Boston, a city renowned for its rich history and vast culture, is also home to a thriving culinary scene. Among its many gastronomic delights, artisan pizzas stand out as a must-try for food enthusiasts.
These handcrafted masterpieces combine traditional techniques with innovative toppings, offering a unique twist on a classic favorite.
In recent years, Boston’s pizza landscape has evolved, with local pizzerias embracing creativity and quality. From wood-fired ovens to locally sourced ingredients, the city’s artisan pizzas reflect a dedication to craftsmanship and flavor.
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, exploring these culinary gems is an adventure for the taste buds.
This article dives into the ten best artisan pizzas in Boston, showcasing the city’s diverse and delicious offerings.
Each selection promises a memorable experience, highlighting the passion and skill of Boston’s talented pizzaiolos. Get ready to begin on a savory journey through the heart of Beantown’s pizza scene.
Top 10 Best Artisan Pizzas in Boston
Boston is home to a vast pizza scene, offering a variety of artisan-style pizzas crafted with high-quality ingredients and innovative flavors.
Here’s a look at the top 10 best artisan pizzas in Boston:
1. Pastoral ARTisan Pizza + Kitchen
Pastoral ARTisan Pizza + Kitchen dazzles with its Neapolitan-style pizzas, masterfully crafted in a wood-fired oven. Located in Fort Point, they prioritize quality with locally sourced ingredients.
Their dough is fermented for 48 hours, enhancing its flavor and texture. Try their signature Margherita, adorned with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil.
They offer seasonal specialties too, featuring ingredients like truffle oil and squash blossoms. The cozy ambiance, accented with rustic decor, complements the dining experience.
Diners rave about the crust—crisp yet airy. Patrons can accompany their meals with a curated selection of wines and craft beers. For an authentic artisan pizza experience in Boston, Pastoral stands out.
2. Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto offers a slice of tradition in Boston’s North End. Known for their Sicilian-style pizza, this cash-only spot draws both locals and tourists.
Their pizza features a thick, airy crust topped with a generous layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella. Baked until golden, each slice delivers a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Emphasizing simplicity, their menu predominantly focuses on pizza, though they sell out quickly by mid-afternoon. It’s a testament to their craftsmanship that patrons often line up before opening.
The no-frills atmosphere adds to its charm, creating an authentic Italian experience. Yelp and Google reviews frequently praise their pizza’s freshness, affordability, and nostalgic flavor, making Galleria Umberto a must-visit for genuine artisan pizza lovers in Boston.
3. Picco
Located in Boston’s South End, Picco is renowned for its inventive and flavorful artisan pizzas. Known for their crispy, yet chewy, crusts, Picco uses a unique blend of charred and golden colors that delight the eyes and taste buds.
Their dough ferments for 72 hours, ensuring complex flavors that stand out. Popular options include the Alsatian, topped with bacon, onions, and gruyere, or the spicy Pepperoni, enhanced by fresh jalapeños.
Picco isn’t just about pizza; they offer homemade ice cream, making it a sweet spot for families and friends.
The cozy interior, coupled with an extensive beer and wine list, enhances the dining experience at this Boston favorite. Patrons frequently praise the fresh, mouthwatering toppings and consistent quality.
4. Santarpio’s Pizza
Santarpio’s Pizza in East Boston is a legendary haunt for pizza lovers seeking authentic flavors. Known for its no-frills ambiance, this family-run eatery has served locals since 1903.
Santarpio’s signature creations feature charcoal-grilled crusts that add a unique smoky flavor. Customers flock to enjoy the savory toppings like homemade sausage, spicy pepperoni, and a blend of fresh mozzarella and Pecorino Romano cheese.
With cash-only transactions and generous portions, this establishment prioritizes tradition and quality. Loyal patrons often pair their pizzas with lamb skewers, a crowd-pleaser from the grill.
Santarpio’s consistently ranks high for its bold taste and continues to be a cherished staple in Boston’s artisan pizza scene.
5. Ernesto’s Pizza
Ernesto’s Pizza, located in the heart of Boston’s North End, serves gigantic slices that keep pizza aficionados coming back.
They use a thin, crisp crust as the foundation, topped with savory tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. Each slice, nearly a quarter of a 19-inch pie, satisfies even the biggest appetites.
Ernesto’s offers creative toppings like pesto chicken, buffalo chicken, and classic pepperoni. Locals praise the Speedy service and lively atmosphere that mirror the vast neighborhood.
The casual setup at Ernesto’s allows customers to enjoy their artisan slices as takeout or dine-in. Their commitment to both quantity and quality makes Ernesto’s a standout in the city’s artisan pizza scene.
6. Regina Pizzeria
Established in 1926, Regina Pizzeria remains a Boston icon, celebrated for its authentic brick-oven artisan pizzas.
Located in the historic North End, it captures the essence of traditional Italian flavors with a focus on quality ingredients.
Their dough undergoes careful preparation, resulting in a crust that’s both chewy and crisp. Favorite toppings like roasted red peppers, fresh basil, and sausage complement the rich tomato sauce and mozzarella base.
Patrons adore the nostalgic ambiance, enhanced by checkered tablecloths and cozy booths. The pizzeria’s lasting appeal reflects its dedication to consistency and flavor, drawing pizza enthusiasts from near and far to indulge in its delectable offerings.
7. Dirty Water Dough Company
Located in Boston’s Back Bay, Dirty Water Dough Company offers a delightful twist on traditional artisan pizza. Known for their hand-tossed dough and vast flavors, they prioritize freshness with house-made sauces and quality cheese.
The unique and playful menu includes the customer-favorite “Dirty Taco Pizza,” featuring spicy beef, pico de gallo, and avocado.
Their “Buffalo Chicken Pizza” combines tangy buffalo sauce with tender chicken and mozzarella.
With an upbeat atmosphere and energetic staff, patrons can enjoy a casual dining experience or a quick slice on-the-go. Conveniently, they cater to dietary preferences, providing options like gluten-free crusts that ensure everyone can savor their artisan creations.
8. Locale
Locale in Boston’s Italian North End offers an upscale twist on classic Neapolitan-style pizzas. They use a specially imported wood-fired oven to bake each pizza to perfection.
Signature creations like the “Locale Special” feature unique toppings such as soppressata, hot honey, and fresh basil.
The crust, perfectly crisp with a slightly chewy center, complements the fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Customers rave about the inviting ambiance, enhanced by rustic decor and attentive service.
The curated wine and cocktail list pairs seamlessly with the pizzas, elevating the dining experience. Locale’s commitment to quality and creativity has cemented its status as a must-try artisan pizza spot in Boston.
9. FLORINA Pizzeria & Paninoteca
Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca in Beacon Hill delivers an authentic Italian pizza experience. They craft pizzas using hand-stretched dough, achieving a soft yet crisp crust cooked in a traditional oven.
Signature pizzas like the “Florina Special” include prosciutto, fig jam, and Gorgonzola, offering layers of flavor that delight customers.
Fresh ingredients such as aromatic basil and juicy San Marzano tomatoes ensure quality in every bite. The cozy setting invites patrons to enjoy their meal in a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for savoring artisan pizzas.
Known for attentive service, Florina provides a memorable dining experience, making it a beloved addition to Boston’s artisan pizza scene.
10. Lily’s Pizza
Lily’s Pizza, located in Boston’s bustling downtown, excites with its inventive menu and cozy atmosphere.
Known for its creative combinations, Lily’s highlights include the “Truffle Delight,” featuring rich truffle oil, wild mushrooms, and sharp parmesan atop a crisp, thin crust.
They also offer a unique “Maple Bacon” pizza, pairing sweet maple syrup with savory bacon and cheddar. Customers appreciate the use of locally sourced cheeses and seasonal ingredients that elevate flavors.
The intimate setting, adorned with vintage decor, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed dining experience. With a friendly staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft beers, Lily’s excels as a beloved artisan pizza destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines artisan pizza?
Artisan pizza refers to pizzas made with high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients, focusing on traditional preparation methods such as using wood-fired ovens. These pizzas emphasize craftsmanship, flavor complexity, and innovative toppings, offering a gourmet twist on classic pizza recipes.
Which pizza place is highlighted for Neapolitan-style pies in Boston?
Pastoral ARTisan Pizza + Kitchen in Fort Point is renowned for its Neapolitan-style pizzas. They use a wood-fired oven and locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on quality and flavor, including a signature Margherita pizza adored for its fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.
What makes Galleria Umberto a unique pizza spot in Boston?
Galleria Umberto in Boston’s North End is famous for its Sicilian-style pizza with a thick, airy crust and rich tomato sauce. Known for its affordable prices and no-frills ambiance, the cash-only spot frequently sells out early, highlighting its popularity and traditional charm.
How does Picco distinguish itself in the pizza scene?
Located in Boston’s South End, Picco is celebrated for inventive artisanal pizzas with a dough fermented for 72 hours for enhanced flavor. Known for toppings like bacon and gruyere on their Alsatian pizza, Picco also offers homemade ice cream and an extensive beer and wine list.
What is notable about Santarpio’s Pizza?
Santarpio’s Pizza in East Boston is a family-run establishment known since 1903 for its charcoal-grilled crusts and savory toppings, including homemade sausage and spicy pepperoni. The traditional, no-frills ambiance and quality make it a staple among Boston pizza lovers.
Where is Regina Pizzeria located and what makes it iconic?
Regina Pizzeria, founded in 1926, is a Boston icon located in the historic North End. Celebrated for its brick-oven pizzas with chewy yet crisp crusts, it focuses on traditional Italian flavors with quality ingredients, offering a nostalgic dining experience.
What is the unique pizza experience offered by Dirty Water Dough Company?
Located in Boston’s Back Bay, Dirty Water Dough Company offers a creative spin on artisan pizza with options like the “Dirty Taco Pizza.” Known for fun toppings and house-made sauces, the restaurant provides a lively atmosphere and caters to dietary preferences with options such as gluten-free crusts.
Can you describe the pizza offering at Locale?
Locale in Boston’s North End combines upscale dining with Neapolitan-style pizzas crafted in a specially imported wood-fired oven. The “Locale Special,” featuring unique toppings like soppressata and hot honey, is a customer favorite, appreciated alongside a curated wine and cocktail list.
Why is Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca a notable spot in Boston?
Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca in Beacon Hill offers an intimate setting with hand-stretched dough pizzas, featuring flavorsome combinations like prosciutto and Gorgonzola. Known for attentive service and authentic flavors, it provides a genuinely delightful artisan pizza experience in a cozy atmosphere.
What sets Lily’s Pizza apart from other Boston pizza spots?
Lily’s Pizza in downtown Boston shines with inventive pizzas like the “Truffle Delight,” using local cheeses and seasonal ingredients for elevated flavors. The cozy, vintage-decorated setting and friendly staff, paired with a selection of wines and beers, make Lily’s a cherished pizza destination.
Conclusion
Boston’s artisan pizza scene is a testament to the city’s culinary innovation and dedication to quality.
From the traditional flavors of Santarpio’s and Regina Pizzeria to the creative combinations at Lily’s and Dirty Water Dough Company, each pizzeria offers a distinct experience that showcases the skill and passion of its pizzaiolos.
Whether you crave the classic simplicity of a Neapolitan Margherita or the bold flavors of truffle oil and wild mushrooms, Boston’s artisan pizzas cater to all palates.
These pizzerias not only emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and authentic techniques, but they also create a unique dining atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.
With each bite, you’ll discover why Boston has become a haven for pizza lovers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these top artisan pizzas will provide an unforgettable journey through the city’s rich and diverse pizza culture.
Timothy Russell Dewart