10 Nebraska Pizza Spots Worth The Trip For Home-Style Pies
Nebraska’s pizza scene offers far more than chain restaurants and delivery apps.
Across the state, family-owned pizzerias craft pies with recipes passed down through generations, bringing authentic Italian flavors and Midwestern hospitality together on every plate.
Whether craving thin-crust classics topped with Romano cheese or thick Sicilian squares loaded with fresh ingredients, these spots deliver home-style comfort that keeps locals coming back and travelers planning detours.
1. La Casa Pizzaria
Since opening its doors in 1953, this Omaha institution has perfected the art of thin-crust, rectangular pizza that locals crave.
Located at 4432 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68105, the restaurant stands out with its iconic ‘Peppi’ neon sign glowing like a beacon for pizza lovers.
The signature pies feature Romano cheese instead of the more common mozzarella, paired with ground hamburger that creates a distinctly savory flavor profile.
Families gather here for casual dinners where conversation flows easily over shared platters of crispy-edged squares.
The dough bakes to a satisfying crunch while maintaining just enough chewiness to hold generous toppings.
Weeknight visits tend to move quickly, making it easy to grab a table without long waits.
First-timers often order the classic hamburger pizza to understand what generations of Nebraskans have loved for decades.
The Romano cheese adds a sharper, saltier note than typical pizza cheese, complementing the seasoned meat perfectly.
This combination has remained unchanged because regulars wouldn’t have it any other way.
2. Orsi’s Italian Bakery & Pizzeria
Family recipes dating back to 1919 fill the ovens at this beloved Omaha bakery and pizzeria.
The business calls 621 Pacific St, Omaha, NE 68108 home, where the aroma of fresh-baked bread greets visitors before they even step inside.
Sicilian-style pizzas here come thick and hearty, with edges that crisp beautifully while the center stays soft and flavorful.
Beyond pizza, the bakery counter displays Italian bread still warm from the oven alongside deli items prepared using old-world techniques.
Customers often leave with both dinner and tomorrow’s sandwich supplies.
The atmosphere feels welcoming rather than rushed, with staff happy to explain menu options or recommend combinations.
Ordering ahead during busy weekend hours can save time, though watching the bakers work through the front window makes waiting feel worthwhile.
The square slices satisfy big appetites, and the variety of toppings ranges from traditional pepperoni to more adventurous seasonal vegetables.
Regulars know to arrive early on Saturdays when fresh bread sells out quickly.
3. Tasty Pizza
When a pizzeria becomes famous for a specific pie, that recipe must be something special.
Located at 1418 S 60th St, Omaha, NE 68106, this neighborhood favorite has built a loyal following around its Bacon Gouda pizza.
The combination sounds simple – crispy bacon and creamy Gouda cheese – but the execution creates layers of smoky, rich flavor that convert first-time visitors into regulars.
Staff greet customers warmly, remembering faces and favorite orders after just a few visits.
Portions lean generous, with slices large enough that two or three can satisfy most appetites.
The crust strikes a pleasant middle ground between thin and thick, providing structure without feeling heavy.
Beyond the signature Bacon Gouda, the menu offers classic combinations and seasonal specials that change based on available ingredients.
Weekday evenings tend to be quieter than weekends, offering a more relaxed dining pace.
Delivery covers a reasonable radius for those preferring to enjoy these pies at home, though eating in allows appreciation of the friendly atmosphere that keeps locals returning.
4. Pitch Pizzeria West Omaha
Coal-fired ovens create a distinct flavor profile that sets certain pizzerias apart from the rest. Pitch Pizzeria at 17808 Burke St, Omaha, NE 68118 is on of them.
This establishment pairs expertly crafted pies with an impressive selection of craft beers, creating a destination for food enthusiasts.
The high heat from coal-fired cooking produces a crust with complex char patterns and a smoky undertone that complements creative topping combinations.
The atmosphere blends modern design with comfortable seating, appealing to both casual diners and those seeking a more refined pizza experience.
Appetizers like wood-fired wings and fresh salads round out the menu, though the pizzas remain the clear highlight.
Service moves efficiently even during busy periods, with knowledgeable staff ready to suggest beer pairings.
Seasonal pizza specials rotate regularly, incorporating local ingredients when possible and showcasing the chef’s creativity.
The margherita pizza serves as an excellent baseline for judging the quality of the fundamentals – sauce, cheese, and crust all shine without distraction.
Groups appreciate the variety, allowing everyone to sample different flavor profiles across shared pies.
5. Noli’s Pizzeria – Blackstone
Lincoln residents have embraced this pizzeria for its consistent quality and family-friendly environment.
The welcoming space at 4001 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68131, accommodates groups comfortably, from couples grabbing a quick dinner to large families celebrating special occasions.
Traditional recipes guide the menu, focusing on well-executed classics rather than trendy experiments.
The sauce balances acidity and sweetness, allowing the quality of the tomatoes to shine through without excessive seasoning.
Cheese coverage reaches the edges, creating those desirable crispy corners that disappear first from every pizza.
Crust thickness falls into the medium range, sturdy enough to hold toppings while remaining easy to fold for eating.
Lunch buffets offer excellent value, featuring rotating pizza varieties alongside salad and breadsticks.
Dinner service transitions to table ordering, with pizzas arriving hot and fresh from the oven.
The staff maintains a friendly demeanor even during rushes, and the kitchen handles special requests accommodatingly.
Parking is generally accessible, and the location makes it convenient for both locals and visitors exploring Lincoln.
6. Valentino’s
Nebraska natives grow up with memories of this regional chain that started in Lincoln back in 1957.
While multiple locations dot the state – including 3535 Holdrege St #100, Lincoln, NE 68503, – each maintains the recipes that made the original successful.
The buffet format allows sampling different styles and toppings without committing to a full pizza, making it popular with families and indecisive diners.
Beyond pizza, the buffet includes pasta dishes, salad bar selections, and dessert pizzas that appeal to younger customers.
The pizza itself features a distinctive crust recipe that locals recognize immediately – slightly sweet with a tender crumb.
Toppings stay fresh throughout service, with staff regularly rotating new pizzas to the buffet line.
The atmosphere leans casual and unpretentious, perfect for weeknight dinners when cooking at home feels like too much effort.
Pricing remains reasonable, especially for families where multiple people can eat their fill.
While not artisanal or trendy, Valentino’s delivers exactly what Nebraskans expect: reliable, satisfying pizza that tastes like home.
The longevity speaks to consistent execution across decades.
7. Mellow Mushroom
Psychedelic artwork and creative pizza combinations define this chain location that brings Southern pizza traditions to Nebraska.
The unique atmosphere at 601 R St Ste 110, Lincoln, NE 68508 features vibrant murals, quirky décor, and a laid-back vibe that sets it apart from typical pizza joints.
Stone-baked crusts provide the foundation for inventive topping combinations that go beyond standard pepperoni and sausage.
The menu spans traditional options for purists alongside adventurous pies like Thai chicken or pesto artichoke.
Gluten-free and vegan options accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
The bar area offers craft beers and cocktails, making it suitable for adult gatherings as well as family meals.
Service maintains a friendly, unhurried pace that matches the relaxed atmosphere.
Appetizers like pretzel bites and spinach artichoke dip provide excellent starters for sharing.
The calzones rival the pizzas in popularity, stuffed generously and baked until golden.
Weekend evenings attract crowds, so calling ahead or arriving during off-peak hours reduces wait times.
The experience feels more like a destination than a quick meal stop.
8. Mama’s Pizza
Square-shaped pies with homemade dough have kept this spot popular since the 1970s.
The restaurant operates at 715 Saddle Creek Rd, Omaha, NE 68132, where neighborhood regulars and newcomers alike find comfort in consistent quality.
Each pizza starts with dough made fresh daily, rolled thick enough to support layers of toppings without becoming soggy.
The casual atmosphere encourages lingering over extra slices, with booths that accommodate groups of various sizes.
Lunch specials offer good value, while dinner service maintains the same approachable pricing.
The menu extends beyond pizza to include pasta dishes and sandwiches, though most tables feature at least one pizza box.
Carryout orders stay ready within the promised timeframe, making it convenient for busy weeknight meals at home.
The cheese stretches satisfyingly with each bite, and the sauce carries a balanced blend of herbs without overwhelming the other flavors.
Kids appreciate the straightforward cheese pizza, while adults explore combination options that showcase multiple toppings working in harmony.
9. Zio’s Pizzeria
Neighborhood pizzerias thrive when they master the basics and treat customers like family. Zio’s Pizzeria at 1109 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102 ows its success to that very behavior.
This spot accomplishes both, creating an environment where regulars feel genuinely welcomed.
The pizza follows classic Italian-American traditions, with hand-tossed dough that develops proper gluten structure for that satisfying chew.
Sauce recipes remain closely guarded, passed through family members who understand the importance of consistency.
Cheese ratios hit the sweet spot where each bite delivers flavor without greasiness.
The menu includes Italian dinners beyond pizza – lasagna, chicken parmesan, and pasta dishes that showcase the same attention to quality.
Carryout business thrives here, with locals calling in orders they know by heart after years of patronage.
The dining room stays cozy rather than expansive, encouraging conversation and connection.
Prices reflect the quality ingredients without venturing into expensive territory.
Special occasion pizzas can be ordered with advance notice, accommodating larger gatherings or parties.
The longevity in the community speaks to doing things right consistently, meal after meal, year after year.
10. DANTE
Authentic Neapolitan pizza requires specific ingredients, precise temperatures, and careful timing – all elements this pizzeria takes seriously.
Situated at 16901 Wright Plaza #173, Omaha, NE 68130, the restaurant imports Italian flour, tomatoes, and cheese to recreate the flavors of Naples.
Wood-fired ovens reach temperatures that create the signature leopard-spotted crust with a tender, slightly charred exterior.
The dining room balances upscale touches with comfortable seating, making it suitable for date nights or family celebrations.
Pies arrive quickly from the blazing ovens, bubbling and fragrant, meant to be enjoyed immediately while the crust maintains its ideal texture.
The menu leans traditional, focusing on classic Margherita and Marinara pizzas alongside a few creative seasonal options.
Reservations help during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends when tables fill steadily.
The price point sits higher than casual pizza joints, reflecting the quality ingredients and specialized cooking method.
Wine pairings complement the food well, though the pizza truly stars as the main attraction worth the splurge.
