Erie might not be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to finding really good pizza, but some locals would argue otherwise. Where can a person find the best pizza in Erie? That’s a matter of taste. Whether you love crunching into some thin crust or diving into deep dish, you’ll find whatever you’re craving in one of the Gem City’s small corner pizzerias.
In a city that’s sadly dominated by national chains, it’s not surprising that one chain ended up on this list. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It just means that this particular chain is doing its job: making pizza people love. However, the local independent pizzerias stomped the competition, grabbing the top two spots in our top three.
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According to our readers, you can find the best pizza in Erie at one of these spots. Check out the three best pizza places in town below.
3. Donato’s Pizza
Donato’s Pizza, with two locations in the Greengarden Plaza on West 8th St. and Buffalo Road in Harborcreek, is a locally owned franchise of a national chain. This store is managed by Kevin Stephenson, who ensures that their pizza and service are consistent. But the biggest selling point of Donato’s pizza is their edge-to-edge toppings. This leaves little to no crust and a distinctive crunch — something that many pizza lovers appreciate.
While Donatos cooks up a great pepperoni pie, their unique selections like the Mariachi Beef Pizza, the Hot Honey Pepperoni, and the Hot Chicken Pizza make this pizzeria stand out from the rest. Whether you like ordinary pizza or something totally bonkers, Donato’s has you covered.
Fun fact: Donatos in Harborcreek is home to the world’s largest pizza cutter. For tourists who love an Instagram-worthy road trip pit stop, this is a must-see sculpture.
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2. Colony Pizza & Catering
Colony Pizza recently turned three years old and had a leap in its development: adding a brick pizza oven. Eric Broffman, owner of Colony Pizza — long time pizza maker and connoisseur — can whip up a traditional Neapolitan-style pie in around four and a half minutes. an impressive feat ready to serve an impatient town. So, in other words, Colony Pizza is whipping up some impressive pies in less time than it takes to dry your fingernails.
But Eric doesn’t stop at brick oven pizza. The menu at Colony is massive, spanning regional favorites like perogies, a hoagie inspired by Primanti Bros., and, of course, wings.
Colony Pizza is a great takeout option, but they don’t have a ton of seating space. So if you’re looking for dine-in eating, you may get lucky — or not. Either way, Colony Pizza is worth a visit. You can find people who love to talk good food here, and the cool pizza oven and inviting vibe make it a great spot to enjoy some of the best pizza Erie PA has to offer.
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1. John’s Wildwood
Why does so much good food come out of Edinboro? Maybe it’s due of the college kids, maybe it’s because of the snow belt. Either way, we’re thrilled that Edinboro spawned this delectable pizza joint.
John’s Wildwood has been serving up slices since 1979. The OG on this list, and a multi-year multi-title award for winner in the area for best pizza, nothing in the area beats John’s Wildwood. Why? Maybe it’s the price (yay $10 Tuesdays!); maybe it’s the crust. But locals swear by the goodness and consistency of this pizza.
John’s Wildwood offers the best traditional pizzas and some unique specialties. Their Chicken Cordon Bleu Pizza and Seafood and Crab Pizza showcase the chef’s innovation and offer an “I dare ya” option that never disappoints.
Overall, John’s Wildwood stands out not only for its inventive pizza offerings but also for its consistent quality for the last forty-five years. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, stop into this locally beloved pizza joint and give it a shot.
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