Crackling flames kiss dough to perfection, crafting Ohio’s most craveable pies.
Each bite whispers of smoky magic-charred edges, blistered crusts, and toppings that sing. 🔥 From cozy nooks to bustling hearths, adventure simmers in every oven. Ready to taste the fire?
Saint Francis Apizza
Cincinnati’s pizza scene has a star performer that keeps customers coming back for more. St. Francis Apizza in Hyde Park delivers pizza perfection with every bite.
Owner Alexander started in 2018 by cooking pizzas in his living room for friends before opening his brick-and-mortar location in 2021.
Now, this takeout-only spot creates thin but chewy, flavorful pies using the highest quality local ingredients that have fans declaring it “the best pizza in Cincinnati.”
Food Highlights
- Margo-Rita: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, pecorino romano and grana padano, olive oil, finished with local fresh basil.
- Fancy White: No sauce here! Mozzarella, ricotta, fresh garlic, pecorino romano and grana padano, extra virgin olive oil, crushed red chile, topped with local fresh basil.
- Erie Ave: A staff favorite featuring tomato sauce, mozzarella, Ezzo pepperoni, pickled jalapeño peppers, hot honey, chile flake, and fresh basil.
- New Richmond: A veggie lover’s dream with tomato sauce, mozzarella, local oyster mushrooms, red onion, and fresh basil.
- Cincy Supreme: The works! Tomato sauce, mozzarella, Ezzo pepperoni, housemade sausage, Italian green olives, red onion, and local oyster mushrooms.
Atmosphere
St. Francis Apizza operates as a cozy, neighborhood takeout-only joint. 🏠 While there’s no indoor seating, what the restaurant lacks in dining space, it makes up for with incredible pizza and remarkably friendly service.
The staff knows their craft and delivers a consistently excellent product. 🍕
Expect this popular spot to book up early in the evening, with weekend wait times sometimes reaching several hours.
Pro tip: Order early to avoid disappointment or try their Monday special-ultra-thin tavern-style pizza!
Bottom Line
Visit St. Francis Apizza when you want to experience what many locals call the absolute best pizza in Cincinnati. 🏆
The combination of fresh, local ingredients, house-made dough prepared daily, and a style that draws influence from New York, New Haven, and Portland creates something truly special.
Even skeptical pizza connoisseurs leave impressed!
Address: 3392 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208
📞 (513) 532-2571
🕔 Open Sunday & Saturday 12 PM–8 PM, Monday-Friday 4 PM–8 PM
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Il Rione
Pizza lovers in Cleveland search no more! Il Rione serves up NY/NJ style pizzas that have earned them a spot on “best pizza” lists across Ohio.
The charming restaurant doesn’t take reservations, often resulting in a wait, but patrons agree the pizza is worth every minute.
Located in the vibrant Gordon Square area, this hotspot attracts locals and visitors alike.
Food Highlights 🍕
- Speck Pie: White pie topped with speck, lemon ricotta, pistachio, and hot honey
- Green Pie: Red sauce and mozzarella base with arugula pesto, fried sage leaves, and basil
- Diavolo Pie: A spicy combination of red sauce, mozzarella, calabrian chiles, spicy salami, and red onions
- Clam Pie: Middleneck clams, pecorino, garlic, and oregano create a taste of the ocean
- Sausage Pie: Red sauce, mozzarella, sausage, roasted peppers, sautéed onions, garlic, and parmesan
Atmosphere 🎵
Walking into Il Rione feels like stepping into a cozy Italian trattoria with a hipster Cleveland twist. The casual yet trendy vibe makes it perfect for both date nights and group outings.
Don’t be discouraged by the crowds-they’re just a testament to the restaurant’s popularity. While waiting for your table, you can grab a drink at nearby bars and the staff will text when your spot is ready.
The interior features attractive mood lighting and an overall lively environment that enhances the dining experience. 😎
The restaurant also offers a full bar with specialty cocktails to complement your pizza feast.
Many customers rave about the friendly service that makes everyone feel welcome despite the bustling atmosphere. Some reviewers mention that the thin, crispy crust alone would be worth the visit!
Bottom Line 👍
Il Rione has mastered the art of pizza-making, earning its reputation as one of Cleveland’s best pizza destinations.
The combination of outstanding thin-crust pies, inviting atmosphere, and quality ingredients creates an experience that’s worth adding to your Cleveland food tour.
Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita or feeling adventurous enough to try the Clam Pie, Il Rione delivers on flavor and authenticity. 🔥
Address: 1303 W 65th St, Cleveland, OH 44102
📞 (216) 282-1451
🕔 Closed Sunday-Monday; Open Tuesday-Thursday 4 PM–10 PM, Friday-Saturday 4 PM–11 PM