Best Pizza Places in South Tampa: Where to Grab a Slice in Tampa's Best Neighborhood

South Tampa, a vibrant and eclectic area known for its picturesque neighborhoods, buzzing nightlife, and, importantly, a plethora of dining options that cater to every palate, stands out as a haven for pizza enthusiasts. If you're a resident or planning a visit, and the thought of thin crust, deep dish, or a unique fusion pizza gets your mouth watering, you're in for a treat. This guide is dedicated to helping you discover the best places for pizza in South Tampa, where the quality of the slice matches the warmth of the community.

New York New York

Address: 533 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Is this first restaurant on the list contradictory to the intro? Yes. But we can't not include New York New York for its revered status in Tampa Bay. Here, NYC meets 813 with a menu featuring authentic pizza, baked pasta dishes, and desserts. They've got classics like Hawaiian and Four Cheese, along with lesser-offered BBQ Chicken, Philly Steak and Cheese, and Chicken Alfredo pizza. Enjoy it by the slice or buy an entire pie to share with family and friends. While toppings are usually extra, the cozy atmosphere and friendly service at New York New York are completely free.

Ava 

Address: 718 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

There are places that focus solely on pizza, and then there are places like Ava. This South Tampa Bay restaurant is among a rare few with great menu options from cover to cover. Premium ingredients are largely to thank for this. Take the Salcissa, for instance - it isn't topped with your average pepperoni, rather delicately spiced fennel sausage, ricotta, and red onion. The Truffle pizza puts a gourmet spin on this iconic Italian dish with the addition of several types of cheese.

Gourmet Pizza Company

Address: 610 S Armenia Ave, Tampa, FL 33609

When a restaurant does focus on one food and one food only, that food is usually pretty great. Gourmet Pizza Company is no exception. Its selection of 47 specialty pizzas ranges from simple classics like Margherita and Pepperoni to more unique options like Buffalo Chicken and the creatively named Meaty Meat. The crust is thin, crispy, and perfectly charred - the hallmark of a great pizza. You can even customize it based on dietary preferences. Gourmet Pizza Company has rice flour, cauliflower, and gluten-free doughs to cater to those who are gluten-sensitive or looking for a healthier alternative.

Sally O’Neal’s Pizza Hotline

Address: 1319 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Sally O’Neal’s Pizza Hotline is the best place to call when you want a quality pizza or calzone fast. With a variety of toppings and crust options, it isn't hard to find - or make your own - satiable choices. The restaurant's location on busy Howard Avenue makes it easy for customers to grab a slice on the go. Delivery is available to customers throughout South Tampa Bay if you prefer to enjoy your pizza in the comfort of your own home. Regardless of what you top it with or where you eat it, every pizza from Sally O’Neal’s Pizza Hotline comes hot, fresh, and 100% delicious. What more could you ask for in a pizza joint?

Bella’s Italian Cafe

Address: 1413 S Howard Ave #100, Tampa, FL 33606

For those who prefer to stay on the traditional side of pizza, look no further than Bella’s Italian Cafe. This cozy family-owned and operated restaurant serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas made with fresh ingredients and authentic dough. It doesn't get much more Italian than the Meatball Pizza, which is topped with homemade meatballs, onion, red and green peppers, and mozzarella. The Salicicca Vegano brings this quality to the vegan table with Beyond Meat sausage, onion, spinach, mushrooms, and plant-based mozzarella.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

Address: 1901 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33629

There's something about a coal-fired oven that just elevates the flavor of a pizza. Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza knows this well, having made its name off of this traditional preparation process for years. Diners can create their own pie or choose from one of many enticing options on the menu, including Shrimp Alfredo, Broccoli Rabe and Sausage, Caprese, Eggplant, Meatballs and Ricotta, and Roasted Cauliflower. The folks at Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza are also happy to throw other dishes like meatballs and wings from their starter menu in the oven for you.