Maryland might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of great pizza, but it should be! From Baltimore’s bustling food scene to the charming suburbs, Maryland pizzerias are crafting some seriously delicious pies that rival those from more famous pizza cities. These local gems combine traditional techniques with creative flair, resulting in pizzas that keep locals coming back and visitors planning return trips.
1. Frankly…Pizza! – Kensington
Hidden in a cozy Kensington storefront, Frankly…Pizza! has developed a cult following for good reason. Owner Frank Linn perfected his craft using a homemade pizza oven before opening this beloved spot.
The thin, slightly charred crust achieves that perfect balance – crispy exterior with a chewy interior that pizza aficionados dream about. Their toppings are simple but thoughtfully sourced, letting quality ingredients shine.
Weekend lines form early, so arrive before opening or be prepared to wait. The mushroom pie with caramelized onions has converted even the most dedicated meat lovers into occasional vegetarians.
2. Little Donna’s – Baltimore
Stepping into Little Donna’s feels like entering a time capsule of Baltimore’s pizza history. The red-checkered tablecloths and vintage decor create an atmosphere as comforting as their extraordinary pies.
What sets this Baltimore gem apart is their commitment to old-school techniques. The dough ferments for 72 hours, developing complex flavors that mass-produced pizzas can’t match. Their signature square Detroit-style pizza, with its caramelized cheese edges, has become legendary among locals.
Don’t skip their homemade ranch dressing – it’s the perfect companion for dipping those delicious crusts that might otherwise go uneaten.
3. Inferno Pizzeria Napoletana – Gaithersburg
Chef Tony Conte left the fine-dining world to pursue his pizza passion, and Maryland pizza lovers couldn’t be happier. His Gaithersburg pizzeria creates Neapolitan pies that would make Naples proud.
The 900-degree wood-burning oven imported from Italy produces perfectly blistered crusts in just 90 seconds. Seasonal ingredients transform simple combinations into extraordinary experiences – the Margherita showcases this brilliantly with its balance of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil.
The menu changes regularly based on available ingredients, encouraging repeat visits to discover new flavor combinations. Their limited daily production means when they’re out, they’re out!
4. Mamma Roma – Odenton
Family recipes passed down through generations form the foundation of Mamma Roma’s incredible pies. This Odenton establishment captures the essence of Italian hospitality, where every customer feels like part of the family.
Their hand-tossed crusts strike that perfect middle ground – not too thick, not too thin – providing the ideal canvas for their rich tomato sauce. The Quattro Stagioni (Four Seasons) pizza divides toppings into quarters, offering multiple flavor experiences in a single pie.
Beyond pizza, their homemade tiramisu provides the perfect sweet ending to your meal. Many regulars claim the garlic knots alone justify the trip to this suburban gem.
5. Angeli’s Pizzeria & Bar – Baltimore
Conventional wisdom says pizza should stick to tradition, but Angeli’s in Baltimore proves innovation can elevate this beloved food to new heights. Their experimental approach combines unexpected ingredients that somehow work perfectly together.
The crab dip pizza represents Maryland’s seafood pride, with generous portions of local blue crab atop a creamy white sauce base. Their sourdough crust, developed with a starter named “Angelina” that’s been alive for years, provides distinctive tanginess and exceptional texture.
The casual bar atmosphere encourages lingering over craft beers selected specifically to complement their unique pies. Happy hour specials make this spot particularly popular with the after-work crowd.
6. Andy’s Pizza – Bethesda
New York-style pizza enthusiasts need look no further than Andy’s Pizza in Bethesda. Owner Andy Brown studied pizza-making extensively in the Big Apple before bringing his perfectly foldable slices to Maryland.
The secret lies in their water filtration system, designed to replicate NYC’s famous tap water – widely believed to be the key to authentic New York pizza. Their massive 20-inch pies feature a thin, crispy-yet-pliable crust that maintains its structure despite generous toppings.
Available by the slice or whole pie, Andy’s satisfies both quick lunch breaks and family dinners. The pepperoni cups that crisp up and hold tiny pools of delicious oil have developed their own following among local pizza connoisseurs.
7. Bear Brick Oven Co – Silver Spring
Watching your pizza being crafted at Bear Brick Oven Co is part of the experience that makes this Silver Spring establishment special. Their open kitchen design invites customers to observe the artistry behind each pie.
Using locally-milled flour and a 48-hour fermentation process creates dough with exceptional flavor and digestibility. The honey-drizzled spicy salami pizza has become their signature offering – the sweet-heat combination creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps customers returning.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond ingredients to their packaging and energy usage. Their seasonal specials showcase Maryland’s agricultural bounty, with summer corn and heirloom tomato pies drawing particular praise.
8. Roma’s Breakfast & Pizzeria – Columbia
Roma’s unique concept combines two beloved food categories – breakfast and pizza – under one roof in Columbia. Their morning pizza options feature egg-topped creations that brilliantly bridge these culinary worlds.
Traditional pizzas shine equally bright, with a slightly sweet sauce that complements their savory toppings perfectly. The family-run operation maintains consistent quality from open to close, whether you’re grabbing a breakfast slice at 7am or a late dinner pie.
Their pizza dough cinnamon rolls have developed a passionate following, often selling out by mid-morning. The welcoming atmosphere makes this an ideal spot for families, with patient staff and a kids’ menu that goes beyond the typical options.
9. Pizza Movers – Takoma Park
Don’t let the unassuming storefront fool you – Pizza Movers in Takoma Park serves some of Maryland’s most memorable pies. This family-owned spot has perfected their recipe over three decades, creating a dedicated community of regulars.
The distinctively crisp bottom crust somehow maintains a pillowy interior, creating textural magic in every bite. Their sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, complementing rather than overwhelming the toppings.
Generous portions make their large pizza an exceptional value for families and gatherings. While delivery is available, locals know eating a fresh pie straight from their ovens provides the ultimate Pizza Movers experience – worth any wait during busy weekend rushes.
10. Gianni’s Pizza – Severn
Sicilian-style pizza gets the spotlight at Gianni’s in Severn, where thick, rectangular slices support generous toppings without becoming soggy. The owner’s grandmother’s recipes influence everything from the sauce to the housemade sausage.
The grandma pie – a thinner Sicilian variant with crispy edges and a garlic-forward profile – has become their signature offering. Regular customers know to request the off-menu corner pieces for maximum crispiness and caramelization.
Despite expanding to a larger location, Gianni’s maintains the quality that built their reputation. Their pizza dough is made fresh daily, and you can taste the difference in every bite of their distinctively airy yet substantial crust.
Leave a comment