Five of the Best Pizza Spots in Charlottesville

Since opening in 2014, Lampo has become a beloved fixture of Charlottesville’s pizza scene. Their dedication to creating authentic Neapolitan pizza is undoubtedly the reason for their popularity. Not only do they use fresh, local ingredients, Lampo also has a three-ton, wood-burning oven, imported directly from Naples, Italy. The oven reaches temperatures of 1,000 degrees, allowing their pizzas to be cooked in under a minute!

My Recommendation: As someone who loves a spicy pizza, Lampo’s Diavola is perfection. It scratches that spicy itch without overpowering the pizza’s other elements. Still, it doesn’t hurt to have a glass of water next to you, just in case you need some help with the heat.

I’m always on the hunt for an innovative slice of Neapolitan, and Popitos Pizza absolutely delivers. Described by the owners as “Americanized-Neapolitan,” their pies strike the perfect balance between classic technique and bold, crave-worthy flavors. I first stumbled upon Popitos Pizza at King Family Vineyard – their impressive mobile wood-fired oven caught my attention.

My Recommendation: I started with a simple cheese pie and now, since becoming a loyal regular, the “Hot Pig” has earned its place as my go-to. These days, it’s most convenient to stop by their brick-and-mortar spot at the Rio Hill Shopping Center, but it’s always fun to catch their food truck around town at events and wineries, like at Carter Mountain during their sunset series!

Founded in 2022, Crustworthy Pizza may only have a few years on the scene, but it’s already carved out a solid spot at the top of my “must-have” pizza list. Described by locals as “neo-Neapolitan,” Crustworthy’s pies are absolutely worth the hype. They keep it fresh with local toppings and Pennsylvania-sourced mozzarella. Pair that with their next-level sourdough crust (chewy, flavorful, and just the right amount of crisp) and you’ve got quality you can taste in every bite!

My Recommendation: According to owner Tom Kelly, their best-seller is the pepperoni pizza, but I encourage you to try the Drizzle. Fair warning: they take their time with each pie, so sometimes there’s a bit of a wait but trust me – it's worth it. Crustworthy Pie can be found at events throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County year-round, including plenty of local wineries (a great excuse to enjoy pizza AND wine).

Yes, Random Row Brewery serves more than just beer! Nestled within this local craft brewery is one of my favorite hidden pizza gems in town: Billy Pie. Armed with an impressive stone oven, this spot serves up personal-sized Neapolitan-style pizzas that pair perfectly with Random Row’s rotating selection of craft beer.

My Recommendation: Their classics – like the margherita, cheese, and pepperoni, are absolutely on point, but their creative combinations are where it’s really at. My go-to? The Prosciutto & Arugula pie.

Sometimes, you just NEED a slice of authentic NY-style pizza – that's when Vita Nova is the move! Located right on the Downtown Mall, this pizza spot is my go-to when I’m in the mood for a quick slice. It’s super convenient (in and out within minutes) but also a great spot to sit and relax, with plenty of outdoor seating right on the Downtown Mall.

My Recommendation: The Meat Lovers pie is my go-to from Vita Nova.

These five spots are only a slice of the pizza scene in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. In fact, there are some spots I haven’t even had the chance to try out yet, like A² Pizza's Detroit-style pizza, Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie, and Ciaccia.

If you stop at any of these spots the next time you’re in Charlottesville, let us know online! We’d love to know what you think. Is there a spot I missed in this list? Shoot @charlottesvilleva a message on Instagram and let us know! I’m always looking for a good excuse to find a new favorite spot.