Savoring the Slice: A Guide to Local Pizza Shops

When it comes to finding a great slice, the St. Cloud area delivers a diverse and delicious array of options. From classic Italian-American joints with a long history to modern spots specializing in take-and-bake convenience, there is a pizza for every palate. This article explores some of the top-rated local pizzerias, highlighting what makes each one unique—be it a special sauce, a one-of-a-kind crust, or a signature topping. Get ready to discover your new favorite pizza in St. Cloud.

| House of Pizza |

A St. Cloud staple since 1964, House of Pizza is celebrated for its award-winning thin-crust pizza. The restaurant's longevity is a testament to its famous thin crust, which is made with a secret sauce. While they offer popular classics like "The Classic" (sausage, mushrooms, and onions) and "The Works," they also offer a wide variety of specialty pizzas. Some of their more unique pies include the "Garlic Roasted Potato" (with a garlic white sauce base, roasted potatoes, bacon, and mozzarella) and a "Tropical Chicken" pizza (with garlic white sauce, chicken, bacon, and pineapple). For those who enjoy a spicier kick, they offer a "Chicken Bacon Cream Cheese" pizza with vodka sauce and an optional hot sauce drizzle. Beyond pizza, their menu includes a variety of appetizers and pastas like Za-Chips, which are famous House of Pizza crust chips served with a creamy ricotta dip. They also feature a large selection of craft beers and unique cocktails, with both a bar and a patio for a great atmosphere.

| Jules' Bistro |

Jules' Bistro is known for its creative and freshly prepared menu, with a focus on artisanal flatbread pizzas. They offer a "Date Night Special" which includes an appetizer, pizza, and bottle of wine for a set price. The menu highlights a variety of options for people with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices. Some of their unique flatbreads include a "Black & Bleu" with beef brisket and bleu cheese, and a "Rosemary Chicken & Bacon" pizza. The atmosphere is described as cozy and artistic, featuring live music from local artists and displays of local art.

| Rollie's |

Rollie's is a local bar with a country roadhouse feel, known for its lively atmosphere and live music, especially on weekends. It's one of the few places in the area to get a classic New York-style thin-crust pizza. While they offer other items like burgers and wings, their perfectly cooked and wonderfully thin pizza is a major draw. The venue is known for its friendly staff and unique, eclectic decor.

| Gary's Pizza |

Gary's Pizza is a reliable and fast option known for its classic pizza flavor. They have multiple locations in the area and offer a wide range of menu items, including build-your-own pizzas, specialty options like the "MN Sushi Pizza" and "Cream Cheese Popper Pizza," as well as appetizers, pasta dishes, and sandwiches. Many reviewers praise the high-quality ingredients and the consistently good flavor of their pizzas and wings.

 | DiMaggio's |

This East Side favorite is a well-known spot with a reputation for great pizza. They offer a variety of crusts, including thin, hand-tossed, and pan. Some of their more unique specialty pizzas include the "Garbage Pizza" (with everything on it), a "Spaghetti Pizza," and a "Taco Pizza." Their menu also features a selection of hot heroes and other Italian dishes like lasagna and baked ziti.

| Zeppoles Pizza & Pasta |

Located in Waite Park, Zeppoles has been a local tradition for over 36 years. They pride themselves on making their hand-tossed pizza dough from scratch daily. Customers can choose between thick, thin, or double-crust options. In addition to their pizza, they have a full menu of pasta, wings, and more. Reviewers commend the fresh ingredients and the "home-made" flavor of their food.

| Clutch Take and Bake Pizza |

Clutch specializes in take-and-bake pizzas, allowing you to get a fresh pie to cook at home. They have several crust options, including a cauliflower crust and a gluten-free crust. They are particularly known for taking extra precautions to prevent cross-contamination for their gluten-free and vegan items. Some of their creative specialty pizzas include "The Philly" (a Philly cheesesteak-themed pizza with a cheddar cheese sauce base), "The Pacific Islander" (with pulled pork, pineapple, and a mix of red and BBQ sauces), and "The Bomber" (a double pepperoni pizza).