11 Missouri Pizza Joints That Prove Simple Is Best

Missouri might not be the first state that comes to mind for pizza, but locals know better. From St. Louis to Kansas City and smaller towns in between, Missouri’s pizza scene is filled with hidden gems. These pizza spots focus on quality ingredients and time-tested recipes rather than fancy gimmicks.

1. Imo’s Pizza — St. Louis (Multiple locations)

A true St. Louis classic since 1964, Imo’s Pizza is known for its ultra-thin, cracker-like crust topped with the uniquely regional Provel cheese, a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. The party-cut squares make it perfect for sharing, and its no-nonsense approach keeps locals coming back time and again.

2. Faraci’s Pizza — St. Louis (Manchester/Ellisville)

Family-owned since the 1960s, Faraci’s makes their dough fresh with a three-day fermentation process and grinds their own meats in-house. Their St. Louis party-cut pizzas with Provel cheese offer a rich, authentic flavor that feels like a warm family tradition with every bite.

3. Louie (DeMun) — Clayton, St. Louis

Louie’s focuses on simplicity and quality with wood-fired pizzas that feature a light and bubbly crust. Their small menu includes just five carefully curated options, such as margherita and broccolini with ricotta, making it easy to find a favorite in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere.

4. Pizza Head — South Grand, St. Louis

Known for its strong vegetarian focus, Pizza Head serves New York–style thin-crust pies that are flavorful and fresh. The small, limited menu allows them to concentrate on quality, and the community vibe makes this spot a favorite among locals looking for something different.

5. That’s’a Nice’a Pizza — St. Louis (Arnold)

A humble counter-service joint famous for its consistent and straightforward St. Louis-style pizzas. The thin crust is topped edge-to-edge with savory sauce and, if you want, that signature Provel cheese, creating a satisfying and affordable local classic.

6. Shakespeare’s Pizza — Columbia

Operating since 1973, Shakespeare’s is a beloved college-town pizza institution. They serve classic, no-frills pies with a crust that strikes a perfect balance between chewy and crispy, all in a fun, casual setting that embodies the spirit of Columbia’s university scene.

7. G&D Pizzaria — Columbia

Run by two Greek brothers since 1977, G&D Pizzaria specializes in thin-crust pizzas that mix traditional and creative toppings. Favorites like the Feta Pie and the meat-loaded “Country Music” pie showcase the unique flavor combinations that keep customers coming back.

8. Pizza Tree — Columbia

Pizza Tree offers New York–style thin-crust pizzas by the slice or whole, known for creative toppings like pepperoni with pickled onion or truffled crimini mushrooms. Their focus on inventive yet simple combinations makes each pie an exciting but approachable experience.

9. Long-Bell Pizza Co. — Lee’s Summit

This neighborhood favorite features Kansas City–style pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. Their warm and inviting atmosphere complements the straightforward menu, delivering comforting flavors that feel like home with every slice.

10. Alex’s Pizza Palace — Rolla

Serving Rolla and nearby University of Missouri students for over 50 years, Alex’s Pizza Palace keeps things simple with a classic dough and sauce recipe that generations have loved. Its dependable quality and unpretentious style make it a true local gem.

11. Reeds Spring Pizza Co. — Reeds Spring

Located near Branson, this small-town pizzeria offers both inventive pies and classic choices like pepperoni. Its modest exterior belies the delicious, well-crafted pizzas inside, which have earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.