15 Mississippi Pizza Shops Worth The Trip Because Great Pizza Is The Best Comfort Food
When life gets tough, nothing beats a warm slice of pizza to lift your spirits. Mississippi might be famous for its Southern cooking, but the state also serves up some seriously amazing pizza that rivals anywhere in the country.
From crispy crusts to gooey cheese and creative toppings, these pizza shops prove comfort food comes in many delicious forms.
1. Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream
Are you craving authentic New York-style pizza in the heart of the South? Sal & Mookie’s brings that classic Big Apple flavor straight to Jackson with pies that fold perfectly and taste incredible. The crust strikes that ideal balance between crispy and chewy, while the sauce has just the right amount of tang.
I love how this place combines two comfort food favorites under one roof pizza and ice cream. You can start with a massive slice loaded with your favorite toppings, then finish with homemade ice cream for dessert. The atmosphere feels fun and casual, making it perfect for families or groups of friends.
Their menu goes beyond basic pepperoni too, offering creative specialty pizzas that showcase fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
2. Newk’s Eatery
How does a Mississippi-born chain compete with national pizza giants? Newk’s does it by focusing on quality ingredients and pizzas baked in blazing hot ovens that create perfectly charred crusts. Founded right here in the Magnolia State, this local success story has expanded across the South while maintaining its commitment to fresh food.
The pizza menu features unique combinations you won’t find at typical chains, like their BBQ Chicken Pizza or the Five Cheese & Tomato. Each pie comes out of the oven with bubbling cheese and a crust that has those desirable leopard spots. I appreciate how they keep portions generous without sacrificing quality.
Beyond pizza, their menu includes fresh salads and sandwiches, but the wood-fired pizzas remain the star attraction for good reason.
3. Parlor Market
It’s not every day you find gourmet pizza in an upscale dining environment, but Parlor Market delivers exactly that experience. Located in downtown Jackson, this restaurant elevates pizza from casual comfort food to culinary art. The chefs use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, creating seasonal pizzas that change throughout the year.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail in every aspect. The dough ferments for days to develop complex flavors, the toppings are carefully selected, and the presentation looks Instagram-worthy. I’m always impressed by how they balance sophisticated flavors while keeping pizzas approachable and satisfying.
The atmosphere leans more toward date night than family dinner, making it ideal when you want comfort food with a touch of elegance.
4. Mellow Mushroom
Did you know this funky pizza chain has roots dating back to 1974? Mellow Mushroom brings its signature hippie vibe and creative pizza combinations to several Mississippi locations. The atmosphere alone makes it worth visiting, with wild murals, eclectic decorations, and a laid-back energy that instantly puts you in a good mood.
Their crust deserves special mention it’s made from spring water and aged for flavor, resulting in a texture that’s simultaneously light and satisfying. I always struggle to choose between their specialty pizzas because each one sounds better than the last. The Mighty Meaty and Holy Shiitake are personal favorites that showcase their creativity.
Vegetarians will find plenty of options here too, with fresh veggies and innovative plant-based toppings that make meatless pizzas exciting.
5. Pizza Shack
When locals need reliable pizza without any fuss, Pizza Shack delivers every single time. This no-nonsense pizza joint has been serving Mississippi communities for years with consistent quality and fair prices. You won’t find fancy ingredients or trendy toppings here, just solid, satisfying pizza made the way it should be.
I respect how Pizza Shack stays true to what works generous cheese, flavorful sauce, and a crust that holds up to even the heaviest toppings. The staff treats customers like neighbors, creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. Their lunch specials offer incredible value, making it easy to grab a quick slice during busy weekdays.
Sometimes simple really is best, and Pizza Shack proves that point with every pie they serve.
6. Lost Pizza Co.
Though newer to the Mississippi pizza scene, Lost Pizza Co. has quickly earned a devoted following. The name might suggest they’re confused, but these folks know exactly what they’re doing when it comes to crafting exceptional pizzas. Their brick oven produces pies with slightly charred edges and perfectly melted cheese that stretches when you pull a slice.
I’m drawn to their creative approach to toppings, mixing traditional favorites with unexpected combinations that actually work. The restaurant pairs well with their selection of craft beers, making it a great spot for adults looking to unwind. The casual atmosphere encourages lingering over pizza and conversation.
Each visit feels like discovering something new, whether it’s a seasonal special or a creative twist on a classic favorite.
7. Hungry Howies
If you’ve never tried pizza with a flavored crust, you’re missing out on something special. Hungry Howie’s built their entire reputation on this unique twist, offering eight different crust flavors from butter cheese to ranch. It transforms the often-overlooked crust into the most exciting part of the pizza experience.
The concept sounds gimmicky until you actually taste it then you understand why people drive across town for these pizzas. My go-to is the butter cheese crust with their deluxe pizza, creating a flavor combination that hits all the right notes. They also offer great deals that make feeding a crowd affordable without compromising on taste.
The flavored crust innovation shows that even familiar foods can surprise you with a simple creative twist that changes everything.
8. Johnny’s Pizza House
Where can you find pizza that’s been perfecting its recipe since 1967? Johnny’s Pizza House started in Louisiana but has become a Mississippi favorite with locations across the state. The secret lies in their proprietary dough recipe and sauce that’s been tweaked and perfected over decades of operation.
What I appreciate most is their commitment to consistency you know exactly what you’re getting every single time you order. The pizzas come loaded with toppings that reach all the way to the edges, so no bite disappoints. Their sweepsteak pizza remains a regional specialty that combines sweet peppers with steak for a flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere.
Family-owned businesses like this one prove that longevity in the restaurant industry comes from quality and caring about your customers.
9. Aladdin Mediterranean Grill & Pizzeria
It’s fascinating how different cuisines can blend together to create something entirely new and delicious. Aladdin combines Mediterranean flavors with Italian pizza traditions, resulting in unique pies you won’t find anywhere else in Mississippi. Think gyro meat, feta cheese, olives, and fresh vegetables on a perfectly baked crust.
The restaurant offers traditional pizzas too, but I always encourage people to try their Mediterranean specialties for a truly memorable experience. The ingredients taste incredibly fresh, and the spice combinations transport your taste buds straight to the shores of the Mediterranean. Their menu extends beyond pizza to include kebabs, hummus, and other Middle Eastern favorites.
When you’re tired of the same old pizza toppings, Aladdin provides an adventurous alternative that still delivers that comforting pizza satisfaction.
10. LaRosa’s Pizzeria
Hence the name, LaRosa’s takes pride in serving authentic Italian-American pizza that reminds you of old-school pizzerias. The family recipes passed down through generations shine through in every bite, from the tangy sauce to the perfectly seasoned crust. Walking into LaRosa’s feels like stepping back in time to when pizza shops were neighborhood gathering places.
I love how they haven’t tried to modernize or chase trends they stick with what works and do it exceptionally well. The pizzas arrive at your table piping hot with cheese that’s been melted to perfection. Their calzones deserve mention too, stuffed generously and baked until golden brown.
In a world of constant change, places like LaRosa’s remind us why classic pizza became comfort food in the first place.
11. Domino’s Pizza
Are chain restaurants worthy of a best pizza list? When they consistently deliver quality and convenience, absolutely yes. Domino’s has transformed itself over the past decade, improving recipes and embracing technology to make ordering easier than ever. Their pizza tracker lets you watch your order progress from preparation to delivery in real-time.
I’m impressed by how they’ve listened to customer feedback and made genuine improvements to their crust and sauce. The prices remain budget-friendly, making it possible to feed a family without breaking the bank. Their specialty pizzas offer creative combinations, while the build-your-own option lets you customize everything exactly how you want it.
Sometimes you need pizza fast, and Domino’s locations throughout Mississippi ensure you’re never far from a hot pie delivered to your door.
12. Starkville House of Pizza
When college students and locals agree on something, you know it must be good. Starkville House of Pizza has been feeding Mississippi State University students and residents for years with generously sized pizzas at reasonable prices. The late-night hours make it a lifesaver when pizza cravings hit after everything else closes.
What makes this place special is the sense of community it creates. You’ll see families, students studying over pizza, and groups celebrating wins after football games. The menu offers variety beyond just pizza, but those pies keep people coming back semester after semester. I particularly enjoy their Greek pizza, which adds a Mediterranean twist to traditional toppings.
College town pizza joints hold a special place in many people’s hearts, and this one creates memories along with great food.
13. Blaze Pizza
This fast-casual concept revolutionizes how quickly you can get a personalized pizza. Blaze Pizza cooks individual pies in just 180 seconds using ultra-high-temperature ovens, meaning you’re eating fresh pizza minutes after ordering. The assembly-line format lets you watch as staff add each topping you request to your custom creation.
I appreciate the unlimited toppings for one price approach, which encourages experimentation without worrying about extra charges. The thin crust gets crispy and slightly charred, providing the perfect base for whatever combination you dream up. Health-conscious diners will find options like cauliflower crust and vegan cheese that don’t sacrifice flavor.
When you want pizza made your way without the wait, Blaze delivers on both speed and quality in a way that feels modern and exciting.
14. Marco’s Pizza
It’s the attention to small details that separates good pizza from great pizza. Marco’s Pizza focuses on those details, from their proprietary three-cheese blend to their sauce made from fresh vine-ripened tomatoes. The crust receives special treatment too, brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with their signature seasoning for extra flavor.
Their specialty pizzas showcase creative combinations that go beyond typical chain offerings. The White Cheezy pizza and Deluxe Uno are both fantastic choices that highlight quality ingredients. I find their pizza bowls interesting too all the toppings without the crust for carb-conscious pizza lovers.
With multiple Mississippi locations, Marco’s makes it convenient to enjoy premium pizza whether you’re dining in, carrying out, or having it delivered to your home.
15. Papa John’s Pizza
Though Papa John’s operates nationwide, their commitment to better ingredients resonates particularly well in Mississippi. The chain’s focus on never using frozen dough and always including fresh-packed sauce sets them apart from competitors. That little pepperoncini pepper and garlic sauce that comes with every pizza has become iconic for good reason.
I find their original crust strikes a nice middle ground not too thick, not too thin, just right for holding toppings. The online ordering system makes customization simple, and their deals frequently offer excellent value. Their specialty pizzas change seasonally, giving regular customers something new to try throughout the year.
When you’re feeding a crowd and need reliability, Papa John’s delivers consistent quality that satisfies pizza lovers of all ages across Mississippi communities.
