12 Massachusetts Pizza Spots Locals Drive Miles For

Massachusetts has some of the best pizza in the country, and locals know exactly where to find it. From crispy thin crusts to thick, cheesy slices, these pizzerias have earned devoted fans who travel far just for a taste.

I’m sharing twelve incredible spots that are absolutely worth the drive.

1. Santarpio’s Pizza in East Boston

You’ll smell the garlic and char before you even walk through the door. Family-owned since 1903, this legendary spot serves up thin-crust pies with a smoky flavor that comes from their ancient brick oven.

Order the lamb skewers alongside your pizza for the full experience. Locals swear by the sausage and pepper combination that’s been perfected over generations.

2. Pino’s Pizza in Cleveland Circle

Boston College students and alumni make pilgrimages here for those massive Sicilian slices. Thick, fluffy dough supports mountains of cheese and toppings that somehow never get soggy.

I recommend arriving hungry because one slice is practically a meal. The late-night crowds prove this place has staying power beyond just nostalgia.

3. Emma’s Pizza in Cambridge

Fresh mozzarella gets delivered daily, and you can taste the difference in every bite. This Kendall Square gem uses locally-sourced ingredients to create pizzas that feel both elevated and comforting.

Try the mashed potato and bacon pizza if you’re feeling adventurous. Their commitment to quality ingredients has earned them a loyal following among Cambridge residents.

4. Lynwood Cafe in Randolph

Crispy edges and a slightly charred bottom make this bar pizza unforgettable. Locals have been gathering at this unassuming spot since 1945 for cold beers and hot pies straight from the oven.

The thin crust gets wonderfully crunchy while the cheese stays gooey. Don’t expect fancy toppings here, just perfectly executed classic pizza done right.

5. Flatbread Company in Amesbury

Organic ingredients and a wood-fired oven create pizzas with incredible flavor depth. Watching the flames lick your pizza while it cooks adds to the whole experience at this environmentally-conscious spot.

Their commitment to local farms means seasonal toppings change throughout the year. Families appreciate the welcoming vibe and the knowledge that they’re eating genuinely wholesome food.

6. Colony Grill in Attleboro

Hot oil drizzled on top adds a spicy kick that transforms ordinary pizza into something memorable. Originally from Connecticut, this tavern-style spot has won over Massachusetts locals with its ultra-thin, crispy crust.

Order yours with extra cheese and pepperoni for the classic experience. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for grabbing a quick bite with friends.

7. Otto Pizza in Brookline

Butternut squash and cranberries on pizza might sound weird, but trust me, it works brilliantly. This trendy spot pushes boundaries with unexpected flavor combinations that somehow always make sense.

Each slice is huge and loaded with creative toppings. Young professionals and students flock here for pizza that feels both adventurous and satisfying.

8. Angelina’s Pizzeria in Medford

Neighborhood charm and authentic recipes make this family-run pizzeria feel like home. The dough rises slowly, creating that perfect chewy texture that mass-produced pizza can never replicate.

Regulars know to call ahead on weekends because the wait can get long. Their consistency over decades has built a customer base that spans multiple generations of Medford families.

9. Basta Pasta in Peabody

North Shore residents swear by this family-run spot that’s been serving up authentic Italian cuisine since 1988. The pizza here features a perfectly crisp crust that’s neither too thin nor too thick, topped with tangy sauce made from a secret family recipe.

What sets Basta Pasta apart is their commitment to fresh ingredients and generous portions that never disappoint. The cheese blend melts beautifully, creating those satisfying cheese pulls everyone loves in photos.

Regulars often order the specialty combinations, but even a simple cheese pizza showcases the quality that keeps people coming back. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes families feel right at home during every visit.

10. Pleasant Cafe in Roslindale

Tucked away in a cozy Roslindale neighborhood, this unassuming tavern has been a local secret for decades. Pleasant Cafe specializes in bar pizza, a distinctly Massachusetts style featuring a thin, crispy crust baked in well-seasoned pans that create irresistibly crunchy edges.

The small, round pies arrive at your table bubbling hot, with cheese that extends right to the caramelized borders. Their sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, complementing rather than overpowering the toppings.

Despite the no-frills setting, pizza lovers drive from across Boston and beyond for these legendary pies. The friendly bartenders and neighborhood vibe add character that chain restaurants simply can’t replicate.

11. Monte’s Restaurant in Lynn

Since opening its doors in 1954, Monte’s has become a North Shore institution where generations gather for hearty Italian-American fare. Their pizza showcases a thicker, fluffier crust that’s soft in the center while maintaining a golden-brown bottom with just the right amount of char.

The kitchen hand-stretches every dough ball daily, ensuring consistency that loyal customers have come to expect over seven decades. Toppings are piled high without making the pizza soggy, a testament to proper baking technique.

The retro dining room feels like stepping back in time, complete with red vinyl booths and family photos lining the walls. Many patrons consider Monte’s worth the trek for both the food and the nostalgic dining experience.

12. Armando’s in Humarock

Perched near the scenic South Shore coastline, Armando’s combines beach-town charm with seriously impressive pizza craftsmanship. Their wood-fired oven produces pies with leopard-spotted crusts and a subtle smokiness that elevates every bite beyond ordinary pizza.

Fresh seafood toppings reflect the coastal location, though traditional options remain equally popular among the devoted following. The airy, blistered crust achieves that perfect balance of chewy and crispy that pizza enthusiasts dream about.

Summer crowds pack this place, but locals know it’s worth visiting year-round for consistently excellent food. The relaxed beachside vibe and friendly service create an experience that feels like a mini vacation with every visit.