Whether you’re craving a classic New York-style fold or a gourmet Neapolitan masterpiece, Knoxville offers a selection of pizza spots that promise to satisfy every palate.
From crispy thin crusts adorned with local produce to hearty deep-dish wonders that ooze with molten cheese, Knoxville’s pizza scene offers something to satiate every palate. This guide curates the city’s standout pizzerias, each offering a unique slice of culinary heaven.
Pizza Palace
9/10 (2154 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-524-4388
Perfect pizza crustFlavorful onion ringsFriendly staff
Pizza Palace is a nostalgic spot for many, with a long history and loyal customers. The pizza crust here is definitely a standout, with a perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness. The onion rings are also a must-try, crispy and flavorful. The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, adding to the overall experience of dining at this drive-in restaurant. While some dishes may fall short of expectations, like the veal Parmesan and lasagna, the classic pizzas and sides like onion rings and French fries shine. If you’re looking for traditional pizza that won’t break the bank, Pizza Palace is worth a visit in Knoxville.
Dazzo’s Pizzeria
8.6/10 (993 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-525-2105
Authentic pizzasFriendly staffReasonable prices
Dazzo’s Pizzeria is a slice of heaven. The aroma of fresh baking dough and herbs hits you as soon as you walk through the door. The friendly staff makes you feel welcome instantly. The Margherita pizza is a revelation, with a perfectly crispy yet airy crust and fresh, flavorful toppings. Don’t skip the house-made garlic knots – pure bliss! The prices are reasonable, making it a must-visit spot for an authentic and delicious pizza experience.
The Pizza Kitchen
9/10 (265 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-577-9191
Superior cheeseExcellent marinaraFriendly staff
Based on customer reviews, The Pizza Kitchen is a hidden gem with excellent pizza and salads. The quality of cheese and marinara sauce is noticeably superior, making the savory sauce irresistible. The staff is welcoming and friendly, providing great service and cold, tasty craft beers. Despite a rough start for some customers, the warm atmosphere and delicious food make The Pizza Kitchen a must-visit spot in Knoxville.
Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria
8.8/10 (2579 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-521-0092
Crunchy, cheesy pizzasPhenomenal serviceLively atmosphere
Nestled in Knoxville’s Old City, Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria is a multifaceted gem that offers much more than just great pizza. With a lively atmosphere, diverse beer selection, live music, and ample space for socializing, it’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a casual solo visit. The crunchy pizzas are topped generously with quality cheese, providing a satisfying bite that keeps customers coming back. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing evening with delicious food, a fun game of pool, or a live music performance, Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria has something for everyone.
Hard Knox Pizza Bearden
8.8/10 (723 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-602-2114
Amazing PizzaVarietyFresh Ingredients
Hard Knox Pizza Bearden offers a unique and delicious dining experience for pizza lovers. The wood-fired pizzas are a standout, with thin, crispy crusts and flavorful toppings that are not stingy in quantity. The sauce has a slight tanginess without being overly acidic, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the overall dining experience, making it a great spot for a casual meal with family or friends. While the price point may be higher compared to other options, the quality of the ingredients and the generous portion sizes make it worth the splurge.
Elidio’s Pizza
9/10 (1019 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-687-1002
Perfectly balanced flavorsCozy, city vibeReasonable prices
Elidio’s Pizza exudes an unassuming charm that gives onlookers a glimpse of what’s to come upon stepping inside. The XL pepperoni pizza we ordered had a perfect balance of sauce and cheese, with a light and airy crust that held just the right amount of savory goodness. The atmosphere felt cozy, matching the overall vibe of a classic pizza joint in a big city. Prices were beyond reasonable for the quality and quantity of food received, making it a spot I will certainly return to for another delicious slice.
Pizza Inn
9/10 (3381 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-357-7499
Fresh Salad BarVariety of PizzasFriendly Staff
Pizza Inn is a pizza and salad bar restaurant that stands out in a sea of burger joints. The salad bar is fresh, clean, and offers a wide selection of toppings. The pizzas range from classic pepperoni to more creative options, all of which are tasty. The dessert pizzas are a hit with the kids, and the variety of offerings keeps things interesting. The staff is quick, friendly, and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant itself is clean with plenty of parking, making it a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.
South Coast Pizza
9.2/10 (1067 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-200-5818
Fresh toppingsCovered outdoor seatingKid-friendly game corner
South Coast Pizza offers delicious pizza with fresh toppings and a nice amount of sauce. The outdoor seating is covered and perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The staff is friendly and accommodating, willing to provide extra sauce or fix any issues with your order on the spot. The game corner for kids adds a fun element to the dining experience, but it can get noisy on game days and weekends.
Sergeant Pepperoni’s Pizzeria – Bearden
9.2/10 (453 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-247-0380
Perfect pizza mixOutstanding serviceGreat craft beer selection
Sergeant Pepperoni’s Pizzeria – Bearden is a must-visit for pizza lovers in Knoxville. The perfect mix of cheese, toppings, sauce, seasonings, and crust make each bite a delicious experience. The outstanding service adds to the family-friendly atmosphere, and the prices are unbeatable for the quality offered. With a great selection of craft beer and a welcoming staff, this place is sure to become a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
Gondolier Pizza
8.8/10 (1008 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-577-2898
Clean environmentDelicious house saladExcellent service
Gondolier Pizza offers a clean environment with helpful employees. The house salad is delicious, and the specialty pizza is highly recommended. The cakes look fantastic, and the service is excellent. The chop steak dish is filling and the garlic bread sticks are a must-try. The staff goes above and beyond, providing great service and a warm atmosphere. The entrees are reasonably priced, and the food is hot and fresh. The portions are generous, and the staff is attentive to all guests. The baklava is a standout dessert, while the takeout service is perfect for families with young children. Despite some negative experiences, Gondolier Pizza continues to be a popular dining option for many.
Blaze Pizza
9/10 (1841 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-219-1221
Personalized pizzasCustomizable saladsAttentive staff
Blaze Pizza offers customers the chance to create their own personalized pizza experience with a variety of fresh toppings and a friendly, attentive staff. The option to pick 2 items is a popular choice, with the salad being a standout for its customizable options. The dining area is clean and well-maintained, making for an enjoyable atmosphere to savor the delicious food that Blaze has to offer. The only downside mentioned by some customers includes slow service and concerns about the food being too oily at times. Nonetheless, Blaze Pizza remains a favorite spot for many due to its vibrant energy and diverse menu offerings.
Rosati’s Pizza
8.6/10 (866 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-602-2211
Deep dish Chicago-style pizzaCheesy garlic breadFresh and crisp veggies
Nestled in Knoxville, Rosati’s Pizza offers a delightful dining experience for pizza enthusiasts. The deep dish Chicago style pizza stands out as a crowd favorite, boasting a cheesy and indulgent flavor profile. Complemented by outstanding cheesy garlic bread, the menu items are both satisfying and convenient for on-the-go diners. Despite a small dining area, the authentic deep dish pizza, loaded with cheese and featuring a nicely done crust, provides a taste of Chicago in Tennessee. The fresh and crisp veggies add a refreshing touch to the exceptional offerings, making it a top choice for a hearty meal. The breadsticks, deemed the best by some customers, are a must-try alongside the exceptional Chicago-style deep dish pizza. With the promise of consistently delicious food, Rosati’s Pizza is a welcomed addition to the Knoxville dining scene.
A Dopo Sourdough Pizza
9.4/10 (1369 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-321-1297
Thin, flavorful pizzaRotating gelatoExcellent service
A Dopo Sourdough Pizza in Knoxville is truly a standout wood fire oven pizza place. The menu is filled with a variety of delicious options, from classic Margherita to unique combinations like spicy Nduja sausage with mushroom and arugula on top. The Neapolitan-style pizza is super thin and full of fresh flavors. The gelato is a must-try, with rotating flavors that never disappoint. The service is top-notch, and the ambiance is just right for a memorable dining experience. Overall, A Dopo Sourdough Pizza is a hidden gem that you won’t want to miss.
Bella Roma Pizza
8.8/10 (677 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-692-4224
Flavorful pizzasAttentive staffDeep dish options
Bella Roma Pizza offers a delightful dining experience with a selection of fantastic pizzas and flavorful dishes. The staff is attentive and caring, ensuring a pleasant visit every time. The deep dish options are a standout, with generous toppings and delicious flavors. The attention to customer service and quality ingredients truly make this restaurant a must-visit for pizza lovers everywhere.
Hard Knox Pizza Central
8.6/10 (126 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-263-2633
Fantastic pizzaFresh saladsFriendly staff
Hard Knox Pizza Central is a hidden gem that offers fantastic pizza and fresh, quality salads. The Graziano with pepperoni and white pesto cream is excellent, and the unique mix of red peppers adds great flavor. The atmosphere is laid back and not crowded, making it a great addition to the area. The staff is friendly and the restaurant is very clean, providing good service. The garlic knots are cooked perfectly, and the Hawaiian pizza is full of great flavor. Overall, Hard Knox Pizza Central is one of the best pizza places in Knoxville.
Blaze Pizza
9/10 (908 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-288-4354
Customizable pizzasWood-fired flavorHardworking staff
Blaze Pizza offers a unique dining experience with their build-your-own pizza concept. Watching your pizza being made in front of you is a highlight, although some customers have noted that the thin crust can quickly lose its heat. The wood-fired flavor adds a delicious touch to the pizzas, and the staff members are praised for their hard work and attentiveness. Despite some mixed reviews on the food quality, Blaze Pizza remains a popular choice for those looking for a quick and customizable meal in a bustling environment.
Harby’s Pizza & Deli
9.2/10 (720 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-688-5657
Flavorful Maui WowiQuality ingredientsWarm and inviting service
Harby’s Pizza & Deli is a hidden gem worth mentioning. The Maui Wowi Pizza with extra bacon is a standout, with a thin and delicious crust topped with BBQ sauce, jalapeños, pineapple, and ample bacon. Customers rave about the fantastic flavors and quality of the ingredients, making it a pizza worth revisiting. The friendly service and welcoming atmosphere make Harby’s a place where you’ll feel right at home while indulging in some of the best pizza around.
The Tomato Head
9/10 (2372 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-637-4067
Delicious foodCharming locationFresh ingredients
The Tomato Head in Knoxville offers a delightful dining experience with its delicious and healthy food options. Conveniently located in the heart of Market Square, this restaurant provides a perfect setting for a leisurely meal. The menu boasts a large selection of items, including the flavorful Griffin Pizza that bursts with unique flavors. The see-through kitchen adds an interesting touch, allowing diners to see the chefs in action. The Tuscan chicken sandwich and Southwest salad received high praises, with fresh and tasty ingredients creating a satisfying meal. Despite some minor shortcomings in portion sizes and pricing, The Tomato Head remains a must-visit spot for a pleasant dining experience in Knoxville.
Little Nicky’s New York Pizza
8.6/10 (720 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-896-0125
Authentic New York flavorsHomemade sauces and meatballsPay-it-forward system
Upon stepping into Little Nicky’s New York Pizza, customers are greeted by the authentic taste of New York with every bite. The imported ingredients and homemade sauces truly make the pizzas stand out from the rest. The crispy thin crust, flavorful toppings, and welcoming atmosphere make this a must-visit spot for anyone craving a taste of the Big Apple in Knoxville. And with the added bonus of a pay-it-forward system, allowing customers to help those in need, Little Nicky’s goes above and beyond in both taste and community spirit.
Red Onion Pizza
8.8/10 (262 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 865-584-7445
Fusion MenuIndian CuisineGenerous Toppings
Tucked away in Knoxville, Red Onion Pizza offers a fusion of Indian cuisine and traditional pizza. The chicken Tika masala pizza is a standout – flavorful and perfectly balanced with cheese and dough. The Tandori Chicken option is also worth a try, and the welcoming owners add to the charm of this 27-year-old establishment.