In a city that knows its way around a pizza, Columbus still has a few hidden gems that even the most dedicated pizza lovers might not have discovered yet.
From wood-fired specialties to deep-dish dreams, these spots are serving up slices you need to try. Just expect a few hot takes in this article, because I really do feel some type of way about these spots.
Without any further ado, let’s dive into five under-the-radar pizza joints that might just make you rethink your go-to order.
1. GoreMade Pizza
936 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201
A staple in my dinner rotation for six years and counting, GoreMade Pizza never disappoints. Their wood-fired pies are all about quality, with seasonal ingredients that make each bite fresh and flavorful. While I’ll always have a soft spot for a classic cheese pizza, I can’t resist ordering their Chef Special. It’s a surprise creation that changes with the ingredients they have on hand, and it always blows me away. The crew at GoreMade are true pizza artisans, and their dedication to craft shows in every slice.
2. Bazemore Pizza Company
1991 Riverside Dr, Upper Arlington, OH 43221
Operating out of the Pointe Tavern in Upper Arlington, Bazemore Pizza Company is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Their pizzas stand out with dollops of sauce layered on top of the cheese, keeping the crust perfectly firm and crispy. The cheese blend has a savory richness that takes me right back to New York’s legendary John’s of Bleecker Street. This is a pie worth talking about. And if you’re feeling adventurous, their other menu items are just as delicious, so don’t sleep on them either!
(Pssst: Word on the street is that Dave Portnoy visited Bazemore Pizza Company while in town for the Tennessee game… so don’t say we weren’t on to something here!)
3. Meister’s Bar
1168 Chambers Rd, Columbus, OH 43212
Living just five minutes away from Meister’s after college was both a blessing and a bit dangerous once I discovered their pizza (43212 represent!). This deep-dish wonder has a dense, cheesy crust that I genuinely think Chicago deep-dish places wish they could pull off. The sauce is meaty and tangy, the cheese is thick and melty, and the crust holds everything together with perfection. I’ve tried the big names like Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s, but Meister’s does it best in my book.
4. Grandad’s Pizza
1254 W 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
For those who crave a thin, crispy Columbus-style crust, Grandad’s is an absolute must-try. This pie has a satisfyingly crunchy crust, a sweet, tangy sauce, and edge-to-edge toppings that make every bite loaded with flavor. A few Super Bowls ago, my friends and I stumbled upon Grandad’s, and it’s now our go-to spot. If you’re looking for a pizza that nails the Columbus style, this is it. And before you say anything, YES I have a bias towards spots in west Columbus… sue me!
5. Emelio’s Restaurant
574 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
Emelio’s is another Columbus-style gem that deserves way more love than it gets. This pizza comes out just the way I like it—well done with perfectly crispy edges. And if you’re a pepperoni fan, you’re in luck; they don’t hold back on the pepperoni, which chars up nicely and cups when cooked. It’s the kind of pie that leaves you wondering why you haven’t heard more people raving about it.
There you have it, five hidden gems in Columbus that are delivering pizza experiences worth talking about. So next time you’re looking to switch up your pizza routine, give one of these spots a try… you just might find a new favorite.
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!