Did you know October is National Pizza month? This Italian staple and American favorite is enjoyed year-round at a whopping 56 slices per person per year! It’s fair to say that we don’t need an excuse to order a pie, but here are 6 DMV spots to check out when the craving hits.
Piccoli Piatti
Piccoli Piatti is a Neapolitan pizzeria located in Bethesda. Wanting a change of pace, I took the opportunity to FINALLY try pineapple on pizza. I loved the texture and sweetness of the thin slices of pineapple in contrast to the tangy red sauce, but our overall favorite part was the crust! If you love a pizza with a bubbly and crispy crust, this is your new favorite spot! (Hawaiian Pizza- $16)
Matchbox
It wouldn’t be a DMV pizza list without mentioning Matchbox! Toting an array of pizzas and frequent seasonal rotations, this spot easily has the most options in terms of pies, and all of them with the unmistakable wood-fired taste! It’s difficult to pick a favorite, but the Matchbox Meat pizza is definitely a top contender for me. My favorite location in Rockville also offers plenty of outdoor shaded seating, which sports heaters and a firepit in the winter months. (Matchbox Meat-$20)
Mama Lucia
Mama Lucia is a local chain that features Italian classics in an unpretentious setting. I loved their take on a Supreme Pizza- the Mamma Special. This New York style thin crust was crispy enough to hold all the toppings, and cooked perfectly! This pie did indeed reign supreme with fresh ingredients, the cheesiest pull, and an oh-so crispy crust. Yum! (Mamma Special-$29, Caesar Salad-$11, Glass of Cabernet-$9)
Nighthawk Brewery & Pizza
A pizza enthusiast’s dream, Nighthawk Brewery & Pizza offers a variety of pies including Detroit-style, and NY-style, and even unique toppings such as the little neck clam! This spot was my favorite for music and overall vibes. With a wide selection of beers on tap and a fun 80s atmosphere, this spot is perfect for kids and kids at heart to grab a favorite slice or try something new! (Detroit Style Pepperoni- $19, Nossing Hefe Draft-$7, Tavern Little Neck Clam White Pizza-$22, NY-Style Cheese Jumbo Slice- $5)
Stellina Pizzeria
Stellina Pizzeria offers an authentic Italian menu and Neapolitan style pizzas in Arlington. Hands-down, these toppings were the most authentic I had encountered and included Italian smoked meats and cheeses that I hadn’t seen elsewhere. They also have dairy-free cheese and gluten-free options and make an incredible margherita! (Bersagliera Pizza- $17, Margherita-$15)
Summer House
The space previously known as Stella Barra Pizzeria now belongs to Summer House Santa Monica, but serves the same fantastic pies! I loved the quality of the ingredients and the California-vibes. The Shaved Mushroom in particular was aromatic and full of umami. When paired with a cocktail and with their expansive outdoor seating, this is a pizza stop I can’t wait to make again! (Hobbs Pepperoni- $20, Shaved Mushroom- $20, Aperol Spritz- $10)
I’m a scientist by trade, but a foodie at heart—based out of the DC Metropolitan area. I love to travel and am always looking to make connections over local food.
