7 Fantastic Pizza Restaurants in Denver, CO

Last updated in September 2024
An image of a pizza restaurant.

Denver's pizza scene is nothing short of spectacular, offering a little something for everyone, from Neapolitan to Detroit-style pizzas. Whether you’re hanging out in the hip River North neighborhood or the cozy comforts of Park Hill, there's an inviting pizzeria waiting to be discovered. Take Cart-Driver for instance—its vibrant shipping container setting draws you in with the irresistible aroma of wood-fired pizza, while guests rave about the clam pizza and the delightful happy hour. Or maybe you're in the mood for a slice of Blue Pan Pizza, where that airy, crispy Detroit crust can turn any meal into a laid-back feast among friends. You can’t put a foot wrong in this city, especially with favorites like Oblio's Pizza, where community vibes blend seamlessly with nostalgia and delicious dishes. How about Corner House Pizza Pasta Bar with its inventive toppings and warmth of a family dinner? And don’t forget Beau Jo's, famous for its Colorado-style pies that mix local flair with mouthwatering flavors. Each spot offers not just meals, but experiences that keep guests coming back for more, making Denver a true haven for pizza lovers.

1

Beau Jo's Denver

2110 S University Blvd Unit D

Denver, CO 80210

(303) 997-7676

Pros and Cons

  • Delicious Colorado-style pizza with fresh ingredients and a unique thick crust.

  • Friendly and attentive staff that enhances the overall dining experience.

  • Vibrant atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends or family.

  • Offers a variety of options, including gluten-free and vegetarian pizzas.

  • Quick service ensures that you won’t have to wait long for your food.

  • Prices can be considered high by some, which may deter budget-minded guests.

  • Parking is often challenging, especially during busy hours.

What Is It?

Beau Jo's Denver has been serving up scrumptious pizza since 1973, offering a variety of creations including their signature Colorado-style pies. Located near the University of Denver, this lively spot also features fresh salads, buffalo wings, and local craft beers to complement your meal. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients—including honey-sweetened dough made throughout the day—this restaurant has made a name for itself in the pizza scene in Denver.

The Experience

As soon as you step into Beau Jo's Denver, you're greeted with a vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizza. You settle into a cozy table, scanning the menu filled with mouthwatering choices. You decide to try the Mountain Crust pizza, generously topped with fresh ingredients, while your friend opts for the highly recommended margarita pizza. Once the orders are placed, the attentive staff comes by to check on you and offer drink recommendations that really enhance the experience.

Before you know it, your pizza arrives, and the sight of the thick, crispy crust immediately catches your attention. A drizzle of honey is presented on the side, perfect for dipping. The first bite reveals a delightful combination of crispy and chewy textures, coupled with an explosion of flavors from the toppings. You can’t help but share your enthusiasm with your friend, who is equally impressed by the generous portion sizes and the freshness of the ingredients.

As you savor every slice, the chatter of laughter and cheerful conversations fill the air, creating a warm vibe that beckons you to linger a bit longer. The staff continues to check in, ensuring you have everything you need without intruding on your meal. Everyone around you seems equally satisfied, chatting about the wings they’ve enjoyed and the fun atmosphere—it's clear that Beau Jo's is a hit with both new visitors and returning patrons.

After finishing your meal, you can’t resist trying their buffalo wings, which have been likened to another level of deliciousness by other guests. They arrive perfectly cooked, and you find yourself daydreaming about those wings long after the meal is done. You leave feeling pleased, happy to have rediscovered this delightful pizza spot, already planning your next visit to try another specialty pie.

2

Blue Pan Pizza

3509 E 12th Ave

Denver, CO 80206

(720) 519-0944

Pros and Cons

  • Award-winning Detroit-style pizza with a unique cheese blend.

  • Friendly and attentive staff that create a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Variety of gluten-friendly and vegetarian options.

  • Diverse menu with delicious appetizers and desserts.

  • Great place for dining in or picking up takeout.

  • Long wait times, especially during peak hours.

  • Cramped seating arrangements may detract from dining experience.

  • Service can feel rushed during busy times.

  • Parking in the area can be challenging.

What Is It?

Blue Pan Pizza brings the essence of Detroit to Denver with its award-winning Detroit-style pizza, known for its airy and crispy crust paired with a delicious cheese blend. Alongside traditional favorites, the menu offers gluten-friendly options, thin-crust choices, and mouthwatering appetizers and salads, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers in the area.

The Experience

Walking into Blue Pan Pizza, you’re immediately struck by the inviting vibe. The restaurant is lively, filled with laughter and the tempting aroma of freshly baked pizza. After a friendly welcome from the staff, you take a seat and explore the menu brimming with unique offerings, but everything seems to point toward their signature Detroit-style options. The Brooklyn Bridge pizza catches your eye—a hearty selection topped with high-quality ingredients and perfectly cooked cheese.

Once your order arrives, your taste buds awaken with just one bite—the crust is perfection: crispy on the edges while the center holds a delightful fluffiness. Patrons rave about this combination, and you understand why they keep coming back for more. With each slice, you savor the diverse flavors that meld beautifully, and the ricotta topping is a lovely surprise, enhancing the pizza's richness.

While waiting for your meal, the staff checks in on you, ensuring everything is fantastic without making you feel rushed. More guests trickle in, and the warmth of the staff is palpable as they accommodate everyone with smiles, creating an environment that encourages conversation and community. Even during peak times, there’s a sense of camaraderie among diners, who seem just as eager to share their love for Detroit-style pizza.

As you finish up your meal, you can’t resist ending on a sweet note. The desserts on offer are a perfect finish—light, flavorful, and made with care. As you leave, your heart is full and you can't wait to tell your friends about your newfound favorite pizza place. You already start planning your next visit, perhaps during an off-peak hour to avoid the bustle, but knowing, regardless, that the experience will be worth every minute spent waiting for such delicious pizza.

When to Go

The best time to visit Blue Pan Pizza is during the mid-afternoon, especially on weekdays. Dropping by around 2 PM or 3 PM can allow you to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and significantly shorter wait times compared to the bustling dinner rush.

3

Cart-Driver RiNo

2500 Larimer St #100

Denver, CO 80205

(303) 292-3553

Pros and Cons

  • Unique ambiance with a vibrant shipping container setup.

  • Delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas that are consistently praised.

  • Fresh oysters and a variety of creative appetizers.

  • Friendly and attentive staff, creating a great dining atmosphere.

  • Great late-night happy hour specials make for an appealing dining option.

  • Higher price point compared to similar casual dining experiences.

  • Limited seating leads to long waits for tables.

  • Longer wait times for food during peak hours.

  • Noise levels can be high in such a small space.

What Is It?

Cart-Driver RiNo is a vibrant wood-fired pizzeria and oyster bar located in the eclectic River North neighborhood of Denver. In a uniquely charming setting made from shipping containers, this spot draws in food lovers with its delightful Neapolitan-style pizzas and fresh oysters. With a menu that features locally sourced ingredients, artisanal pizzas, and a variety of approachable cocktails, it's a laid-back destination for both Denver locals and visitors.

The Experience

You're cruising through the lively River North neighborhood when you spot Cart-Driver, nestled among the trendy shipping containers—what a sight! You can't help but be drawn in by the warm glow spilling out as patrons laugh and chat. Once you walk in, you're greeted by the friendly staff, and the inviting smell of wood-fired pizza instantly whets your appetite. You scan the menu, eyeing the tempting options; the clam pizza and build-your-own feature fresh ingredients that catch your interest, not to mention the incredible late-night happy hour specials.

After placing your order at the counter, you find a cozy spot on the back patio where the ambiance is just right—perfectly casual, with twinkling lights overhead. The sun is setting, and there's a light buzz amongst fellow diners enjoying their meals. You can't resist getting a dozen oysters to start while you wait for your pizza. The freshness and quality are exquisite, and paired with a tangy homemade hot sauce, it truly sets the stage for what's to come.

Soon enough, your Neapolitan pizza arrives, and it looks divine! The crust is perfectly charred on the edges, a tantalizing balance of light and airy with a nice chewiness. With every slice, you get a burst of flavors that transport you straight to Italy. You savor a variety of toppings: cheese that stretches just right and sauce made from high-quality tomatoes. And let’s not forget the drinks—you can’t ignore their cocktails for a cause, which make enjoying this meal even more satisfying while contributing back to the community.

Conversations flow effortlessly, and the atmosphere, both inside and outside, feels genuinely inviting. Between the staff’s attentiveness and the delightful flavors, you can’t help but think about when you’ll make your next visit. This is more than just dinner; it’s a memorable experience filled with great food and even greater company. You leave feeling satisfied and grateful for having discovered this gem in the heart of Denver.

When to Go

If you’re looking to enjoy a more relaxed experience at Cart-Driver, aim for a visit during the late afternoon or early evening on weekdays. These times tend to have less foot traffic, allowing you to enjoy your food and the atmosphere without the crowds that swarm later in the night.

4

Corner House Pizza |Pasta| Bar

100 Knox Ct

Denver, CO 80219

(720) 413-2085

Pros and Cons

  • Authentic Italian pizzas and pastas with generous portions.

  • Friendly and attentive service from the owner and staff.

  • Cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for families and friends.

  • Complimentary dessert and unexpected sweet treats enhance the dining experience.

  • Great value for the quality of food offered.

  • Service can be slow during peak busy hours.

  • Inconsistencies in pizza crust texture, some guests prefer thinner crusts.

  • Some guests felt portions of wings were smaller than expected.

What Is It?

Corner House Pizza Pasta Bar is a charming family-owned eatery in Denver that serves up authentic Italian pastas and pizzas, paired with a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and draft options. This community-centric spot welcomes everyone with open arms, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for families, friends, and pizza lovers alike.

The Experience

As you walk into Corner House Pizza Pasta Bar, the inviting aroma of freshly baked pizza and simmering sauces wraps around you like a warm hug. The cozy atmosphere, with its friendly decor and upbeat music, sets the stage for what’s bound to be a delightful dining experience. You settle into a comfortable table, eager to sample the menu that many locals rave about. The staff is quick to greet you with warm smiles, one of them genuinely recounts tales of their favorite dishes. You feel right at home.

When the food arrives, it’s like Christmas morning for your taste buds. You take a generous bite of the Antero pizza, which boasts a unique avocado topping you’ve never tried before – and wow, it’s delicious! The crust is thick yet perfectly crispy, filled with lots of wonderfully melting cheese. A family nearby digs into their huge cheesy garlic bread, and you can’t help but sneak a glance at their overflowing plates of baked ziti, too. Everyone’s joy is infectious; it enhances your dining experience tremendously, making it seem all the more special.

You can't resist the allure of dessert, so you ask if there’s a sweet treat to finish off your meal. To your delightful surprise, the restaurant offers a complimentary tiramisu, and your fork dives right in. It's light, decadent, and the perfect ending to a wonderful meal that exceeded your expectations. You look around to see other guests enjoying their meals just as much, kids' faces lighting up at the sight of their pizza slices.

After your meal, you take a moment to chat with the owner, who exudes warmth and passion for the food they serve. This personal touch makes the experience feel truly special, as you plan your next visit before you even walk out the door. You leave Corner House feeling satisfied, already reminiscing about the deliciousness you savored and looking forward to your next meal there.

When to Go

For those wishing to beat the crowds, consider visiting Corner House during the late afternoon hours, around 2 PM to 5 PM. During this time, the restaurant is less packed, allowing you to savor a leisurely meal without feeling rushed or cramped.

5

Hops & Pie

3920 Tennyson St

Denver, CO 80212

(303) 477-7000

Pros and Cons

  • Delicious sourdough pizza, including the popular hot honey pepperoni.

  • Great craft beer selection, featuring local breweries.

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor games for kids.

  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff who often recommend great dishes.

  • Vibrant community hub, perfect for casual gatherings and special events.

  • Occasional order mix-ups that can lead to dissatisfaction.

  • Cramped and noisy during peak hours, making conversation difficult.

  • Inconsistencies in pizza preparation that can affect quality.

What Is It?

Hops & Pie is a beloved comfort food restaurant and craft beer bar in Denver, known for its innovative sourdough pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and enticing appetizers. With a menu that features mouthwatering options like Detroit-style pizza and unique artisan pies, it's a local favorite for both casual dining and special occasions. The inviting atmosphere, complete with a spacious patio, promotes a welcoming space for friends, families, and beer enthusiasts.

The Experience

As you stroll down Tennyson Street, the aroma of freshly baked sourdough pizza beckons you into Hops & Pie. The moment you step inside, the lively ambiance envelops you—a mosaic of laughter, clinking glasses, and the unmistakable sound of sizzling pizza being pulled from the oven. You take a seat at the bar, greeted by a friendly staff member who’s quick to recommend the hot honey pepperoni pizza, an absolute crowd favorite! The diverse selection of craft beers lining the wall is just as enticing, with local brews ready to quench your thirst.

When your pizza arrives, the sourdough crust is perfectly golden and buoyant, bursting with delicious toppings. You take your first bite, and it feels like a slice of heaven with a satisfying crunch followed by chewy goodness. Alongside the pizza, you sip on a crisp IPA that perfectly complements the robust flavors of your meal. The atmosphere is just right; there’s the laughter of children playing outside while couples enjoy their meals, making it a family-friendly spot. You can even spot some locals engaging in a fun game of cornhole on the patio!

You can’t leave without trying their garlic cheese bread and a decadent dessert. When the dessert arrives—a rich bread pudding paired with melt-in-your-mouth Rice Krispy treats—you realize you’ve stumbled upon a gem in the heart of your neighborhood. As you look around, you notice everyone else seems as happy as you are, enjoying the food and the casual vibe of this community hub.

Hops & Pie is not just for the foodies; it's a place where memories are made, like celebrating a birthday with friends or winding down after a long day with a craft beer and delicious pizza. As you leave, the tempting thought of returning soon lingers, and you can't help but smile knowing that next time, you'll bring friends along to share in this delightful experience.

When to Go

For a more relaxed meal experience, try visiting during the mid-afternoon or earlier in the week. Lunchtime generally sees a lower crowd, especially on weekdays, and you can enjoy your meal without the bustling evening rush that often hits closer to dinner time and on weekends.

6

Oblio's

6115 E 22nd Ave

Denver, CO 80207

(303) 321-1511

Pros and Cons

  • Delicious pizzas with a variety of topping options.

  • Warm and welcoming staff that create a community feel.

  • Great outdoor seating on the patio, perfect for nice weather.

  • Positive family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for dining with kids.

  • Noteworthy vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

  • Occasional long wait times for food and drink.

  • Could be noisy during peak hours, affecting conversation.

  • Some guests reported issues regarding closing time policies.

What Is It?

Oblio's Pizza has been a cherished Park Hill gem for over 27 years, offering more than just pizza; it serves as a community hub where nostalgia meets modern flavors. Guests can indulge in fresh, scratch-made dishes, paired perfectly with local craft beers and wines in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

The Experience

Stepping into Oblio's feels like a homecoming, whether you're a local or just passing through Denver. As you take in the charming decor, it's impossible not to notice the warm smiles from the staff that set the tone for an enjoyable evening. You grab a table on the patio when the weather is inviting—perfect for enjoying the vibrant neighborhood vibe. You peruse a menu filled with delightful options, casually noting that the Godfather and Cody Boy pizzas are popular picks among patrons. After placing your order, you soak in the bustling yet cozy ambiance, catching snippets of laughter and chatter from families and friends nearby.

Before long, the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafts through the air, whetting your appetite. When your pizza arrives, it’s a feast for the senses. The crust is perfectly thin and crispy, and the toppings are generous and fresh, living up to the many praises you’ve heard. You can't resist trying a side of the famous spinach artichoke dip, a true crowd favorite reported by many. Each bite reminds you why this spot is often highlighted as a quintessential pizza destination in Denver.

As you savor your meal, it’s clear this place thrives on community spirit. Everybody seems to know each other, sharing stories while sharing a bite, creating a delightful social atmosphere. Kids are happily devouring their portions as parents sneak in a slice for themselves. The friendliness transcends just the patrons too; the staff engages with the diners, making every visit feel personalized and special. Everyone is cheerful, and it’s evident they care about the customers and are proud of the food they serve.

When you're getting ready to leave, you can’t resist snagging dessert—a plate of the gooey cinnamon breadsticks that everyone raves about. With a full belly and a satisfied smile, you keep Oblio's at the top of your pizza spot list. You wander back home through the Park Hill neighborhood feeling like you’ve just made lasting memories, reinforcing why this local gem has been a beloved fixture for decades.

When to Go

If you’re looking to enjoy a quieter experience at Oblio's, consider visiting during mid-afternoon or later in the week. Trips between 2 PM and 5 PM tend to be less crowded, giving you a better chance to appreciate the atmosphere without the bustle often found during dinner hours.

7

Walter's303 Pizzeria & Publik House | Lowry

200 Quebec St #109

Denver, CO 80230

(303) 284-2066

Pros and Cons

  • Handmade pizzas with quality ingredients and a variety of unique flavors.

  • Wide selection of craft beers on tap, regularly rotating.

  • Friendly and attentive staff that create a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Highly praised wings and complementary appetizers like cheesy breadsticks.

  • Service can be slow during peak hours, leading to longer wait times.

  • Higher drink prices compared to similar establishments.

What Is It?

Walter's303 Pizzeria & Publik House in Lowry, Denver, is a local hotspot known for its handmade pizzas and inviting atmosphere. With a menu featuring award-winning wings, calzones, and a rotating craft beer list, this charming eatery focuses on quality ingredients and friendly service. Whether you’re dining with family, catching up with friends, or enjoying some game day excitement, Walter's303 delivers a lively and community-centric dining experience.

The Experience

As you step into Walter's303, you're greeted by cheerful music and a buzz of laughter, a true reflection of Lowry’s vibrant community spirit. The relaxed vibe instantly puts you at ease, setting the perfect tone for an evening filled with delicious bites. After being seated by a friendly server who remembers you from your last visit, you quickly scan the menu, tempted by choices like the creamy lasagna and the ever-recommended Crazy Chicken pizza. But tonight, your heart is set on the Popeye pizza, bursting with fresh spinach and ricotta—a definite crowd-pleaser!

While you wait for your food, you can't help but admire the extensive walls lined with local brews on tap. A quick chat with the bartender reveals they usually rotate their selection, which means there's always something new to try. You order a couple of microbrews to pair with your meal. When the pizza arrives, it's a sight to behold: golden crust, bubbling cheese, and toppings wonderfully fresh. You savor each bite, especially appreciating the home-style marinara drizzled on top.

As you dig in, you notice other tables buzzing with guests enjoying various dishes. The wings here have quite the reputation, and when a few nearby patrons rave about the Kicking Bourbon BBQ wings, you vow to try them next time. The staff continues to check on you throughout the meal—not intrusive but refreshingly attentive, making you feel right at home. You can't resist finishing your meal off with their famous cheesy breadsticks, reminiscent of childhood pizza nights.

After dessert, you lean back, feeling satisfied and content. The conversation flows easily as tables around you share laughs and toasts. With a commitment to good vibes and great food, Walter's303 has undoubtedly earned its place as your new go-to pizzeria. You leave with plans to return, excited to try more from their tantalizing menu.

When to Go

For those looking to enjoy a quieter experience, visiting Walter's303 during the early afternoon or later in the evening, right after the dinner rush, tends to be less crowded. Weekdays are particularly good bets, as patrons consistently recommend avoiding the busier weekend evenings.

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