Arizona is rife with pizza restaurants, but few (if any) have received the amount or intensity of accolades as Pizzeria Bianco. This downtown Phoenix icon has been voted among the nation’s — and even the world’s — best by the likes of Rachael Ray, Bon Appetit, and Vogue. 

A downtown Phoenix institution since 1987, Pizzeria Bianco is a rustic, red-brick building that looks like it was plucked straight out of New York City. That’s because its owner, Chris Bianco, grew up in the Bronx, where he became a master of all things pizza before bringing that expertise to Phoenix.

TripAdvisor/jennlovesfood

Neapolitan-style brick oven pizza is the name of the game here, its blistering heat of up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit cooking the pies with quickness and efficiency. Just one look at this wood-burning hearth is enough to transport you straight to Italy.

TripAdvisor/newsguy167

Have you ever seen restaurant bread more authentic than this? It’s baked fresh all throughout the day, with crispy edges giving way to a soft, fluffy center reminiscent of a cloud.

TripAdvisor/happytoberetired

Try not to fill up on bread too much, as the appetizer menu doesn’t end there. You really can’t go wrong with a caprese salad, especially when it involves handmade mozzarella and local tomatoes and basil.

Facebook/Bianco

Unlike your average chain, there are only six pizzas to choose from here. While that may sound disappointing, it simply means quality is favored immensely over quantity – a sentiment your taste buds will appreciate.

TripAdvisor/WoHop132

Simplicity is everything at Pizzeria Bianco, as well sourced ingredients paired intelligently need no fancy gimmicks to enhance their flavor. Pictured here is “Wiseguy,” sporting wood-roasted onion, house-smoked mozzarella, and fennel sausage.

Facebook/Bianco

Customers have really taken to the no-frills attitude, as the most timid pizza also happens to be a crowd favorite. “Rosa,” which has red onion, parmesan cheese, rosemary, and pistachios grown right here in Arizona, utilizes subtle, yet sophisticated flavor combinations that render it a true culinary masterpiece.

Facebook/Bianco

More of an Italian sub person? About four miles away is Pane Bianco, a spinoff of the pizzeria that opened in 2005. Serving delicious split focaccia sandwiches for lunch and pizza for dinner, it’s like the best of both worlds. These meatballs just belong on a thick, crusty slice of bread, wouldn’t you agree?

Facebook/Bianco

Lines can get so long, the pizzeria opened a bar right around the corner to keep guests occupied. Enjoy antipasto plates and wine by-the-glass, including some of the more elusive Arizona varieties.

Facebook/Bianco

Visit the restaurant’s website or Facebook page to learn more.

TripAdvisor/jennlovesfood

TripAdvisor/newsguy167

TripAdvisor/happytoberetired

Facebook/Bianco

TripAdvisor/WoHop132

Have you ever eaten at Pizzeria Bianco? If so, what was your favorite menu item? Let us know your thoughts.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Pizzeria Bianco, 623 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA