From Best to Worst: The Top US Pizza Chains Ranked
Craving a slice of the good stuff? Whether you’re a deep-dish devotee, a thin-crust enthusiast, or somewhere in between, America’s pizza landscape is as diverse and sprawling as the country itself. From the cheesy corners of New York to the saucy slices of Chicago, we’ve embarked on a flavorful journey to rank 50 of the nation’s most beloved pizza chains. From the crème de la crème that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds) to those that might just have you saying ‘thank you, next,’ our comprehensive list spans the full pizza spectrum. Prepare your taste buds, grab a napkin, and join us as we slice through the competition to bring you the ultimate guide: 50 US Pizza Chains Ranked From Best to Worst.
50. Uno Pizzeria & Grill
At the pinnacle of pizza perfection stands Uno Pizzeria & Grill. This establishment has pioneered a pizza revolution and maintained its crown in the competitive arena of national chains. This culinary titan birthed the iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza. This masterpiece transcends mere thickness for a rich, layered eating experience.
At Uno’s, crafting their deep-dish begins with a buttery dough skillfully pressed into a deep pan, followed by a reverse layering of traditional toppings, cheese, and a robust tomato sauce, ensuring an evenly cooked, flavor-packed bite. Beyond their culinary craft, Uno has elegantly evolved from its nostalgic Chicago-themed interiors to a refined ambiance, emphasizing craft beers and premium offerings. While it may not outshine a beloved local pizzeria, Uno Pizzeria & Grill is a beacon of excellence, offering a taste of Chicago nationwide.
49. California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) embodies the spirit of innovation, firmly placing it as a pizza domain leader. By embracing its Californian roots, CPK transcends traditional pizza paradigms, infusing its creations with fresh, local ingredients that celebrate the Golden State’s bounty. Avocado, artichokes, and goat cheese are just the beginning; CPK’s menu is a mosaic of cultural influences, featuring bold flavors from Asian and Latin cuisines.
Introducing unexpected dishes like the West Coast Burger and Baja Crunch salad alongside their adventurous pizzas showcases CPK’s commitment to culinary creativity, wrapped in an atmosphere as sunny and welcoming as California.
48. Pizza Ranch
Pizza Ranch stands out for its quality pizza and for creating an inviting dining atmosphere, as evidenced by its top ranking in the Market Force study. Originating from Iowa, this chain has become a beloved fast-food pizza destination, largely thanks to its buffet option. The buffet offers customers unlimited food, drinks, and desserts, contributing significantly to its reputation for the best atmosphere among pizza chains.
Beyond pizza, Pizza Ranch also diversifies its menu with offerings such as fried chicken and buffalo wings, catering to a wider range of tastes and preferences while focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.
47. Mellow Mushroom
Mellow Mushroom takes you on a vibrant journey to pizza enlightenment, distinguishing itself with a kaleidoscope of premium ingredients and a deep dive into a psychedelic theme. This chain has mastered the art of pizza innovation with offerings like the Kosmic Karma and Funky Q. Chicken, each a testament to their creative spirit.
Beyond the menu, Mellow Mushroom’s commitment to the arts, social causes, and sustainability paints a picture of a genuinely caring brand, making each slice delicious and part of a more significant, positive impact on the community. Whether vegan or just a lover of all things pizza, Mellow Mushroom offers a groovy escape into a world where flavor and philosophy collide.