Best Pizza in Charleston: Top Local Spots You Need to Try

If you’re a pizza person rolling through Charleston, you’re in luck. The city’s pizza scene is honestly kind of wild—there’s a style or flavor for just about anyone, whether you’re craving a chewy Neapolitan or a giant New York slice.

The best pizza in Charleston? It’s usually at the joints that take fresh ingredients seriously and aren’t afraid to do things their own way. Wood-fired, foldable, extra saucy—whatever you’re after, this city probably has it somewhere.

1) D’Allesandro’s Pizza

D’Allesandro’s is a family-run spot that’s been slinging neighborhood-style pies since 2006. They’re all about local ingredients and hand-tossed dough, with a sauce and topping lineup that’s honestly hard to beat.

Beyond pizza, you’ll find calzones, stromboli, wings, and meatballs on the menu. Eat in, take out, or get your order delivered—it’s all pretty easy. Lunch specials and happy hour keep things interesting.

Service members get a 10% discount every day, which is a nice touch. The vibe is laid-back, and people rave about the generous toppings and that chewy, flavorful crust. Kind of feels like a local hangout, honestly.

Location: 229 St Philip St, Charleston, SC 29403

2) EVO Pizzeria

EVO Pizzeria started out as a mobile wood-fired oven—yep, two chefs (Matt McIntosh and Ricky Hacker) just rolling around Charleston after working together at FIG. Their thing? Pizza built around local and seasonal stuff, nothing fussy.

By 2007, they’d set up shop on East Montague Avenue in North Charleston, and the Park Circle neighborhood really took to them. The menu keeps it simple: wood-fired pies with a lot of love and local flavor.

The atmosphere is lively but never too much. EVO’s grown a bit over the years, but you still get that feeling they care about the food and the people eating it. Kind of rare, right?

Location: 1075 E Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

3) Pizzeria Di Giovanni

Pizzeria Di Giovanni is Charleston’s go-to for classic New York-style pizza, all based on family recipes that have stuck around for generations. The crew keeps it real with fresh, authentic ingredients and that unmistakable Italian flavor.

They’re open late on weekends—like, 3 AM late—so it’s a lifesaver for anyone hunting pizza after midnight. The shop is casual, and you can walk in or book a spot if you’re planning ahead. They’ll even cater your pizza party if you ask.

Location: 40 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

4) Park Pizza Co

Park Pizza Co does classic pies with a bit of a modern edge. You can start with marinara, olive oil, alfredo—whatever base works for you—and then pile on cheese, meats, veggies, you name it. The menu’s flexible, so you can build your dream pizza or just grab a calzone if that’s your mood.

They mostly do takeout and delivery, so it’s perfect for lazy nights or when you just want great pizza at home. Subs and salads round things out, and they don’t overcomplicate things—just lots of flavor.

The topping list is wild: pepperoni and bacon, sure, but also fig preserves, horseradish, balsamic reduction. If you like experimenting, you’ll probably dig it. Sizes run from 10″ to 16″, and you can customize however you want.

Location: 1028 E Montague Ave, Charleston, SC 29405

5) Crust Wood Fired Pizza

Crust Wood Fired Pizza gets that perfect smoky flavor from their wood-fired oven—honestly, it’s hard to fake that. You’ll find both classic and specialty pies, plus some Italian dishes and sandwiches if you’re feeling something different.

There’s a wine bar for those who want a drink with their slice, and the place is a favorite for folks wanting laid-back pizza nights in Charleston.

It’s a relaxed spot, good for groups or families, and people seem to really appreciate the friendly staff and quality ingredients. No pretense—just good food and a comfortable vibe.

Location: 1956 Maybank Hwy #B, Charleston, SC 29412

6) Sabatinos Authentic New York City Pizza

Sabatinos brings that classic thin-crust New York slice to Charleston. The menu covers the basics—pizza by the slice, subs, and a few starters—so it’s a solid pick for a quick bite or a casual meal.

The owner’s a Bronx native, so the New York flavor is legit. You can eat in, grab it to go, or have it delivered—super convenient, honestly.

The space is simple and chill, with service that’s quick but not rushed. If you’re hungry and don’t want to wait around, this is your place.

Location: 151 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401

7) Orlando’s Brick Oven Pizza

Orlando’s Brick Oven Pizza does their pies in a bright, modern space, and you can grab classic Italian eats or fresh salads and a cold draft beer, too.

Sit at the counter and you get a front-row seat to the pizza-making show, which is honestly pretty fun. The ingredients are top-notch, and the atmosphere is airy and relaxed.

Fun fact: Orlando’s is the exclusive pizza provider at Credit One Stadium, which says something about their local rep. They’re definitely making moves.

Location: 295 Seven Farms Drive, Charleston, SC 29492

8) Melfi’s

Melfi’s is one of those classic Italian spots tucked away in downtown Charleston, the kind of place that feels timeless but never stuffy. Fresh pasta, salads, and Roman-style thin crust pizzas headline the menu, and you can taste the attention to detail in every dish—most of them come straight out of the wood-burning ovens.

The vibe leans cozy and a little bit old-school, with a long wooden bar and those crisp linen tablecloths. If you want to watch the action, there’s a small pizza counter up front where you can catch the pizzaiolo at work—always a fun touch.

Since Melfi’s is on the smaller side, reservations are pretty much a must. They don’t do takeout, and you won’t find high chairs or room for strollers, so it’s not the best pick for families with little kids. There’s parking across from the Greek Orthodox Church and in a few nearby lots if you don’t mind a short walk.

Location: 721 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

9) Pizza a Modo Mio (New York Pizzeria)

Pizza a Modo Mio is basically a little slice of Brooklyn dropped right into Charleston. Mike, the owner, has quite the backstory—he learned real-deal pizza making in Naples and kicked things off with a food truck before settling into the current shop.

The magic here is all in the ingredients. They get their dough shipped in from New York twice a week, so when they say “pizza’s only available while supplies last,” they mean it. Once the dough’s gone, that’s it for the day—no exceptions.

There’s pizza by the slice, and if you’re feeling brave (or just really, really hungry), you can try their 2-foot stromboli food challenge. They’ve even made it as a finalist for Best Pizza in Charleston, which is saying something in this town.

The menu goes beyond just pizza—there are other Italian favorites too. They like to give back, so events like their meatball eating contest help out local causes, including the MUSC children’s hospital.

Location: 3125 Bees Ferry Rd, Charleston, SC 29414

10) Fam’s Brewing Co. featuring Famulari’s Pizzeria

Fam’s Brewing Co. is where pizza and beer fans meet in Charleston—and, honestly, it works. The place has a laid-back sports bar feel, so you can grab a pint, order a pie, and just hang out without any fuss.

The pizza menu sticks to the basics, but that’s kind of the charm. Nothing too fancy, just solid pies that hit the spot. On the beer side, they brew their own stuff, so there’s always something local to try with your meal.

Set right on Folly Road, Fam’s draws a mix of locals and folks just passing through. It’s a go-to for casual meals, catching a game, or just hanging with friends—nothing pretentious, just good food and a lively crowd.

The space is roomy enough for groups, and there’s always something going on, whether it’s trivia night or just a bunch of friends splitting a pizza. If you like your pizza with a side of craft beer and a bit of noise, this is your spot.

Location: 1291 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Characteristics of Charleston Pizza

Charleston pizza is a bit of a chameleon, borrowing from local tastes and whatever trends happen to be in vogue. The texture, toppings, and how it’s made all add up to something you won’t find just anywhere. One night you’ll get a classic, the next something totally unexpected—think fresh produce, quirky cheeses, and that sweet spot between familiar and new.

Regional Influences and Styles

There’s a definite Italian backbone here, but Charleston’s Southern roots sneak in too. Neo-Neapolitan pies with that signature char and bubbly edge are everywhere, usually cooked at blazing temps. Some places go for the Roman-style—super thin, crispy, and served up in surprisingly elegant spaces.

Seafood? Absolutely. You’ll spot shrimp and other local catches on specialty pizzas, which feels right considering the coastal vibe. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely a Charleston thing.

Common Ingredients Used

Mozzarella is a given, but provolone pops up a lot, adding a bit of punch. Sometimes you’ll even find blue cheese crumbles paired with garlic, spinach, or balsamic chicken—yeah, it sounds weird but it works.

Seafood toppings like shrimp are a local favorite. Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil show up often, giving flavor without going overboard. Meatballs and house-made sauces keep things interesting and give Charleston’s pizza scene a little extra personality.

Tips for Enjoying Pizza in Charleston

 

Want to get the most out of your pizza night? Timing is everything. Hitting a pizzeria at the right hour and pairing your pie with local drinks can really up your game. If you know when the crowds thin out, you’ll get better service and maybe even a better seat. And honestly, the right drink can make a good pizza taste even better.

Best Times to Visit Pizzerias

Most pizza joints in Charleston get slammed in the evenings, especially once the weekend hits. If you can swing a weekday afternoon, you’ll probably have the place mostly to yourself. Lunch specials are a thing too, and they’re worth a look if you’re watching your wallet or just want a quieter vibe.

Spots like D’Allesandro’s or La Pizzeria fill up fast, so reserving a table for peak hours is smart. Or just show up right when they open—beats waiting in line. Oh, and if you hate crowds, skip the holidays. Locals love to dine out then, so it’s extra busy.

Pairing Pizza With Local Beverages

Charleston’s got a craft beer scene that’s honestly pretty impressive. Light lagers or a punchy IPA do wonders with cheesy, loaded pies. Breweries like Holy City Brewing and Westbrook Brewing are always solid bets.

If wine’s more your thing, a dry red—Pinot Noir or Chianti, maybe—plays nicely with tomato sauce. Some pizzerias mix up cocktails with local twists too. Just don’t pick anything too overpowering, or you’ll miss what’s happening on your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Charleston’s pizza scene is all over the map, honestly. Some places stand out for their location, some for their wild toppings, and a few just have that local magic everyone talks about.

What are the top-rated pizza places in Downtown Charleston?

D’Allesandro’s Pizza and EVO Pizzeria usually top the list downtown. Folks rave about the fresh ingredients and the crusts—seriously, the crusts are good.

Where can I find the best gluten-free pizza in Charleston, SC?

EVO Pizzeria does gluten-free right. They’re careful about cross-contamination and the end result is actually tasty, not just “good for gluten-free.”

Which pizza restaurant in West Ashley is known for authentic flavors?

Park Pizza Co in West Ashley is a favorite for wood-fired pizzas that blend tradition with local flair.

Are there any notable pizza spots in North Charleston?

Pizzeria Di Giovanni is a go-to up in North Charleston. People love the classic Italian pies and the staff is always friendly.

Can you recommend the most popular pizza joints in Mount Pleasant?

Crust Wood Fired Pizza is a Mount Pleasant staple. The pies are solid and the atmosphere’s just right for a chill night out.

What are local foodies saying about Charleston’s pizza scene on Reddit?

Scrolling through Reddit, you’ll see folks rave about La Pizzeria—seems to be a crowd favorite. Park Pizza Co pops up a lot too, with people praising the flavor and, honestly, just the whole vibe.