There’s something universally comforting about pizza. Whether it’s wood-fired and artisanal or foldable and dripping with cheese, pizza transcends trends — it’s the meal that brings people together. Americans eat an estimated 3 billion pizzas every year, proof that this humble pie has earned its place at the center of both celebrations and weeknight dinners. In Frederick County, the Best of the Best showcases pizzerias that combine craftsmanship, tradition and creativity to deliver pies worth savoring, one slice at a time.
Il Forno Pizzeria has been serving Frederick for decades, earning its reputation as a cornerstone of classic Italian comfort. Known for its authentic recipes and family atmosphere, Il Forno brings a taste of Italy to every plate. Each pizza is handcrafted with dough made fresh daily, layered with quality ingredients and baked to a perfect golden crisp. Beyond pizza, the restaurant’s menu reflects a commitment to homemade goodness, offering everything from pasta to seafood. Il Forno’s staying power speaks to the warmth and consistency that keep guests coming back year after year.
Cugino Forno is more than a pizzeria — it’s a love letter to Naples. Founded by three cousins inspired by their travels through Italy, the restaurant stays true to traditional Neapolitan techniques. Each pizza is cooked in a handcrafted Italian oven at over 800 degrees, creating that signature leopard-spotted crust. With fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes and imported flour, Cugino Forno focuses on simplicity done flawlessly. The Frederick location continues the brand’s mission: to bring authentic Italian pizza, made the old-world way, to local communities.
At Pistarro’s, pizza is treated like an art form. This downtown Frederick favorite combines the elegance of a ristorante with the authenticity of a true Neapolitan pizzeria. Every pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven imported from Naples, resulting in a light, chewy crust that complements the restaurant’s fresh ingredients. The menu blends tradition and creativity, offering both classic Margheritas and inventive seasonal creations. Pistarro’s attention to technique and taste has made it a centerpiece of Frederick’s dining scene — a little slice of Italy right on East Street.
New York J & P Pizza has been a local staple for families across Frederick and beyond. With multiple locations in the region, it’s known for generous portions, friendly service and that unmistakable New York-style flavor. Each pizza is made to order, balancing chewy crusts with rich sauce and plenty of cheese. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes it a go-to for everything from team dinners to weekday takeout. Decades of consistency have made J & P a dependable favorite for anyone craving classic pizza done right.
White Rabbit Gastropub brings a modern twist to Frederick’s pizza scene. Known for its craft beer selection and creative kitchen, the restaurant takes pride in its stone-fired pizzas that feature imaginative toppings and locally sourced ingredients. From traditional options to chef-inspired combinations, each pie pairs beautifully with one of the many rotating brews on tap. The result is a dining experience that’s as social as it is flavorful — proof that pizza and community make the perfect pairing.
Thanks, ChatGPT.