Where to Find the Best Detroit Style Pizza in Metro Detroit

*Updated April 30, 2025

Whether you’ve lived here all your life or you’re just moving to town, one thing becomes clear quickly: Metro Detroit is a pizza lover’s paradise. And not just any pizza—our region is the proud home of the iconic Detroit-style pizza, a hometown invention that we Detroiters hold near and dear.

Detroit-style pizza is famous for its square shape and thick, airy crust that’s wonderfully light inside but perfectly crispy on the bottom and edges. Baked in deep rectangular pans (rumored to be repurposed auto factory trays back in the day), each pie develops a caramelized cheese perimeter that fans crave. Traditionally, it’s topped with pepperoni and a blend of gooey brick and mozzarella cheese, then finished with dollops or racing stripes of rich tomato sauce on top. The result is a harmonious balance of crunchy and chewy, cheesy and saucy – a flavor experience that’s uniquely Detroit.

From the original Buddy’s Pizza that first put Detroit-style on the map, to creative newcomers like Pie-Sci and Grandma Bob’s pushing the boundaries, Metro Detroit’s pizzerias offer something for everyone. Classic pepperoni purists, vegan foodies, and adventurous eaters alike will find a slice to love. Each local spot comes with its own flair – some stick to old-family recipes while others experiment with bold toppings (ghost pepper pizza, anyone?). All of them share a common thread: an evident love for the craft and for the communities they serve. So get your appetite ready as we take a neighborhood tour of Metro Detroit’s best Detroit-style pizza spots – the places that keep us coming back for “just one more” square slice.

Uncle Andy's Pizza, Facebook

Uncle Andy's Pizza

Open: Sun-Wed (3-9pm) | Thur-Sat (11am-9pm)
28957 Woodward Ave, Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: 248-545-6111
Website: Uncle Andy's Pizza

Uncle Andy’s Pizza in Berkley may be a humble carryout-only storefront, but it packs big flavor into its authentic Detroit-style pies. Locals rave about specialty creations like the Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger pizza. This fan-favorite delivers all the savory goodness of a backyard burger—ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar, and onions—piled onto a thick, cheesy Detroit-style crust. If you’re craving something more traditional, the Supreme comes loaded edge-to-edge with pepperoni, ham, sausage, bacon, green peppers, mushrooms, and onions for the ultimate indulgence. The menu is straightforward yet versatile, even letting you decide if you want your toppings on just half or spread across the whole pizza. With friendly service and made-to-order pies, Uncle Andy’s has become a go-to for families picking up Friday night dinner and anyone chasing that perfectly gooey, crispy-edged slice.

Palazzo Di Pizza

Open: Tue-Sat (4-9pm) | Sun (4-8pm)
1220 E Eleven Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Phone: (855) 233-7872
Website: Palazzo Di Pizza

Over in Royal Oak, Palazzo Di Pizza has earned a loyal following as a carryout destination for Detroit-style aficionados. This pizzeria was co-founded by the late Shawn Randazzo, a local pizza legend (and world champion pizzaiolo) who helped put Detroit-style pizza on the national map. Palazzo proudly carries on his legacy, sticking to the classic blueprint: a chewy, pan-baked crust loaded with a blend of buttery Wisconsin brick cheese and mozzarella, crowned with ladles of robust red sauce and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan. Toppings here range from tried-and-true favorites like spicy peppers and Italian sausage to inventive combos like a chicken Carbonara Pizza drizzled with creamy Alfredo sauce and bacon. In true Detroit fashion, a “large” order actually gets you two small square pizzas, ensuring every slice in the box boasts those coveted crispy corners. It’s a true Detroit-style experience from a shop that’s honoring a pizza pioneer’s memory one delicious pie at a time.

Green Lantern Pizza

Open: Mon-Thur (11am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-12am) | Sun (12-11pm)
28960 John R Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071
Phone: (248) 541-5439
Website: Green Lantern Pizza

No Detroit pizza discussion is complete without Green Lantern Pizza, a storied local chain that started over 65 years ago in a little farmhouse bar in Madison Heights. (The name comes from the old green lantern that hung outside during Prohibition!) Today Green Lantern has multiple locations, but it hasn’t lost its old-school tavern charm or its commitment to great pizza. While they offer round and thin-crust pies, the Detroit-style pan pizza is the standout. Picture a thick, indulgent crust with a generous layer of gooey cheese, all crowned with perfectly crisped grease-cup pepperonis – those little charred pepperoni cups that hold tiny pools of flavor. In a twist on tradition, Green Lantern ladles its tomato sauce under the cheese, infusing each bite with tangy goodness without covering that golden cheese top. Grab a square slice and a cold beer, and you’ll see why Green Lantern’s neon sign has been a beacon for pizza lovers for decades.

Village Pizza

Open: Sun (12-5pm)
7701 Harper Ave, Detroit, MI 48213
Phone: (313) 921-1616
Website: Village Pizza

Detroit-style pizza goes vegan at Village Pizza, an innovative East Side spot operating out of the Alkebu-lan Village community center. This isn’t your typical pizzeria – it’s a nonprofit-driven kitchen where local youth help prepare the pies under the guidance of founder Brittany March. Customers place their orders online during the week and swing by on Sunday to pick up their freshly baked, plant-based pizzas. The signature Gratiot Pesto is a must-try: a flavor-packed square pie spread with house-made pesto and loaded with artichokes, red onions, bell peppers, roasted mushrooms, and tomatoes. Regulars also love to add an order of the gooey vegan “cheese bread” on the side. And if not everyone in your crew is vegan, no worries – Village Pizza offers a few carnivorous add-ons (like turkey pepperoni, grilled chicken, or real dairy cheese) so everyone can enjoy a slice. It’s a true community gem that marries delicious Detroit-style pizza with a mission to uplift local youth.

Como's Restaurant

Open: Mon-Thur (12-10pm) | Fri (12-11pm) | Sat (10am-11pm) | Sun (10am-10pm)
22812 Woodward Ave #100, Ferndale, MI 48220
Phone: (248) 677-4439
Website: Como's Restaurant

A landmark on the corner of Nine Mile and Woodward in downtown Ferndale, Como’s Restaurant has been a community staple for generations – and its latest chapter has made it a destination for Detroit-style pizza. After a major renovation and re-launch in 2019, Como’s introduced a modern take on the classic square pie that has foodies buzzing. Chef Zack Sklar created a special sourdough Detroit-style crust that ferments for three days, resulting in a light, airy foundation with a depth of flavor. On top, Como’s assembles high-quality ingredients like crispy hand-cut pepperoni and shaved Grana Padano cheese, giving each bite a gourmet twist without losing the comfort of a classic pizza. They’ve also embraced dietary needs, offering vegan cheese and gluten-free crust options so everyone can dig in. Whether you’re dining on their lively patio in summer or picking up a pie to go, Como’s delivers a delicious blend of old-school Italian eatery vibes and next-level Detroit-style pizza.

Loui's Pizza

Open: Wed-Thur (11am-9pm) | Fri (11am-10pm) | Sat (12-10pm) | Sun (12-9pm)
23141 Dequindre Rd, Hazel Park, MI 48030
Phone: (248) 547-1711
Website: Loui's Pizza

Stepping into Loui’s Pizza in Hazel Park is like taking a trip back in time to Detroit’s pizza heyday. This cozy, no-frills joint was opened in 1977 by a pizzaiolo who honed his craft at the legendary Buddy’s and Shield’s, and that pedigree shines through in every slice. Loui’s serves a famously hearty Detroit-style square pizza: picture a thick crust that’s buttery soft on the inside and perfectly charred on the edges, layered with gooey melted cheese and a tangy, robust tomato sauce. Regulars will tell you to start with Loui’s signature antipasto salad (tossed with garbanzo beans, pepperoncini, and shredded mozzarella) and a glass of Chianti. If you somehow still have room, the Loui’s Special – a massive barbecue Philly steak sandwich – is legendary, and it tastes just as good reheated for lunch the next day. With its checkered tablecloths and walls adorned with hundreds of empty chianti bottles left by customers over the years, Loui’s offers an old-school atmosphere that makes your pizza feast feel like a big family dinner.

Cloverleaf Bar & Restaurant, Facebook

Cloverleaf Bar & Restaurant

Open: Wed-Sun (12-8pm)
24443 Gratiot Ave, Eastpointe, MI 48021
Phone: (586) 777-5391
Website: Cloverleaf Bar & Restaurant

Cloverleaf Bar & Restaurant in Eastpointe is more than just a pizzeria – it’s a living slice of Detroit pizza history. Founded by Gus Guerra (the man who invented Detroit-style pizza at Buddy’s back in 1946), Cloverleaf has been carrying on the legacy since 1953. Every pie here is baked in the traditional high-sided steel pan, which yields those glorious caramelized cheese edges on each square. The result is pure nostalgia on a plate: a perfectly crispy-edged crust, a zesty tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness, and a blanket of gooey melted cheese, just like the original. With its no-frills, family-friendly vibe, Cloverleaf remains a must-visit for anyone craving the quintessential Detroit-style pizza experience from the place that started it all outside of Detroit proper.

Detroit Pizza Bar

Open: Thur (4-10pm) | Fri (4-11pm) | Sat (2-11pm)
7316 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221
Phone: (313) 646-4601
Website: Detroit Pizza Bar

One of the newest players on the scene, The Detroit Pizza Bar opened in 2022 with a fresh concept and a strong community vibe. Located on Livernois near 6 Mile (in the heart of Detroit’s historic Avenue of Fashion district), this trendy spot combines Detroit-style pizza with a touch of soul food flair – and notably, it operates a 100% halal kitchen, making it inclusive for Muslim diners. The menu is unlike any other in town: where else can you find a Detroit-style pie topped with shrimp, crabmeat, lobster, garlic, and a creamy white sauce? That specialty, the “Coleman Young” pizza, is a seafood-lover’s tribute named after the city’s famous former mayor, and it’s become a neighborhood favorite. Detroit Pizza Bar offers both quick counter service and full-service dining, so you can grab a slice on the go or sit down and unwind. There’s even a rooftop deck for enjoying your pizza on warm evenings. To top it off, this pizzeria is all about community empowerment – it’s co-owned by locals and shares its profits with the staff (many of whom are from the neighborhood) in a profit-sharing model. Great pizza and a positive mission make Detroit Pizza Bar a welcome addition to the city’s food scene.

Buddy's Pizza

Open: Mon-Sat (11am-8pm) | Sun (12-8pm)
Multiple Locations
Phone: (313) 892-9001
Website: Buddy's Pizza

If Detroit-style pizza had a reigning monarch, Buddy’s Pizza would wear the crown. Back in 1946, Buddy’s original location on Conant Street in Detroit gave birth to the square pizza that started a nationwide craze. Today, with over a dozen locations across Metro Detroit (and new ones opening out of state), Buddy’s remains the gold standard by which all Detroit-style pizzas are measured. Biting into a Buddy’s slice is like tasting history: the crust, baked in those blue-steel pans, comes out perfectly crisp on the bottom and edges; the Wisconsin brick cheese caramelizes to form those beloved lacy edges; and the stripes of tomato sauce on top tie it all together with a tangy kick. Most folks stick to the classics here – pepperoni and cheese, maybe add some green peppers or brick cheese extra – because when the original is this good, why mess with perfection? Eating at Buddy’s is a nostalgic experience for many Detroit families (who’ve been coming for generations), and it’s practically a required pilgrimage for any newcomer. After all, you’re not officially a Detroiter until you’ve had a square slice at Buddy’s.

Amar Pizza

Open: Mon-Sun (12-11pm)
12195 Joseph Campau Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Phone: (313) 366-0980
Website: Amar Pizza

Tucked in the culturally rich city of Hamtramck (with a newer location in Troy), Amar Pizza brings an international twist to Detroit-style pizza. This unassuming shop has gained fame by infusing Bangladeshi flavors and other global influences into its pies, creating a fusion that’s utterly unique. Amar’s Detroit-style square pizza even flips tradition by hiding a layer of spicy tomato sauce beneath the cheese, locking in extra flavor. Adventurous eaters flock here for the notorious Ghost Pepper pizza – yes, it’s insanely spicy, and yes, people love it – or the Chicken Naga pie, which features bangla hot peppers and spices for a fiery kick. You’ll also find unusual toppings like dried fish (a nod to Bangladeshi cuisine) alongside classic pepperoni, so there’s something for every palate. If some of your group aren’t up for the heat, no worries: Amar offers everything from classic round pizza and wings to pasta. But the real magic is in those bold Detroit-style squares that showcase Metro Detroit’s diversity in each bite.

Z's Villa

Open: Mon-Sat (11am-9pm)
42 Piquette Ave, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone: (313) 874-2680
Website: Z's Villa

Housed in a charming Victorian-style building in Detroit’s New Center area, Z’s Villa is a one-of-a-kind spot that pairs great pizza with a fun, laid-back atmosphere. This place is famous for its huge outdoor patio – complete with picnic tables, sand volleyball courts, and lawn games – making it a perfect gathering spot on warm evenings. The pizza menu at Z’s Villa covers all the basics, but their Detroit-style pan pizza is the true highlight. It’s a hefty square pie made in the traditional steel pan and topped with a special blend of three cheeses that melts into every nook and cranny of the crust. You can order a whole pizza or just grab a square slice if you’re stopping by for a quick bite (yes, they do Detroit-style by the slice here). Topping options range from the usual suspects like pepperoni and mushrooms to local favorites like Polish kielbasa and banana peppers (and yes, anchovies for the brave!). Between the unique toppings and the casual backyard BBQ vibe – you might find yourself playing a game of cornhole or watching a volleyball match while you wait for your order – Z’s Villa offers a Detroit-style pizza outing that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food.

Shield's Restaurant Bar Pizzeria

Open: Mon-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri (11am-12am) | Sat (12pm-12am) | Sun (12-10pm)
5057 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone: (313) 262-6087
Website: Shield's Restaurant Bar Pizzeria

Shield’s Pizza is another legendary name in Metro Detroit’s pizza scene, known for serving up hearty pan pizzas since the mid-20th century. Shield’s began as a neighborhood bar in Detroit in the 1940s and started slinging pies that quickly became popular, eventually expanding into several suburban locations. In 2019, Shield’s returned to the city with a Midtown location, bringing its classic pizza back to where it started. A Shield’s Detroit-style square pizza is comfort food at its finest: a thick, soft-on-the-inside crust with crunchy edges, loaded with a generous layer of gooey brick cheese and finished with a rich, flavorful tomato sauce spread across the top as a final layer. That recipe has stood the test of time – many locals will tell you Shield’s is as close as it gets to Buddy’s for that old-school flavor. With its long-standing reputation for quality and consistency, Shield’s is a reliable choice when you’re craving an authentic Detroit-style pie. It’s the kind of place where you bring a big group, order a couple of pizzas and a famous Shield’s antipasto salad, and make some memories over a great meal.

Michigan & Trumbull

Open: Wed-Sun (12-9pm)
1331 Holden St #100, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone: (313) 637-4992
Website: Michigan & Trumbull

Named after the iconic crossroads where old Tiger Stadium stood, Michigan & Trumbull started as a hit pop-up in Corktown before moving to a permanent spot in Detroit’s Woodbridge neighborhood in 2023. Despite the change of address, M&T hasn’t lost its creative spark (or its devoted following). Here you’ll find a playful, chef-driven take on Detroit-style pizza, including a strong lineup of vegan options that vegetarians and omnivores alike appreciate. One headliner is the McLovin’ pizza – a clever nod to a certain fast-food burger. This indulgent square pie starts with a white garlic sauce base and piles on ground beef, melty mozzarella and cheddar, shredded lettuce, diced onion, and sesame seeds, finished with a drizzle of “Awesome Sauce” that tastes just like a Big Mac in pizza form. It’s a fun twist that perfectly captures M&T’s vibe. They also serve up creative sides like Teader Tots (tater tots loaded with cheese and toppings) and the indulgent Boblo Boats – deep-fried calzones named after Detroit’s famous old Boblo Island ferries – along with fresh salads for balance. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before a game or on a quest to try the most inventive pizzas in town, Michigan & Trumbull delivers a memorable, only-in-Detroit experience.

Pie Sci, Facebook

Pie Sci Pizza | Detroit

Open: Sun-Thur (11am-9pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-10pm)
5163 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48208
Phone: (313) 818-0290
Website: Pie Sci Pizza | Detroit

Pie-Sci (short for “Pizza Science”) is a funky neighborhood pizzeria in Detroit’s Woodbridge area that has earned a cult following for its wildly inventive pies. Every week, the chefs at Pie-Sci dream up new off-the-wall pizza specials, often with punny names and local inside jokes. One week you might find a creation called “Detroit Brussels Harder” – a witty nod to the famous “Detroit Hustles Harder” slogan – which comes topped with roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic oil, bacon, feta, and a balsamic glaze on a crispy Detroit-style crust. While they do offer traditional round pizzas, the real stars are the square slices with their buttery dough and crunchy corners. Pie-Sci is also very vegan-friendly; they regularly feature plant-based specials and offer vegan cheese, so friends of all diets can enjoy something delicious. They’ve become so popular that they recently opened a second location in Oak Park, but the original shop (nestled next to a brewery and coffee shop) still exudes that artsy, hole-in-the-wall charm. If you’re looking for a pizza experience that’s creative, quirky, and quintessentially Detroit, Pie-Sci should be high on your list.

Belle Isle Pizza

Open: Wed-Sun (4-10pm)
7869 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48214
Phone: (313) 331-1222
Website: Belle Isle Pizza

Just a few blocks from the bridge to Belle Isle, in Detroit’s West Village, sits Belle Isle Pizza – a cozy carryout joint with an outsized reputation. Despite its small footprint, this pizzeria thinks big: the menu spans hand-tossed round pies, ultra-thin crust options, and of course Detroit-style square pizzas. Many of their specialty pies pay tribute to local neighborhoods and landmarks, giving them a distinctly Detroit personality. A standout favorite is the “7 Villages” pizza (named after the collection of historic east-side villages, including West Village). This unique pie starts with a fresh herb-ricotta cream sauce in place of tomato sauce, then layers on mozzarella, fontina, and parmesan cheeses. It’s topped with a medley of sautéed gourmet mushrooms, a handful of peppery arugula, and a drizzle of olive oil – a beautiful mix of earthy and bright flavors on a thick Detroit-style crust. Belle Isle Pizza prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, and you can taste it in everything from the tangy pizza sauce to the crisp vegetables. It’s a go-to for Eastsiders looking to grab a creative, restaurant-quality pizza to enjoy at home (though if you can’t wait, there are a few stools inside for a quick bite). On your way to a picnic at Belle Isle or heading home from work, this spot is perfect for picking up a box of Detroit-style goodness.

Grandma Bob’s Pizza

Open: Mon-Thur (3-9pm) | Fri-Sat (12-10pm) | Sun (12-9pm)
2135 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 315-3177
Website: Grandma Bob’s Pizza

In the trendy Corktown district, Grandma Bob’s Pizza has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a creative spin on Detroit-style pizza. Since opening in 2019, this eclectic pizzeria has made a name for itself by fearlessly combining ingredients and catering to a diverse crowd. The menu always offers something that sparks curiosity – think a sausage-and-pistachio pizza for a salty crunch, or a bold Detroit-style “Hawaiian” topped with chorizo, pineapple, red onion, and pickled jalapeños. Nearly every pizza can be made vegan, and they aren’t shy about experimenting with plant-based ingredients, so everyone can find something to love. Grandma Bob’s also keeps things exciting with rotating specials that have been known to sell out when the kitchen gets especially inventive. Beyond the food, what really sets this place apart is its community spirit. On the last Tuesday of each month, Grandma Bob’s hosts a charity event called “Spread Dough.” They invite a local chef or personality to collaborate on a one-time-only pizza creation, and all the profits from that special pie go to a Detroit charity of that guest’s choice. It’s a fun way for pizza lovers to give back to the community (and try a truly one-of-a-kind pizza in the process). Between the funky toppings and the feel-good mission, Grandma Bob’s embodies the innovative, generous heart of Detroit’s food scene.

Sicily's Pizzeria and Subs

Open: Mon-Thur (10am-9:45pm) | Fri (10am-10:45) | Sat (12-10:45pm) | Sun (12-8:45pm)
3554 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 554-0755
Website: Sicily's Pizzeria and Subs

In Southwest Detroit – a neighborhood better known for amazing tacos – Sicily’s Pizzeria and Subs stands out by delivering Detroit-style pizza with its own unique twists. This family-run spot uses a naturally leavened sourdough for its dough, giving the crust a slight tang and extra depth of flavor. Baked in the Detroit-style rectangular pan, the pizza comes out thick and hearty, but here’s the twist: instead of the traditional square cuts, Sicily’s serves its pizza in large triangular slices, almost like a giant New York slice but with Detroit-style thickness. It’s a fun blend of styles that loyal customers love. One of their most popular offerings is the “Angry Bird” pizza – a creative, spicy specialty. This pie skips the usual tomato sauce base and uses creamy ranch dressing instead, then piles on diced buffalo chicken, smoky beef bacon, pickled jalapeños, and plenty of mozzarella. The result is a zesty, mouthwatering mash-up of a buffalo chicken wing and a Detroit square pizza, and it definitely brings the heat! Beyond the unique pizzas, Sicily’s has a spacious, casual dining area, making it a great place to sit down with family or a group of friends. It’s not uncommon to see a crowd of hungry diners enjoying slices and subs while a big game plays on the TV. So if you’re exploring Southwest Detroit and craving something other than Mexican fare, give Sicily’s a try – it’s a delicious reminder that Detroit-style pizza creativity knows no bounds.

Whether you’re a lifelong Detroiter or new to the area, hunting down the best Detroit-style pizza in Metro Detroit is an adventure you won’t want to miss. Each of these pizzerias – from the historic original at Buddy’s to the vegan innovation at Village Pizza, from the gourmet flair of Como’s to the quirky creations at Pie-Sci – tells a story of local flavor, creativity, and community pride. Exploring them isn’t just about indulging in a great meal (though that’s a big perk); it’s also a tasty way to experience the neighborhoods and culture of Metro Detroit. You might find yourself chatting with longtime regulars in line, or swapping favorite menu picks with a family at the next table, and suddenly you’re not just eating pizza – you’re joining a Detroit tradition.

At the end of the day, the perfect Detroit-style slice comes down to that magic trio: a crispy, chewy crust, melty caramelized cheese edges, and bold, delicious toppings. And around here, you’re never far from a pizza place that nails it. So next time you’re craving something truly special, skip the ordinary chain pizza and hit up one of these local spots. From Berkley to Corktown to the East Side, Metro Detroit’s best Detroit-style pizzas are waiting to wow your taste buds – one square slice at a time.