Some of the best pizza in Ohio hides behind plain signs and parking lots you would drive right past. You walk in expecting an ordinary slice, and then the first bite changes your whole weekend plan.
Around Stark County, people argue about pizza the way other towns argue about football, and they have good reason. Grab a napkin, because this list might send you straight to your car.
1. Mike’s Pizza, Canton, OH
Downtown Canton has a secret, and it smells like garlic. Mike’s Pizza sits on Walnut Avenue NE, turning out artisan New York-style pies with big, foldable slices and a crust that holds up to its toppings.
Start with the garlic knots. They are soft, buttery, and gone way too fast.
From there, the Sausage and Pepperoni pie is the move for first-timers, while the meatballs make a hearty side for anyone who wants a little extra comfort on the plate.
The room feels cozy and a bit trendy, with table service, free Wi-Fi, and high chairs for little ones. Service moves quickly, which helps on busy Friday and Saturday nights.
Plan carefully, though. Doors open Wednesday through Friday from 4 to 9 PM and Saturday from noon to 9 PM, with Sunday through Tuesday off.
Delivery is not offered, so dine in, sit outside, or grab takeout. Parking is free and usually easy.
2. The Pizza Oven, Canton, OH
Ask a lifelong Cantonite about pizza, and the name Pizza Oven pops up fast. This long-running local chain has been feeding Stark County families for generations, and the Cleveland Avenue SW shop keeps the tradition going in a bright, clean, newer space.
The signature is that classic Canton-style pie. Aged provolone gives it a sharp, tangy bite, the sauce is bold and robust, and the toppings taste fresh.
It is a regional flavor you simply will not find the same way up the road in Akron.
Hungry for more than pizza? Wings and chicken dinners round out the menu, and the chicken has a fan base of its own.
Late hours make it a hero for night owls, open until 11 PM most nights and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Delivery, carryout, and dine-in seating are all available, and the staff keeps things friendly and quick.
3. Camellone Italian American Cuisine, Canton, OH
Two giant slices for about five bucks. That deal alone has made Camellone a lunchtime legend on Cleveland Avenue NW, and the quality backs up the price.
The New York-style crust has a satisfying crunch on the outside while staying light and fluffy inside. It never turns soggy or chewy, and the savory sauce ties everything together.
Buckeye fans should try Nick’s Buckeye Pizza, a local favorite that also comes by the slice.
Beyond pizza, the Supreme Stromboli is packed, the pepperoni rolls are perfect for snacking in the car, and garlic bread with cheese makes an easy side. There is even a full vegetarian and vegan menu, plus a kids’ menu for picky eaters.
Counter service keeps things relaxed and quick. Hours run 11 AM to 9 PM most weekdays, later on Friday and Saturday, and Sunday from 4 PM.
Delivery and free parking make it simple either way.
4. Kraus’ Pizza, Canton, OH
Double crust. Those two words explain why so many Canton families keep Kraus’ on speed dial.
The 30th Street NE shop is known for signature topper pizzas, where the toppings ride on top of a second layer, giving every bite extra heft.
Kraus’ Super Pizza is the crowd favorite, and the K Alzone is a cheesy pocket worth sharing. Broasted chicken and hot wings add crunch to the table, and garlic bread rounds things out.
The vibe is lively and welcoming. Expect a patio for warm Ohio evenings, live music some nights, and plenty of screens for catching the game.
Families and groups fit right in, with high chairs and a kids’ menu ready.
Convenience is a huge bonus here. A drive-through window means you can grab dinner without leaving the car, and the kitchen stays open from 11 AM until midnight every single day of the week.
5. Smiley’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, Massillon, OH
Old-school charm never really goes out of style, and Smiley’s proves it daily on Lincoln Way East in Massillon. This mom-and-pop pizzeria feels historic and homey, like a place your grandparents might have dated.
Here is the big draw: locals call it the closest thing to New York pizza in town. The thin crust carries a slightly sweet sauce, and the texture hits just right.
Prefer a thicker bite? The Sicilian-style pie is solid and satisfying.
The menu goes well beyond pizza. Veal Parmesan, Veal Marsala, Chicken Alfredo, stromboli, and calzones keep the Italian comfort coming, and yes, liver and onions still shows up for the traditionalists.
Prices stay budget-friendly, and the staff treats regulars like family. Open 11 AM to 9 PM daily, Smiley’s takes reservations and offers catering.
Downtown parking can be tricky, so give yourself a few extra minutes.
6. Marscotti’s Pizza, Massillon, OH
Wednesdays hit differently at Marscotti’s. That is when the all-you-can-eat buffet rolls out, and smart Massillon locals plan their week around it.
Even without the buffet, the pizza earns its spot. The crust gets plenty of praise, with a texture that balances chew and crisp, and the sauce brings rich, authentic Italian flavor.
The signature stromboli is the house specialty, stuffed generously and baked golden.
Wings and chicken make the menu even more crowd-pleasing, and the baked ziti offers a cozy, cheesy option for pasta lovers. It is simple comfort food done with care.
The setup is casual and easygoing, ideal for a quick dinner or a carryout run. Hours start in the afternoon most days, with Saturday opening at noon and Mondays closed.
Delivery is available too, and the free lot on Lincoln Way East usually has plenty of open spaces.
7. Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant The Pizza Oven, North Canton, OH
Birthday dinners, graduation parties, Sunday family gatherings. For many North Canton households, Papa Bear’s is where memories happen, and the huge dining room was built for exactly that.
Pizza stays the headliner, and plenty of regulars would put it up against anything in Ohio. Don’t skip the starters, though.
Pizza Freitz’s, broccoli cheese bread, garlic bread with peppers, and French fried mushrooms are all snack-table favorites.
Pasta fans have options too. Mama Bear’s Stuffed Shells are wonderfully cheesy, the meatball sub is hearty, and Italian Wedding soup warms you up on chilly days.
Save room for cheesecake.
Prices land a bit higher than a typical slice shop, but the full-service experience matches. Reservations, a private dining room, catering, and curbside pickup are all available.
Open daily from 11 AM, with late nights until midnight on weekends, this Applegrove Street spot handles crowds easily.
8. Kozmo’s Grille, Massillon, OH
Giddy up! Named after Cosmo Kramer from Seinfeld, Kozmo’s Grille brings a playful sitcom wink to downtown Massillon, and fans will spot fun references all around the room.
The building itself steals the show. It is a historic old space full of character, with a warm, pub-like feel that makes you want to stay a while.
Now, about that pizza. Pies bake in a stone oven, coming out with a crispy, blistered crust.
The Great White and the Tuscan Pizza are standouts, and the spinach artichoke dip makes a perfect opener.
Not in a pizza mood? Cajun Chicken Pasta, mac and cheese, a crab cake BLT, and sweet corn cake keep everyone happy, with a full vegetarian menu too.
Hours run 11 AM to 8 PM Monday through Thursday, a bit later Friday, and Saturday evenings only. Sundays are closed, and reservations are welcome.
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