"To this day, we’ve never met anyone who actually calls Austin “Bat City,” but there’s no denying that this town has a lot of bats—about 1.5 million, in fact. What Austin doesn’t have, however, is an abundance of great Detroit-style pizza. Outside of the national chain Jet’s and the local chain Via 313, options are limited. That’s where Bat City Pies comes in. Parked at The Buzz Mill on East Riverside, they’re slinging some of the best deep-dish pan pies in Austin—or, fine, Bat City. If you’ve been a Via 313 loyalist, it might be time to rethink your allegiances. Bat City’s crust is airier, its edges crispier, and its toppings more generous. Try the KB Special—essentially a Hawaiian leveled up with pepperoni, peppadews, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic—and embrace the truth: pineapple does belong on pizza when done right. Just know that these pies are thick, made to order, and can take a while to come out. Order online in advance, or grab a beer from the bar and settle in on the patio—there’s usually live music to keep you entertained while you wait. Food Rundown photo credit: Nicolai McCrary Meatballs These are well seasoned, and the marinara is nice and tangy, but the texture is a little too soft and bready. Skip them and get more pizza or a salad, unless you’re desperate for protein. photo credit: Nicolai McCrary Pizzas The pizzas are light and airy, with a thick layer of cheese and enough tangy marinara to balance everything out. We like the KB Special mentioned above, but the classic pepperoni also hits exactly how you want it to." - Nicolai McCrary
