Virginia’s food scene has grown rapidly in recent years, and pizza lovers have plenty of reasons to celebrate. From authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pies to huge New York–style slices, the state offers a surprising variety of pizza experiences. Whether you’re visiting Northern Virginia, Richmond, or Charlottesville, you’ll find local pizzerias that focus on fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and creative toppings. Locals often say the best pizza in Virginia comes from independent shops rather than big chains. Many family-owned restaurants use hand-made dough, slow-fermented crusts, and imported Italian ingredients, which is why these places have developed loyal followings. Below are 15 of the best pizza places in Virginia that consistently receive praise from locals and visitors alike.
1. Pupatella – Arlington, Virginia
If you’re searching for authentic Neapolitan pizza in Virginia, Pupatella is one of the first names locals recommend. The restaurant started as a small food cart in 2007 and has since expanded to multiple locations across Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
What makes Pupatella special is its dedication to traditional Italian pizza techniques. Their pizzas are cooked in high-temperature wood-fired ovens, producing a thin, slightly charred crust with airy edges. The ingredients are simple but high quality—San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and olive oil.
Popular menu items
Margherita Pizza
Diavola (spicy salami)
Prosciutto & Arugula Pizza
- The atmosphere is casual yet lively, making it a favorite spot for both families and pizza enthusiasts.
- Visit the official website: https://www.pupatella.com
2. A Modo Mio Pizzeria Napoletana & Bar – Arlington, Virginia
For a truly authentic Italian pizza experience, A Modo Mio is one of the most respected pizzerias in Virginia. In fact, it ranked among the Top 50 pizzerias in the United States according to the international “50 Top Pizza” guide.
The restaurant is run by a family with deep Italian roots. Their pizzas follow Vera Pizza Napoletana (VPN) standards, meaning they are cooked in extremely hot ovens—around 800–900°F—and finished in about 90 seconds.
Why visitors love it
Authentic Neapolitan pizza technique
Imported Italian ingredients
Elegant but relaxed dining atmosphere
- Recommended choices include the Margherita DOP, Bufalina, and their classic Diavola pizza.
- Official website: https://amodomiopizza.com
3. Benny Vitali’s – Fredericksburg, Virginia
If you enjoy huge New York–style pizza slices, Benny Vitali’s is an experience you shouldn’t miss. This popular pizzeria is famous for its massive 28-inch pizzas, where a single slice can be almost as big as a small personal pizza.
The crust is thin and crispy, with a slightly chewy texture that New York pizza fans love. The restaurant keeps things simple: great dough, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings.
Giant slices perfect for sharing
Late-night dining popular with college students
Classic NYC-style pizza flavor
- The casual environment makes it ideal for quick meals, takeout, or a relaxed night with friends.
- Official website: https://www.bennysva.com
4. Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria – Charlottesville, Virginia
Lampo is a small but legendary pizza spot in Charlottesville. Despite its modest size, it regularly appears on lists of Virginia’s best restaurants thanks to its wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and creative toppings.
Their dough ferments slowly, creating a crust that’s airy inside and lightly charred outside. Every pizza comes out of the oven in just minutes, giving it that authentic Italian texture and flavor.
Must-try pizzas
Diavola with spicy salami
Marinara with garlic and oregano
Margherita with fresh mozzarella
- Because the restaurant is small and very popular, wait times can be long during peak hours—but most visitors say it’s absolutely worth it.
5. Tony’s New York Pizza – Northern Virginia
Tony’s New York Pizza has been a staple in Northern Virginia since 1989, serving authentic East-Coast style pizza that locals have loved for decades.
The pizzeria focuses on traditional techniques: hand-tossed dough, classic tomato sauce, and generous mozzarella. The result is a perfectly balanced slice with a crispy base and chewy interior.
What customers recommend
Classic cheese slice
White pizza with ricotta and mozzarella
Pepperoni pizza
- With several locations across Northern Virginia, Tony’s is a reliable choice for families, casual dinners, and quick takeout.
6. Bottoms Up Pizza – Richmond, Virginia
Located in the historic Shockoe Bottom district of Richmond, Bottoms Up Pizza has been a local favorite for decades. This restaurant is known for its thick, handmade crust and generous toppings, making it very different from traditional thin-crust pizza.
The restaurant opened in 1990 and quickly became one of Richmond’s most iconic pizza spots. Many locals love the hearty style—perfect for those who enjoy a filling, flavor-packed slice.
Popular pizzas to try
Chesapeake Pizza (crab meat and Old Bay seasoning)
Mediterranean Pizza
Classic Pepperoni
- The casual brick-building atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular stop for both locals and tourists.
- Visit the official website: https://bottomsuppizza.com
7. Fire Works Pizza – Leesburg, Virginia
Fire Works Pizza is widely known for its wood-fired artisan pizzas and seasonal ingredients. Located in the historic town of Leesburg, the restaurant has built a strong reputation among food lovers in Northern Virginia.
Their pizzas are cooked in a traditional brick oven, giving the crust a light smoky flavor and crispy edges. The menu also changes seasonally to highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Customer favorites
Smoked Salmon Pizza
Prosciutto & Fig Pizza
Classic Margherita
- Beyond pizza, Fire Works Pizza also offers craft beer and creative appetizers, making it a great place for a relaxed dinner.
8. Pizzeria Orso – Falls Church, Virginia
Pizzeria Orso is one of the most respected Neapolitan pizza restaurants in Northern Virginia. Located in Falls Church, it focuses on simple ingredients and authentic Italian techniques.
The dough ferments for long periods, creating a light and flavorful crust. Pizzas are cooked in a blazing hot wood-fired oven, resulting in the signature charred edges typical of true Neapolitan pizza.
Recommended pizzas
Margherita DOC
Funghi (mushroom pizza)
Pepperoni with fresh mozzarella
- The modern yet cozy interior and attentive service make it ideal for date nights or casual dinners.
9. Ledo Pizza – Virginia Locations
Ledo Pizza is famous for its square-shaped pizzas and sweet tomato sauce. Although the brand started in Maryland, it has become extremely popular across Virginia with many locations statewide.
Unlike traditional round pizzas, Ledo Pizza serves rectangular pies with a flaky crust and thick strips of smoky bacon or pepperoni.
What makes Ledo unique
Square pizza slices
Sweet signature tomato sauce
Thin crust with crispy edges
- Because of its consistent quality and family-friendly atmosphere, Ledo Pizza is a dependable choice for casual meals.
- Official website: ttps://www.ledopizza.com
10. Sal’s Pizza – Virginia Beach, Virginia
Located in the coastal city of Virginia Beach, Sal’s Pizza is a favorite among locals looking for classic New York–style pizza near the beach.
Sal’s focuses on traditional pizza-making: hand-tossed dough, homemade sauce, and high-quality mozzarella cheese. The slices are large, foldable, and packed with flavor—just like you’d expect from a New York pizzeria.
Top menu picks
New York Cheese Pizza
Meat Lover’s Pizza
White Garlic Pizza
- Because it’s located close to the oceanfront, it’s a great place to grab a slice after a day at the beach.
11. Anna’s Brick Oven Pizza – Williamsburg, Virginia
Located in the historic city of Williamsburg, Anna’s Brick Oven Pizza is a hidden gem known for its authentic brick-oven pizzas and fresh ingredients. The restaurant has built a strong reputation among locals who appreciate traditional pizza made from scratch.
Their pizzas are baked in a brick oven, giving the crust a slightly smoky flavor and crispy edges. The dough is prepared daily, and the toppings are always generous.
Popular menu choices
Classic Margherita
White Pizza with ricotta and garlic
Italian sausage and pepper pizza
- The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great stop for visitors exploring Williamsburg.
- Official website: https://annasbrickoven.com
12. Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie – North Garden, Virginia
Just outside Charlottesville, you’ll find one of Virginia’s most unique pizza restaurants: Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie.
This quirky and beloved pizzeria focuses on creative gourmet pizzas with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The restaurant has a loyal following thanks to its unusual topping combinations and relaxed countryside setting.
Why people love it
Creative specialty pizzas
Friendly local atmosphere
Unique menu combinations
Thai Chicken Pizza
Mediterranean Veggie Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Official website: https://drhos.com
13. Benny Domato’s – Roanoke, Virginia
In the mountain city of Roanoke, Benny Domato’s is famous for its massive New York–style slices. Like other restaurants in the Benny’s pizza family, this spot serves huge 28-inch pizzas.
One slice is often big enough for an entire meal. The crust is thin and slightly crispy, with classic tomato sauce and plenty of cheese.
Oversized pizza slices
Great late-night dining option
Casual, lively environment
- This place is especially popular with college students and travelers looking for a quick but satisfying meal.
- Official website: https://www.bennysva.com
14. Cogan’s Pizza – Norfolk, Virginia
For a classic coastal pizza experience, many locals recommend Cogan’s Pizza in Norfolk.
This well-known pizzeria has been serving the Norfolk community for years and is loved for its New York–style pizza, generous toppings, and laid-back pub atmosphere.
Customer favorites
Pepperoni pizza
Buffalo chicken pizza
Garlic white pizza
- The relaxed sports-bar vibe also makes it a great place to watch games with friends while enjoying a slice.
- Official website: https://coganspizza.com
15. 900° Neapolitan Pizzeria – Virginia Beach, Virginia
Located near the coast in Virginia Beach, 900° Neapolitan Pizzeria specializes in authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.
The name “900°” refers to the high temperature of the oven used to cook the pizzas. At this heat, pizzas bake in about 90 seconds, producing a soft, airy crust with slightly charred edges.
Top pizzas to try
Margherita DOP
Prosciutto & arugula pizza
Spicy salami pizza
- The restaurant combines traditional Italian pizza techniques with a modern beach-town atmosphere.
- Official website: https://900degreespizza.com
Virginia’s pizza scene is more impressive than many people expect. From authentic Neapolitan pies at Pupatella to the giant New York–style slices at Benny Marzano’s, the state offers something for every kind of pizza lover. Whether you prefer wood-fired artisan pizzas, thick crust specialties, or classic Italian recipes, these pizzerias show how diverse and delicious Virginia’s food culture has become.
If you’re traveling through cities like Richmond, Arlington, or Virginia Beach, trying one of these local pizza spots is definitely worth it. Many of them focus on fresh ingredients, handmade dough, and traditional cooking methods—making them stand out from typical chain restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most popular pizza style in Virginia?
New York–style and Neapolitan pizzas are the most popular styles in Virginia, especially in cities like Arlington and Charlottesville.
2. Where can I find authentic Neapolitan pizza in Virginia?
You can try authentic Neapolitan pizza at places like Pupatella and 900° Neapolitan Pizzeria.
3. Which Virginia pizzeria serves the biggest pizza slices?
Benny Marzano’s is famous for serving massive New York–style pizza slices that are larger than a typical plate.
4. Are there family-friendly pizza restaurants in Virginia?
Yes, many places such as Bottoms Up Pizza and Ledo Pizza are known for their casual, family-friendly dining atmosphere.
5. What city in Virginia has the best pizza options?
Cities like Richmond, Arlington, and Virginia Beach have some of the best pizza restaurants in the state.
