MomSkoop
Georgia’s pizza scene goes way beyond the big chain restaurants. Hidden throughout the state are authentic pizzerias crafting pies that have locals coming back week after week. These family-owned spots offer something the chains can’t – unique recipes, hometown atmosphere, and flavors that tell a story of tradition and passion. Ready to discover where Georgians really go when they crave a perfect slice?
1. Fellini’s Pizza: Atlanta’s Slice of Heaven
Since 1982, Fellini’s has been the go-to spot for Atlantans seeking no-frills, delicious pizza. The moment you walk in, the aroma of fresh dough hits you like a welcome hug.
What makes Fellini’s special isn’t fancy toppings or gimmicks – it’s consistency. Their New York-style slices are massive, foldable, and perfect for soaking up a night on the town. With multiple locations across Atlanta, you’re never too far from their signature thin crust.
Locals tip: Order the sicilian slice if you’re extra hungry. The thick, square-cut pizza provides double the satisfaction of their already generous regular slices.
2. Antico Pizza Napoletana: Naples’ Authentic Ambassador
Flour imported from Italy. San Marzano tomatoes. Handmade mozzarella. At Antico, authenticity isn’t just marketing – it’s religion.
Founded in 2009, this Atlanta gem quickly earned national recognition as one of America’s top pizzerias. The secret lies in their 900-degree wood-fired ovens that char the crust to perfection in just 60 seconds. The communal seating creates a lively atmosphere where strangers become friends over shared pizza passion.
Fun fact: Owner Giovanni Di Palma’s family recipes trace back generations to Naples, the birthplace of pizza. Each bite transports you straight to southern Italy without the plane ticket.
3. Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria: Smoky Slices of Perfection
Coal-fired ovens are rare in Georgia, which makes Max’s a true standout in Atlanta’s downtown. Their 1,000-degree oven creates a distinctive smoky flavor and crispy-yet-chewy texture that’s impossible to replicate in standard pizza ovens.
The New York-inspired thin crust serves as the perfect canvas for both classic and creative toppings. Max’s doesn’t just excel at pizza – their coal-fired wings have developed their own cult following among locals.
The restaurant’s brick walls and warm lighting create an atmosphere that feels simultaneously upscale and comfortable. Perfect for date night or family dinner, Max’s strikes that elusive balance between quality and accessibility.
4. Savage Pizza: Superhero Flavor in Little Five Points
Comic book heroes watch over diners at this quirky Little Five Points institution. Opened in 1990, Savage Pizza marries superhero fandom with seriously good hand-tossed pies in Atlanta’s most eclectic neighborhood.
The walls covered in comic artwork create an atmosphere unlike any other pizzeria in Georgia. But don’t let the playful vibe fool you – their pizza-making is serious business. The dough, made fresh daily, achieves that perfect balance between crisp exterior and chewy interior.
Their signature savage sauce has a hint of sweetness that regulars crave. While the Savage Special loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions and peppers remains their bestseller, their white pizzas have converted countless sauce loyalists.
5. Rosa’s Pizza: Downtown Atlanta’s Slice of New York
When homesick New Yorkers need a taste of home, they head to Rosa’s. Operating since 1970 in downtown Atlanta, this unassuming spot serves slices that transport you straight to Manhattan with one bite.
The tiny storefront might not look impressive, but the steady stream of regulars tells the real story. Rosa’s specializes in the basics done perfectly – thin, foldable crust with the right amount of chew, tangy tomato sauce, and quality cheese that stretches with each bite.
What you won’t find are gimmicks or trendy toppings. Rosa’s remains steadfastly old-school, focusing on perfecting traditional pizza rather than chasing the latest food trends. This commitment to authenticity has kept them thriving for over five decades.
6. Two Cities Pizza Co.: Where Chicago Meets New York
“Why choose?” That’s the philosophy behind Suwanee’s beloved Two Cities Pizza. This unique concept celebrates America’s two great pizza traditions – the thin, foldable New York slice and the hearty, knife-and-fork Chicago deep dish.
The restaurant’s design cleverly splits the space between NYC subway aesthetics and Chicago architectural elements. Each style gets equal respect in the kitchen, with authentic techniques and ingredients for both. Their deep dish features that distinctive cornmeal crust with cheese on the bottom and sauce on top, while their New York pies have that perfect fold.
A friendly rivalry exists among regulars about which style reigns supreme. The owners wisely refuse to take sides in this delicious debate.
7. DaVinci’s Pizzeria of Smyrna: Artistry in Every Bite
The name DaVinci’s isn’t just clever marketing – it reflects the artful approach this Smyrna favorite takes with pizza. Each pie is crafted with the careful attention of a Renaissance master.
What sets DaVinci’s apart is their commitment to balance. Too many pizzerias go overboard with toppings or cheese, but here, every element works in harmony. The dough, made fresh daily, achieves that elusive perfect texture – not too thick, not too thin.
Beyond traditional options, DaVinci’s experimental seasonal pies showcase Georgia’s local produce. Their cozy brick interior, friendly staff, and commitment to craft have made this spot a cornerstone of Smyrna’s dining scene since opening. Even Leonardo himself would approve of their artistic approach to pizza.
8. Big Pie in the Sky Pizzeria: Kennesaw’s Mammoth Challenge
“Go big or go home” isn’t just a saying at Big Pie in the Sky – it’s their business model. This Kennesaw legend has earned national attention for their Carnivore Challenge: finish an 11-pound, 30-inch pizza in under an hour and win $250.
Even if you’re not attempting the challenge, their gigantic slices satisfy in both size and flavor. College students from nearby Kennesaw State University pack the place for their lunch specials that won’t break a student budget.
Despite their focus on size, quality isn’t sacrificed. The thin crust somehow supports mountains of toppings without getting soggy – a technical achievement that impresses pizza aficionados. Their laid-back atmosphere makes this the perfect spot for group gatherings or post-game celebrations.