Magnolia State Slices: Exploring Mississippi’s Pizza Scene

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Mississippi may be better known for its Southern comfort food and soulful barbecue, but the state’s pizza scene is growing in both creativity and reputation. From college-town classics to family-owned artisan pizzerias, Mississippi offers a variety of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you’re enjoying a New York-style slice in Jackson, indulging in wood-fired creations along the Gulf Coast, or exploring unique, Southern-inspired toppings, Mississippi’s pizza culture is a delightful surprise for food enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Magnolia State a hidden gem for pizza lovers.

Mississippi’s Pizza Highlights

1. Classic and Traditional Pizzerias:

Mississippi’s pizzerias take pride in serving traditional styles with a touch of Southern hospitality.
- Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint (Jackson & Biloxi): A staple for authentic New York-style pizza, Sal & Mookie’s serves large, foldable slices with bold flavors. Their “Carroll Gardens” pie, topped with Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and fresh mozzarella, is a must-try. Website

2. Artisan and Gourmet Creations:

Artisan pizzerias in Mississippi embrace local ingredients and wood-fired techniques for a unique spin on classic pies.
- Lost Pizza Co. (Statewide): Known for its creative toppings and fun atmosphere, Lost Pizza Co. offers pizzas like the “Pit Boss,” featuring barbecue sauce, pulled pork, and jalapeños. Website
- TriBecca Allie Café (Sardis): A family-owned pizzeria famous for its wood-fired pizzas and inventive combinations, like the “Chicken Alfredo Pizza.” Website

3. Southern-Inspired Flavors:

Mississippi pizzerias often incorporate regional ingredients and flavors, creating unique offerings that reflect the state’s culinary heritage.
- Tom’s Pizzeria (Oxford): This cozy spot near the University of Mississippi offers a “Shrimp and Andouille Sausage Pizza,” combining Gulf Coast flavors with Italian traditions.
- Pizza Shack (Madison & Jackson): Known for hearty, loaded pizzas, the “Southern Comfort Pizza” features fried chicken, bacon, and creamy ranch drizzle.

Pizza Hotspots Across Mississippi

Mississippi Wines & Wineries

Jackson: A Hub for Flavor

Jackson’s pizza scene boasts a mix of family-friendly joints and gourmet options.
- The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen: Known for its upscale ambiance and wood-fired pizzas, The Manship offers pies like the “Spicy Margherita,” topped with chili oil and fresh basil. Website

Oxford: College Town Classics

Home to the University of Mississippi, Oxford offers a lively pizza culture perfect for students and visitors alike.
- Funkys Pizza & Daiquiri Bar: Popular for its laid-back vibe, Funkys serves classic pizzas with a fun twist, like the “Rebel Supreme,” loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and vegetables.

The Gulf Coast: Fresh and Flavorful

The Gulf Coast brings a seafood twist to its pizza offerings.
- The Shed Barbecue & Pizza Joint (Ocean Springs): Famous for blending barbecue and pizza, The Shed offers creative pies like the “BBQ Brisket Pizza.” Website

What Makes Mississippi Pizza Unique?

Southern Ingredients:
- Pizzerias across the state incorporate regional staples like Gulf shrimp, crawfish, and barbecue into their pizzas, creating flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Warm Hospitality:
- Mississippi’s pizza joints are known for their friendly service and welcoming atmosphere, making every visit feel like dining with family.
Fusion of Styles:
- Mississippi’s pizza scene blends traditional Italian recipes with Southern flair, offering a delightful mix of familiar and innovative flavors.

Famous Mississippi Pizzerias and Stories

1. Lost Pizza Co.: A Statewide Favorite

Starting as a single location in Indianola, Lost Pizza Co. has grown into a beloved chain known for its quirky decor and unique pizzas. Their commitment to fresh, local ingredients and creative toppings like pulled pork and pickles has earned them a loyal following.

2. TriBecca Allie Café: A Small Town Gem

This Sardis-based pizzeria has gained national attention for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, even being named a James Beard Foundation semi-finalist. The café’s dedication to traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients has made it a must-visit for pizza lovers.

3. Sal & Mookie’s: A New York Slice with a Southern Twist

A Jackson favorite, Sal & Mookie’s combines New York-style pizza with Southern-inspired hospitality. Their fun, family-friendly atmosphere and wide-ranging menu make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors.

Mississippi Weddings

Pizza Festivals in Mississippi

1. Gulf Coast Beer and Pizza Festival

Location: Biloxi, MS
Overview: A celebration of local craft beers and pizzerias, this festival showcases creative pairings and live entertainment in a festive setting.

2. Oxford Food and Drink Festival

Location: Oxford, MS
Overview: This event highlights the best of Oxford’s culinary scene, including creative pizza offerings from local restaurants.

Mississippi’s pizza scene has grown steadily over the years, giving rise to some interesting and noteworthy stories that reflect the Magnolia State’s unique culinary identity. Here are some famous Mississippi pizza stories that highlight its blend of Southern charm and pizza innovation:

1. Lost Pizza Co.: From Local Favorite to Regional Powerhouse

Lost Pizza Co. started as a single location in Indianola, Mississippi, and quickly gained a reputation for its creative toppings, quirky atmosphere, and commitment to fresh ingredients. Known for pizzas like the “Pit Boss” (with barbecue sauce, pulled pork, and jalapeños), Lost Pizza captured the hearts of locals.

The Story:
The founders, Robby and Preston, wanted to create a space that reflected Mississippi’s laid-back, fun-loving vibe. Their success led to expansion across the state and into neighboring states, making Lost Pizza a beloved regional chain. Despite its growth, Lost Pizza remains committed to its Mississippi roots, using local ingredients and celebrating the state’s culture.

2. TriBecca Allie Café: A James Beard Nominee

Located in the small town of Sardis, TriBecca Allie Café has become a hidden gem in Mississippi’s culinary landscape. This family-owned pizzeria is known for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, handmade dough, and high-quality toppings.

The Story:

Mississippi Beer & Breweries

TriBecca Allie Café gained national recognition when it was named a semi-finalist for the prestigious James Beard Award in the “America’s Classics” category. The café’s dedication to traditional pizza-making techniques and its cozy, welcoming atmosphere have earned it a devoted following. Their “Chicken Alfredo Pizza” is a customer favorite, combining creamy Alfredo sauce, grilled chicken, and mozzarella.

3. Sal & Mookie’s: A New York Slice in the South

Founded in Jackson, Sal & Mookie’s combines the spirit of a New York pizza joint with Mississippi’s warm hospitality. The restaurant is famous for its large, foldable slices and family-friendly vibe.

The Story:
Sal & Mookie’s isn’t just about great pizza—it’s also about giving back. The restaurant is actively involved in community events and charities, using its popularity to support local causes. The restaurant’s “Carroll Gardens” pizza, with Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and mozzarella, has become a signature dish loved by locals and visitors alike.

4. Mississippi’s Unique Pizza Toppings: From Gulf Shrimp to Crawfish

Mississippi pizzerias have embraced the state’s Southern culinary traditions by incorporating regional ingredients into their pizzas. From Gulf shrimp and crawfish to barbecue-inspired toppings, these creative combinations showcase Mississippi’s love for bold, local flavors.

The Story:
Restaurants like Pizza Shack in Jackson and Tom’s Pizzeria in Oxford have earned attention for their Southern-inspired pizzas. The “Southern Comfort Pizza”, featuring fried chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, is a prime example of how Mississippi pizzerias are redefining traditional pizza.

5. Community-Centric Pizza at Pizza Shack

Founded in 2005 in Jackson, Pizza Shack quickly became a local favorite for its hearty, loaded pizzas. Known for their massive portion sizes and creative toppings, Pizza Shack also serves as a community gathering spot.

The Story:

Foods Of Mississippi-Gambling boat

Pizza Shack became famous for its “Kitchen Sink Pizza”, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, onions, mushrooms, and green peppers. It’s not just the food but the sense of community that keeps people coming back. The restaurant frequently partners with local schools, charities, and events, emphasizing its role as a Jackson institution.

6. The Shed BBQ and Pizza Joint: Fusion of Barbecue and Pizza

The Shed BBQ and Pizza Joint in Ocean Springs combines two of Mississippi’s most beloved foods—barbecue and pizza. Known for its award-winning smoked meats, The Shed decided to branch out into pizza, creating a menu that blends their famous barbecue with crispy crusts.

The Story:
Their “BBQ Brisket Pizza” is a standout, featuring smoked brisket, barbecue sauce, and caramelized onions. The Shed’s pizza offerings have become a hit with both barbecue and pizza lovers, proving that Mississippi knows how to combine its culinary strengths.

7. Funkys Pizza and Daiquiri Bar: A College Favorite

Located in Oxford near the University of Mississippi, Funkys Pizza and Daiquiri Bar has become a hotspot for students and visitors. Known for its fun atmosphere, Funkys serves pizzas with creative toppings and pairs them with its famous frozen daiquiris.

The Story:
Funkys’ “Rebel Supreme”, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, onions, and bell peppers, is a nod to Ole Miss pride. The restaurant’s lively vibe and inventive menu make it a must-visit spot during football season or anytime college-town fun is in the air.

8. Mississippi Gulf Coast and the Rise of Seafood Pizzas

Mississippi Pizza-View of the Mississippi River

Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has inspired pizzerias to incorporate fresh seafood into their creations. Restaurants like Tom’s Pizzeria and The Shed have introduced pizzas featuring Gulf shrimp, crawfish, and other local seafood.

The Story:
These seafood-inspired pizzas reflect Mississippi’s coastal influence and provide a unique twist on traditional pies. The “Shrimp Scampi Pizza”, featuring Gulf shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan, has become a signature item for many coastal pizzerias.

Why These Stories Matter

Mississippi’s pizza stories showcase the state’s ability to balance tradition and innovation, offering unique, regionally inspired flavors while fostering a sense of community. From the quirky atmosphere of Lost Pizza Co. to the national recognition of TriBecca Allie Café, Mississippi’s pizza culture reflects the Magnolia State’s creativity, pride, and hospitality. These stories are a reminder that pizza isn’t just a dish—it’s a way for Mississippi to share its love for food and community.

While Mississippi doesn’t host a festival dedicated solely to pizza, several events across the state feature pizza as a highlight, celebrating local flavors and culinary traditions. Here are some notable festivals where pizza enthusiasts can indulge:

1. Red Brick Roads Music & Arts Festival

Location: Olde Towne Clinton, MS
Overview: Red Brick Roads is a family-friendly festival that combines live music, arts, and a variety of food vendors. Attendees can enjoy slices of Mississippi-style pizza from local establishments like The Bank, alongside other culinary delights.
Red Brick Roads
Highlights:
- Performances by regional and national musicians.
- A craft market featuring local artisans.
- A selection of craft beers and a homebrew competition.

2. Pine Hill Festival

Location: Wiggins, MS
Overview: One of South Mississippi’s longest-running festivals, the Pine Hill Festival features food, music, arts, and crafts vendors. While not exclusively a pizza festival, local pizzerias often participate, offering their specialties to attendees.
Mississippi Tour Guide
Highlights:
- Live music performances.
- 5k and 10k runs.
- A “Mutt Strut” dog parade.

3. Gulf Coast Beer and Bacon Festival

Location: Gulfport, MS
Overview: This festival celebrates local craft beers and bacon-inspired dishes. Some vendors incorporate pizza into their offerings, creating unique bacon-topped pizzas that pair perfectly with the featured brews.
Highlights:
- Sampling of various craft beers.
- Bacon-themed culinary creations.
- Live entertainment and activities.

These festivals provide excellent opportunities for pizza lovers to enjoy Mississippi’s unique flavors in lively, community-centered settings.

A Southern Slice of Flavor

Mississippi Pizza-View of the Mississippi River

Mississippi’s pizza scene is as diverse as its landscape, offering everything from traditional New York-style slices to creative Southern-inspired pies. Whether you’re enjoying artisan wood-fired creations in a small-town café or diving into bold flavors in bustling college towns, Mississippi proves that it’s a rising star in the world of pizza. Next time you’re in the Magnolia State, make sure to grab a slice and discover why Mississippi pizza is worth savoring.