Pizza is not only an American tradition – it’s an American obsession. There are only about 333 million people in the nation – but they manage to consume more than three billion pizzas every year.
While pizza has its origins in Italy, it was Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries who brought it to the United States. So, it is probably no surprise that the first documented pizzeria in the U.S. was Lombardi’s in New York City, which opened in 1905.
However, pizza didn’t become widely popular outside of Italian-American communities until after World War II. The soldiers who had been stationed overseas in Italy had developed a taste for the food – and they brought their obsession home with them.
The rise of fast-food culture in the 1950s and 1960s further solidified pizza as an American favorite because of its convenience, affordability and endlessly adaptable nature. By the 1970s, big pizza chains had exploded onto the market, and pizza became the de facto “party food,” “quick dinner” and “date night snack” that everybody loved.
Today, however, there’s been a bit of a trend among pizza aficionados to eschew the ordinary and seek variety in local venues. Lexington offers a variety of pizzerias that cater to every palate. Here are some of the favorites:
Pies & Pints
Located in the heart of Lexington at The Square, Pies & Pints is a beloved establishment known for its creative pizzas and extensive beer selection. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both families and friends to gather.
For a Taste of Their Signature Style, Try:
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The Brunch Pie – Only available on weekends, the Brunch Pie includes cheddar cheese, scrambled eggs, scallions, chipotle crema and bacon – making it a perfect start to a casual day.
- The Summer Fresco Pie – Get it before it’s gone! You get a delicious crust topped with a house vinaigrette, cheese, cherry tomatoes and arugula, plus shaved parmesan and a little salt and pepper.
Pies & Pints is not just about great pizza – it’s also an experience. With dozens of craft beers on tap, it’s a veritable paradise for beer enthusiasts. The friendly staff and lively ambiance add to the pizzeria’s overall appeal, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Goodfellas Pizzeria
Goodfellas Pizzeria brings a slice of New York to Lexington. With two locations, one in the Distillery District and one on Mill Street, this pizzeria combines authentic New York-style pizza with a speakeasy vibe.
Some of Their Signature Pizzas Include:
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Wiseguy – Loaded with pepperoni, Italian sausage, and banana peppers, this pizza is a meat lover’s dream.
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The Bootlegger – This spinach, mushroom, pesto and sundried tomato pizza is extra good when you add chicken.
Goodfellas is perfect for those seeking a genuine New York pizza experience. The massive slices and foldable crust are spot-on. After enjoying your pizza, guests in the Distillery District can then step into the Wiseguy Lounge for a craft cocktail in a fun Prohibition-era setting.
Joe Bologna’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
A Lexington institution since 1973, Joe Bologna’s is housed in a historic former synagogue, giving it a unique charm and beauty. Known for its generous portions and welcoming atmosphere, Joe Bologna’s offers a lot of choices, including traditional Italian favorites like lasagna and cannelloni.
Joes’ is Also One of the Few Places Where You Can Find:
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Traditional Square-Cut Sicilian – They make pan pizzas with a tangy, tart sauce and extra-thick and fluffy crust that area is known to produce. Try a real treat!
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Sfingione – This is one of their signature dishes, with a sauce made from sauteed onions, anchovies, tomatoes and mozzarella and Romano cheeses.
Joe Bologna’s offers a nostalgic experience with its historic setting and family-friendly vibe. The hand-tossed dough and homemade sauces never fail to delight – and they have the “small town” vibe that’s fun to explore.
Smashing Tomato
Smashing Tomato brings the authentic taste of Naples to Lexington with its wood-fired pizzas. This pizzeria is located at Fayette Mall and the Hamburg Pavilion and emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional Neapolitan techniques.
Some of Its Signature Pies Include:
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Cheesy Dreams – Forget about the meat and the veggies – indulge your passion for cheese with this garlic-butter-based sauce topped by fresh mozzarella, grated parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella and provolone.
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Smashed Dante – This is a new one on the list, but it has house-marinated sausages, toasted garlic, fresh mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and a balsamic reduction drizzle.
Anybody seeking a true Neapolitan pizza experience will love visiting Smashing Tomato, as it is the place to go. The wood-fired oven imparts a distinctive flavor and perfect char to the crust. Their commitment to authenticity and quality shines through in every bite.
Big City Pizza
Located in the heart of downtown Lexington, Big City Pizza offers a diverse menu with a variety of pizza styles. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New York slice or a deep-dish pie, they have you covered.
Some of the Pizzas You May Want to Try Include:
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SOHO – This is a step outside of the ordinary with a ricotta base, topped with onion, garlic, a generous helping of mushrooms and artichokes.
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Tipsy Chicken – This award-winning combo has chicken, bacon and a bourbon glaze, all over a beer cheese base.
Big City Pizza’s versatility and location make it a great choice for any pizza lover. The casual, relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a quick lunch – or a relaxed and lazy dinner. The generous portions and reasonable prices ensure you get great value for your money.
The Bottom Line
Lexington’s culinary scene has been undergoing a transformation in recent years. But that just means that you can find pizzerias that cater to all kinds of diverse tastes – whether you’re looking for that New York authenticity or something that shows serious creativity. The next time you’re in or about town, be sure to visit one of these top pizzerias and indulge in some of the best pizza Kentucky has to offer. Happy eating!
