If there’s one thing Tennessee does surprisingly well, it’s pizza. From Nashville’s trendy wood-fired ovens to Memphis’ neighborhood-style slices and Knoxville’s creative sourdough pies, the state has developed a pizza culture that’s both diverse and seriously underrated. I’ve put together this guide based on popular local favorites, consistent reviews, and spots that both tourists and locals keep coming back to. Whether you’re traveling across Tennessee or just exploring your own city, these are some pizza places worth trying at least once.
1. Five Points Pizza – Nashville
If you ask locals where to get a reliable slice in Nashville, Five Points Pizza almost always comes up.
This place is known for its New York–style thin crust pizza that you can easily fold in half (the real way to eat it, according to many regulars). The crust is crispy on the outside but still soft enough inside, and the cheese balance is always consistent.
It’s also a popular late-night stop, especially in East Nashville, which makes it perfect for travelers exploring the nightlife.
Why people love it:
- Authentic New York-style slices
- Fast service, casual vibe
- Great for late-night cravings
- Consistent quality across visits
2. A Dopo Sourdough Pizza – Knoxville
Located in downtown Knoxville, A Dopo Sourdough Pizza has built a strong reputation for its wood-fired sourdough crust and simple, high-quality ingredients.
What makes this place special is the dough. It’s fermented for a long time, giving it a slightly tangy flavor and airy texture that pizza lovers appreciate.
The restaurant itself is small and cozy, which adds to its charm. It feels more like a hidden gem than a tourist attraction—even though it’s becoming quite popular.
Why it stands out:
- Naturally fermented sourdough crust
- Wood-fired cooking style
- Minimal but high-quality toppings
- Cozy downtown atmosphere
3. Hog & Hominy – Memphis
Memphis is famous for BBQ, but Hog & Hominy proves that pizza deserves attention here too.
This restaurant blends Southern flavors with Italian techniques. Their pizzas often include unique toppings like smoked meats, creative sauces, and seasonal ingredients.
It’s not your traditional pizza place—it feels more like a modern Southern restaurant that happens to make excellent pizza.
Why it’s worth visiting:
- Creative, Southern-inspired pizza styles
- High-end dining experience
- Great cocktails and atmosphere
- Perfect for date nights or groups
4. Hard Knox Pizza – Knoxville
If you prefer bold flavors and hearty toppings, Hard Knox Pizza is a solid choice.
This spot is known for its stone-baked pizzas with generous toppings. You’ll find everything from classic pepperoni to more adventurous combinations like buffalo chicken and smoked meats.
It’s a favorite among students, families, and anyone who wants a filling, no-nonsense pizza experience.
Why locals recommend it:
- Thick, flavorful crust options
- Large portion sizes
- Affordable pricing
- Multiple locations in Knoxville
5. Memphis Pizza Café – Memphis
A true local favorite, Memphis Pizza Café has been around for decades and remains one of the most trusted pizza spots in the city.
Their pizza is known for its thin, crispy crust and generous cheese layer, making it simple but very satisfying. It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly why people keep coming back.
This is the kind of place where locals grow up eating—and still visit as adults.
Why it’s popular:
- Long-standing local reputation
- Classic American-style pizza
- Family-friendly environment
- Multiple locations in Memphis
6. DeSano Pizza Bakery – Nashville
DeSano Pizza Bakery is one of the closest experiences you can get to authentic Neapolitan pizza in Tennessee. Everything here is centered around traditional Italian techniques—especially the dough, which is slow-fermented and baked in a blazing hot wood-fired oven.
The result is a soft, slightly charred crust with fresh, simple toppings like mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes.
Why people love it:
- True Neapolitan-style pizza
- Imported Italian ingredients
- Open kitchen with visible wood-fired ovens
- Fast, casual ordering style
7. Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria – Nashville (and other cities)
If you want something modern, creative, and a little different, Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria is a must-try.
This fast-casual pizza chain started in Tennessee and has become very popular for its custom artisan pizzas with unique sauces and toppings. Their cinnamon rolls are also surprisingly famous among regulars.
Why it stands out:
- Build-your-own artisan pizzas
- Creative flavor combinations
- Hip, urban atmosphere
- Strong local Tennessee brand identity
8. Aldo’s Pizza Pies – Memphis
Located in the heart of Memphis, Aldo’s Pizza Pies is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for big flavors and a lively downtown vibe.
Their pizzas are known for being large, cheesy, and loaded with toppings, making them perfect for sharing with friends.
Why it’s popular:
- Big portions and bold flavors
- Great downtown Memphis location
- Casual, energetic atmosphere
- Late-night dining option
9. Broadway Pizza – Memphis
Broadway Pizza has been a Memphis staple for years. It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly why people keep coming back—it’s consistent, affordable, and satisfying.
Their thin-crust pizzas are especially popular, and the restaurant has a classic neighborhood pizzeria feel that many locals grew up with.
Why locals recommend it:
- Long-standing Memphis favorite
- Thin, crispy crust style
- Family-friendly environment
- Reliable comfort food option
10. Mellow Mushroom – Multiple Cities in Tennessee
Mellow Mushroom is a well-known pizza chain, but its Tennessee locations are especially popular thanks to their creative menu and fun, psychedelic-themed interiors.
Their pizzas are stone-baked and highly customizable, with plenty of vegetarian and specialty options.
Why it’s worth visiting:
- Wide variety of specialty pizzas
- Funky, artistic restaurant design
- Great for groups and families
- Multiple locations across Tennessee
11. Lupi’s Pizza Pies – Chattanooga & Knoxville
Lupi’s Pizza Pies is one of the most well-loved pizza names in East Tennessee. Known for its hand-tossed dough and fresh toppings, this place keeps things simple but consistently delicious.
What makes Lupi’s special is its focus on freshness—everything from the dough to the sauces is prepared with care, and you can really taste the difference.
Why it’s popular:
- Fresh, handmade dough daily
- Strong local reputation in East Tennessee
- Custom pizza options
- Casual, family-friendly vibe
12. City House – Nashville
following for its wood-fired pizzas with Southern influence.
Their “pies” often include unique ingredients like house-made sausage, seasonal vegetables, and rich cheeses. It’s more of a fine dining experience compared to casual pizza spots.
Why people love it:
- Upscale wood-fired pizza experience
- Creative Italian-Southern fusion menu
- Perfect for date nights
- Award-winning chef reputation
13. Southside Pizza – Chattanooga
Southside Pizza is a local favorite located in Chattanooga’s lively Southside district. It’s known for its hand-tossed crust, fresh ingredients, and relaxed neighborhood feel.
This place is especially popular with locals who want a dependable, no-fuss pizza spot with good quality and fair prices.
Why it stands out:
- Fresh ingredients and balanced flavors
- Chill, local neighborhood atmosphere
- Great for casual dining
- Consistent quality
14. Pie Five Pizza – Multiple Locations in Tennessee
Pie Five Pizza is a fast-casual chain where you can fully customize your pizza and have it ready in just a few minutes.
It’s perfect for people who want speed without sacrificing choice. You can pick everything from crust style to sauces and toppings, making it a flexible option for families and students.
Why it’s convenient:
- Fully customizable pizzas
- Very fast service (usually under 5 minutes)
- Affordable pricing
- Multiple locations across Tennessee
15. Jet’s Pizza – Multiple Locations in Tennessee
Jet’s Pizza is famous for its Detroit-style deep-dish pizza, which is different from most traditional pizza styles found in Tennessee.
The crust is thick, crispy on the edges, and soft inside, with cheese that caramelizes beautifully along the sides of the pan.
Why people love it:
- Signature Detroit-style square pizza
- Crispy, cheesy crust edges
- Great for delivery and takeout
- Consistent nationwide quality
Final Thoughts
Tennessee’s pizza scene is more diverse than most people expect. From authentic Neapolitan-style ovens in Nashville to bold Memphis classics and creative sourdough spots in Knoxville, each city brings its own flavor and personality to the table. Whether you prefer a thin, foldable slice or a thick, cheesy deep-dish, there’s something here for every kind of pizza lover. If you’re traveling through the state, trying at least a couple of these places can easily become one of the highlights of your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What city in Tennessee has the best pizza?
Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis all have strong pizza scenes, each offering different styles and flavors.
2. What type of pizza is popular in Tennessee?
You’ll find New York–style, Neapolitan wood-fired pizza, and Detroit-style deep-dish across the state.
3. Are there local pizza chains in Tennessee?
Yes, places like Five Points Pizza, Lupi’s Pizza Pies, and Slim & Husky’s started locally and are very popular.
4. Is pizza in Tennessee expensive?
Most pizza restaurants are reasonably priced, with both budget-friendly and upscale options available.
5. Can tourists easily find good pizza in Tennessee?
Absolutely. Major cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga all have highly rated pizza spots within easy reach.
