If you’re a pizza lover who appreciates the perfect crust, fresh ingredients, and unmistakable wood-fired aroma, Durham City won’t disappoint. Whether you crave the simplicity of a classic Margherita or a more adventurous gourmet creation, there’s a pizzeria in this charming city ready to satisfy your cravings. We’ve scoured the city’s top pizzerias, from newcomers to long-loved institutions, and this guide reveals the best pizza restaurants in Durham.
Get ready to embark on a delicious pizza adventure.
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Durham’s Best Pizza Restaurants
Best Pizza Places in Durham
1. Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana
Pizza purists, rejoice! Rudy’s has brought the soul of Naples to Durham. Step into this lively pizzeria on Silver Street, and the aroma of baking dough sets the stage for a delicious experience.
Their classic Margherita is pure perfection: a blistered crust, vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. If you crave a little heat, the ‘Calabrese’ delivers with spicy nduja, sweet peppers, and a touch of chilli oil.
Rudy’s radiates a welcoming buzz – think exposed brick and warm lighting. It’s a perfect spot for any occasion. Their tiramisu is a must-try for a sweet ending. Rudy’s transports you to Italy for a meal you won’t soon forget and is the best pizza restaurant in Durham right now.
My Recommendation: Try the specials – these seasonal creations offer some of Rudy’s best flavours. They also offer pizza delivery in Durham via Deliveroo.
- Best for: Neapolitan pizza enthusiasts, casual dining
- What to order: Margherita, Calabrese, or check the specials board
- Address: 30-31 Silver Street, Durham DH1 3RD
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- For table reservations, please visit: https://www.rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/durham
2. Coviello
Coviello isn’t just a pizzeria, it’s an experience. Located at the bottom of Silver Street, this Italian gem exudes warmth and a love for authentic flavours.
Their pizzas sing with the passion of Italian tradition. Expect a delightfully chewy crust charred to perfection in their wood-fired oven. The ‘Coviello Speciale’ is a mozzarella, Italian sausage, and earthy mushroom symphony. Crave a bit of spice? The ‘Calabrese’ delivers with its fiery nduja sausage balanced by sweet roasted peppers.
But Coviello isn’t solely about pizza. It’s a haven for coffee lovers by day and an intimate wine bar by night. Yet the pizzas always steal the spotlight.
My Recommendation: Leave room for a taste of their house-made gelato – the perfect sweet ending to a true Italian feast.
- Best for: Foodies seeking unique pizza experiences and vibrant date night spot.
- What to order: Forget the classics and dive into their seasonal specials for the most innovative flavours.
- Address: 24 Silver St, Durham DH1 3RD
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Price: £10 – £30
- For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/coviellocoffeebarber/
3. Pesto Italiano
Pesto Italiano beckons you in like a warm hug, a family-run haven of comforting Italian fare in the heart of Durham. Settle into the charming space and let the aroma of simmering sauces and fresh-baked bread transport you to a bustling trattoria.
The pizzas here are stars in their own right. Expect a classic Neapolitan-style crust – thin, slightly charred, and chewy. Their ‘Quattro Formaggi’ is a cheese lover’s dream, a harmonious blend of creamy mozzarella, sharp gorgonzola, nutty Parmesan, and a hint of smoked scamorza. For a taste of the sea, the ‘Pescatore’ is a bounty of fresh seafood atop a vibrant tomato sauce.
My Recommendation: Pesto Italiano is also known for its fresh pasta, so don’t hesitate to explore beyond the pizza menu – you might find a new favourite!
- Best for: Classic Italian flavours, family-friendly dining, a comforting and familiar meal
- What to order: The Margherita showcases the quality of their core ingredients, but don’t be afraid to try one of their hearty specials.
- Address: 93 Elvet Bridge, Durham, DH1 3AG
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- To book a table, visit: https://www.pestoitalianodurham.com/
4. Pizza Punks
Pizza Punks isn’t just a pizzeria, it’s a pizza revolution. Step into this vibrant spot on the Riverwalk and get ready to embrace a punk-rock attitude. It’s all about unleashing your inner rebel and creating your pizza masterpiece.
The vibe is electric – think neon signs, pumping music, and walls adorned with a playful sense of anarchy. Their sourdough crusts provide the perfect canvas for your culinary rebellion. Go wild with the toppings – from classic pepperoni to unexpected additions like mac & cheese or sriracha mayo. There is no judgment, just pure creative expression.
Pizza Punks celebrates individuality and breaking the rules. Their pizzas are as unique and fun as the atmosphere itself, and is one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Durham.
My Recommendation: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Stack on the toppings and channel your inner pizza punk.
- Best for: Groups of friends, a fun night out, those who love to experiment
- What to order: Create your own pizza with unlimited toppings – the crazier, the better!
- Address: Unit 7, The Gates, The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SJ
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- Book a table here: https://pizzapunks.co.uk/pizza-punks-durham/
5. Picco d’italia
Picco d’Italia is where classic Italian charm meets Durham’s vibrant energy. This cosy restaurant transports you to a bustling family trattoria filled with warm chatter and the enticing aroma of rustic, comforting flavours.
Their pizzas are a testament to tradition. Expect a perfectly blistered crust, a generous swirl of vibrant tomato sauce, and just the right amount of creamy mozzarella. For a classic taste of Italy, the ‘Margherita’ is simple perfection. If you crave a touch of spice, the ‘Diavola’ delivers with its fiery salami and a drizzle of chilli oil.
Picco d’Italia offers a welcoming haven with a menu that extends far beyond pizza. Their pasta dishes and hearty mains are sure to satisfy, making it a spot for true Italian feasting.
My Recommendation: Leave room for a taste of their house-made tiramisu – a sweet classic executed with care.
- Best for: Family gatherings, a cozy date night, and those seeking authentic Italian flavours.
- What to order: The pizzas are stars, but don’t miss exploring their classic pasta dishes.
- Address: 32A Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NU
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- For more information and to book a table: https://www.piccoditalia.co.uk/
6. Zizzi
Zizzi’s vibrant presence on Saddler Street promises a reliable Italian feast, perfect for fueling up after a long walk in Durham. Step inside and find a bustling, welcoming space focused on good food and good times.
Their pizzas deliver amazing flavours with a thin, crisp crust that holds its own under generous toppings. The ‘Margherita’ is a go-to classic, while the ‘Rustica Piccante’ adds a touch of heat. For those craving something different, their calzones and pasta dishes offer a great alternative to Italian cuisine.
Zizzi’s is one of the best spots to take the family to Durham for food. It’s your reliable spot for a pizza fix that satisfies everyone at the table.
My Recommendation: Zizzi’s strength lies in its classic flavours—for the best experience, stick with their signature pizzas. Grab your pizza to takeaway in Durham with Deliveroo.
- Best for: Casual group dinners, families, those looking for a familiar and satisfying Italian meal
- What to order: Their classic pizzas, or try a calzone for an extra-flavorful twist.
- Address: 43-44 Saddler Street, Durham, DH1 3NU
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- To book a table, please visit: https://www.zizzi.co.uk/italian/restaurants/durham
7. Pizza Express
Pizza Express holds a special place in the hearts of many, and it’s Durham outpost on Saddler Street offering that familiarity. Step inside to find one of Durham’s best decors.
Their pizzas are consistently excellent. Expect a thin, crispy crust with classic and modern toppings. The ‘American Hot’ is a perennial favourite, delivering that familiar spicy kick. If you’re seeking something lighter, the ‘Leggera’ pizzas offer fresh toppings on a base with a hole in the middle for fewer calories.
Pizza Express is a good choice when you crave a comforting pizza experience. It’s a spot where you know exactly what you’ll get, making it perfect for satisfying hunger pangs after exploring Durham.
My Recommendation: Don’t overlook their iconic Dough Balls – a warm and cheesy starter perfect for sharing.
- Best for: A quick and satisfying pizza fix, families, those looking for fuss-free dining.
- What to order: Stick with their signature pizzas and classic starters.
- Address: 64 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3PG
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- Book a table: https://www.pizzaexpress.com/durham-saddler-street
8. Bistro Italiano
Bistro Italiano, nestled on Claypath, is as old-school as it gets. This charming spot offers simple yet exciting range of pies, including a selection of classic pizzas that will warm your soul.
Their pizzas are like a hug on a plate – a satisfyingly crisp crust topped with a generous helping of flavorful tomato sauce. The ‘Margherita’ is a timeless classic, delivering the perfect balance of tangy tomato and creamy mozzarella. Craving something a bit more adventurous? The ‘Prosciutto e Funghi’ is a symphony of salty cured ham and earthy mushrooms, while the ‘Frutti di Mare’ tempts your taste buds with fresh prawns and mussels plucked straight from the Mediterranean.
Bistro Italiano is more than just a pizzeria, though. Its menu boasts an array of Italian classics beyond the pizza oven. Don’t miss its perfectly cooked homemade pasta or hearty mains, perfect for sharing when on a date night in Durham.
My Recommendation: Go for the classic Pepperoni with extra chilli oil.
- Best for: Families, a cozy date night, those seeking simple yet soul-warming Italian flavours.
- What to order: Their classic pizzas are a must-try, but don’t skip exploring their pastas and other Italian specialties.
- Address: 70 Claypath, Durham DH1 1QT
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- Book a table: http://bistro-italiano.co.uk/
9. La Spaghettata
La Spaghettata is a beloved Durham landmark, a place where generations of students and locals have walked the never-ending stairs to get their pizza fix. Don’t expect anything fancy – this is simple, hearty fare with a focus on good food and good times.
Their pizzas are unpretentious. They are generously sized, with a slightly chewy crust, a slathering of tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of cheese. The Margherita is reliable, and if you like it simple, it hits the spot. For more oomph, go for the Vegetariana piled high with fresh veggies, or try the Calzone for a folded, flavour-filled alternative.
La Spaghettata is more than just pizza – heaping bowls of pasta and Italian classics round out the menu. It has a lived-in feel, focusing on no-frills food and friendly service. It holds a special place in Durham’s heart, and rightly so.
My Recommendation: Don’t be afraid to order a whole pizza for yourself. If you’ve got leftovers, they taste even better the next day.
- Best for: Students, groups of friends seeking budget-friendly eats, those craving classic Italian flavours without fuss.
- What to order: Keep it classic with their pizzas and a comforting bowl of pasta.
- Address: 66 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NP
- Rating: 4/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- Book a table: https://www.fabiosdurham.com/la-spaghettata
10. ASK Italian
Ask Italian brings a taste of polished Italian dining to Durham’s Walkergate. Expect a lively yet sophisticated space where modern touches mingle with classic Italian charm.
Their pizzas deliver a refined take on familiar flavours. The crust is thin and crisp, providing a perfect base for their carefully curated toppings. The ‘Primavera,’ topped with roasted vegetables, mozzarella, and a drizzle of pesto, offers freshness, while the ‘Calzone Carne Piccante’ packs a flavorful punch with spicy sausage and Calabrian chilli.
Ask Italian is about more than just pizza. They offer an array of pastas, vibrant salads, and a tempting selection of ‘Dolcetti’ for that all-important sweet finish. It’s a great choice when you crave a well-executed Italian meal in a welcoming atmosphere.
My Recommendation: Ask Italian’s seasonal specials, which often showcase their most innovative flavours, so don’t be afraid to try something different at one of the best pizza restaurants in Durham.
- Best for: A comfortable Italian feast with friends or family, those seeking a refined take on classic dishes.
- What to order: Explore their pizza menu for both traditional and contemporary flavours, and don’t miss their classic pasta dishes.
- Address: Unit 4, Walkergate, Durham DH1 1SQ
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: £20 – £30
- Book a table: https://www.askitalian.co.uk/italian/restaurants/durham
11. Antico
Step into Antico and feel instantly transported to a vibrant Italian trattoria. It’s a bit of a hidden gem spot in Durham, located on Neville’s Cross.
The pizzas are Antico’s heart and soul. Each one is a testament to Neapolitan tradition—perfectly blistered crusts, tangy tomato sauce, and the freshest toppings. The Margherita is simple perfection, while the Salsiccia e Friarielli offers a savoury punch with spicy sausage and bitter broccoli rabe. If you’re feeling adventurous, their ‘Specials’ board showcases seasonal flavours with delightful flair.
Antico doesn’t just do pizza with gusto, they’ve curated a complete Italian feast. From creamy burrata to start, to soul-warming pastas, to decadent desserts – you won’t leave hungry or disappointed. It’s a place to gather, savour, and become part of Durham’s vibrant dining scene.
My Recommendation: Head for happy hour 5pm-6pm and get some of the best value food in the city.
- Best for: Groups of friends, a lively night out, and those seeking authentic Italian flavours with a touch of flair.
- What to order: The pizzas are the star attractions, but try their antipasti and pasta dishes for a taste of the total Italian experience.
- Address: Neville’s Cross Complex, Darlington Rd, Durham DH1 4JX
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Price: £20 – £30
- Book a table: https://anticodurham.co.uk/
12. Uno Momento
Uno Momento is a slice of Italian sunshine nestled along Durham’s picturesque Riverwalk. With its intimate ambience and friendly bustle, it’s easy to imagine yourself transported to a favourite trattoria.
The pizzas here are exceptional. Expect a thin, slightly chewy crust with a touch of char for that authentic wood-fired flavour. The ‘Margherita’ is a classic, while the ‘Diavola’ brings a hint of spice with fiery salami.
Like many of the best pizza restaurants in Durham, Uno Momento is more than just pizza—its menu boasts a tempting array of pasta dishes and classic Italian appetisers. It’s a place to linger, savour a glass of wine, and indulge in the simple pleasures of good food and company.
My Recommendation: Check the specials board to see what’s new. Failing that, go for the spicy Nduja.
- Best for: Date nights, intimate gatherings with friends and family, and those craving authentic Italian flavours in a welcoming setting.
- What to order: Their pizzas are the highlight, but explore their classic starters and pastas for the true Italian feast.
- Address: 39 Silver St, Durham DH1 3RY
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Price: £10 – £20
- Book a table: https://unomomentorestaurant.co.uk/durham/
Best Pizza Restaurant in Durham – FAQ
Pizza Punks offers excellent takeaway options via Deliveroo. Its customisable pizzas, with unlimited toppings for one fixed price, make it a top choice for takeaway in Durham.
Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana is renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, using traditional ingredients and methods straight from Naples, making it the most authentic pizza place in Durham.
Uno Momento is known for providing great value with its extensive happy hour menu, offering a variety of pizzas and other dishes at competitive prices.
Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana serves traditional Neapolitan pizzas with a standard diameter of about 12 inches, perfect for one person.
ASK Italian offers a variety of gluten-free options, including delicious gluten-free pizzas, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy their meals without concern.
Antico offers a range of vegan pizzas, using plant-based toppings and vegan cheese, catering well to the vegan community in Durham.
Rudy’s is one of the best pizza restaurants in Durham right now. It serves authentic Neapolitan dough from a wood-fired oven. Other excellent notables include Coviello’s, Pesto Italiano, and Pizza Punks.