Located in the heart of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and boasts a vibrant, lively atmosphere.
As a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, I’ve had my fair share of slices from all around town. And let me tell you, some of the best pizza joints are in Chapel Hill.
Whether you’re looking for a classic pepperoni pie or something a bit more adventurous, this college town has got you covered.
Known for its bustling downtown area, Chapel Hill is a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment. From indie bookstores to music venues, there’s always something going on in this lively town. And with its historic architecture and lush greenery, Chapel Hill is as beautiful as it is exciting.
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But let’s not forget about the food. Chapel Hill is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. And when it comes to pizza, Chapel Hill definitely delivers.
Chapel Hill has a pizza place for everyone, from cozy, family-owned spots to trendy, modern eateries. And with so many options, narrowing down the best of the best can be tough. But fear not because I’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the top pizza restaurants in Chapel Hill.
So, whether you’re a UNC student in need of a study break, a local looking for a tasty dinner spot, or just passing through town, get ready to satisfy your pizza cravings at these delicious establishments. Let’s dive in!
Visiting Chapel Hill? Check out our other guides:
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- 8 Must-Try Brunch Restaurants in Chapel Hill
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- The 8 Best Downtown Chapel Hill Restaurants
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Table of Contents
My Top 3 Picks for the Best Pizza Restaurants in Chapel Hill
| Restaurant | Top Pick | Our Rating |
| Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante | Buffalo chicken pizza | 5/5 |
| Italian Pizzeria III | Reginella Bianca | 4.5/5 |
| Pop’s Pizzeria | Italian hero | 4.5/5 |
The Best Pizza in Chapel Hill
Italian Pizzeria III
508 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States // +19199684671
Pizzas from this Franklin Street staple could cover Chapel Hill on a daily basis. One of the busiest restaurants in the Triangle, IP3 is a favorite among UNC students and Chapel Hill residents on game days.
Let me start by saying – this place did not disappoint. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was transported straight to Italy.
The cozy atmosphere, dim lighting, and aroma of fresh pizza dough all set the stage for a truly authentic dining experience.
There was a wide range of options on the menu that impressed me. The classic margarita, meat lovers, and veggie pies all made an appearance, but there were also some more unique offerings, like the Lasagna pizza with mozzarella, ricotta, salami, basil, and Parmigiano.
Ultimately, I decided on the Reginella Bianca pizza with Pomodoro a Filetto, prosciutto, basil, and Parmigiano. And let me tell you – it was out of this world.
The crust was perfectly crispy on the outside but still chewy and soft on the inside. And the toppings were distributed evenly, so every bite had the perfect balance of flavors.
But the real star of the show was the sauce. Italian Pizzeria III uses a homemade tomato sauce that is tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. It was the perfect complement to the creamy ricotta cheese and savory garlic.
Every aspect of the meal was meticulously planned, and I couldn’t help but notice it as I enjoyed each bite. From the perfectly shaped pizzas to the fresh, high-quality ingredients, it was clear that Italian Pizzeria III takes its craft seriously. See for yourself at this Chapel Hill pizza restaurant.
But beyond the food, what really stood out to me was the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The staff was all friendly and attentive, and the cozy ambiance made it the perfect spot for a date night or casual dinner with friends.
Overall, I can confidently say that Italian Pizzeria III is one of the best pizza places I’ve ever visited.
The combination of authentic Italian flavors, high-quality ingredients, and a cozy atmosphere make it a must-visit for any pizza lover in Chapel Hill. So go ahead – treat yourself to a slice (or three) at Italian Pizzeria III. You won’t regret it!
Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante
2805 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States // +19199325125
As a pizza lover, I’m always on the lookout for new spots to try. So when I heard about Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante in Chapel Hill, I knew I had to check it out.
Walking in, I was immediately struck by the cozy, laid-back atmosphere. The walls were adorned with vintage posters and photos, and the smell of freshly baked pizza wafted through the air.
The Buffalo chicken pizza was incredible! The chicken on the pizza was precisely seasoned and tasted fresh, not premade.
We also tried the garlic knots, which were delicious. The prices are slightly higher than in other places, but you get what you pay for. Excellent quantities packed with flavor!
They’ve made the most of the well-decorated area, but it’s unlikely to hold a large audience. The staff’s kindness and the high quality of the meal made this excursion a pleasant surprise.
And the restaurant itself is delightful, modest, ornately designed, and a fantastic spot to escape from the rest of the world for a time.
With every bite, I could not help but appreciate the attention to detail placed into the pizza. The crust was perfectly baked, the toppings were evenly distributed, and the cheese was melted just the right amount.
Beyond the meal, what truly impressed me was the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The staff was all extremely friendly and attentive, making me feel totally at home.
Overall, I can confidently say that Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante is one of the best pizza places in Chapel Hill.
The combination of high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit for any pizza lover.
So if you’re in the area, do yourself a favor and stop by Sal’s – you won’t be disappointed.
Alfredo’s Pizza Villa
201 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States // +19199683424
I visited Alfredo’s Pizza Villa and had a wonderful time! The ordering was easy, the menu was plentiful, and the service was amazing!
When I walked into Alfredo’s, I was instantly struck by the warm, inviting environment. The dining room was filled with laughter and chatter, and the aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air. I knew I was in for a treat.
They make the best pizza, and they have a variety of pizzas. Salad and pizza can be found for very little money, and they’re always fresh.
I chose a traditional pepperoni pizza after browsing the large menu. As the pie arrived at my table, I couldn’t help but be impressed by its appearance: the crust was golden and crispy, and the cheese and pepperoni were well-dispersed.
But the real magic happened when I took my first bite. The crust was thin and crispy, with just enough chewiness. The tomato sauce was tangy and well-seasoned, and the pepperoni was perfectly spicy.
What really set this pizza apart, though, was the cheese. Alfredo’s uses a blend of mozzarella and provolone, giving the pizza a rich, complex, creamy, and savory flavor.
Overall, I can confidently say that Alfredo’s Pizza Villa is one of the best pizza places in Chapel Hill.
I highly recommend this place for all of your pizza and sub needs. They really know what they’re doing, so go check them out as soon as possible!
Pop’s Pizzeria
1822 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States // +19199321040
If you’re looking for a no-frills pizza joint with delicious, authentic pies, look no further than Pop’s Pizzeria in Chapel Hill.
The owners were the most real pleasant people I’d met in a long time.
We ordered a medium lasagna pizza, cheesy bread, ravioli, some garlic knots, and Cheerwine from the owner. The second I took a bite of the pizza, I knew it was going to be an amazing meal.
Not only is their pizza the finest I’ve ever had, but their heroes should be referred to as Super Heroes.
We tried the Italian hero, which was fantastic! I tried the calzone, and it was delicious! There was the perfect mixture of meat, cheese, and bread in the calzone.
I almost felt as if I were eating a stuffed cloud that was perfectly cooked and was not thick or stale.
As I enjoyed each piece, I couldn’t help but admire the flavors’ simplicity and purity. Pop’s creates a really authentic Neapolitan-style pizza using high-quality, fresh ingredients and great craftsmanship.
But beyond the food, what really stood out to me was the atmosphere. The space was cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and rustic decor.
And the entire staff was really nice and inviting, making me feel like a member of Pop’s family.
Overall, I can confidently say that Pop’s Pizzeria is one of the best pizza places in Chapel Hill. The combination of high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit for any pizza lover.
Magone Italian Grill & Pizza
1129 Weaver Dairy Rd. Suite F, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States // +19199047393
One of Chapel Hill’s best Italian restaurants. A true Italian restaurant where everything is made from scratch.
There will be no canned Marinara sauce or bland flavors like in other “Italian” restaurants. This location truly is a hidden gem!
Magone Restaurant is located in the newly renovated Timberlyne Shopping Center on Weaver Dairy Road, near a Food Lion grocery store, a hardware shop, drug stores, a post office, and multiple branch banks, which makes it convenient for errands.
The menu offered a variety of typical Italian foods, but I couldn’t pass up their pizza. After much deliberation, I chose the traditional Pizza Margherita with fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, and house-made tomato sauce.
I was initially struck by the pizza’s gorgeous look when it came to the table. The thin, crunchy crust had just the proper amount of char from the wood-fired oven.
Our waitress was attentive and pleasantly accepting our praises for the food’s excellence.
This is hardly the place to propose or have a business dinner, but for superb, reasonably priced Italian food in Chapel Hill, you can’t beat it. Absolutely worth a visit.
Brenz Pizza Co. Chapel Hill
3120 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, United States // +19196364636
Brenz serves food at a very reasonable price for the size and quality you receive; lots of options. When I walked into the restaurant, I was surprised by the trendy design and buzzing environment.
My friend ordered pepperoni pizza; it was completely coated in little, crunchy little pepperonis, rather than the scattered oily chunks found in many places.
We also got the cheese breadsticks, which were incredibly cheesy, and the marinara, which was rich, tangy, and delicious!
I couldn’t decide between several of the unique pizza combinations, so I did 1/2 and 1/2, beef with bacon, blue cheese, balsamic and fresh basil, and chicken artichoke with red peppers and spinach. Both were so tasty that every bite was an utter delight.
But above and beyond the meal, I thought the service was what truly stood out. I felt like a valued customer because everyone on the staff was so welcoming and helpful.
Overall, I believe Brenz Pizza Co. is one of the greatest pizzerias in Chapel Hill.
It stands out in a crowded sector thanks to its high-quality ingredients, professional craftsmanship, and great service.
Do yourself a favor and check out Brenz if you enjoy pizza as I do; you won’t be disappointed.
Might As Well Bar & Grill
206 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516, United States // +19842343333
With a passion for pizza and casual dining, I was excited to try Might As Well Bar & Grill in Chapel Hill.
I couldn’t wait to dig into their menu, which included a variety of pub-style dishes, including pizza. It’s a bar designed with a college campus in mind. Excellent for seeing the big game.
It’s a fun spot for a quick bite or drink. There are numerous televisions and both indoor and outdoor seats. The service is exceptional, and they have an awesome draft selection.
I decided to try their Meat Lovers pizza. When it arrived at the table, I was immediately struck by the generous amount of toppings.
The pepperoni, bacon, and ham were piled high, and the mozzarella cheese was oozing over the edges of the crust.
But what really impressed me was the crust itself. It was thick and doughy, with just the right amount of chewiness. And despite its thickness, it managed to stay crispy on the bottom, which is no easy feat.
The relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant was one of the things that made me appreciate each bite I took. The staff was all incredibly friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home.
Overall, I believe Might As Well Bar & Grill is one of the best places to have a pizza in Chapel Hill.
You won’t be let down if you visit Might As Well if you’re seeking a delicious, casual dining experience.
411 West Italian Cafe
411 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27515, United States // +19199672782
One of Chapel Hill’s (not so) hidden beauties is 411 West. It is conveniently located on Franklin Street and has a parking lot next to it.
It’s a popular pizza spot in Chapel Hill, and with good reason. It offers outstanding value for the level of quality you receive because of the large portions. This restaurant is a perfect example of what a restaurant should be!
If you order their Bianco Pizza, you can expect a mouthwatering combination of wild mushrooms, shaved garlic, spinach, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant herbs.
The pizza is cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, producing a crust that is crisp and chewy in the ideal amounts.
One of the standout features of their pizza is the quality of the ingredients. The cheeses are of the highest quality, and the herbs and other toppings are all fresh and flavorful. You can taste the difference in every bite.
But what really sets the food in 411 West apart is the attention to detail. Each pizza is crafted with care and expertise, resulting in a beautifully balanced flavor profile that is both rich and nuanced.
And the ambiance of 411 West Italian Cafe in Chapel Hill only adds to the experience. The restaurant’s elegant, sophisticated atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for a meal that is both comforting and refined.
Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or that special someone, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Overall, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional pizza in Chapel Hill, you can’t go wrong with 411 West Italian Cafe.
The combination of high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and excellent service make it a standout in a crowded field.
So why not treat yourself to a night out and indulge in the deliciousness of their amazing pizzas? You won’t regret it!
FAQs
What types of pizza are available in Chapel Hill?
Chapel Hill offers a variety of pizza types, including classic New York-style pizza, Neapolitan-style pizza, Detroit-style pizza, and even vegan and gluten-free options.
What types of crust are available for pizza in Chapel Hill?
The most common types of crust for pizza in Chapel Hill are thin crust and hand-tossed crust. Some pizza places also offer thick or deep-dish crusts.
Can I customize my pizza order in Chapel Hill?
Yes, most pizza places in Chapel Hill allow you to customize your pizza order with your choice of toppings, sauces, and crusts.
How much does a pizza typically cost in Chapel Hill?
The cost of a pizza in Chapel Hill can vary depending on the size, toppings, and crust type. However, a basic cheese pizza typically costs between $10 and $15, while more elaborate pizzas can cost up to $20 or more.
Are there any deals or discounts available for pizza in Chapel Hill?
Yes, many pizza places in Chapel Hill offer deals and discounts, such as daily specials, loyalty programs, and coupons. You can check the websites or social media pages of your favorite pizza places to see what offers are available.
Conclusion
As I conclude my journey through the eight best pizza restaurants in Chapel Hill, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experience.
Not only did I get to indulge in some of the most delicious pizzas in the area, but I also got to discover the unique personalities and flavors that each restaurant has to offer.
Chapel Hill’s pizza scene truly has something for everyone, from classic pies to more unconventional toppings.
And with so many delicious options to choose from, it’s hard to go wrong no matter where you end up.
Personally, I have a soft spot for the cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering pies at Italian Pizzeria III, as well as the creative, locally sourced ingredients at Sal’s Pizza. But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the places on this list.So, next time you’re craving some pizza in Chapel Hill, be sure to check out one of these fantastic spots. And who knows – maybe you’ll discover a new favorite slice. Happy eating!
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Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever