5 phenomenal places for pizza in Phoenix
These are the must-try spots if you’re looking for the best pizza in Phoenix.
Geri Koeppel
April 12, 2024
Move over, New York City: Phoenix has been considered a top pizza destination nationally for many years now, thanks to a wide variety of styles and a roster of award-winning chefs who aren’t shy about using a cornucopia of ingredients.
Whether you want a whisper-thin Neapolitan pie or a gooey, gargantuan Chicago deep dish, you’re in luck. And all of these pizzerias offer a superb sit-down experience as well as takeout.
The Parlor Pizzeria
Phoenix
The Parlor has racked up an impressive number of “best of” honors from local and national publications since opening in 2009 in a former midcentury beauty salon (note the double entendre of “beauty/pizza parlor” and the old-school bucket hair dryer by the bathroom). This is a destination not just for its sustainable, hip design, but also for its delectable wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, impressive yet affordable Italian-heavy wine list, and inventive cocktails. It’s also vegan-friendly.
Pizzeria Bianco
2 Phoenix locations
James Beard Award winner Chris Bianco put Phoenix pizza on the map way back in the 1990s and got national recognition for the first of many times in 2004 when a New York Times writer deemed his artisanal wood-fired pies with homemade mozzarella and locally sourced toppings the best in the nation. To get the full story, watch the first episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix, which focuses on the humble chef and his craft. Pro tip: Though the original downtown Heritage Square location of Pizzeria Bianco is nestled in a charming historic building with a cozy adjacent wine bar for the inevitable long waits, the one at the parking-rich Town and Country shopping center can be easier to navigate.
Pizzeria Virtù
Scottsdale
Chef Gio Osso has a lot of tricks up his sleeve and ethereal Neapolitan pizza is among them. The puffed perimeter crust tapers down to a paper-thin center and the toppings are delicate and exquisite, from dabs of smoky pancetta to spicy soppressata and sweet chestnut honey. The elegant white-tablecloth ambiance and outstanding Italian wine selection at Pizzeria Virtù are ideal for a classy date night.
Spinato’s Pizzeria
6 locations Valleywide
This family-owned local chain is beloved for many reasons: Its signature sweet tomato sauce made from fresh California fruits is lip-smacking, its crispy crust has a glorious crunch, the service is exceptional and its longevity (it was founded in 1974) is admirable. Also, its cheery, contemporary restaurants are inviting for everything from an intimate happy hour to a big group outing, even with kids in tow. Fun fact: Spinato’s is the official pizza of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury and serves the same high-quality pies at Footprint Arena as at its freestanding locations.
Vero Chicago Pizza
6 locations Valleywide
Chicago transplants will tell you there’s no contest: Vero’s deep-dish pizza is a true taste of home. Fresh, crave-worthy toppings (including possibly the best Italian beef outside of the Windy City), a trio of cheeses, tangy, chunky sauce, and a golden-brown crust lift Vero head and shoulders above all others in town, and their thin crust is no slouch, either. With names like Lake Shore Drive, The Loop, and Wrigley Field, it’s the next best thing to grabbing a flight to Midway.
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Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
Your ultimate guide to FoodieLand Dallas
Embark on a flavorful journey with top vendors and global delicacies from April 19 to 21.
Attention all food enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for an extraordinary culinary adventure as FoodieLand descends upon Dallas. This isn’t just any food festival; it’s an immersive journey through the vibrant tapestry of culinary delights. This guide will provide essential tips, must-try vendors, and insider insights to ensure you make the most of your experience.
When to Go
FoodieLand Dallas is a three-day culinary festival that will take place from April 19 to 21. It offers a wide variety of food and exciting activities for everyone, whether you prefer to go out on Friday or have a weekend to spare. To avoid long lines and get the best out of the festival, you should plan your visit to coincide with your favorite food vendors and arrive early. So, don’t miss the chance to indulge in mouth-watering dishes and activities at the FoodieLand Dallas festival.
What to Wear
Dress comfortably and be prepared for a day filled with walking, eating, and exploring. Opt for casual attire and comfortable shoes to navigate the festival grounds with ease. As Dallas weather can be unpredictable in April, consider layering your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat for outdoor activities, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Plan Your Schedule
With so much to see and taste at FoodieLand Dallas, it’s essential to plan your schedule in advance. Check out the festival map and vendor lineup ahead of time to prioritize your must-try dishes and activities. Consider creating a rough itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the highlights of this Dallas food festival.
Get Your Tickets Now
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this culinary spectacle. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or simply someone who appreciates good food, FoodieLand Dallas promises an unforgettable event that will ignite your senses and ignite your culinary passions. Tickets are available now on the FoodieLand website. They’re $6 for adults, and children under five get in for free. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
The Vendor Lineup
One of the most exciting aspects of FoodieLand is its stellar lineup of vendors, and the Dallas edition is no exception. Let’s take a sneak peek at some of the participating vendors who are poised to steal the show.
Baan Thai
Baan Thai offers a genuine experience of Thai cuisine, taking diners on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand. Be sure to try their signature skewers, which are bursting with flavor and perfectly grilled to perfection.
Dallas Bakehouse
Dallas Bakehouse is a bakery that offers various treats, ranging from sweet biscotti to indulgent macarons. These sweets are crafted using time-honored techniques and premium ingredients, resulting in beautiful and delicious creations. Whether you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up or searching for the perfect dessert to end the day, Dallas Bakehouse has something to satisfy your craving.
Ghostix
Ghostix is more than just a corn dog shop; it is a family-driven business that is passionate about creativity and culinary excellence. Established in 2017, they serve delicious Korean-style corn dogs at night markets, concerts, and private events. Be sure to request extra napkins, as you’ll want to savor every last bite of these savory treats.
Fusion Eats
This vibrant eatery offers a fusion of flavors from around the world, bringing together diverse culinary traditions to create unique and unforgettable dishes. From crispy avocado rolls to crispy fried wings doused in garlic butter, every bite at Fusion Eats is a journey of discovery and delight. Explore their menu of bold and inventive dishes, each showcasing the best ingredients and techniques from various cuisines.
Beyond the Food
FoodieLand is more than just a food festival — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and entertainment. In addition to sampling delicious dishes from top vendors, be sure to check out the various activities and attractions available throughout the festival grounds. From live musical performances to carnival games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring the whole family and make a day of it, exploring all that FoodieLand has to offer.
Capture the Memories
Make sure to capture the memories of your FoodieLand experience! Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to snap photos of your favorite dishes, vendors, and moments throughout the festival. Share your photos on social media using #FoodieLand so that you can connect with fellow foodies and share your culinary adventures.
A Foodie Weekend
Make it a totally food-filled weekend. Explore the city’s vibrant food scene by dining at local restaurants, visiting farmers markets, or taking a culinary tour of the city’s neighborhoods. With so much to see and taste, you’ll want to savor every moment of your Dallas foodie adventure.
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Nearby Cortland Locations
Nearby Cortland Locations
Your ultimate guide to the North Georgia wineries
Get to know the Napa Valley of the south.
Less than two hours from Atlanta sits the city of Dahlonega, a charming little town known for its breathtaking mountain views and a trove of wineries and vineyards – nearly a dozen, to put a figure on it – that rival Napa Valley. Many Atlantans don’t even realize such a place exists, and those who do may feel unsure about which spots are worth exploring. Not to worry – we’re breaking it down for you. Whether you decide to make a day of it or escape the city hustle for an entire weekend, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to Georgia’s very own wine country.
Know Before You Go:
- Most vineyards stop public tastings around 5 or 6 p.m. to accommodate weddings and other events, so start early.
- Don’t expect a full food menu at each winery you hit (though most do offer light bites). You may opt to make a lunch reservation in historic Downtown Dahlonega for mid-day fuel (we love Pueblos Mexican Cuisine or Picnic Cafe & Dessertery).
- Keep an eye on the weather. While it may be warm outside, temps can shift dramatically in the North GA mountains. Layers are recommended.
- Assign a designated driver, or better yet, hire a car service for the day. Pop’s Taxi is extremely reliable and accommodating.
- Many vineyards allow dogs on the property but each one has its own set of rules, so be sure to check the website before bringing your pup along for the day.
Kaya Vineyard & Winery
5400 Town Creek Road, Dahlonega
The largest in North Georgia, Kaya Vineyard and Winery’s 90 acres of land is a perfect spot for the earlier half of your itinerary. While land is plenty, the property tends to fill up faster than you can ask for a second (or third) pour.
What keeps guests coming back despite the crowds? Kaya’s incredible selection of stainless wines. Aged in steel barrels as opposed to oak, this variety boasts increased clarity and a lighter, smoother taste. “It’s much easier to drink,” notes Sammy Jean Taylor, a modestly self-proclaimed mom-fluencer and wine enthusiast, of the vineyard’s Stainless Chardonnay. “When you look at the glass, it’s super clear and almost transparent. It’s a really pretty wine; It almost looks like water.”
The vast property has four stunning Craftsman-style cottages for rent (their site says they plan to eventually host 14), full event capacity, and most importantly, wine tastings and light lunch pairings Tuesday through Sunday until 5 p.m. The best part? No reservations required.
Three Sisters Vineyards
439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega
A self-described “laid-back and fun” property, think of Three Sisters Vineyards as the cool relative of North GA’s wineries. The family-run land is noted for its more intimate vibe, offering walk-in tastings Thursday through Saturday 11-5 and Sundays 1-5.
Head past the lush vineyard into Three Sisters’ cozy interior, with its cherry oak bar immediately inviting you to sit down for a glass of vino and good conversation. To make the scene even more picturesque, they provide live music from local acoustic bluegrass and jazz artists seasonally on their Crush Pad Deck. A perfect spot to visit after lunch in town (they do sell a few snacks, but no real food – and picnics are not allowed), Three Sisters Vineyards makes up for in service what their culinary offerings lack. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about what they do.
Montaluce Winery & Restaurant
501 Hightower Church Road, Dahlonega
Tapping into the escapist fantasy most of us toy with each Atlanta spring and summer, Montaluce offers the closest thing you’ll get to a true Italian countryside experience without leaving Georgia. With architecture heavily inspired by classic Tuscan aesthetics (think Under The Tuscan Sun meets Giada Di Laurentiis’ Everyday Italian), the sprawling vineyard makes for the ideal location to conclude your day of wine tasting. Enjoy dinner at one of their onsite restaurants, and be sure to try the Sparkling Raspberry Demi-Sec – we still dream about it.
Want more than just a few hours there? Stay the weekend at one of the four privately owned villas on the property. Montaluce also offers “Wine Hikes” for $65 a head (private hikes $85) each Friday through Sunday at 10 a.m., guiding visitors through 1.8 miles of surrounding nature trails. Offering a peek of its vineyards and even the Etowah River, all hikes finish with a five-pour wine tasting in their flagship restaurant. For those looking to truly immerse themselves in nature, check out their all-skill-level fly fishing bookings as well.
Other Notable Spots
In addition to the wineries we mentioned, there are many more worth visiting if time allows. We love Frogtown for its gorgeous patio, wine flights, and made-from-scratch pizzas. Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery is a stunning property with a lively tasting room and delicious food. Our group grabbed a few charcuterie boards and pizzas to go (with a few bottles of wine, of course) and found a cute gazebo overlooking the vineyard for a picturesque picnic lunch.
Another great option for making a weekend of it in Gold City (fun fact: Dahlonega was the site of the nation’s first major gold rush) is a stay at the Mountain Laurel Creek Inn & Spa. We adore this charming B&B for its luxurious amenities, delicious homemade breakfasts, and serene grounds with a fire pit, pool, and hot tub.
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