22 Best Pizza Restaurants in Iowa City

“We tried this Restaurant out for the first time this last Saturday. We did call and get reservation earlier that week though due to UofI graduations. We ordered seven different items off their menu. I have to tell you, they were all great. The farmhouse salad, the Burrata, the pizzas and my favorite, the Seven-Layer Lasagna Bolognese! Well done Maggie’s! A+++++“

“Pagliai’s Pizza is the kind of place that reminds you why the best dining experiences are often the simplest. Tucked away in Iowa City, this unassuming neighborhood institution feels like a hidden treasure — and after our first visit, the only disappointment was realizing it took us four years, and the eve of graduation, to finally discover it. What makes Pagliai’s even more remarkable is its history. Serving Iowa City since 1957, the restaurant has spent decades perfecting the art of traditional pizza-making, and that experience is evident in every detail. In an era where restaurants constantly chase trends, Pagliai’s has endured by staying true to what it does best. From the moment you walk in, Pagliai’s embraces an old-school charm that feels increasingly rare. The dining room is cozy and inviting, filled with classic booths and intimate tables that create the perfect atmosphere for an authentic pizza night. There’s no unnecessary flash here — just a restaurant that knows exactly what it is and executes it beautifully. The menu follows the same philosophy of simplicity done right. Beer, wine, and soda accompany what is unquestionably the star of the show: the pizza. Offered in both original crust and double dough, the pies arrive perfectly crafted and unapologetically delicious. We ordered two large original crust pizzas, and every slice passed the ultimate “flop test” with flying colors — crisp enough to hold its shape, yet still perfectly tender with each bite. What makes Pagliai’s so memorable is its confidence in tradition. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors are balanced, and the experience feels refreshingly genuine. Add in prices that are remarkably reasonable, and it becomes clear why this Iowa City staple has thrived for nearly seven decades. Whether you’re a longtime Iowa City resident or simply passing through, Pagliai’s Pizza is a must-visit destination — a timeless pizza parlor that quietly delivers one of the best meals in town.“

“Ate here for the first time before attending an Iowa basketball game nearby. There were good choices on the menu. I had the spicey Italian meatball grinder with fries. It was good and very filling. Prices seemed reasonable. The place was noisy so it was hard to socialize with my friends. Otherwise, a good place to eat and would go there again if in town.“

“What a way to have a tasty pizza! Pick your ingredients, choose your crust and there you go, exactly like you want it, If you warm up the oven before you leave, your pizza will be ready in about 10 minutes. Perfect. We like to order the large size so we can get several meals out one.“

“Rachel is amazing. Entire place is great vibes.“

“. Fantastic place! I recently moved from Chicago and have been here twice already. The food is amazing, and the customer service is beyond exceptional. All of the staff are kind and professional, but Lily truly deserves special recognition, she has the best serving attitude, outstanding customer service, and makes guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for. Her positive energy and professionalism make a real difference. Wishing everyone here continued success, I’ll definitely be back again!“

“Always great pizza, every time. Long time customer (decades by now) !“

“their chicken bacon ranch pizza is fantastic!“

“we love the chicago pizza alfredo and the Tuscany chicken bread“

“I wish I found this place earlier in my stay in Iowa city. this place is a great value! will definitely be trying more when in the area.“

“I dined with Gumby's for years until I left Iowa City and you can't beat them- we miss them a lot!“

“Those searching for real Italian food, COME HERE! The food tasted pretty much like Italy, amazing pizza crust and their pasta had that unique flavor you can only find in Europe. Along with the unique food was unique service. Christopher has mastered his job, it just makes me want to go back and talk to him more. Thank you chefs and servers for an amazing experience ❤️“

“I came in today. I ordered a burger. it was the tap tap to be exact. I wanted to add bacon on it but there wasn't an option for the bartender to add that when she placed my order. Instead, she went back to the kitchen to check with the cooks to see if it could be an option and they made it happen. such a great way of going above and beyond.“

“10000% recommend picking up the food. Always have problems when delivered. Unfortunately they are now blacklisted by me. But i enjoy the food but cant go pick it up. I’ve been a customer for about 10+ years and highly recommend the Ben’s Other pizza. Very good! Very balanced for price, quality, and value. Just Do not get delivery. In my opinion, obviously.“

“The pizza was delicious! Generous toppings, great flavor crust and sauce, although the crust was a little tough. The small indoor seating area is just a courtesy as carryout is their main business, but it was a lovely afternoon, so we sat at their little outdoor seating area. Very friendly, speed-o-light service too.

Vegetarian options: The veggie pizza includes a diverse and generous selection of toppings.“

“Never disappointed! Consistently great pizza!!“

“we ate here for the first time on Tuesday and the service was phenomenal! your server, Kate, needs a raise or promotion because she was outstanding! very friendly and engaged. we will definitely be back!“

“Overall I'm always a big fan of Domino's service and quality. This location had my number to text updates but I still didn't know when my pizza was ready. I checked and it was sitting there for 11 minutes. The quality was fine. I would return if I'm ever in the area again.“

“They usually get everything right. I'd give 5 stars, but I got charged twice for one order.“

“Went for the chicken but even through it was recently put out it was very dry even dark meat was dry.
, I assume it was in the warmer too long. Tried the new chicken strips, same thing very dry only took 1 bite. Rest of food was ok. My wife said if the chicken isn’t good, no reason to be there.“

“There pepperoni pizza is delicious“

“We enjoyed another visit to Flight. attractive menu choices from simple to serious entrees. Excellent value with half piracy wines on Monday and Tuesday. Prompt, engaging service and a pleasant setting. Not a problem getting a table even though they did not have my confirmed Open Table reservation. Might be a good idea to call if you think you have one.“