21 Best Pizza Restaurants in Iowa City

“As an Uber Eats driver I can recall plenty of times that i have been met with unhappy and unhelpful employees, understandably, but Kaylee was quite the opposite. I came in today super stressed due to money issues and i was immediately met with a positive and cheerful smile which boosted my spirits in spite of the dreadful day ive had. She even gave me a water as well as an accurate time estimate of how long the food was going to take to make. To be honest, i wouldve never considered coming here if not for her attitude and spirit but now I am!

Eddie M-H“

“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.“

“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+++++“

“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.“

“Whenever i go to Iowa City everyone recommends eating at Basta and I can now say I have hopped on the band wagon. The food is delicious and prices are fair for the portion sizes. The ambience of the restaurant is amazing! It is classy and upscale but still has a friendly and welcoming vibe. The staff is also amazing, Mackenzie ensured that my husband and I had a great experience for our anniversary dinner. We will definitely be visiting again our next time in Iowa City!“

“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.“

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

“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.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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!!“

“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.“

“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!“

“There pepperoni pizza is delicious“

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