Ah, pizza. The Friday night staple, the perfect sidekick to late-night movies, and the wonderfully greasy meal that comes in all shapes and sizes. We've given you a list of some of our favorite pizza joints in Idaho before, but today we're back with a few more gems that are - well, maybe a little more off the beaten path. These delicious spots serve up perfectly baked pies that are nothing short of perfection... and maybe even a step or two above Italy's own creations!
So let's raise a slice, pizza fanatics: to hot pies, gooey cheese, sweet sauces, and buttery crusts... and to the masters who craft the circular king of foods.
1. Flame & Cork, Hayden
For pizzas that are a little more upscale than your average pie, this family0run wine bar/wood-fired pizza joint is sliced perfection. Generous pies range widely in flavor combinations, with a delightfully and slightly charred crust to keep your toppings secure. The irregular-shaped rectangles are simply divine on all accounts: the Nico boasts prosciutto, arugula, mozzarella and pecorino while the Sicilian bursts with the bright flavors of housemade fennel sausage. For added deliciousness, Flame & Cork makes grana panna - a creamy cheese sauce that is generously ladled on pies like the Mario with Portabella mushrooms and dry coppa.
Address: 9225 North Government Wy. Hayden, ID 83835
2. Hilltop Station, Boise
Hilltop - Boise's own hidden gem - has come to be known for its epic burgers and mouth-watering homemade sides, but with fresh-smoked cheese made onsite, you know that the pizza has to be over the top.
Address: 12342 ID-21, Boise, ID 83716
3. Messenger Pizza, Nampa
By the pie or by the slice, creative cuisine comes artfully plated on a perfectly soft crust. This locally-owned shop is famous for their unique creations with the pizza of the month always being a surefire winner. Last month's dreamy concoction was the "Niman Ranch House," bursting with seasoned sausage, organic local roasted potatoes, yellow onion, Herb de Provence, and a choice of a white sauce or olive oil base. WHOA. Bonus: These incredible owners are hoping to open a bakery soon. Can you say SCORE?!
Address: 1224 1st St S. Nampa, Idaho
4. Gramercy Park Pizza and Grill, Meridian
Unique without being trendy, and more than delicious enough to satisfy your every pizza craving, Gramercy is a step above your average neighborhood pizzeria. Fresh toppings, chili bacon, and woodfire oven preparation that adds perfect crispiness and char to the outside of the crust.. it's all incredible. Bonus: Not in the mood for a full pizza? Try the Gramercy Bites - miniature fried dough balls served with homemade dipping sauces.
Address: 1626 Wells Ave. Ste 115. Meridian, ID 83642
5. Crusty's, McCall
Thin crust, toppings piled high, and eclectic toppings in a neighborhood atmosphere sets Crusty's apart from the crowd - but the meat options are a dream come true for the average Idahoan! Try the Wapiti to get your helping of elk sausage in the off-season, with the sweet medley of dried cranberries to balance out the gamey deliciousness.
Address: 214 Lenora St, McCall, ID 83638
6. Shy Simon's Pizza, Council
In the world of secret small-town restaurants, Shy Simon's definitely stands out...although you won't hear much about it foodie circles. Tucked away in Council, the magic behind this pizzeria is in the fresh, hearty ingredients and absolutely divine crust that finds the sweet spot when it comes to thickness. Our favorite? The Garden pizza, and it's easy to see why!
Address: Illinois Ave & N Dartmouth St, Council, ID
7. Embers by the Lake, Hauser
Oh, rural Idaho. You get overlooked far too often! This mom and pop shop serves up pies that are too die-for and breaks the mold with every dish. A brick-fired oven brings out the natural flavors of every ingredient., ensuring that they taste as good as they look. The crusts perfectly cooked and the sauce is a perfect blend of tomato and herbs, without being overly tangy. Embers also adds a special touch by basting the edge of the crust with a garlic-butter that will rock your world. Go for the BBQ Chicken and you'll never look back.
Address: 12008 N Woodland Beach Dr. Hauser, ID 83854
8. Second Avenue Pizza, Sandpoint
This busy neighborhood favorite is a local treasure and it's gained a reputation for one larger-than-life reason: toppings piled so high they're literally overflowing. While one piece of Second Avenue's famous pies is a meal on its own... what kind of person only eats one slice of pizza?? Go for the gold and try the Mexican pizza.
Address: 215 S 2nd Ave. Sandpoint, ID 83864
9. Papa Brunee's, Stanley
Stanley has become a hotbed of charming mom and pop restaurants, which keep topping our lists. Papa Brunee's is famous for classic-inspired pies that come hot out of the oven.
Address: 37 Ace of Diamonds St, Stanley, ID 83278
Hungry yet? Control your impulse to eat whatever device you're reading this on, and drive out to one of these hidden gems. You'll be glad you did!
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