Ohio’s Pizza Kingdom: A Deep Dive into the Buckeye State’s Beloved Slices

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When it comes to pizza, Ohio might not be the first state that comes to mind, but for those in the know, the Buckeye State has some of the most diverse and delicious pizza styles in the country. From Columbus-style thin crust to Dayton-style square-cut pies and the beloved deep-dish variations in Cleveland, Ohio’s pizza scene is as varied as its people. With deep Italian-American roots and an appetite for innovation, Ohio has created a unique pizza culture that rivals even the most famous pizza states.

In this article, we’ll explore the history, best pizzerias, annual pizza festivals, and famous stories that make Ohio one of the most underrated pizza destinations in America. Whether you’re a fan of crispy thin crust, cheesy deep-dish, or Ohio’s signature styles, get ready to discover why pizza in Ohio is second to none.

A Brief History of Pizza in Ohio

Italian immigrants played a crucial role in bringing pizza to Ohio in the early 20th century. As they settled in cities like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Youngstown, they introduced traditional Italian recipes that gradually evolved to match local tastes. While New York-style and Chicago-style pizzas gained national recognition, Ohio quietly developed its own unique styles that continue to define its pizza culture today.

One of Ohio’s most famous contributions to the pizza world is Columbus-style pizza—a thin, square-cut pie with a crispy crust, edge-to-edge toppings, and a slight sweetness in the sauce. This style is found across the state and remains a favorite among Ohioans. Meanwhile, cities like Dayton and Youngstown have also put their own spin on pizza, making Ohio a melting pot of pizza styles.

Best Pizzerias in Ohio

1. Tommy’s Pizza (Columbus)

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A Columbus institution since 1952, Tommy’s Pizza is known for its signature thin, crispy crust and edge-to-edge toppings. Their traditional Columbus-style pizza has kept generations of locals coming back for more.

Website: Tommy’s Pizza

2. Cassano’s Pizza King (Dayton)

Cassano’s introduced Dayton-style pizza, a variation of the Columbus-style with a slightly thicker crust and a distinctive tangy sauce. With its signature square-cut slices, this pizzeria has been a Dayton favorite since 1953.

Website: Cassano’s Pizza King

3. Mama Santa’s (Cleveland)

Located in Cleveland’s Little Italy, Mama Santa’s has been serving authentic Sicilian-style pizza since 1961. Their handmade dough and traditional recipes make them one of the city’s most beloved pizzerias.

Website: Mama Santa’s

4. Adriatico’s New York Style Pizza (Cincinnati & Columbus)

Known for their thick, cheesy Sicilian-style pizzas and oversized New York-style slices, Adriatico’s has built a cult following, especially among college students in Cincinnati and Columbus.

Website: Adriatico’s

5. Angelo’s (Lakewood – Cleveland Area)

Angelo’s is a Cleveland icon, serving up legendary deep-dish and pan-style pizzas loaded with cheese and toppings. Their crispy crust and rich tomato sauce set them apart as one of Ohio’s best pizzerias.

Website: Angelo’s Pizza

6. Wedgewood Pizza (Youngstown)

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Youngstown is known for its unique pizza style, which features a thicker, airy crust and a sweet tomato sauce. Wedgewood Pizza is the gold standard for this style, making it a must-visit spot in Northeast Ohio.

Website: Wedgewood Pizza

Pizza Festivals in Ohio

Columbus Pizza & Beer Festival

This annual event in Columbus brings together the best pizzerias in Central Ohio, along with craft breweries and live music. Attendees get to sample pies from classic institutions and rising stars in the pizza scene.

Learn more: Columbus Pizza & Beer Festival

Cleveland Pizza Week

For one week each year, pizzerias across Cleveland offer special deals and limited-edition pizzas, giving locals the chance to explore the city’s best slices.

Learn more: Cleveland Pizza Week

Cincinnati Pizza Week

Similar to its Cleveland counterpart, Cincinnati Pizza Week offers $8 specialty pizzas at participating pizzerias throughout the city, making it a pizza lover’s dream.

Learn more: Cincinnati Pizza Week

Dayton Pizza Fest

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Dayton’s pizza scene takes center stage at this festival, where local favorites like Cassano’s, Marion’s, and Flying Pizza compete for the title of best pizza in the city.

Learn more: Dayton Pizza Fest

Famous Pizza Stories in Ohio

1. The Birth of Columbus-Style Pizza

Columbus-style pizza, characterized by its thin crust, square cuts, and edge-to-edge toppings, is one of Ohio’s proudest pizza traditions. Pizzerias like Donatos, Massey’s, and Tommy’s helped popularize this distinctive style, which remains a staple across the state.

2. The Donatos Legacy

Founded in Columbus in 1963, Donatos Pizza revolutionized the industry with its signature edge-to-edge toppings and a commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Now a national chain, Donatos remains a proud Ohio original.

Website: Donatos Pizza

3. Youngstown’s Italian Influence

Youngstown has one of the most distinctive pizza styles in the Midwest, thanks to its large Italian-American population. Pizzerias like Wedgewood and Avalon Gardens have kept the city’s rich pizza traditions alive for generations.

4. Cleveland’s Deep-Dish Sensation

While Chicago is famous for deep-dish pizza, Cleveland’s Angelo’s Pizza has given it serious competition. Their deep-dish pies, loaded with cheese and baked to golden perfection, have become legendary in Northeast Ohio.

Ohio’s Signature Pizza Styles

Ohio is home to several unique pizza styles, including:

Columbus-Style Pizza: A thin, crispy, square-cut pie with toppings spread to the edge.
Dayton-Style Pizza: Similar to Columbus-style but with a slightly thicker crust and a tangy sauce.
Youngstown-Style Pizza: A thicker, airy crust with sweet tomato sauce, often baked in large trays.
Cleveland Deep-Dish Pizza: A cheesy, pan-style deep-dish pizza that rivals Chicago’s famous pies.

The Future of Pizza in Ohio

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Ohio’s pizza scene continues to evolve as new pizzerias experiment with creative toppings, wood-fired techniques, and locally sourced ingredients. Food trucks and pop-up pizzerias are on the rise, while traditional pizzerias stay true to their roots, ensuring that Ohio remains a top-tier pizza destination for years to come.

Plan Your Ohio Pizza Road Trip

A pizza tour of Ohio is a must for any foodie. Start in Columbus for a taste of the state’s signature style, then head to Dayton and Cincinnati for their unique takes on thin-crust pies. From there, make your way to Cleveland and Youngstown to experience deep-dish and Sicilian-style pizzas that showcase the region’s Italian heritage.

Conclusion: A Slice Above the Rest

Pizza in Ohio is more than just a meal—it’s a part of the state’s culture and identity. Whether you prefer a crispy Columbus-style pie, a hearty deep-dish from Cleveland, or a sweet-sauced Youngstown slice, Ohio’s pizza diversity is unmatched. The Buckeye State may not always get the recognition of New York or Chicago, but for those who know where to look, Ohio is a true pizza paradise.

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