Few foods have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Americans quite like pizza. Whether it’s a cheesy, deep-dish delight, a crispy New York-style slice, or a customized, build-your-own masterpiece, pizza has solidified its place as a national favorite.
With countless chains offering their own spin on this beloved dish, the challenge isn’t finding pizza—it’s finding the best pizza.
From coast to coast, these pizza chains bring something special to the table. Some boast decades-old traditions, while others focus on modern, fast-casual customization.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly bite, a family-style feast, or a gourmet pizza experience, this list ranks the 25 best pizza chains in America, so you’ll always know where to get your next great slice.
25. Rosati’s Pizza
Rosati’s Pizza is a small but mighty chain that delivers an authentic Chicago-style pizza experience. Founded in 1964, Rosati’s has grown into a favorite for those who love deep-dish, stuffed, and thin-crust pizza.
While it may not have the same nationwide reach as some of the bigger names on this list, Rosati’s is a go-to for pizza purists who appreciate fresh ingredients and rich, zesty tomato sauce. Their deep-dish pizza is a cheese-lover’s dream, loaded with mozzarella and layered with flavorful toppings.
If you ever find yourself near a Rosati’s, do yourself a favor and order a slice of their classic deep-dish or a crispy thin-crust pie—you won’t regret it.
24. Giordano’s
If you’re talking about Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, you have to mention Giordano’s.
This legendary chain is known for its thick, indulgent stuffed pizza, where layers of cheese and toppings are sandwiched between a buttery crust and topped with chunky tomato sauce. It’s not for the faint of heart—each slice is a hefty meal on its own.
Founded in 1974, Giordano’s has expanded beyond Chicago, bringing authentic deep-dish pizza to other states. Whether you’re dining in or ordering a frozen pie to bake at home, Giordano’s is a top-tier choice for those who love a rich, cheesy, and satisfying pizza experience.
23. Pizza Inn
For those who love classic, old-school pizza, Pizza Inn is a must-try. This buffet-style pizza chain has been around since the 1950s and is known for its crispy, cracker-thin crust and signature tangy sauce.
While it may not be as flashy as some modern fast-casual pizza chains, Pizza Inn has stayed true to its roots by focusing on consistency and quality.
Their signature Pepperoni Max pizza is loaded with layers of pepperoni, and their unique Pizzerts (pizza desserts) add a fun twist to their menu. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, nostalgic pizza experience, Pizza Inn is worth a visit.
22. Fox’s Pizza Den
Fox’s Pizza Den may not have the same name recognition as the biggest pizza chains, but this Pennsylvania-based company has quietly built a loyal fanbase. With a focus on freshly made dough, quality toppings, and a cozy, hometown feel, Fox’s offers a comfortable and delicious pizza experience.
One of their standout menu items is the Big Daddy Pizza, a massive square-cut pizza that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. They also offer strombolis, wedgies (a unique pizza-sandwich hybrid), and traditional Italian-style pizzas.
If you’re in the mood for a regional favorite with homemade charm, Fox’s Pizza Den delivers.
21. Monical’s Pizza
Monical’s Pizza is a Midwestern staple, known for its ultra-thin crust and sweet tomato sauce. Unlike some of the heavier deep-dish pies found in Chicago, Monical’s offers a lighter, crispier pizza that’s perfect for dipping in their signature French dressing (yes, for pizza!).
Founded in 1959, Monical’s has remained a beloved favorite in states like Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Their signature Family Pleaser meal deal offers a great way to enjoy a variety of their delicious pizzas, salads, and sides. If you’re looking for a unique twist on thin-crust pizza, Monical’s is worth checking out.
20. Peter Piper Pizza
Peter Piper Pizza is more than just a pizza chain—it’s an entertainment destination. Combining a family-friendly arcade experience with delicious, made-from-scratch pizza, this chain has been a go-to spot for birthday parties and casual dining since 1973.
Their dough is made fresh daily, and their menu features a variety of hand-tossed pizzas, breadsticks, and desserts. Unlike some arcade-style pizza chains, Peter Piper takes its food seriously, offering pizzas that are actually worth coming back for—even without the games!
19. Shakey’s Pizza Parlor
A true throwback pizza parlor, Shakey’s has been around since 1954 and is famous for its crispy thin-crust pizzas, fried chicken, and Mojo Potatoes (thick-cut seasoned potato rounds). With a strong presence in California and the West Coast, Shakey’s is a nostalgic favorite for those who grew up in the area.
The dining experience at Shakey’s feels like stepping back in time, with classic arcade games, red-checkered tablecloths, and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. If you ever get the chance to visit, be sure to try their combo pizza with a side of MoJo Potatoes for the full experience.
18. Donatos Pizza
Donatos takes its pizza toppings seriously. Unlike many chains that leave a “crust border,” Donatos is known for its edge-to-edge pizza, where toppings cover every inch of the pie. Their signature thin crust is crispy and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing their high-quality cheese and robust tomato sauce.
Founded in 1963 in Ohio, Donatos has grown to become one of the top thin-crust pizza chains in the country. Their pepperoni pizza is legendary, featuring over 100 slices of pepperoni on a large pizza. If you love crispy, flavorful, topping-loaded pizza, Donatos is a must-try.
17. Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom
Old Chicago is a pizza chain that understands the value of a good beer pairing. With a menu that offers everything from deep-dish to tavern-style pizza, Old Chicago takes inspiration from its namesake city and blends it with a relaxed, pub-like atmosphere.
Their World Beer Tour is a huge draw, allowing guests to sample a variety of craft and international beers alongside their hearty, cheesy pizzas. Whether you’re in the mood for a thick, cheesy deep-dish pizza or a lighter thin-crust option, Old Chicago offers a balanced menu that caters to all pizza preferences.
16. Mellow Mushroom
Mellow Mushroom isn’t just a pizza chain—it’s an experience. Founded in 1974 in Atlanta, this chain is known for its funky, psychedelic atmosphere and handcrafted pizzas that feature a signature sweet, chewy, stone-baked crust. Each Mellow Mushroom location has its own unique decor, reflecting the chain’s countercultural roots.
Beyond its aesthetic, Mellow Mushroom delivers when it comes to high-quality ingredients and creative topping combinations. Their Holy Shiitake Pie—featuring a garlic aioli base, caramelized onions, and a mix of shiitake, portobello, and button mushrooms—is a standout. Plus, their menu includes plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for a variety of dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a laid-back dining experience with gourmet-style pizza, Mellow Mushroom is a must-visit.
15. CiCi’s Pizza
For pizza lovers who want variety and value, CiCi’s Pizza is a dream come true. This all-you-can-eat pizza buffet chain has been serving up endless slices since 1985, offering everything from classic cheese and pepperoni to creative specialty pizzas like mac and cheese or barbecue chicken.
Beyond pizza, CiCi’s also offers pasta, salads, and their famous cinnamon rolls, making it an affordable option for families and large groups. While the quality may not match some of the more premium chains, CiCi’s delivers on sheer quantity and fun. If you’re looking for an inexpensive place to try a bit of everything, CiCi’s is worth checking out.
14. Godfather’s Pizza
Godfather’s Pizza is all about big, bold flavors and a hearty approach to pizza. Founded in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1973, this chain specializes in thick-crust pizzas loaded with toppings, making each slice a satisfying meal.
The menu offers everything from classic combos like the Humble Pie (pepperoni, sausage, beef, onions, mushrooms, and green peppers) to unique flavors like the Taco Pizza, topped with refried beans, lettuce, and cheddar cheese. Their deep-dish pizzas are cheesy, saucy, and baked to perfection, making Godfather’s a top pick for those who prefer substantial, filling pizza.
13. Round Table Pizza
For those on the West Coast, Round Table Pizza is a household name. This chain, founded in 1959, prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, including aged cheddar and whole-milk mozzarella to create a richer flavor profile.
Round Table’s King Arthur’s Supreme, loaded with meats and vegetables, is a fan favorite, while their crispy, garlic Parmesan twists are the perfect complement to any meal. The chain’s pizzas lean toward the hearty, indulgent side, and their dedication to fresh toppings and hand-rolled dough keeps customers coming back.
12. Sbarro
Sbarro is the quintessential grab-and-go pizza chain, commonly found in mall food courts, airports, and travel plazas. Known for its big, foldable, New York-style slices, Sbarro is a convenient and satisfying choice for pizza lovers on the move.
The chain started in Brooklyn in 1956 and has since expanded worldwide, offering everything from cheese and pepperoni slices to pasta and strombolis. While it may not be the best New York-style pizza out there, its accessibility and familiarity make it a favorite for travelers.
11. Papa Murphy’s
Papa Murphy’s introduced a unique concept to the pizza world: take-and-bake pizza. Instead of pre-cooked pizzas, they offer freshly prepared pies that customers bake at home for a hot, oven-fresh experience.
Founded in 1981, the chain is known for its thick, high-quality toppings and customizable options. Their stuffed pizzas, featuring multiple layers of cheese, meats, and veggies, are especially popular.
For those who want a homemade touch without making pizza from scratch, Papa Murphy’s bridges the gap between convenience and freshness.
10. Hungry Howie’s Pizza
If you love crust with extra flavor, Hungry Howie’s is the pizza chain for you. Famous for its flavored crust options like butter cheese, ranch, and Cajun spice, this Michigan-based chain adds a little something extra to every bite.
In addition to traditional pizzas, Hungry Howie’s offers subs, wings, and breadsticks, making it a one-stop shop for a casual pizza night.
Their 8 Corner Pizza, a Detroit-style deep-dish pie with crispy edges, is a customer favorite. If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, Hungry Howie’s lets you customize your pizza like no other chain.
9. Jet’s Pizza
For those who love thick, cheesy, caramelized crust, Jet’s Pizza is a game-changer. Specializing in Detroit-style deep-dish pizza, Jet’s bakes its pies in square pans, creating a crispy, golden edge that’s packed with flavor.
Founded in 1978, Jet’s has a loyal following thanks to its buttery crust, generous cheese portions, and bold, zesty sauce. Their Turbo Crust, which is coated in garlic, Romano cheese, and butter, is an added treat. If you’re looking for a unique, indulgent pizza experience, Jet’s delivers.
8. Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza is a fast-casual pizza chain that has revolutionized the way we order pizza. Similar to Subway or Chipotle, Blaze allows customers to custom-build their pizzas with unlimited toppings for one price.
Founded in 2011, Blaze specializes in thin, crispy crusts cooked in just 3 minutes in their signature high-heat ovens. The fresh, high-quality ingredients and quick service make it a favorite among those looking for a healthier, fresher alternative to traditional fast-food pizza.
7. MOD Pizza
MOD Pizza is another build-your-own pizza chain, but what sets it apart is its one-price model—customers can add as many toppings as they want without additional charges.
Founded in 2008, MOD focuses on fresh ingredients and a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Their thick, chewy crust offers a great balance of crispiness and chew, and their commitment to giving back to the community makes them a feel-good place to eat.
6. California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is known for its gourmet, chef-inspired pizzas. Founded in Beverly Hills in 1985, this chain brings a restaurant-style experience to the world of pizza chains.
Their BBQ Chicken Pizza, featuring tangy barbecue sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro, is one of their most famous creations. CPK is also a great choice for those looking for salads, pasta, and lighter options alongside their pizza.
5. Marco’s Pizza
Marco’s Pizza is one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the U.S., and for good reason. Founded by Italian immigrant Pasquale “Pat” Giammarco in 1978, Marco’s prides itself on authentic Italian flavors.
Their signature dough, bold tomato sauce, and high-quality cheeses make their pizzas stand out. The White Cheezy Pizza, featuring garlic butter sauce and a blend of four cheeses, is a must-try.
4. Little Caesars
Little Caesars has built its empire on affordability and convenience. Known for its “Hot-N-Ready” pizzas, this chain allows customers to walk in and grab a freshly made large pizza without waiting—making it one of the fastest and cheapest pizza options available.
Founded in 1959 in Michigan, Little Caesars has expanded globally, offering simple yet satisfying pizzas at incredibly low prices. While it may not have the gourmet flair of some higher-end chains, it’s hard to beat a $5 large pepperoni pizza when you’re in a hurry.
Their Detroit-style deep-dish pizza and Crazy Bread (buttery, garlicky breadsticks) are also fan favorites. If you need a quick, inexpensive pizza fix, Little Caesars delivers without breaking the bank.
3. Papa John’s Pizza
Papa John’s has long touted its motto, “Better Ingredients, Better Pizza,” emphasizing fresh dough, quality toppings, and its signature garlic dipping sauce. Founded in 1984, the chain has grown into a global pizza powerhouse, offering a variety of pies that appeal to both casual and serious pizza lovers.
Papa John’s sweet, slightly tangy sauce sets it apart from other major chains, and their garlic butter dip has become iconic, turning even plain crust into a treat.
The menu also features a variety of specialty pizzas, including The Works (loaded with meats and veggies) and The BBQ Chicken Bacon. For those looking for a solid, mid-tier pizza chain with consistently fresh flavors, Papa John’s is a go-to option.
2. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut has been a pizza industry leader for decades, known for its iconic stuffed crust, pan pizza, and wide-ranging menu. Founded in 1958, the brand has built a reputation for thicker, cheesier, and indulgent pizzas, making it a favorite for families and pizza lovers looking for a classic, satisfying slice.
One of Pizza Hut’s most beloved creations is the Stuffed Crust Pizza, which changed the game when it was introduced in the ‘90s. Their Original Pan Pizza is another fan favorite, featuring a crispy, buttery crust and a generous helping of cheese.
The chain continues to innovate with specialty pies, pasta dishes, and even wings. Whether you’re craving a traditional pizza night or a cheese-filled crust experience, Pizza Hut remains a top contender in the pizza world.
1. Domino’s Pizza
Taking the top spot on our list is Domino’s Pizza, the ultimate leader in fast, affordable, and consistently good pizza. Once known for mediocre pies, Domino’s made a massive turnaround in the late 2000s, revamping its entire recipe and delivering one of the most consistent and flavorful pizzas in the fast-food industry.
Domino’s stands out because of its crispy, garlicky crust, perfectly balanced sauce, and wide variety of toppings. Their delivery speed and easy online ordering system have also made them a go-to choice for pizza lovers across the U.S.
Their menu includes Hand-Tossed, Brooklyn Style, and Thin Crust options, as well as specialty pizzas like the ExtravaganZZa and MeatZZa.
Beyond pizza, Domino’s excels in customer experience, offering fast and efficient service, frequent deals, and a rewards program that keeps customers coming back. Whether you need a quick bite or a full meal for a party, Domino’s delivers on all fronts, making it the best pizza chain in America.
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