Thin Crust Pizza in Greater Milwaukee: 65+ Must-Try Spots

If you've ever wondered why Wisconsin takes its pizza so seriously, one bite of a properly made Milwaukee-style thin crust will answer that question. This isn't just any pizza—it's crackling-crisp, cut into squares, and built for sharing. And across the six counties surrounding Milwaukee, you'll find everything from legendary tavern joints that have been slinging pies since the 1950s to authentic Neapolitan pizzerias with imported Italian ovens firing at 1,000 degrees.

We've scoured Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Racine, and Kenosha counties to bring you 65+ of the best thin crust pizza destinations in the greater Milwaukee area. Whether you're craving that signature cracker-thin crust with tavern-cut squares, a pillowy Neapolitan with leopard-spotted char, or a foldable New York slice, this guide has you covered. Grab the family, hit the road, and prepare to eat your way through some of the best pizza in the Midwest.

Milwaukee's East Side and Downtown

The story of Milwaukee-style pizza begins at Zaffiro's Pizza at 1724 N. Farwell Avenue, and no thin crust pilgrimage is complete without a stop here. Since 1954, this East Side institution has served what many consider the definitive Milwaukee pie—a wafer-thin crust described as "two credit cards thick," cut into squares and crowned with thick, tangy sauce that bubbles over the edges. Order the EBF (Everything But Fish) or go classic with sausage and mushroom. The red checkered tablecloths, pink neon bar sign, and legendary bartender Frank (who's been pouring drinks for over 40 years) make this a must-visit. They're open Monday through Sunday except Wednesday, with prices in the $12-$22 range. Kids love the square slices, and generations of Milwaukee families have made this their pizza tradition.

Just blocks away, Lisa's Pizzeria has anchored the Brady Street area since 1960. Recently reopened under new ownership with the original recipes intact, Lisa's delivers sweet tomato sauce on a crispy, bubbly crust in a low-lit, red-walled dining room that feels frozen in time. They've also added Detroit-style thick pies for those who want variety, but the thin crust remains the star.

For something completely different, head to San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana at 838 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. This is Milwaukee's only VPN-certified (Vera Pizza Napoletana) pizzeria, meaning they follow strict Italian standards down to the Stefano Ferrara wood-fired oven imported from Naples. Pizzas bake at 900°F in just 70-90 seconds, emerging with puffy, charred "cornicione" edges and a soft, tender center. The Margherita D.O.C. with buffalo mozzarella is transcendent. Families love the pizza bar seating where kids can watch the action. Expect prices around $14-$19 per pie, and definitely make reservations.

Right next door, Calderone Club at 842 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive serves as a time machine to Milwaukee's pizza origins. Based on recipes from the Caradaro Club—widely considered Milwaukee's first pizzeria when it opened in 1945—Calderone's tangy, rich sauce and cracker-thin crust represent pizza history you can taste. The casual bar atmosphere welcomes everyone.

Downtown, Brick 3 Pizza on North Old World 3rd Street offers New York-style slices perfect for grabbing between events. The thin, foldable slices and classic NYC vibe make this ideal for families on the go, with prices in the budget-friendly range. And for an artistic twist, Proof Pizza inside the Saint Kate Arts Hotel at 139 E. Kilbourn Avenue serves fast-casual Neapolitan-style pies in a stunning setting where you can explore rotating art exhibitions while dining.

Bay View and the South Side

Bay View has quietly become a pizza destination, and Santino's Little Italy at 352 E. Stewart Street leads the charge. Their wood-burning oven uses cherry wood from northern Wisconsin to fire Caputo 00 flour dough topped with Grande mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes. The Paisano with pesto and spicy Italian sausage is a standout, and the Greek pizza with artichokes and feta offers something different. Prices run $13-$20, and reservations are highly recommended for this lively spot.

For New York authenticity, Classic Slice at 2797 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue is Bay View's beloved slice shop. Fresh dough daily, stone-oven baked, and more adventurous with toppings than traditional NYC shops—all at budget-friendly prices. Around the corner, Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co. at 2920 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue surprises visitors with a handsome red-tiled Stefano Ferrara oven that produces 12-inch Neo-Neapolitan pies alongside their famous coffee. The Meara with prosciutto, artichokes, and Kalamata olives pairs perfectly with espresso.

Tenuta's Italian Restaurant at 2995 S. Clement Avenue serves a unique style—think a thick, crisp cracker crust that's golden brown and sturdy enough for generous toppings. Their Diavola with hot giardiniera, pineapple, and cream cheese is unexpectedly addictive. For classic bar pizza, find Vinchi's Pizza inside The Bubbler bar at 3158 S. Howell Avenue, where a walk-up window delivers perfect crackly thin crust with sweet-savory sauce.

Ned's Pizza at 3246 S. 27th Street has been a South Side institution since 1969, located on the legendary strip with Mazo's Hamburgers and Leon's Frozen Custard. Their sweet-zesty-tangy sauce is distinctive, and adventurous eaters should try the PLT (pepperoni, lettuce, tomato) or the pickle pizza with pepperoncini. They even offer parbake pizzas you can freeze and bake at home—prices range $12-$24.

Perhaps the most beloved hidden gem is Maria's Pizza at 5025 W. Forest Home Avenue. Legendary since 1957, Maria's serves only large rectangular pizzas on super-thin cracker crust in a wood-paneled dining room adorned with religious prints and year-round Christmas lights. Pies overflow the pan and come to the table on paper doilies. Note: they're cash only, open Wednesday through Sunday 4-9pm, and serve large pizzas only ($22 and up).

Wauwatosa and West Allis

Balistreri's Italian American Ristorante is to Wauwatosa what Zaffiro's is to the East Side. With two locations (812 N. 68th Street in Wauwatosa and 6501 W. Bluemound Road), this family-owned institution has served their cracker-thin pies since 1968. Based on the original Caradaro Club recipe—founder Jim Balistreri got his start there—Balistreri's is known for a hefty dose of tangy sauce and slightly salty cheese. They've been voted Milwaukee's Best Thin Crust Pizza multiple times. The intimate, nostalgic setting is perfect for family gatherings, and kids love their famous ice cream drinks. Prices run $13-$30, and reservations are recommended on weekends.

In Washington Heights, Wy'east Pizza at 5601 W. Vliet Street brings Portland pizza culture to Milwaukee. Owners brought their passion from Oregon, and their long-fermented sourdough dough creates a chewy, bread-like crust with snazzy charred edges. The Hot Marmot with pepperoni, garlic, and sweet hot peppers is a revelation. Warning: they make limited dough daily and sell out regularly. Phone orders only, prices $14-$22.

Alphonso's The Original at 9130 W. Greenfield Avenue in West Allis might be the thin-crust king of the area. Their crisp cracker crust under sweetish sauce and smooth, stretchy cheese is complemented by famous baton-sized fried mozzarella sticks. Try the Cutlass Supreme with sausage, pepperoni, and fresh veggies. Prices range $16-$35.

Waukesha County

Grimaldi's Pizzeria at The Corners of Brookfield (20119 North Lord St) is the only Grimaldi's in Wisconsin and one of just two coal-fired pizzerias in the entire metro area. Their 25-ton brick oven runs at 1,200°F and burns over 100 pounds of coal daily, producing authentic New York-style pizza with crisp crust and subtle smoky char. Fresh dough daily, hand-tossed, with secret-recipe sauce and house-made mozzarella—the Traditional Pizza starts at $16.50. The spacious dining room seats 147 (inside and patio), and families love the walk-up To-Go window and homemade cheesecakes.

For Chicago tavern-style, Rosati's Pizza at 17565 W North Ave in Brookfield serves excellent crunch-and-char thin crust perfect for sharing. Their Windy City Pizza with Italian sausage, fresh garlic, and hot giardiniera brings Windy City heat.

Out on Pewaukee Lake, Doc's Dry Dock at N38W27091 Parkside Road is a lakeside legend. This small fisherman's bar has served award-winning cracker-thin pizza for over 30 years—so thin and crispy it was ranked among Milwaukee's best. The Super Special is loaded, but the real star is the "Mega Watt" pizza created by NFL star J.J. Watt himself (lite sauce, chicken, bacon, ranch, and jalapeños). They're open Wednesday through Sunday, with prices around $11-$20, and boats can dock right at the restaurant.

In downtown Waukesha, Magellan's on Main at 241 W Main Street pairs creative hand-tossed pizzas with 56 unique beer taps. Try the Jambalaya or Chili Lime Chicken for something unexpected. Michael's Italian Restaurant at 1100 S Grand Ave has served authentic Italian-American thin crust since 1955—nearly 70 years of consistency.

Giuseppi's Pizzeria at 14185 W Greenfield Ave in New Berlin is a true family institution since 1951—over 70 years of homemade pizza with flavorful crust and quality sausage. Carryout and delivery only, Tuesday through Sunday evenings.

In charming downtown Delafield, Giuseppe's Pizzeria at 615 Main Street serves Wisconsin tavern-style with sweeter sauce and whole-milk Wisconsin mozzarella. Reviews rave about the "undercarriage to die for"—that perfect crispy bottom. The homemade meatball pizza is exceptional. Nearby, Marty's Pizza at 2580 Sun Valley Drive continues a 60+ year family legacy using premium flour dough, original recipe marinara, and 100% Wisconsin mozzarella.

In Oconomowoc, Johnny Pizzas & Pastaria at 1288 Summit Avenue offers hand-tossed pizzas in a family setting with private dining available. Eric's Hand Tossed Pizza & Subs in the Lake Country area makes fresh dough from scratch every morning and accommodates special requests—a true family operation.

For wood-fired options, Hop Yard Ale Works in Menomonee Falls pairs their wood-fired pizzas with award-winning small-batch craft beers. Sunday live music from 1-4pm makes this a great family afternoon destination.

Don't overlook Tony Maronni's Pizza at N63 W23951 Main St in Sussex, where owner Tony personally greets guests and guarantees satisfaction. And The Local Bar & Grill in Muskego offers 10" and 16" pizzas on house-style crust with your choice of red pizza sauce or white alfredo.

Ozaukee County

Historic Cedarburg delivers two outstanding options. Tomaso's at W63N688 Washington Avenue is frequently called "the best pizza in Ozaukee County"—handmade-from-scratch with an extremely crispy thin crust and homemade sauce that steals the show. Uniquely, they put cheese UNDER the sauce. Their Greek Pizza with artichokes, spinach, and feta is outstanding. Located in walkable downtown Cedarburg near the Cedar Creek Settlement, they're open Tuesday through Saturday with moderate prices and a party room for groups.

For New York-style slices, Sal's Pizza Cedarburg at W63N635 Washington Avenue serves crispy individual slices including creative options like Mac and Cheese Pizza. Outdoor patio seating and budget-friendly prices make this perfect for families exploring downtown.

Mequon Pizza Company at 12020 North River Road is a second-generation family treasure tucked in a residential area. Their thin crust is crispy and must-try, with a full bar featuring a huge beer selection. Tuesday through Sunday, 4-9pm. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly—regulars say "customers feel like family."

In Grafton, John's Pizzeria at 1401 11th Ave feels like stepping into someone's cozy rec room. Family-owned with homemade tomato sauce and freshly grated cheese, they're open Tuesday through Sunday evenings. Next door, you'll find Sahale Brewery for a post-pizza drink. Even Odds Pizza at 372 Falls Road offers both hand-tossed thin crust and Detroit-style with a loyalty program (free pizza after 12 visits).

For a unique experience, Eaton's Fresh Pizza at 1615 Wisconsin Avenue in Grafton offers take-and-bake pizzas made with locally sourced Wisconsin cheese. The Chicken Cordon Bleu and Chicken Spinach Artichoke pizzas are customer favorites, and it's budget-friendly with exceptional value.

Michaleno's Pizzeria serves Saukville from 234 E Dekora Street with homemade Italian pizza including their popular Gyro Pizza and Blanket Pizzas (double-stuffed crust). Family-owned with three total locations serving the region.

Washington County: Worth the Trip

Maricio's in Barton at 1726 Barton Avenue in West Bend is a destination pizzeria—people drive from Milwaukee specifically for this pizza. Overlooking the Milwaukee River near Barton Dam, Maricio's serves an "extremely thin cracker crust but strong enough not to bend from toppings." Like Tomaso's, they put cheese under the sauce—a regional signature. The creativity shines in options like the Cuban Pizza (spicy mustard/mayo base, pork, ham, capicola, pickles) and Mac Attack (homemade mac & cheese with Cuban pork). Family-owned since 2005, they have two bars including a basement party room called "The Underground," plus an outdoor patio with river views. Gluten-free and cauliflower crust available. Open Wednesday through Sunday, moderate prices ($10-20 per person).

Downtown West Bend's Gary's Place at 110 Wisconsin Street combines gastropub vibes with excellent thin crust. Twenty rotating craft beer taps complement creative pizzas like The Roundabout (mushrooms, pepperoni, black olives, sausage, five-cheese blend) and their Mac N Cheese Pizza. Half-price pizza happy hour Tuesday through Thursday, 3-5pm makes this a budget-friendly family destination.

Michaleno's Pizzeria originated in Kewaskum at 250 Main Street in 2008. Mike and Debbie Herbert and their four sons serve homemade Italian pizza with scratch-made dough and sauces. Their Blanket Pizza (double-stuffed crust) and calzones are specialties.

In Hartford, Gino's Pizza at 752 Grand Ave took over a beloved 35-year location and now serves fresh-made dough daily with thin crust featuring perfectly puffy edges. Budget-friendly with broasted chicken and Friday fish fry.

Pizza Station in Jackson and Johnny Manhattan's in Richfield round out Washington County's offerings—Johnny Manhattan's was voted top 10 for Best Pizza by Yelp and draws customers from as far as Waukesha for their hand-crafted 16-inch signature pizzas.

Racine County: A Thin Crust Powerhouse

Racine has a legitimate claim to pizza greatness, and it starts at Wells Brothers Restaurant at 2148 Mead Street. Opened in 1921, this fourth-generation family institution was ranked 6th best thin-crust pizza in the entire country. Their cracker-thin, cornmeal-coated crust is legendary—crispy at edges, sturdy enough for generous toppings. They make sausage in-house using their original recipe with fennel. Order your cheese "well-done" for extra crispiness. The retro 1960s decor, paper-doily pizza trays, and full bar (try a Spotted Cow) transport you back in time. Closed Sunday and Monday, reservations recommended for groups.

Mike & Angelo's Italian Restaurant at 6214 Washington Avenue has been "Voted Racine's Best Thin Crust Pizza." Their west-side location serves crispy, square-cut thin crust in a lively neighborhood bar atmosphere. The Chicken Alfredo and Spinach & Artichoke pizzas impress, and kids have their own menu with mini cheese pizza and chicken tenders. Full bar with good wines, gluten-free crust available, and a banquet room for up to 200. Opens daily at 4pm.

DeRango The Pizza King has earned its royal title since 1953—over 70 years serving Racine with multiple locations including their Steakhouse at 4621 6 Mile Road. Each location has devoted fans, and the variety is impressive: pizza, steaks, Italian fare, seafood, and Henny Penny chicken. Some locations even have drive-thru carryout windows and soft-serve custard.

Infusino's Pizzeria has two Racine locations (Rapids Drive and West Racine) built on 50+ years of family ownership. Their "farm to table" philosophy uses ingredients grown on their own land. The Calabrese is the house special you shouldn't miss, and their Franco's Calabrese Special features shredded Italian beef.

Nonna's Pizzeria at 1317 4 Mile Road makes everything in-house from scratch—dough, sauce, meatballs, Italian sausage. Their massive calzones are legendary. Fish Fry Fridays and a homemade frozen section let you take their flavors home.

In Burlington, Napoli Restaurant and Pizzeria brings 35+ years of Sicilian family cooking traditions, while Zumpano's Ristorante & Pizzeria serves traditional Italian with fresh-baked bread and holiday catering.

Kenosha County: Historic Italian Traditions

Kenosha's Italian-American community has built an exceptional pizza scene. Villa D'Carlo at 5140 6th Avenue is Kenosha's oldest pizza operation, dating to 1957 when Carl Ruffalo opened his first Carl's Pizza. The current location has operated since 1962. Their true thin crust from stone-bottomed ovens is tasty, crusty, crispy, and chewy with a distinctive flavor that reviewers call "slightly addictive." Full bar, prime rib on weekends, and a classic waterfront district atmosphere.

Stella's Casa Capri at 2129 Birch Road is Kenosha's second-oldest pizzeria (since 1961), famous for an impossibly thin cracker crust—crispy, crunchy, yet bendable without breaking. Excellent sauce coverage extends to the very edge with great sweet-salt balance.

For contemporary Neapolitan excellence, Oakfire Pizzeria Napoletana at 3552 Market Lane in Somers was rated THE BEST pizza in Kenosha. Owner David Scotney studied with a master pizza maker from Naples, and each pizza fires at 1,000 degrees in imported Stefano Ferrara ovens, emerging in 60-90 seconds. The Pepperoni with honey drizzle and the Carne Pepe showcase what wood-fired pizza can be. Kids get Mickey Mouse-shaped pizzas. Full bar, back patio, and happy hour deals. Open daily, moderate-to-upscale pricing.

Sturino's at 1543 22nd Avenue scores exceptionally across all categories—their scratch-made hand-tossed crust has wonderful texture with perfect air bubble distribution and nice char. Kaiser's Pizza & Pub at 510 57th Street has been "Voted Best Pizza in Kenosha" multiple years running, known for their special cheese blend and warm sports-watching atmosphere. Gluten-free crust available.

Sal's Pizza at 7623 Sheridan Road serves cracker-like layered crust that comes out puffy and crunchy with a light cornmeal dusting. Their Italian Beef Calzone is legendary. Infusino's Italian Pizzeria at 6800 39th Avenue (related to the Racine locations) offers five different pizza crust styles and an enormous menu.

In Pleasant Prairie, Ruffolo's Pizza at 11820 Sheridan Road continues over 30 years of family tradition, while Jimano's Pizzeria at 9000 76th Street offers daily pizza specials with homemade wing sauces.

Antioch Pizza Shop in Paddock Lake at 24730 75th Street brings multiple crust options including thin, while Luisa's Pizza at 6806 317th Ave in Salem ("Best West of the I") loads up the cheese with sauce extending to every edge.

Planning Your Thin Crust Adventure

A few tips for your pizza journey across Greater Milwaukee:

For Classic Milwaukee Tavern-Style, prioritize Zaffiro's, Balistreri's, Wells Brothers, and Maria's. These represent the authentic square-cut, cracker-thin tradition that defines Wisconsin pizza.

For Neapolitan Excellence, San Giorgio (Milwaukee's only VPN-certified), Oakfire (Kenosha), and Santino's (Bay View) deliver authentic Italian wood-fired perfection.

For Coal and Wood-Fired, Grimaldi's in Brookfield is the region's only coal-fired pizzeria, while Wy'east, Anodyne, and Hop Yard offer distinct wood-fired styles.

For Budget-Friendly Slices, Classic Slice (Bay View), Brick 3 (Downtown), Sal's (Cedarburg), and various Jimano's locations serve quality by the slice.

Hidden Gems Worth Seeking: Doc's Dry Dock on Pewaukee Lake, Maricio's overlooking West Bend's river, and Nonna's in Racine offer destination-worthy experiences beyond their excellent pizza.

Most neighborhood pizzerias are wonderfully family-friendly—after all, square-cut tavern pizza was designed for sharing around a table. Many spots have kid's menus, and the casual atmospheres welcome all ages. Just remember: several old-school institutions like Maria's are cash-only, and places like Wy'east sell out daily—call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Now grab your family, pick a direction, and start exploring. Whether you're five minutes from home or planning a day-long pizza crawl across all six counties, Greater Milwaukee's thin crust scene delivers crispy, cheesy, saucy perfection at every turn.