Ok, everyone knows there are hundreds of great Pizza spots all across Iowa.
But when it comes to legendary status, two family-owned establishments stand above the rest: Pagliai’s Pizza in Grinnell and Mabe’s Pizza in Decorah.
These time-tested favorites have been serving up their signature thin-crust masterpieces since the 1960s and 1950s respectively, perfecting their craft with secret family recipes and an unwavering dedication to quality ingredients.
Pagliai’s Pizza
Pagliai’s Pizza in Grinnell, Iowa, is a slice of heaven for pizza lovers.
This family-owned gem has been delighting locals and visitors alike since the 1960s, offering authentic Italian recipes passed down through generations.
From their made-from-scratch dough to their custom-blended mozzarella cheese, everything here screams quality. If you’re in Grinnell and craving a pizza experience that’s both classic and unique, this is the spot to be.
Food Highlights
- House Special Pizza: A loaded masterpiece featuring sausage, beef, pepperoni, onion, green pepper, and mushroom. It’s the ultimate choice for those who want it all.
- Margherita Pesto Pizza: A fresh and flavorful option with pesto sauce, tomatoes, feta cheese, and artichokes—a must-try for pesto fans.
- Shrimp Alfredo Pizza: A creamy delight topped with shrimp, onion, bacon, and three cheeses. It’s indulgence on a crust!
- Taco Pizza: A fun twist with beef, onion, taco chips, sour cream, lettuce, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for adventurous eaters.
- Baked Cavatappi: A pasta dish loaded with their signature meat sauce and melted mozzarella. Comfort food at its finest.
Atmosphere
The vibe at Pagliai’s is warm and welcoming—the kind of place where everyone feels like family.
The cozy interior is perfect for a casual night out or a gathering with friends. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring your visit is as satisfying as the food.
Why It’s One of the Best in Iowa
Pagliai’s Pizza isn’t just about great food—it’s about tradition. With recipes rooted in Italian heritage and perfected over decades, this spot delivers an experience that’s both nostalgic and delicious.
Their commitment to fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes them a standout in Iowa’s pizza scene.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through Grinnell, Pagliai’s Pizza is a must-visit destination.
Address: 816 5th Ave Grinnell, IA 50112
Mabe’s Pizza
If you’re in Decorah, Iowa, and craving a slice of history with your pizza, Mabe’s Pizza is the place to be.
This family-run gem has been serving up square-cut slices for over 70 years, making it a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike.
From its humble beginnings as “Mabel’s Lunch Room” in 1953 to its current spot on East Water Street, Mabe’s has perfected the art of thin-crust pizza while keeping its small-town charm intact.
Prepare to leave full, happy, and maybe even with a half-baked pizza to-go for later!
Food Highlights
- Mabe’s Special: A crowd favorite loaded with sausage, fresh vegetables, and cheese. It’s the perfect balance of savory and satisfying.
- Around the Garden: Packed with mushrooms, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, black olives, and cheese—ideal for veggie lovers.
- Deluxe Pizza: A hearty combination of sausage, pepperoni, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, and cheese. A must-try for those who love variety.
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza: A creamy ranch base topped with chicken and bacon. Comfort food at its finest!
- Cheeseburger Pizza: Featuring seasoned ground beef, bacon, pickles, and a ketchup-mustard sauce. It’s a burger in pizza form!
- Cookie Dough Dessert: Half-baked cookie dough topped with ice cream, chocolate, and caramel sauce—a sweet ending to your meal.
Atmosphere
Walking into Mabe’s Pizza feels like stepping into a slice of Decorah’s history. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with no-frills décor that lets the food take center stage.
It’s a place where families gather after soccer games and college students reminisce about late-night pizza runs.
Expect friendly service with a touch of small-town charm, though it can get busy on weekends—worth the wait!
Why It’s One of the Best in Iowa
Mabe’s Pizza isn’t just about great food; it’s about tradition.
The square-cut slices make sharing easy (or harder if you don’t want to share!), and their commitment to quality has kept customers coming back for decades.
Whether you’re passing through or staying in Decorah, this iconic eatery offers a taste of nostalgia paired with unforgettable flavors.
Address: 110 East Water Street, Decorah, Iowa 52101