North Carolina’s Pizza Revolution: Savoring the Best Slices in the Tar Heel State

Positive Things in North Carolina

North Carolina, a state known for its barbecue, coastal charm, and southern hospitality, has quietly cultivated an impressive pizza scene that deserves the spotlight. From the mountains to the shore, North Carolina’s pizzerias blend traditional Italian techniques with regional flavors, creating a diverse and dynamic pizza culture. Whether you’re craving thin-crust masterpieces, hearty deep-dish pies, or unique toppings inspired by the South, North Carolina offers something to delight every pizza lover.

In this article, we’ll explore the history, standout pizzerias, festivals, and famous stories that define the Tar Heel State’s growing reputation as a haven for pizza enthusiasts. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through North Carolina’s best slices.

A Brief History of Pizza in North Carolina

Pizza made its way to North Carolina with the post-World War II rise of Italian-American cuisine across the United States. As urban centers like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville grew, they became home to pizzerias serving traditional New York-style pies. Over time, local chefs and entrepreneurs began experimenting with regional ingredients and flavors, incorporating Southern staples like pulled pork, pimento cheese, and smoked chicken into their offerings.

Today, North Carolina boasts a thriving pizza culture that reflects its rich culinary diversity. From family-owned shops with decades of history to trendy spots pushing the boundaries of pizza innovation, the state’s love for pizza is evident in every bite.

North Carolina Wines & Wineries

Top Pizzerias in North Carolina

1. Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria (Wilmington)

Founded by celebrity chef Vivian Howard, Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria blends Italian tradition with Southern charm. Their wood-fired pies, like the “Big Time” with spicy sausage and charred onions, pair beautifully with a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.

Website: Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria

2. Trophy Brewing & Pizza (Raleigh)

Trophy Brewing is a hotspot for craft beer and artisan pizza lovers alike. Known for its creative toppings and scratch-made dough, their “Most Outgoing” pizza, topped with roasted garlic, kale, and potatoes, is a standout. Don’t miss their house-brewed beers for the perfect pairing.

Website: Trophy Brewing

3. Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company (Asheville)

Part pizzeria, part brewery, and part movie theater, Asheville Pizza & Brewing is a beloved local institution. Their “Mighty Meaty” pizza is packed with a delicious combination of pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. The family-friendly atmosphere and creative vibe make it a must-visit.

Website: Asheville Pizza & Brewing

4. Oakwood Pizza Box (Raleigh)

This family-run pizzeria in Raleigh specializes in New York-style pizza with a focus on quality and simplicity. Their classic cheese and pepperoni pies are a nostalgic nod to NYC, while their friendly service keeps locals coming back.

Website: Oakwood Pizza Box

5. Slice of Life (Wilmington)

A Dreamy Celebration: A Guide to Weddings in North Carolina

A staple in Wilmington for decades, Slice of Life is known for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently excellent pizzas. Their “Veggie Lovers” pizza, loaded with fresh produce and mozzarella, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Website: Slice of Life

6. Cugino Forno (Multiple Locations)

Cugino Forno brings authentic Neapolitan-style pizza to North Carolina with locations in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and beyond. Their “Margherita DOC” pie, certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, is a must-try for purists.

Website: Cugino Forno

Pizza Festivals in North Carolina

NC Pizza Fest (Charlotte)

NC Pizza Fest is a celebration of all things pizza, featuring local pizzerias, food trucks, and live music. Attendees can sample a variety of pies, vote for their favorites, and enjoy family-friendly activities.

Learn more: NC Pizza Fest

Asheville Food & Wine Festival

While this festival highlights a range of local cuisine, pizza plays a starring role thanks to Asheville’s creative pizzerias. Guests can enjoy pizza pairings with craft beer and wine while exploring the city’s vibrant food scene.

Learn more: Asheville Food & Wine Festival

Taste of Charlotte

North Carolina Beers & Wineries-Boardwalk on the waters

This popular event showcases Charlotte’s culinary diversity, including its thriving pizza scene. Visitors can sample pies from top local spots and discover new favorites while enjoying live entertainment.

Learn more: Taste of Charlotte

Famous Pizza Stories in North Carolina

1. Vivian Howard’s Pizza Legacy

Chef Vivian Howard, a James Beard Award winner, made waves when she opened Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria in Wilmington. Her commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and blending Italian and Southern flavors has set a new standard for pizza in the state.

2. The Trophy Brewing Expansion

Trophy Brewing started as a small pizza and beer joint in Raleigh but has since grown into a local institution with multiple locations. Their focus on innovation, from beer-infused dough to creative topping combinations, has solidified their reputation as one of North Carolina’s best.

3. Asheville’s Pizza Renaissance

Asheville, often called “Beer City USA,” has also become a hub for pizza innovation. Pizzerias like Asheville Pizza & Brewing and All Souls Pizza have embraced the city’s creative, artisanal spirit, turning it into a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts.

4. Cugino Forno’s Authenticity

Foods Of North Carolina-Waterfall

Cugino Forno’s founders studied pizza-making in Naples, Italy, before bringing their craft to North Carolina. Their commitment to authenticity and traditional techniques has earned them international recognition and a loyal following.

Signature North Carolina Pizza Flavors

North Carolina’s pizza scene reflects its Southern roots and innovative culinary trends. Here are some standout flavors and styles:

Carolina BBQ Pizza: Featuring pulled pork, tangy barbecue sauce, and red onions, this pizza combines two of the state’s favorite foods.
Pimento Cheese Pizza: A Southern twist on a classic, this pie uses creamy pimento cheese as a base or topping.
Farm-to-Table Pizzas: Many pizzerias use locally sourced ingredients, from seasonal vegetables to farm-fresh meats, creating flavors that reflect North Carolina’s agricultural abundance.
Neapolitan-Style Pies: Artisanal pizzerias like Cugino Forno embrace traditional Italian techniques, offering wood-fired pizzas with fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.

The Future of Pizza in North Carolina

North Carolina’s pizza culture continues to grow and evolve. As demand for sustainable and locally sourced food increases, more pizzerias are embracing farm-to-table practices. Gluten-free and vegan options are also on the rise, making pizza accessible to a wider audience.

Additionally, food trucks and pop-up pizza events are bringing high-quality pies to festivals and neighborhoods across the state, ensuring that great pizza is never far away.

Plan Your North Carolina Pizza Adventure

North Carolina Pizza with people eating pizza

A pizza tour of North Carolina is a journey through the state’s vibrant cities and charming towns. Start in Wilmington with Benny’s Big Time and Slice of Life, then head to Raleigh for Oakwood Pizza Box and Trophy Brewing. Continue west to Asheville for a creative slice at Asheville Pizza & Brewing, and don’t miss a stop at Cugino Forno to experience authentic Neapolitan pizza. Along the way, you’ll discover the warmth and creativity that make North Carolina’s pizza scene truly special.

Conclusion: A Slice of Southern Charm

North Carolina’s pizza scene is as diverse and welcoming as the state itself. From the traditional to the experimental, every pie tells a story of local pride, culinary creativity, and community spirit. Whether you’re savoring a slice of Carolina BBQ pizza or indulging in a Neapolitan classic, North Carolina offers something for every pizza lover.

So, the next time you find yourself in the Tar Heel State, be sure to explore its remarkable pizza culture. It’s a journey of flavor and hospitality you won’t soon forget.

Related Links: