Waynesville, nestled in North Carolina’s scenic mountains, offers pizza lovers a surprising variety of exceptional dining options. From traditional New York-style slices to innovative local creations, this charming mountain town has developed a reputation for quality pizza that rivals larger cities.
The top pizza destinations in Waynesville include Dough Boys Pizza & Wings, Waynesville Pizza Company, and Angelo’s Family Pizza & Pasta, each offering distinct flavors and atmospheres that cater to different tastes. These establishments have earned recognition from both locals and visitors for their commitment to fresh ingredients and authentic preparation methods.
Pizza enthusiasts will discover everything from hand-tossed classics to unique mountain-inspired combinations throughout the area. The local pizza scene combines traditional techniques with regional influences, creating memorable dining experiences that showcase why Waynesville has become a noteworthy destination for quality pizza in western North Carolina.
Best Pizza Spots in Waynesville, NC
Waynesville offers several standout pizza destinations, from locally-owned establishments serving hand-tossed pies to national chains providing quick options. The town’s pizza scene includes family-run spots with traditional recipes and casual dining venues that pair pizza with wings and craft beer.
Waynesville Pizza Company: Local Favorite
Waynesville Pizza Company has established itself as the premier local pizzeria since opening in May 2016. The restaurant specializes in hand-tossed pizza made fresh daily.
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains region, this family-friendly establishment features a custom bar with over 20 beer selections. The rustic dining area creates a welcoming atmosphere for families and groups.
Their pizza menu covers classic options like pepperoni pizza and cheese pizza alongside specialty combinations. The hand-tossed crust receives particular praise from customers who appreciate the traditional preparation method.
The pizzeria operates as both a restaurant and bar, making it suitable for casual dinners or drinks with friends. Their reputation for quality hand-tossed pizza has made them a local favorite among residents and visitors.
Dough Boys Pizza & Wings: Flavorful Crusts and Wings
Dough Boys Pizza & Wings consistently ranks as the top pizza destination in Waynesville according to multiple review platforms. The establishment combines quality pizza with an exceptional dining atmosphere.
Customer reviews highlight the comfortable environment, clean facilities, and attentive staff. The restaurant features good music and creates a relaxed setting perfect for enjoying beer with food.
Their menu focuses on both pizza and wings, offering variety for groups with different preferences. The pizza quality receives consistent praise, while the wing selection provides additional options beyond traditional pizzeria fare.
The location appeals to customers seeking a casual dining experience with quality food. Dough Boys has built a strong reputation for both food quality and service excellence in the Waynesville area.
Ian and Jojo’s Pizzeria and Restaurant: Family Recipes
Ian and Jojo’s Pizzeria operates as a family-owned establishment serving traditional pizza recipes. The restaurant emphasizes homestyle preparation methods and authentic Italian flavors.
Their menu features classic pizza options including cheese pizza and pepperoni pizza made with family recipes. The preparation style focuses on traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The family-owned nature of the business creates a personal touch that distinguishes it from larger chain operations. Customers appreciate the authentic approach to pizza making and the consistency of family recipes.
The restaurant serves both pizza and other Italian dishes, providing a complete dining experience for families and couples seeking traditional flavors.
Pizza Hut vs. Little Caesars: National Chains
Pizza Hut and Little Caesars provide familiar chain options for Waynesville residents seeking convenient pizza delivery and pickup. Both chains offer standardized menus and consistent pricing.
Little Caesars Pizza focuses on value pricing with their Hot-N-Ready concept, providing immediate pickup options for basic cheese and pepperoni pizzas. The chain emphasizes speed and affordability over customization.
Pizza Hut offers a broader menu with specialty pizzas, sides, and delivery options. Their pan pizza and thin crust varieties provide more choices compared to Little Caesars’ limited offerings.
Both chains serve customers who prefer predictable flavors and prices. They complement the local pizza scene by providing quick, affordable options when local establishments are busy or closed.
Must-Try Pizza Styles and Signature Menu Items
Waynesville’s pizza scene delivers classic favorites alongside creative specialty options that showcase local restaurant innovation. The area’s top spots excel at traditional cheese and pepperoni pizzas while offering unique signature creations and complementary sides.
Cheese Pizza and Pepperoni Favorites
Classic cheese pizza forms the foundation of every great pizzeria in Waynesville. Local establishments focus on perfecting their cheese blends, with most featuring premium mozzarella that creates the ideal stretch and flavor balance.
Pepperoni pizza remains the most popular choice among visitors and locals alike. Dough Boys Pizza & Wings serves their classic pepperoni with generous portions of savory pepperoni slices over gooey mozzarella cheese on a golden crust.
The key to exceptional pepperoni pizza lies in the quality of ingredients and proper baking technique. Top restaurants in Waynesville use fresh dough made daily and high-quality pepperoni that crisps perfectly without becoming overly greasy.
Angelo’s Family Pizza & Pasta and Waynesville Pizza Company both maintain strong reputations for their traditional cheese and pepperoni offerings. These establishments prioritize consistent quality and generous toppings that satisfy both casual diners and pizza enthusiasts.
Unique Specialty Slices
Waynesville’s pizza restaurants showcase creativity through signature specialty pizzas that go beyond traditional offerings. BBQ chicken pizza appears frequently on local menus, combining tangy barbecue sauce with tender chicken pieces and cheese.
Bizzarro Pasta & New York Pizza offers New York-style specialty slices that reflect authentic East Coast pizza traditions. Their larger, thinner slices provide a different texture experience compared to traditional thick-crust options.
Valé 243 Southern Italian Kitchen incorporates upscale ingredients into their specialty creations. Their approach focuses on authentic Italian flavors using premium imported ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Local restaurants also feature meat lovers and supreme pizzas loaded with multiple toppings. These hearty options typically include combinations of sausage, pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms that appeal to customers seeking substantial meals.
Irresistible Sides: Breadsticks and Italian Cheese Bread
Breadsticks serve as the perfect complement to pizza orders throughout Waynesville’s pizza establishments. Most restaurants prepare fresh breadsticks using their pizza dough, ensuring consistency in flavor and texture.
Italian cheese bread represents a popular upgrade from standard breadsticks. This side dish features pizza dough topped with garlic butter and melted cheese, creating a rich accompaniment that pairs well with marinara dipping sauce.
Dough Boys Pizza & Wings includes breadsticks among their popular side options. Their preparation method ensures the breadsticks maintain a crispy exterior while staying soft inside.
Many establishments offer garlic knots as an alternative to traditional breadsticks. These twisted bread portions are brushed with garlic butter and herbs, providing a flavorful start to the meal or a satisfying addition to pizza orders.
