MomSkoop
Massachusetts is home to some incredible pizza that flies under the radar. While chain restaurants dominate billboards and TV ads, locals know where the real pizza magic happens. These family-owned and independent pizzerias have perfected their craft over decades, creating unique flavors you simply won’t find at commercial establishments. Ready to discover where Bay Staters go when they crave an unforgettable slice?
1. Galleria Umberto: North End’s Sicilian Secret
Cash only, no reservations, and often sold out by early afternoon – that’s how legendary Galleria Umberto operates in Boston’s North End. Established in 1974, this unpretentious spot earned the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classic Award in 2018. The thick, square-cut Sicilian slices feature a perfectly crisp bottom and fluffy interior that locals have cherished for generations. A slice costs just a few dollars, making it one of the city’s best food bargains. Pro tip: arrive early and be prepared to stand in line with neighborhood regulars who’ve been coming here since childhood.
2. Santarpio’s Pizza: A Century-Old East Boston Institution
Since 1903, Santarpio’s has been serving what many consider the definitive Boston-style pizza. Originally a bakery before transforming into a pizzeria in 1933, this East Boston landmark has walls adorned with boxing memorabilia that tell stories of the neighborhood’s rich history. Their distinctive pies feature a chewy, slightly charred crust that somehow remains light and airy. Toppings go under the cheese here – an unusual approach that ensures everything melds together perfectly during baking. Don’t miss their famous lamb skewers either, a nod to the establishment’s Italian roots that pairs surprisingly well with their stellar pizza.
3. Nick’s Pizza: Westport’s Wood-Fired Wonder
“Simple ingredients, extraordinary flavor” might as well be the motto at Nick’s Pizza in Westport. The magic happens in their wood-fired oven that reaches temperatures north of 800 degrees, creating that coveted leopard-spotted crust pizza aficionados dream about. Family-owned since opening day, Nick’s sources ingredients from local farms whenever possible. Their signature pizza features housemade sausage with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers that has customers driving from hours away. Seating is limited in this cozy spot, but regulars swear the wait is part of the experience – giving you time to watch the pizzaiolos work their craft.
4. Short & Main: Gloucester’s Coastal Pizza Paradise
The New York Times didn’t make a mistake when they named Short & Main among America’s 22 best pizzerias in 2024. This Gloucester gem combines New England’s freshest seafood with Neapolitan pizza traditions, creating something truly unique to Massachusetts’ coastal culture. Housed in a renovated fishing warehouse with exposed beams and harbor views, the atmosphere perfectly complements their innovative pies. Their clam pizza – topped with freshly harvested local clams, garlic, pecorino, and parsley – has developed a cult following. Owners Matt and Nico trained in Italy before bringing their expertise to Cape Ann, where they’ve created a dining experience that celebrates both Italian tradition and New England’s bounty.
5. Lynwood Café: Bar Pizza Perfection in Randolph
What exactly is “bar pizza”? Locals will point you to Lynwood Café in Randolph to answer that question. Operating since 1949, this unassuming tavern serves what many consider the platonic ideal of South Shore bar pizza – thin, crispy crust baked in well-seasoned steel pans with cheese that reaches all the way to the edges. Don’t expect fancy toppings or artisanal ingredients here. Lynwood keeps it gloriously simple with perfectly balanced sauce, a blend of cheeses, and traditional toppings like pepperoni and linguica. Order the “loaded” pie with multiple toppings or try your luck with a “laced” pizza – where the edge is lined with a ring of perfectly crispy, caramelized cheese.
6. Ernesto’s Pizza: North End’s Oversized Slices
“One slice is a meal” isn’t just clever marketing at Ernesto’s – it’s a mathematical fact. Each massive slice weighs nearly a pound and requires two paper plates to serve! This North End institution has been satisfying Boston’s hungry masses since 1984. While some pizza places focus on artisanal approaches, Ernesto’s embraces the “more is more” philosophy. Their signature Buffalo chicken pizza combines two Boston favorites into one glorious creation that has college students and professionals alike lining up during lunch rush. The tiny storefront offers limited seating, but locals know to take their slices to the nearby Paul Revere Mall for an impromptu picnic with views of the historic Old North Church.
7. Bambolina: Salem’s Modern Wood-Fired Masterpiece
Tucked among Salem’s historic buildings and witch-themed tourist shops stands Bambolina, a modern pizzeria bringing Neapolitan techniques into the 21st century. Their custom-built wood-fired oven imported from Italy reaches 925 degrees, cooking each pizza in just 90 seconds. Chef-owner Tim Haigh combines classical training with creative flair. The “Spicy Honey” pizza balances sopressata, fresh mozzarella, and Mike’s Hot Honey for a sweet-savory-spicy trifecta that perfectly represents their innovative approach. During October’s Halloween rush, locals know to skip the tourist-packed restaurants and head to Bambolina’s bar for their “Strega” cocktail and a pizza – Salem’s best-kept dining secret during its busiest season.
8. Hot Box: Somerville’s Coal-Fired Hidden Treasure
Somerville’s Bow Market might seem an unlikely place for world-class pizza, but Hot Box has turned their tiny 400-square-foot space into a coal-fired pizza powerhouse. What began as a pop-up concept in 2018 quickly developed a devoted following for their North Shore-style roast beef sandwiches and Detroit-inspired square pizzas. The “Red Line” pizza – named after Boston’s subway – features a caramelized cheese edge, crispy pepperoni cups, and hot honey drizzle. At just eight slices per pie, these thick-crusted squares sell out almost daily. Founder Mike Gurevich started experimenting with pizza recipes during pandemic lockdowns, turning a hobby into what many now consider Somerville’s most innovative pizza destination.