Arkansas might be famous for its barbecue and Southern comfort food, but the Natural State also serves up some seriously amazing pizza. From family-owned joints that have been perfecting their recipes for decades to trendy spots putting creative spins on classic pies, these pizza places prove that sometimes the best approach is keeping things simple. Whether you’re craving a perfectly crispy crust or loaded toppings that remind you of childhood, Arkansas has pizza spots that deliver both comfort and quality.
1. Leo’s Pizza
Family recipes passed down through generations make Leo’s Pizza a true Arkansas treasure. Located in Little Rock, this beloved establishment has been serving authentic Italian-style pizza since 1987.
Their hand-tossed dough creates the perfect foundation for fresh ingredients and homemade sauce. Regular customers swear by the pepperoni pizza, which features generous portions of high-quality meat and perfectly melted cheese.
Leo’s commitment to traditional cooking methods means every pizza receives individual attention. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make families feel welcome, creating lasting memories over shared meals that taste like home.
2. Problem Child Pizza
Rebellious by name but beloved by taste, Problem Child Pizza brings attitude and exceptional flavor to Arkansas dining. This edgy pizzeria combines rock music vibes with seriously delicious food that keeps customers coming back.
Their signature pizzas feature unique combinations that shouldn’t work but absolutely do. The staff takes pride in creating bold flavors while maintaining quality ingredients and perfect cooking techniques.
Despite the rebellious branding, Problem Child focuses on community connection and customer satisfaction. Local bands often perform here, creating an energetic atmosphere where great pizza meets live entertainment in an unforgettable dining experience.
3. Wicked Wood Fired Pizza
Smoky aromas and crackling flames create magic at Wicked Wood Fired Pizza, where traditional cooking methods produce extraordinary results. Their authentic wood-fired oven reaches temperatures that create perfectly charred crusts with tender centers.
Master pizza makers carefully monitor each pie, ensuring optimal cooking time and temperature. The high heat creates unique flavors impossible to achieve with conventional ovens, giving every bite a distinctive smokiness.
Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients complement the wood-fired cooking process beautifully. Seasonal menu changes reflect ingredient availability, guaranteeing customers experience peak flavors while supporting local farmers and producers throughout Arkansas.
4. Gusano’s Pizzeria
Chicago-style deep dish meets Arkansas hospitality at Gusano’s Pizzeria, creating a unique dining experience that satisfies the heartiest appetites. Their thick, buttery crusts hold generous amounts of cheese, sauce, and premium toppings.
Patient preparation defines Gusano’s approach, as deep dish pizza requires extended baking time for perfect results. The wait proves worthwhile when servers present golden, bubbling masterpieces that could easily feed multiple people.
Beyond pizza, Gusano’s offers an impressive selection of craft beers and appetizers. The casual, friendly atmosphere encourages lingering conversations over shared meals, making it perfect for celebrations, date nights, or family gatherings.
5. Shotgun Dan’s Pizza
Wild West charm meets modern pizza perfection at Shotgun Dan’s, where every meal feels like an adventure. The rustic decor and playful atmosphere create a fun dining experience for customers of all ages.
Generous portions and reasonable prices make Shotgun Dan’s a favorite among families and college students. Their creative pizza names and combinations add entertainment value while delivering serious flavor satisfaction.
Local ingredients and house-made dough ensure quality in every bite. The friendly staff treats everyone like old friends, creating a welcoming environment where strangers become regulars and every visit feels like a celebration of good food and community.
6. Pizzeria Ruby
Elegant simplicity defines Pizzeria Ruby, where classic Italian techniques create sophisticated flavors without pretentious presentation. Their minimalist approach focuses on ingredient quality and precise execution rather than flashy gimmicks.
Artisan cheese, imported olive oil, and house-made sausage elevate simple pizzas into gourmet experiences. The chefs understand that exceptional ingredients require minimal manipulation to shine.
Ruby’s intimate setting encourages relaxed dining and meaningful conversation. Date nights and special occasions find perfect ambiance here, where attentive service and consistently excellent food create memorable experiences that justify the slightly higher prices through superior quality.
7. DeLuca’s Pizzeria
Authentic Italian heritage shines through every aspect of DeLuca’s Pizzeria, from family recipes to traditional preparation methods. Three generations of pizza-making expertise ensure consistent quality and genuine flavors.
Hand-stretched dough and San Marzano tomatoes create the foundation for pizzas that transport diners straight to Italy. The passionate owners share stories about their grandmother’s techniques while preparing each order with obvious pride.
DeLuca’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond food to encompass warm hospitality and genuine care for customers. Regular patrons feel like extended family members, welcomed with smiles and personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and dietary needs.
8. Beano’s Pizza
Neighborhood charm and consistently delicious pizza make Beano’s a local institution that residents proudly recommend to visitors. Their unpretentious approach focuses on reliable quality and friendly service rather than trendy innovations.
Classic combinations dominate the menu, prepared with fresh ingredients and time-tested recipes. The pepperoni and sausage pizza remains the most popular choice, featuring perfectly seasoned meat and tangy sauce.
Beano’s understands that sometimes people crave familiar comfort food prepared exceptionally well. Their dedication to consistency means customers know exactly what to expect, making it the go-to choice for reliable satisfaction and honest value.
9. Oven & Tap
Craft beer and artisan pizza create perfect harmony at Oven & Tap, where carefully curated beverage selections complement expertly prepared food. Their rotating tap list features local breweries alongside national favorites.
Pizza makers experiment with seasonal ingredients and creative combinations while maintaining balance and flavor harmony. The kitchen staff possesses genuine culinary training, evident in presentation and taste execution.
Oven & Tap attracts food enthusiasts seeking elevated casual dining experiences. The knowledgeable staff provides excellent pairing recommendations, helping customers discover new flavor combinations while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere perfect for both casual meals and special celebrations.
10. Sam’s Pizza Pub
Sports memorabilia and pizza perfection combine at Sam’s Pizza Pub, where game day atmosphere enhances already excellent food. Multiple televisions ensure patrons never miss important plays while enjoying their meals.
Generous portions and competitive prices make Sam’s popular among groups watching games together. Their loaded supreme pizza features enough toppings to satisfy the heartiest appetites and pickiest eaters.
Sam’s understands that pizza brings people together for shared experiences and lasting memories. The lively atmosphere, cold beer, and consistently satisfying food create the perfect environment for celebrations, whether teams win or lose, making every visit enjoyable.
11. Flashback Pizza & Milkshakes
Nostalgic charm and retro vibes transport diners back to simpler times at Flashback Pizza & Milkshakes. Vintage decor, classic rock music, and old-fashioned milkshakes create an authentic throwback experience.
Their pizza recipes honor traditional American styles while thick, creamy milkshakes provide perfect dessert companions. The combination attracts families seeking wholesome fun and couples enjoying nostalgic date nights.
Flashback proves that sometimes the best innovations involve honoring the past. Their commitment to classic flavors and genuine hospitality creates experiences that feel both familiar and special, making every visit a delightful journey through culinary history.