Best Pizza in Madison (2025)

A Madison institution in the basement of the Italian Workmen’s Club, Greenbush serves ultra-thin, square-cut pies with serious neighborhood history. Recently reopened under local ownership, it’s been praised by local media for keeping the recipe—and spirit—intact.

On lively Willy Street, Grampa’s turns out inventive, thin-crust pizzas anchored by careful sourcing and a family recipe. Regularly praised by local critics for balance and originality, it’s a relaxed, owner-led spot that feels quintessentially Madison.

Housed in a landmark downtown building, Lucille offers wood-fired pizzas and its much-talked-about steel-pan “Wisco‑Detroit” pies. Frequently highlighted by local editors and loved by diners, it’s a lively stop for groups near the Capitol.

A Monroe Street staple for Neapolitan-style pies, Pizza Brutta fires personal pizzas with blistered crusts and Wisconsin-forward toppings. Often cited by local guides for quality and value, it’s a go-to before or after a stroll by the zoo.

Chef Salvatore Di Scala’s downtown trattoria is certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, a rare accolade in Wisconsin. Expect true Neapolitan technique, imported ingredients, and a heartfelt connection to Naples celebrated by local tourism and press.

West-side favorite for 90‑second, high-heat pies, Novanta keeps things simple: soft, leopard‑spotted crusts, quality toppings, and a casual counter setup. Consistently recommended by local listings for dependable, classic Neapolitan.

A newer standout specializing in Detroit‑style squares: airy crumb, caramelized cheese frico, and bold toppings. Local reviewers praise its dialed‑in technique and crisp edges, making it a distinctive addition to Madison’s pizza landscape.

A small, chef-driven north side spot with limited hours and exceptional wood‑fired pies. Celebrated by the Wisconsin State Journal for thoughtful combinations and skillful execution, it rewards planning ahead with one of the city’s most satisfying pizzas.

In the Atwood neighborhood, Chef Giovanni Novella’s Italian kitchen turns out excellent wood‑fired pizzas alongside house pastas. Recognized by local media and tourism outlets, it’s a warm, neighborhood anchor with a true Italian heartbeat.

A family-friendly Midvale Plaza pizzeria from a local restaurant group, Luigi’s hand‑stretches dough and makes sauces and sausage in-house. It’s a dependable neighborhood choice for classic styles, well regarded by local diners.