Harris Vacations Staff Writer | September 30, 2024
The Alabama Gulf Coast is known for its stunning beaches, charming vacation rentals, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Whether you’re unwinding after a day at the beach or looking for a delicious family meal, there’s nothing quite like a great pizza.
Forget about Dominos! The Gulf Shores area offers a variety of local authentic pizzerias, each with its unique flair, atmosphere, and flavors. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best pizza places in Gulf Shores, perfect for satisfying your cravings during your stay.
Photo Credit: mohsin_gfx
Crico’s Pizza & Subs is a popular neighborhood hangout that’s been serving up cheesy pies since 1998. You can dive into one of their classic pizzas or diversify by choosing one of their equally beloved sub sandwiches. Traveling with kids (or occasionally picky eaters?), their cheesy Crico Sticks are the way to go. Gluten-free options are also available – some say their version of wheat-free pizza is the best they’ve ever had!
A restaurant with a sense of humor, Papa Rocco’s proudly proclaims itself as “The home of warm beer and lousy pizza,” although the reality is much more pleasant. This no-frills restaurant serves up cheese-laden pizzas and freshly shucked oysters, among other things. And with a different live music act every night, you’re able to get dinner and a show. Dine-in and takeout are available!
Photo Credit: Brent Hofacker
Tuscany Pizza and Grill is the perfect spot for a fun family dinner or a cozy date night in Gulf Shores. Beyond great food, you’ll also find a nice ambiance.
With a delicious menu featuring delicious pizza, pasta, and tantalizing appetizers, there’s plenty to choose from. If you’re having trouble choosing between pizza or pasta, the shrimp or chicken alfredo pizza marries the best of both worlds. Make sure to leave room for their fried mozzarella, as they make their mozzarella fresh each morning! Afterward, head next door to the Yard Milkshake Bar for dessert!
Janino’s Pizza prides itself on bringing a taste of the Big Apple to Alabama with its New York-style pizzas. Small and unassuming, this family-owned pizzeria lays on the toppings in a laid-back atmosphere. The menu extends beyond pizza to some other Italian favorites like stromboli and calzones–and chicken wings for good measure. Online ordering or carry out is also available here!
Photo Credit: Ryzhkov Photography
Once you spot the cheerful blue facade of Surfside Pizza & Ice Cream, you know that there’s tasty food ahead. Surfside specializes in thin crust pizza, with classic toppings or a build-your-own option. They also have gluten-free crust! Finish off with a slice of their New York-style cheesecake or pizza cookies.
If you’re looking for a change in scenery, just a short drive over to Orange Beach will take you to Rotolo’s Pizzeria. You can try something a little different here with their Detroit-style pizza, cut in squares and crispy-edged. An order of Krewe Cheeseticks as an appetizer are a big crowd-pleaser, topped with pepperoni, bacon, cheddar, and feta. But you can also get classic pizzas, calzones, and wings here as well.
Photo Credit: Jack7_7
As soon as you enter and see the checkered tablecloths, you can guess that Nonna’s serves up some classic Italian fare in the form of New York-style pizza. Go for a classic or one of their most popular specialty pizzas like the Abe Froman, which has sausage and caramelized onion. Go for a round pie, or mix it up with a crispy square slice. Don’t forget to add a side of garlic knots to round out the meal with soft, garlicky goodness.
Photo Credit: Elena Veselova
If you truly want a taste of Italy, then Lauria’s By the Beach is a delightful option for your Gulf Shores dinner. Before you even order food, choose a bottle from their ceiling-high shelves of imported wine and then browse the menu. The flatbread pizzas (BBQ pulled pork and buffalo chicken are two of the most popular) are a great light Italian dish. However, you may also be tempted by the robust charcuterie boards. And, of course, save room for dessert!
ByWater Beachside has pizza on its menu, which is true, but most people come here first and foremost for the view. Enjoy a meal up close and personal with the ocean as you dine on the pier. This is a great spot for a breezy meal out with occasional live music and karaoke for entertainment.
For a no-nonsense, no-frills slice, head to Marco’s Pizza for consistently solid pizza. A nationwide chain known for its quick and consistent pizzas, you can stop here for a casual bite or pick up a pie to take back to your comfy lodgings and enjoy from your rental home!
When you’re looking for a place to go out to eat while on vacation, sometimes pizza is the only thing that will hit the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheese pizza or a delicate flatbread piled with toppings, these pizza spots are some of Gulf Shore’s best restaurants. From Italian-inspired bistros to breezy beach spots, you definitely have the chance to find the perfect vibe for your evening.
Be sure to check out one (or all!) of these great pizza places during your stay in Gulf Shores, whether you go out to eat or just order a pie to take back to your cozy vacation rental to enjoy in peace.
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