Oklahoma’s Pizza Frontier: Exploring the Best Slices in the Sooner State

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Oklahoma is known for its rich cowboy history, legendary barbecue, and wide-open plains, but in recent years, it has also built an impressive and growing pizza culture. From bustling Oklahoma City to the charming streets of Tulsa, the Sooner State has developed a diverse pizza scene that combines traditional flavors with unique regional twists. Whether it’s wood-fired Neapolitan pies, hearty deep-dish creations, or Oklahoma-style pizzas with barbecue influences, the state’s pizza landscape is as varied as its people.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history, top pizzerias, pizza festivals, and fascinating stories that make Oklahoma an underrated pizza destination. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, there’s a perfect slice waiting for you in the heart of America.

A Brief History of Pizza in Oklahoma

Pizza arrived in Oklahoma in the mid-20th century, introduced by Italian immigrants and returning World War II soldiers who had developed a taste for the dish while overseas. Initially, pizza was served in small family-run establishments that focused on traditional New York-style and Neapolitan pies. However, as Oklahoma’s culinary scene expanded, so did its pizza offerings.

By the 1970s and 1980s, pizza chains like Hideaway Pizza—founded in Stillwater—helped shape the state’s pizza identity, blending classic Italian styles with Midwestern hospitality. Over the years, local chefs have continued to innovate, incorporating Oklahoma’s famous barbecue meats, locally sourced ingredients, and creative cooking methods to craft truly one-of-a-kind pizzas.

Best Pizzerias in Oklahoma

1. Hideaway Pizza (Multiple Locations)

Founded in 1957 in Stillwater, Hideaway Pizza is an Oklahoma institution. Known for its thick, hand-tossed crust and creative specialty pies, Hideaway has become synonymous with Oklahoma-style pizza. Favorites include “The ATW” (Around the World) with a variety of meats and veggies, and “The Big Country,” which features smoked bacon and cheddar cheese.

Website: Hideaway Pizza

2. Empire Slice House (Oklahoma City & Tulsa)

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Empire Slice House brings a funky, modern twist to the Oklahoma pizza scene with its oversized New York-style slices and bold flavors. Their “Fungus Among Us” (featuring mushrooms, truffle oil, and ricotta) and “Joezilla” (spicy sausage, jalapeños, and honey drizzle) are fan favorites.

Website: Empire Slice House

3. Andolini’s Pizzeria (Tulsa & Owasso)

Andolini’s is a Tulsa staple, famous for its hand-stretched dough and gourmet toppings. Their Neapolitan-inspired pies, such as the “Demarco of Brooklyn,” made with fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes, have won multiple national awards.

Website: Andolini’s Pizzeria

4. The Wedge Pizzeria (Oklahoma City)

Oklahoma’s first artisan pizzeria, The Wedge, specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas. Their “Figgy Piggy” pizza, with figs, prosciutto, and blue cheese, offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Website: The Wedge Pizzeria

5. Jo’s Famous Pizza (Purcell, Edmond, & Norman)

Jo’s Famous Pizza has been serving Oklahomans for over 50 years, offering handmade, crispy-thin crusts with robust toppings. Their “Mexican Pizza,” featuring seasoned beef, black olives, and jalapeños, is a local favorite.

Website: Jo’s Famous Pizza

6. Stone Sisters Pizza Bar (Oklahoma City)

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Stone Sisters is known for its organic, health-conscious pizzas, featuring whole wheat crusts and fresh ingredients. Their “Keto Crust” and “Farmers Market Pizza” cater to those looking for delicious, healthier options.

Website: Stone Sisters Pizza Bar

Pizza Festivals in Oklahoma

Tulsa Pizza Festival

This annual festival celebrates Tulsa’s best pizzerias, offering a mix of classic and creative slices. With live music, food competitions, and craft beer, it’s a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.

Learn more: Tulsa Pizza Festival

Oklahoma State Fair – Pizza Competition (Oklahoma City)

Held at the Oklahoma State Fair, this event highlights local pizza makers competing for the title of “Best Pizza in Oklahoma.” Attendees can sample pies from across the state while enjoying the fair’s many attractions.

Learn more: Oklahoma State Fair

Pints & Pies Festival (Norman)

A beer and pizza lover’s dream, this festival pairs Oklahoma’s top breweries with artisanal pizzerias, creating unique pizza and beer pairings.

Learn more: Pints & Pies Festival

Famous Pizza Stories in Oklahoma

1. The Hideaway Pizza Legacy

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Started by Richard “The Big Kahuna” Dermer in 1957, Hideaway Pizza has become one of Oklahoma’s most cherished pizza brands. With its iconic red-roofed buildings and quirky service, Hideaway remains a beloved institution for locals and students alike.

2. Andolini’s World Pizza Championship Success

Andolini’s Pizzeria has made a name for itself nationally by competing in the World Pizza Championships in Italy. Their commitment to quality and authenticity has brought home several awards, proving Oklahoma’s pizza scene can compete on the world stage.

3. Empire Slice House’s New York Vibe in OKC

Empire Slice House has become an Oklahoma City icon, bringing a slice of New York’s pizza culture to the Midwest. With graffiti-covered walls and a punk-rock atmosphere, Empire has become the go-to spot for late-night slices and craft cocktails.

4. The Wedge Pizzeria’s Farm-to-Table Approach

The Wedge was Oklahoma City’s first artisan pizzeria to focus on farm-to-table ingredients. By sourcing local produce and meats, they’ve led the way in Oklahoma’s culinary movement toward fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Signature Oklahoma Pizza Flavors

Oklahoma’s pizza scene blends Italian traditions with Southern influences. Here are some standout local flavors:

Barbecue Chicken Pizza – Featuring smoked brisket, barbecue sauce, and cheddar cheese, this Oklahoma favorite is a nod to the state’s famous BBQ scene.
The Sooner Special – A combination of bacon, sausage, and jalapeños, commonly found on menus across the state.
Frybread Pizza – Inspired by Native American frybread, this pizza variation uses a crispy frybread crust topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and meats.
Okie Ranch Pizza – A pizza featuring ranch dressing as a base, topped with grilled chicken, tomatoes, and bacon.

The Future of Pizza in Oklahoma

Foods of Oklahoma-Country fired chicken and BBQ

Oklahoma’s pizza scene continues to grow, with new pizzerias pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be. More restaurants are embracing wood-fired cooking, farm-to-table ingredients, and dietary-inclusive options like keto and gluten-free crusts. The rise of food trucks and mobile pizzerias is also bringing high-quality pizza to every corner of the state.

Plan Your Oklahoma Pizza Road Trip

Start your journey in Oklahoma City at Empire Slice House and The Wedge Pizzeria. Then, head to Tulsa for a taste of Andolini’s award-winning pies. Make a stop in Stillwater to experience the legendary Hideaway Pizza, and don’t forget to try Jo’s Famous Pizza in Norman. Whether you prefer traditional Italian pies or Oklahoma-inspired creations, the Sooner State has something for every pizza lover.

Conclusion: Oklahoma’s Pizza Frontier is Thriving

Oklahoma may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about great pizza, but the Sooner State is proving it deserves a seat at the table. With its blend of traditional styles and regional influences, Oklahoma’s pizza culture is as rich and varied as its people. Whether you’re craving a New York-style slice, a wood-fired artisan pie, or a unique Oklahoma BBQ pizza, one thing is clear—there’s never been a better time to explore pizza in Oklahoma.

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