Believe it or not, I’m a sucker for a good pizza. So much of a sucker, in fact, that those close to me say I’d rather eat a classic Neopolitan Margherita than breathe. As I can’t deny these allegations, I figure it’s only fair for me to share my discoveries with this list of the best pizza in Calgary.
Below are a handful of fantastic pizza joints in Calgary, Ontario that (in no particular order) I firmly believe are the best of the best in the area. Each has its own little quirks; some offer more creative styles, while others offer a classic loaded slice — and each is beautiful in its own way. From the sprawling hardwood and stained glass of Noble Pie to the classic Italian tools and ingredients of Azzurri Pizzeria, there’s something here for everyone.
So — sit down, grab a drink, and call the family. I have a feeling pizza is on the menu tonight.
Top 3: The Best Pizza in Calgary
Noble Pie
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While they’re a rather new entry to the pizza scene of Calgary, Noble Pie has quickly garnered attention as an up-and-comer in the area. They’re a former pizza popup that took the leap to brick-and-mortar in 2021. Since then, the team at Noble Pie has kept true to its roots — simple ingredients, quality craft, and an unwillingness to rest on their laurels.
Noble Pie’s journey was kickstarted with the 2020 pandemic, where their humble joint was reportedly selling, “a week’s worth of pizzas… in less than a minute.” This quickly led to a need to expand and resulted in their current digs which are undeniably gorgeous. The new building harkens back to old-school Italian-American joints, with gorgeous hardwood and stained glass adorning most corners.
The long and short of this is something any Calgary native already knows — Noble Pie is one of the city's best (if not the best) New York-inspired pizza joints.
Actually Pretty Good Pizza
Actually Pretty Good Pizza (APGP) is an aptly named pizza joint that clearly takes joy in every aspect of their work. They’re another pandemic-era entry to the scene and have quickly earned their place in list after list of “best of” joints in Calgary.
Likely their most important signature, the crust, is what often separates APGP from similar spots; they call it “California-style,” but it’s quite reminiscent of classic Neopolitan pies. A relatively thin (yet fluffy and slightly springy) crust with a faint char, topped with a minimal amount of top-tier ingredients leads to what many may argue is the perfect bite.
Whether APGP’s success is because of their quality ingredients, unique “California-style” pies, or the love that their chefs clearly have for the craft, it’s hard to say; the simple truth is that Actually Pretty Good Pizza has gotten the formula just right.
Una Pizzeria
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Una Pizzeria is another example of a neighborhood restaurant that’s earned a place in the hearts of Calgarians. What started as a simple pizza and wine bar quickly became a go-to spot for date nights and gatherings of friends and family back in 2010 — and they don’t seem to plan on going anywhere.
The owners claim that their joint was inspired by the small neighborhood joints of San Francisco, and it shows. Unlike APGP above, their style is more of a classic California-style pie; an incredibly thin crust with adventurous toppings and hand-crafted, house-made components leads to a delicious, captivating pie.
Those who love wine will find that Una Pizzeria makes a great effort to find local, less-discovered (but still fantastic) wineries from which to source their wine list. This leads to an excellent experience where one can gather, sip on tasty wine, munch on a pie, and maybe even grab a local dessert. Whether you’re coming for date night or a simple meal, Una Pizzeria should be a go-to in Calgary.
The Best Pizza in Calgary: Top 2 Honorable Mentions:
While these joints didn’t make the list above, that’s not to say they aren’t fully deserving of some recognition. They make quality, classic pies that fit into a slightly different mold than those above — and we love them for it.
Mad Rose Pub
Mad Rose Pub is not at all like the other joints on this list. Rather than aiming for a more artistic, fine-tuned approach, they take the road that will earn some love on game days — in other words, they make damn good bar pizza.
It’s thick, heavily topped, and full of grease, but sometimes you just need a greasy, loaded slice. If you’re reading this, mouth open and drooling, chances are you get what I’m saying; Mad Rose Pub is many things, but their pizza shouldn’t be ignored.
Azzurri Pizzeria
Calgarians are likely to know (and love) this name. Azzurri Pizzeria is a classic mom-and-pop shop owned by the Ricioppo family. The family has built something quite incredible in such a small space and insists on using only the best tools and ingredients for their craft. From their Marra Forni brick oven, running at a cool 900 °F, to the imported San Marzano tomatoes, each part of Azzurri Pizzeria simply oozes with tradition.
If you’re a fan of true-to-tradition Neopolitan pies, there are few places in Calgary (hell, in Alberta, even) that can top Azzurri Pizzeria. Their pies are delicious, meticulously made, and full of character — so give them a shot and swing by.