Western New York (WNY) is a region with deep pizza traditions, blending New York-style pies with a local twist, and offering everything from thick, cheesy delights to wood-fired masterpieces. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll want to check out these must-visit pizzerias, each bringing something unique to the table.
1. La Nova Pizzeria
- Known For: Traditional Buffalo-Style Pizza
- Location: Buffalo, NY
La Nova is a legendary name in Buffalo’s pizza scene, celebrated for its large, gooey Buffalo-style pizzas. Their crispy yet chewy crusts, covered in rich tomato sauce and loaded with toppings, make them a staple in the area.
2. Picasso’s Pizza
- Known For: Thick-Crust Buffalo-Style Pizza
- Location: West Seneca, NY
Picasso’s is the go-to place for lovers of thick, doughy crusts. Their signature Buffalo-style pizza is known for having a perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, chewy interior, with just the right amount of mozzarella cheese.
3. Bocce Club Pizza
- Known For: Classic Buffalo Pizza
- Location: Amherst, NY
Bocce Club has been serving up traditional Buffalo pizzas since the 1940s. Their pizza has a classic, saucy profile, generously topped with pepperoni that curls up and gets crispy in the oven. Perfect for a true Buffalo experience.
4. Jay’s Artisan Pizza
- Known For: Neapolitan-Style Pizza
- Location: Kenmore, NY
For those who enjoy wood-fired pizza with a soft, pillowy crust and just a touch of char, Jay’s Artisan Pizza is a must-visit. They are known for their light and fresh Neapolitan pies, topped with high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.
5. Carbone’s Pizzeria
- Known For: Old-School Buffalo-Style Pizza
- Location: Buffalo, NY
Carbone’s Pizzeria has been a family favorite for decades, offering classic Buffalo-style pizza with a crispy crust, hearty sauce, and loads of toppings. It’s a go-to spot for traditional pizza lovers in WNY
6. Lovejoy Pizza
- Known For: Spicy Pepperoni Pizza
- Location: Buffalo, NY
Located in the heart of Buffalo’s Lovejoy neighborhood, this spot offers a crispy crust with spicy, charred pepperoni. The combination of crispy edges, melted cheese, and perfectly spiced pepperoni makes this a Buffalo favorite.
7. Gino’s NY Pizza
- Known For: New York-Style Pizza
- Location: Buffalo, NY
Gino’s brings the authentic taste of New York City’s pizza to WNY. Expect thin, foldable slices with a crispy bottom and gooey cheese, perfect for a quick bite or a full meal.
8. Imperial Pizza
- Known For: Classic Buffalo Sheet Pizza
- Location: South Buffalo, NY
Imperial is famous for their large, thick-crusted sheet pizzas, perfect for feeding a crowd. Their pizzas are generously topped with cheese and pepperoni, and their sauce has a sweet and tangy taste.
9. Santora’s Pizza Pub & Grill
- Known For: Buffalo Chicken Finger Pizza
- Location: Williamsville, NY
If you’re a fan of Buffalo wings, you’ll love Santora’s Buffalo chicken finger pizza. They combine crispy chicken fingers with hot sauce, mozzarella, and blue cheese for a mouth-watering twist on a classic.
10. Pizza Plant
- Known For: Stuffed Pods
- Location: Williamsville, NY
While Pizza Plant does offer traditional pizzas, they are best known for their “pods”—a unique, stuffed pizza-like creation filled with delicious ingredients. It’s like a calzone but better!
11. Just Pizza & Wing Co.
- Known For: Specialty Pizzas (Vegan Options Available)
- Location: Buffalo, NY
Just Pizza offers a variety of specialty pizzas, including excellent vegan options. Whether you’re into BBQ chicken, buffalo cauliflower, or a vegan cheese pizza, they’ve got something for everyone.
Final Slice
Western New York has no shortage of incredible pizza places, each offering something unique to the region’s rich food culture. From thin-crust New York-style slices to Buffalo’s thick and cheesy specialties, there’s a pizza out there for everyone. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, make sure to add these pizza spots to your must-try list next time you’re in WNY. You won’t be disappointed!