Minnesota might be known for its lakes and cold winters, but locals know it’s also a low-key paradise for pizza lovers. Whether you’re into thin-crust, deep dish, Neapolitan-style, or wild, creative toppings, the North Star State delivers some seriously satisfying slices. After visiting dozens of pizzerias across the state and asking locals (and a few very opinionated Uber drivers), I’ve narrowed it down to 15 must-visit pizza places in Minnesota that stand out for their flavor, consistency, and vibe. These are the kind of spots you’ll want to come back to — again and again.
1. Pizzeria Lola – Minneapolis
Best for: Korean-inspired toppings, wood-fired perfection, and cozy ambiance
If there’s one spot that consistently tops “best of” lists — and actually lives up to the hype — it’s Pizzeria Lola in South Minneapolis. Run by Korean-American chef Ann Kim (a James Beard Award winner), this pizzeria blends global flavors with classic wood-fired technique.
The crust is bubbly and slightly charred, the toppings are imaginative without being gimmicky, and the overall vibe is warm, artsy, and welcoming. Crowd favorites include the Lady ZaZa (with kimchi and Korean sausage) and the My Sha-Roni!
- Address: 5557 Xerxes Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
- Type of pizza: Wood-fired, thin crust with global flavors
- Vibe: Quirky, intimate, perfect for date nights or solo slices
2. Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza – St. Paul & Minneapolis
Best for: Smoky, coal-fired flavor and charred, crave-worthy crust
Coal-fired pizza is rare in Minnesota, which makes Black Sheep something special. With locations in both Minneapolis and St. Paul, Black Sheep offers pies with a signature smoky crispness you can’t get from wood or gas ovens.
They keep things straightforward — no over-the-top toppings or TikTok gimmicks here. The Meatball, Ricotta & Garlic pizza is an absolute knockout, and the Hot Salami & Dried Chili pie has just the right amount of heat.
- Address (Minneapolis): 600 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis, MN
- Type of pizza: Coal-fired, East Coast-style
- Vibe: Industrial-chic, great for groups or casual dates
3. Red Wagon Pizza Company – Minneapolis
Best for: Creative combinations, gluten-free options, and neighborhood charm
Nestled in the Armatage neighborhood, Red Wagon Pizza is a family-run favorite with serious community love. What makes them stand out? A mix of traditional technique and bold creativity.
Try the Red Wagon Original with house-made sausage, or go for something adventurous like the Vietnamese Chicken pizza with sriracha aioli. They also cater to dietary restrictions with gluten-free crusts and vegan cheese options.
- Address: 5416 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
- Type of pizza: Artisan, scratch-made dough, creative toppings
- Vibe: Laid-back, family-friendly, perfect weekend dinner spot
4. Pig Ate My Pizza (revamped as Nouvelle Brewing) – Robbinsdale
Best for: A wild twist on pizza + beer brewed in-house
Originally known as Pig Ate My Pizza, the concept was revamped and reborn as Nouvelle Brewing — but don’t worry, the legendary pizzas stuck around. This place brings together house-brewed beer and a menu that feels like a mad scientist’s pizza lab.
Try the Piggy Pie (with pulled pork, pickles, and mustard) or the Fig & Prosciutto if you’re feeling fancy. The crust is a solid medium-thick with a chewy bite — not too soft, not too crispy.
- Address: 4124 W Broadway Ave, Robbinsdale, MN
- Type of pizza: Inventive, craft beer pairings
- Vibe: Trendy, experimental, great for foodies and beer lovers
5. Davanni’s – Multiple Locations Across Minnesota
Best for: Minnesota-style deep dish and nostalgic flavor
While most of the other places on this list lean gourmet or hip, Davanni’s is a true local legend. Founded in 1975, it’s the kind of place that Minnesotans grew up with — a casual, no-fuss chain that still puts care into every pizza.
Their deep dish is hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor — and the thin crust holds its own, too. For many locals, it’s not just pizza; it’s childhood memories in a box.
- Type of pizza: Minnesota deep dish, traditional crust
- Vibe: Classic, family-friendly, old-school comfort
- Multiple locations: Including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, and more
6. Young Joni – Minneapolis
Best for: Upscale, wood-fired pizza with a speakeasy twist
Chef Ann Kim (of Pizzeria Lola fame) strikes gold again with Young Joni — an elegant, globally inspired restaurant tucked away in Northeast Minneapolis. The pizzas are wood-fired and loaded with carefully curated ingredients, like prosciutto, roasted pineapple, or za’atar.
What makes it extra special? The hidden back-bar speakeasy serving craft cocktails, perfect for a pre- or post-pizza drink.
- Must-try: The Korean BBQ pizza – beef short ribs, scallions, arugula, sesame, and soy chili glaze.
- Address: 165 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN
- Vibe: Stylish, dimly lit, perfect for date nights or foodie adventures
7. Surly Pizza Upstairs – Minneapolis
Best for: Pizza + beer with industrial vibes and outdoor space
Located above Surly Brewing Co., this pizza spot offers bold, beer-friendly flavors and a great hangout atmosphere. The crust is Neapolitan-ish, with charred edges and chewy bites.
It’s especially popular in the warmer months thanks to the beer garden and rooftop patio. It’s a perfect combo of casual and cool.
- Must-try: The Hogfather – house sausage, banana peppers, mozzarella, and chili oil
- Address: 520 Malcolm Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN
- Vibe: Hip, energetic, ideal for groups and beer lovers
8. Pizza Luce – Multiple Locations
Best for: Vegan and gluten-free pizza lovers who want flavor
Pizza Lucé is a Minnesota institution with a cult following — especially among those with dietary restrictions. They offer one of the most extensive vegan and gluten-free pizza menus in the state.
But don’t think for a second that flavor is sacrificed. From BBQ chicken to spinach-artichoke pies, these pizzas are loaded with taste and personality.
- Must-try: The Bear – Italian sausage, banana peppers, garlic, and extra cheese
- Locations: Downtown Minneapolis, Uptown, St. Paul, Duluth, and more
- Vibe: Funky, welcoming, late-night favorite
9. Element Wood Fire Pizza – Northeast Minneapolis
Best for: Crisp, fire-kissed pizzas with local ingredients
Located inside a renovated shipping container, Element Pizza is a hidden gem in Northeast Minneapolis serving up fire-roasted pizzas with a focus on local, sustainable ingredients. It’s small, charming, and totally underrated.
Their dough is slow-fermented and blistered just right, offering a perfect base for minimalist but flavorful toppings.
- Must-try: Mushroom & Truffle Oil pizza
- Address: 96 Broadway St NE, Minneapolis, MN
- Vibe: Artsy, tucked-away, casual cool
10. Mama’s Pizza – St. Paul
Best for: Old-school charm and huge portions
Since 1964, Mama’s Pizza has been serving up hearty, Italian-American style pies in the Como neighborhood of St. Paul. The portions are massive, the sauce is sweet, and the vibe is pure nostalgia.
It’s the kind of place where generations of families have gathered for birthday dinners and pizza nights. Nothing fancy, just fantastic pizza.
- Must-try: Super Deluxe with pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions, and mushrooms
- Address: 961 Rice St, St. Paul, MN
- Vibe: Cozy, traditional, great for families and locals
11. Rosalia Pizza – Linden Hills, Minneapolis
Best for: Stylish Neapolitan-style pizzas and wine lovers
Rosalia is a beautiful wood-fired pizzeria tucked behind Martina in the Linden Hills neighborhood. It feels like a secret garden getaway with patio seating, Mediterranean vibes, and ultra-fresh, high-hydration dough.
Rosalia offers elegant takes on classic pizzas — perfect for those who want something refined but comforting.
- Must-try: Chorizo & Hot Honey — smoky, sweet, and spicy in one perfect bite
- Address: 2811 W 43rd St, Minneapolis, MN
- Vibe: Chic, romantic, great for date nights or a quiet lunch
12. Boludo – Minneapolis & Edina
Best for: Argentine-style pizza with insanely good crust
Boludo is the definition of small but mighty. With locations in South Minneapolis and Edina, this spot blends Argentinian flair with pizza-making mastery. The crust is thick, fluffy, and crispy — almost like a cross between Detroit-style and Neapolitan.
They also serve killer empanadas, but the pizzas are the real stars. Each one is bold, unique, and visually stunning.
- Must-try: Peras — gorgonzola, pears, arugula, and honey
- Vibe: Intimate, stylish, offbeat gem for adventurous eaters
13. Duluth Pizza Co. – Duluth
Best for: Local ingredients, lakeside charm, and vegan options
If you’re heading up north, Duluth Pizza Co. is a must-stop for incredible wood-fired pies. They pride themselves on fresh, regional ingredients and offer a ton of gluten-free and vegan choices — including house-made cashew cheese.
Their cozy, modern interior pairs perfectly with a Lake Superior view (especially in fall or summer).
- Must-try: Veggie Goat – roasted veggies, garlic, and creamy goat cheese
- Address: 1830 W Superior St, Duluth, MN
- Vibe: Laid-back, warm, locally rooted
14. Zorbaz – Various Lake Towns Across Minnesota
Best for: Fun lakeside pizza with a Minnesotan twist
Zorbaz is more than a pizza joint — it’s a beloved Minnesota summer tradition. With locations in popular lake destinations like Gull Lake, Detroit Lakes, and Alexandria, Zorbaz combines bold pizza with a beach-bar party vibe.
Their menu is massive, their toppings are unapologetically loaded, and their signature “Z” spelling is just plain fun.
- Must-try: Luigiz Deluxe — a loaded pie with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and olives
- Vibe: Loud, beachy, family-friendly with frozen margaritas on tap
15. Galactic Pizza – Minneapolis
Best for: Eco-conscious pizza and a funky, superhero theme
Galactic Pizza is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Not only are they known for great pizza (with locally sourced and organic ingredients), but they also deliver in superhero costumes. Yes, seriously.
They’re mission-driven — 100% of their power is wind-sourced, and many menu items are vegetarian- or vegan-friendly.
- Must-try: The Second Harvest Heartland — every purchase helps feed local families
- Address: 3038 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
- Vibe: Whimsical, eco-friendly, uniquely Minneapolis
Final Thoughts: Minnesota’s Pizza Scene is Seriously Underrated
From coal-fired classics to wood-fired creativity and deep-dish throwbacks, Minnesota’s pizza scene punches well above its weight. Whether you’re a Minneapolis local or road-tripping through the North Shore, these five pizza places are worth the stop (and maybe even a detour).
Quick FAQ: Best Pizza in Minnesota (2025)
Q: What city in Minnesota has the best pizza?
A: Minneapolis is home to many top-rated pizza spots, including Pizzeria Lola, Young Joni, and Boludo.
Q: Are there good gluten-free or vegan pizza options in Minnesota?
A: Yes! Pizza Lucé, Galactic Pizza, and Duluth Pizza Co. offer excellent gluten-free and vegan pizzas.
Q: What’s the most famous pizza place in Minnesota?
A: Pizzeria Lola is one of the most iconic, even featured on national food shows like Netflix’s Chef’s Table.
Q: Where can I get unique or gourmet pizzas in MN?
A: Try Rosalia for upscale wood-fired pizza or Boludo for Argentine-style gourmet pies.
Q: Are there good pizza places outside the Twin Cities?
A: Yes — Zorbaz (in lake towns) and Duluth Pizza Co. are great options in greater Minnesota.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
You’ve turned what could have been a generic topic into something memorable. Your passion and dedication really come through.