Missouri’s pizza scene reaches new heights with two legendary establishments that define excellence in their own unique ways.
Pizzeoli in St. Louis creates authentic Neapolitan masterpieces in their 800-degree wood-fired oven, while Minsky’s has been Kansas City’s crown jewel of pizza for nearly five decades.
These Missouri icons offer distinctly different yet equally compelling reasons to venture out for your next pizza adventure.
Pizzeoli Wood-Fired Pizza
Pizza lovers searching for authentic Neapolitan-style pies in St. Louis need to check out this gem in historic Soulard.
The restaurant crafts its pizzas using a traditional 4-ingredient dough cooked at a blazing 800 degrees in their wood-fired oven.
Local farm-sourced ingredients and made-from-scratch comfort food create an experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Food Highlights
- 12 South Pizza: Features smoked gouda, tomato jam, bacon, chicken, and arugula for a unique flavor combination
- Butterbird: House-made bourbon butter BBQ sauce topped with smoked gouda, chicken, and green onion
- Mayfair Wings: House-brined wings with Caesar-style sauce, wild caught anchovies, and parmigiano reggiano
- Roasted Mushroom: Available in red or white sauce versions, featuring local Ozark Forest mushrooms and Italian sausage
Atmosphere
The cozy, candlelit dining room creates a romantic yet casual vibe perfect for date nights or friendly gatherings.
The restaurant offers both indoor booth seating and a small bar area, plus seasonal outdoor street-side tables.
The massive tiled wood-fired oven serves as the showpiece of the space.
Why It’s One of the Best in Missouri
This award-winning pizzeria combines the best of both worlds – upscale dining quality with a laid-back atmosphere.
The thoughtfully crafted menu features both traditional and creative specialty pies that satisfy meat-lovers and vegans alike.
The dedication to local ingredients and scratch-made components elevates every dish above typical pizza fare.
Address: 1928 S 12th St, St Louis, MO 63104
Minsky’s Pizza
Pizza lovers searching for the ultimate slice in Kansas City need to make their way to Minsky’s Pizza.
This beloved KC institution has been crafting award-winning pizzas for over 48 years, earning the title of “Kansas City’s Best Pizza” multiple times.
Their hand-rolled dough, premium Wisconsin mozzarella, and commitment to using only the finest ingredients have made them a local legend.
Food Highlights
- Papa Minsky’s: Signature pizza featuring pepperoni, Italian sausage, salami, and roasted red peppers with sweet Minskitoni sauce
- Prime Cut: A fan favorite that regulars swear by, with cream cheese as an optional add-on
- Five Star Cheese Medley: Distinguished by its rosemary-enhanced blend of cheeses
- Cheeseburger Pizza: A unique twist that keeps customers coming back
- Joe’s KC BBQ Pizza: Special offering featuring smoked pork, brisket & burnt ends with Joe’s original BBQ sauce
Atmosphere
The restaurants offer a welcoming sports bar vibe with dozens of HD TVs perfect for game day viewing.
The full bar service and 12 beers on tap complement the casual, family-friendly environment.
Free WiFi and both indoor and outdoor seating options add to the comfortable dining experience.
Why It’s One of the Best in Missouri
Zagat ranked Minsky’s as the #1 Best Pizza in Missouri.
Their commitment to freshly prepared ingredients and hand-crafted pizzas, available in various sizes from 6″ mini to 26″ Gigantor, makes them a must-visit destination.
They offer multiple crust options including gluten-free, making it accessible to all pizza enthusiasts.
Address: Multiple locations throughout KC metro area, including 5105 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64112
