Did you know that Washington DC has more Neapolitan-certified pizzerias per capita than New York City? While the nation’s capital might be known for its monuments and museums, DC has quietly developed one of America’s most diverse and exciting pizza scenes, with everything from authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pies to creative Detroit-style squares.
Washington DC’s Thriving Pizza Culture
With a handful of exceptions, Americanized pizza has never quite been DC’s strong suit. While a few places contest the perception that Washington is weak when it comes to New York-style slices, the District is more of a stronghold for Neapolitan pizzas that showcase imported ingredients and carefully fermented doughs. From Capitol Hill to Navy Yard, the city’s diverse neighborhoods each offer their own take on this beloved dish.
In recent years, DC’s pizza boom has continued with the arrival of Sicilian-style slices, Detroit-style squares, and creative fusion pies that reflect the city’s international character. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, Washington DC’s acclaimed pizza restaurants offer something for every palate.
Top Acclaimed Pizza Restaurants in Washington DC
From historic establishments to innovative newcomers, these are the must-visit pizza destinations that have earned critical acclaim and loyal local followings.
2Amys Neapolitan Pizzeria
Many chefs frequent 2Amys on their days off, endorsing an unpretentious family restaurant that remains the standard for Neapolitan pizza in the District. The visibly scorched, wood-fired pies have attracted obsessives for over 20 years. Located near the National Cathedral, this beloved spot offers authentic Neapolitan pizzas certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana.
Their buffalo mozzarella Margherita pizza sets the standard for simplicity and quality, while their small plates and Italian wines make this a complete dining experience. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours – but locals will tell you it’s absolutely worth it.
Location: 3715 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC
Price range: $$
Insider tip: Save room for their exceptional desserts, especially the cannoli.
Pupatella
Pupatella may have humble roots — it started out as a food cart in neighboring Ballston over a decade ago — but its reputation as a source for certified Neapolitan pizza has only grown. The Northern Virginia-based company now has locations in Dupont Circle and Capitol Hill, each maintaining the strict standards that earned them certification from the Italian government.
Their classic Margherita showcases the perfect balance of San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte mozzarella, and basil on a chewy, blistered crust. Don’t miss their Diavola with spicy salami or the unique Burrata pizza topped with creamy burrata cheese and prosciutto.
Location: 1801 18th St NW, Washington, DC (Dupont Circle)
Price range: $$
Best for: Family-friendly atmosphere with authentic Italian flavors.
Timber Pizza Company
Former Eater Young Gun Daniela Moreira works wonders with her wood-fired oven in the close quarters of this neighborhood spot in Petworth. Timber Pizza Company produces specialty pies with ingredients like cured chorizo, beef bolognese, kale, and seasonal ingredients that change throughout the year.
The “Bentley” pizza, with its combination of chorizo, soppressata, Peruvian peppers, and spicy honey, has developed a cult following among DC pizza enthusiasts. The casual, communal seating makes this a great spot for groups, though it can get crowded during peak hours.
Location: 809 Upshur St NW, Washington, DC
Price range: $$
Best for: Casual dining with friends and innovative flavor combinations.
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Alfreda
Renowned chef Russell Blue Smith, a Wolfgang Puck protege who spent years at the Source and Cut, breaks out of the fine dining world with a personal pizza project in Dupont Circle. Smith pays extra attention to the dough, relying on a sourdough starter to provide a subtle sweetness to his New York-style crust.
The crispy sourdough crust at Alfreda is a gamechanger—it always has a nice brown finish and a crunchy bite. Topped with gooey mozzarella and a slightly acidic tomato sauce, even the plain pizza is leagues ahead of most DC options. When you add toppings like thick, salty pepperoni, the subtly sweet Pennsylvania sausage, and pickled chilis, it’s almost impossible to stop grabbing the next slice.
Location: 2016 P Street NW, Washington, DC
Price range: $$
Insider tip: Visit during happy hour for $8 spritzes and discounted appetizers.
Menomale
The cozy Neapolitan place in Brookland sources ingredients from the Campania region of Italy and boasts a crust that sets the bar for elasticity in DC. The dough doubles as the bread for wood-fired panuozzo sandwiches full of Italian cured meats and fresh mayonnaise.
Menomale’s Diavola pizza, covered in spicy salami, basil, and red peppers, is slathered in a tart sauce and piled high with toppings. A second outpost in NoMa also offers a rectangular Roman-style pizza decorated edge to edge in toppings like bolognese sauce or salami and artichokes.
Location: 2711 12th St NE, Washington, DC (Brookland)
Price range: $$$
Know before you go: The Brookland location has better parking options.
Wiseguy Pizza
If you’re looking for a good New York-style slice, Wiseguy is the only place to get it in DC. Unlike a lot of slices in the city, these snap back to that freshly cooked state when they’re reheated. The cheese is stringy, the sauce is tangy, and the crust is crispy with no hardness, dryness, or staleness.
While they’re not jumbo-sized, these Chinatown slices are at least as big as a football. A single slice is usually enough for a quick lunch, but you’ll still probably want two to soak up a night out. The shop is extra popular on Fridays and Saturdays when it’s open until 4am.
Location: 300 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC
Price range: $
Best for: Late-night cravings and authentic New York-style pizza.
Pizza Styles in Washington DC
The capital’s diverse pizza scene offers several distinct styles to explore:
Neapolitan
DC’s specialty is authentic Neapolitan pizza, characterized by a soft, chewy crust with charred spots from wood-fired ovens reaching 900°F. These pizzas feature minimal but high-quality toppings, often imported from Italy. 2Amys, Pupatella, and Menomale are certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, guaranteeing authenticity.
New York-Style
Large, thin slices that can be folded and eaten on the go are available at spots like Wiseguy and Andy’s Pizza. These slices feature a thin, crispy-yet-flexible crust, tangy tomato sauce, and plenty of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or late-night snack after exploring the city.
Detroit-Style
This thick, square pizza with crispy cheese edges has gained popularity in DC at places like Emmy Squared and Della Barba. The distinctive rectangular shape comes from being baked in industrial blue steel pans, with Wisconsin brick cheese creating the signature caramelized edges.
Planning Your Washington DC Pizza Tour
Best Time to Visit
Washington DC’s pizza scene can be enjoyed year-round, but consider these seasonal factors:
Getting Around
Washington DC’s acclaimed pizza restaurants are spread throughout the city and nearby Virginia/Maryland suburbs:
Where to Stay
For the ultimate pizza-centric trip, consider these neighborhoods:
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Local Etiquette & Dining Tips
Reservations
Many of DC’s acclaimed pizza restaurants don’t take reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Places like 2Amys and Timber Pizza Company can have long waits during peak hours. Arrive early (before 6pm) or late (after 8:30pm) to minimize wait times, especially on weekends.
Tipping
In Washington DC, as in the rest of the United States, tipping 18-20% is customary for good service. Some restaurants may add an automatic gratuity for larger groups, so check your bill carefully.
Pizza Etiquette
When enjoying Neapolitan pizza, locals often eat it with a knife and fork due to the soft, floppy center. New York-style slices, however, are traditionally folded and eaten by hand. Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the recommended way to enjoy each style.
Dietary Restrictions
Most Washington DC acclaimed pizza restaurants offer vegetarian options, and many now provide vegan cheese and gluten-free crusts. Always call ahead to confirm if you have specific dietary needs, as not all establishments can accommodate all restrictions.
Beyond Pizza: Complete Your DC Experience
While pizza might be your culinary focus, Washington DC offers countless other attractions to explore between meals:
Museums & Monuments
The Smithsonian museums (all free admission) and iconic monuments along the National Mall are must-sees. The National Air and Space Museum, National Gallery of Art, and Lincoln Memorial are perfect for working up an appetite before your next pizza stop.
Neighborhoods
Explore DC’s diverse neighborhoods like Georgetown’s historic streets, Adams Morgan’s international flair, and the vibrant waterfront at The Wharf. Each area offers its own unique character and, often, its own acclaimed pizza restaurants.
Local Beverages
DC has a thriving craft beer scene that pairs perfectly with pizza. Many pizzerias like Pizzeria Paradiso offer extensive beer selections, while others feature Italian wines that complement their Neapolitan pies.
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Conclusion: DC’s Pizza Renaissance
Washington DC’s acclaimed pizza restaurants have transformed the capital into an unexpected pizza destination. From the certified Neapolitan perfection at 2Amys to the innovative creations at Timber Pizza Company, the city offers a slice of pizza heaven for every palate. As you plan your culinary adventure through the nation’s capital, remember that these pizza experiences are more than just meals – they’re windows into DC’s diverse, evolving food culture.
Whether you’re folding a New York-style slice from Wiseguy, savoring the sourdough crust at Alfreda, or indulging in Detroit-style squares at Emmy Squared, Washington DC’s pizza scene deserves its growing reputation. So pack your appetite and your sense of adventure – the capital’s acclaimed pizza restaurants await!
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