Kansas City isn’t New York or Chicago, but that doesn’t mean it lacks a vibrant pizza scene. Instead of being known for a unique pizza style, we’ve put our heart into perfecting Kansas City barbecue. Still, pizza lovers are in for a treat as the city’s pizza options are expanding thanks to inventive chefs.
Carlton Logan, who helps run the Facebook group Kansas City Eats, highlights the diversity emerging in our pizza offerings. “You see unique flavors inspired by different cultures,” he says. “Some even reflect Kansas City’s own food scene.”
New places like Orange by Devoured and Northeast Pizza are making waves. Northeast Pizza serves a thin, crispy New York-style crust topped with fresh ingredients, while Orange by Devoured offers creative Neapolitan pies. The co-owners of Northeast Pizza, Noah Quillec and Mike DiStefano, have strong culinary backgrounds, with Quillec honing his skills in family restaurants and DiStefano as an executive chef. Their focus is on perfecting every pizza they serve.
So, where can you find the best pizza in Kansas City? Here are some top picks from local food enthusiasts:
Natasha Bailey’s Favorites:
- Bacaro Primo – A must-try in Brookside, serving delicious Italian dishes. The Rosa pizza, featuring vodka sauce and fresh ingredients, stands out.
- Northeast Pizza – Freshly opened, it quickly gained local popularity. The Chicken Philly Pie is a fan favorite.
- Dispatch Pizza – A unique catering service with wood-fired pizzas, known for its La Bella Vita topped with gourmet ingredients.
- Luca Bagel – Famous for its Pizza Bagel, which brings back childhood memories.
- Providence Pizzeria Co – This pizzeria offers various styles, but the East Coast pie is a must-try.
Carlton Logan’s Tips:
- Buffalo State Pizza Company – Known for its New York-style slices, this place offers an impressive choice of crusts.
- Artego Pizza – They feature mac and cheese pizzas and even vegan options.
- Pizza 51 – Located near UMKC, it serves slices big enough to share.
- Old Shawnee Pizza – A delightful surprise awaits with their crab rangoon pizza.
- Third Coast Pizza – For Chicago deep dish, this place offers a taste of the Windy City.
Glenn Robinson’s Picks:
- Orange by Devoured – Celebrated for Neapolitan-style pizzas that are perfect for solo dining.
- Jimmy B’s Pizza – A pop-up serving delicious Detroit-style pizza with a buttery crust.
- Minsky’s – A Kansas City staple with a reputation for tasty pies since 1976.
- Waldo Pizza – Known for its various crust options and unique cheese blends.
- City Barrel Pizza + Patio – This spot experiments with flavors, like the Smash Burger Pie.
Pizza trends show a strong social media presence, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Users are sharing their favorite pie spots and unique flavors, making Kansas City’s pizza culture more exciting than ever.
In conclusion, Kansas City’s pizza scene may not have its own style, but it continues to grow with creativity and diversity, proving that there’s a slice for everyone here.
