National Pizza Day arrives on February 9, inviting pizza lovers to indulge in their favorite slices, whether it’s a leftover from a Super Bowl party or a freshly ordered pie. Pittsburgh boasts a rich tapestry of pizza establishments that cater to all tastes, making it a prime location to celebrate this culinary delight.
If you’re navigating a “no carbs” New Year’s resolution, there are plenty of other pizza-centric holidays throughout the year to look forward to. Mark your calendars for National Deep Dish Pizza Day on April 5, National Pizza Party Day on May 15, National Cheese Pizza Day on September 5, and National Pepperoni Pizza Day on September 20. Additionally, October is dedicated entirely to National Pizza Month.
In local pizza news, Driftwood Oven, renowned for its sourdough pies and celebrated as one of America’s Top 50 Best New Restaurants by Bon Appétit in 2018, is currently undergoing a transformation at its Lower Lawrenceville location. Even while renovations are underway, patrons can still enjoy their signature pizza and catch a glimpse of the new decor envisioned by Chef Neil Blazin.
Meanwhile, Spirit, a staple in Lawrenceville, just revamped its venue, including an expanded Spirit Pizzeria with a separate entrance from the performance spaces. The restaurant’s offerings include not just pizza, but also pasta, desserts, and salads. Following its recent enhancements, a grand reopening party is slated for spring, giving locals something to anticipate as winter winds down.
This March, the beloved Pizzaiolo Primo will unveil its third location in the former Atria’s space on William Penn Highway in Murrysville, complete with a new wood-fired oven sourced from Italy. The restaurant continues to delight diners with its Neapolitan cuisine across its Market Square and South Fayette locations.
After much anticipation, Mineo’s has finally opened its third location at Pittsburgh International Airport. Additionally, Aiello’s in Squirrel Hill has completed a charming renovation that includes original features from 1978.
In Mt. Lebanon, renowned New York chefs Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo recently opened F&F Pizzeria in a space that has been completely transformed from the former Bado’s Pizza Grille & Ale House. Other new entrants into the pizza scene include La Vera Brooklyn Pizzeria, also in Mt. Lebanon, and Cork & Crust located in the Oaklander Hotel.
For nostalgia lovers, Baden’s Pizza Hut is offering dine-in services for the first time in seven years, embracing the retro aesthetic reminiscent of the pizza chain’s heyday in the ‘80s. Closer to home, local favorites like Sir Pizza and La Grassa Pizza serve up classic pizza squares, while Trio’s in McKeesport specializes in French Bread Pizza.
As for personal favorites in the pizza realm, many locals endorse Alberta’s Pizzeria in Allegheny West, Rockaway in Regent Square, and the iconic Fiori’s Pizzaria. East End Chewing, situated within East End Brewing in Larimer, and Alta Via Pizzeria in Bakery Square are also top picks for pizza aficionados.
For those who enjoy a more mobile pizza experience, several roving pizza vendors, including Side Hustle Pizza, Muns Pizza, Fireside Pizza Co., No Horns Pizza, and ‘77 Club, have garnered loyal followings with their creative offerings.
Pittsburgh’s vibrant pizza scene ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a classic cheese lover or an adventurous pie enthusiast. Embrace National Pizza Day and explore the diverse options that this city has to offer.