Lui
Pizzerie Lui in Lakewood finds patrons visiting from places near and far to try their simple yet flavorful menu items. The homemade sausage should win awards, as well as their use of seasonal ingredients, incorporated during the peak of their deliciousness. Read: Palisade peaches!
The Walnut Room
It’s been open since 2005, but The Walnut Room recently rebranded to become a destination for pizza, drinks….and golf?! Combining live music, fantastic food and a huge golf simulator, makes this a local favorite in RiNo. Their outdoor spot is great, as is their dog patio, so bring the entire family for a reprieve from cooking for a night.
White Pie
White Pie feels elevated, both in the atmosphere and the food served. Specializing in the obvious white pie, it is a thinner crust, and offers toppings different from the typical red sauce with pepperoni topping. It’s also one of the few pizza-centered places that serves brunch. The blondie with a side of burrata salad is *chef’s kiss* good.
Denver’s locally owned pizza places offer a diverse range of styles and flavors, each contributing to the city’s rich culinary tapestry. These pizza joints showcase the passion and dedication of Denver’s local entrepreneurs.
What’s your favorite local spot we should add to the list?
