The 5 best pizzas in Des Moines, according to our readers

We asked our readers to tell us their favorite Des Moines pizza parlors. Here’s what they said.

Do you have a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle-level craving for pizza? Are you hungry for some comforting cheesy pie? Or are you feeding a gaggle of kids and need a cost-effective meal? You’re in the right place. Our readers told us their favorite spots, and now, we’re excited to announce the top five pizza joints in Des Moines. So, grab a plate and a whole lot of napkins, and get ready to dive into the delicious details.

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5. Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern

400 SE 6th St

Welcome to Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern, where the spirit of Kansas City pizza is alive and well in Des Moines, making it a standout destination for those seeking a departure from the norm. Here, it’s all about bringing that distinctive Kansas City flavor to the heartland of Iowa, with football, hearty breakfasts, and big, savory slices of pie.. 

Truman’s isn’t a one-trick pony. Beyond the pizza, the tavern offers a menu that invites diners to explore a range of flavors. From classic pies that pay homage to old-school favorites to innovative creations that push the culinary envelope like the Mahomes pizza, there’s something for every palate. And for those who might not be in a pizza mood (though, frankly, we’re not sure when that ever happens), the tavern also serves up an array of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and amazing breakfast fare each carrying the trademark flair and quality that Truman’s is known for.

For those who have yet to try Truman’s, the selection of signature pies has something for everyone. It’s your gateway to a whole new world of flavors, including breakfast pizzas (including a pie dedicated to curing those nasty hangovers). And for those already in the know, it’s a place to indulge in your favorites and discover new ones. So, whether you’re a die-hard barbecue fan, a pizza purist ready to cross the line, or simply in search of a great meal in a welcoming setting, Truman’s is ready to serve up a slice of Kansas City right here in Des Moines.

Next time the craving for something unique strikes, remember that Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern is Des Moines’ go-to for an unforgettable experience. Bring your appetite and your sense of adventure, and leave with a full stomach and perhaps a new favorite pizza spot. After all, who knew that KC-style pizza could be this good?

4. Centro

1003 Locust St

Stepping into Centro, you’ll quickly realize that this isn’t your typical pizza place. It’s where upscale dining collides with everyone’s favorite comfort food, elevating the humble pizza to new heights of deliciousness. Centro has carved out its niche in Des Moines by offering a traditional pizza experience that tantalizes the taste buds in a way few others can.

At the heart of Centro’s success are its gourmet toppings. Forget what you thought you knew about pizza toppings; Centro invites you to explore combinations that are nothing short of culinary genius. Imagine a pie adorned with toasted pecans, prosciutto, and arugula. Or consider the delight of a pizza topped with ricotta, parmesan, and garlic, a symphony of simple yet sophisticated flavors carefully selected by Centro’s chefs.

But what’s a masterpiece without its canvas? The crust at Centro is handcrafted, achieving a perfect balance between crispy and chewy serving as the ideal foundation for its high-quality toppings. Each pizza is a product of Centro’s commitment to excellence, from the selection of the ingredients to the care taken in its preparation.

The light yet sophisticated atmosphere of Centro adds another layer to its charm. The ambiance strikes a delicate balance, offering an environment that’s both chic and inviting. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but feel a bit more elegant simply by being there. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, a celebratory meal, or a luxurious treat for yourself.

Centro’s innovative spirit extends beyond its pizzas. Their menu also features an array of handmade pastas, seafood, and carefully selected meats, each with a creative twist that complements the main attraction. And don’t forget the simple yet elegant martinis, curated wine selection, and craft beers to complement any meal.

In a city like Des Moines, where the pizza competition is fierce, Centro has not only managed to distinguish itself but has also set a new standard for what pizza can be. It’s a place where the love of pizza meets the pursuit of culinary excellence, resulting in an eating experience that’s memorable, delicious, and uniquely upscale.

3. Big Tomato

2613 Ingersoll Ave

Big Tomato stands as a testament to timeless pizza perfection in Des Moines. This spot doesn’t bother with reinventing the wheel. But something about making a classic just right is deliciously irresistible. In a city popping with culinary twists and innovation, Big Tomato keeps it real with pies that hark back to what made us fall in love with pizza in the first place.

What sets Big Tomato apart in the crowded Des Moines pizza scene? Commitment. A commitment to quality ingredients, yes, but also to the unapologetic celebration of classic delivery pizza. While other spots may dazzle with exotic toppings and innovative creations in snazzy settings, Big Tomato doubles down on the fundamentals. Their menu offers a variety of options, from the beloved pepperoni, oozing with cheese, to more daring choices for the adventurous eater, yet all maintain a reverence for the traditional. And with flavorful crust options to fit every palette (and dietary need) it’s no wonder that Big Tomato is a favorite around here.

Yet, don’t mistake their traditional approach for a lack of creativity. Big Tomato’s menu does feature some twists that will make your taste buds perk up in curiosity. Ever tried a pizza with a swirl of honey on top or a sprinkle of chili flakes to add a little heat? Here, it’s all about adding subtle touches that elevate the classic pizza experience without overwhelming the essence of what makes it great.

In the world of pizza, where the new and novel often grab the headlines, Big Tomato is a beloved reminder of the enduring appeal of the classic pizza. Here, every pie is a tribute to the art of pizza-making, a craft honed over years and rooted in the belief that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. 

2. Eatery A 

2932 Ingersoll Ave

What the heck is a Mediterranean restaurant doing on this list, you may ask. Eatery A has carved out a niche for itself on the Des Moines pizza scene by boldly marrying traditional techniques with flavors from Spain, Morocco, Egypt, and Italy. Think of it as your go-to spot when you’re craving pizza but also feeling a bit adventurous.

What really sets Eatery A apart is its ability to be upscale and different, yet affordable and approachable. Their fearless approach to topping combinations sings to their Mediterranean roots. Where else might you find a pizza topped with lamb gyro, feta, pickled onion, and tzatziki? Or perhaps a pie that features the unexpected combination of mushroom, soft egg, truffle oil, potato, and green onion? The menu at Eatery A reads like a foodie’s fantasy league draft, and it delivers on every point.

Ambiance-wise, Eatery A strikes a perfect balance between casual and hip. It’s the sort of place where you could bump into anyone from a group of friends catching up over a shared pizza, to a couple on a date, savoring a pie under the soft glow of the restaurant’s chic lighting. The environment is inviting, with a dash of pizzazz that makes every visit feel like a special occasion, even if it’s just a Tuesday night.

But it’s not all about pushing boundaries. For those who appreciate the classics, Eatary A has got you covered with a selection of tried-and-true favorites, approachable entrees, and simple yet scrumptious appetizers. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re craving pizza and your friends are not. 

In a city brimming with pizza options, Eatery A stands out for its commitment to innovation, quality, and flavor. So, if your taste buds are yearning for a break from the mundane and you’re itching to try something new, let Eatery A be your guide. 

1. Dough Co. 

2333 University Ave

Dough Co. has officially become the number-one spot for pizza aficionados in Des Moines. What sets Dough Co. apart? It’s the New York-style dough. For starters, their crust is the kind of stuff dreams are made of — crispy on the outside, thin yet manageable, and just the right amount of chewy. It’s a delicate balance that many strive for but few achieve.

But let’s not stop at the crust. The real game changer at Dough Co. is the toppings. Far from your run-of-the-mill pepperoni and cheese, they’re tossing on combinations that could only be described as boldly imaginative. We’re talking about flavor-packed concoctions that surprise and delight, from the sweet and savory to the downright daring (bleu cheese, pineapple, and impossible sausage, anyone?). 

For those on a quest to redefine their pizza palate, Dough Co. is like the final boss in a video game of culinary exploration. It challenges your taste buds in the best way possible, leaving you satisfied and genuinely excited about what pizza can be. And in a world full of pizza possibilities, Dough Co. in Des Moines is making a bold statement.

So, if your pizza routine feels a bit stale and you’re craving something that will shake things up, Dough Co. is your spot. Not only will you be treated to some of the most innovative pies in Des Moines, but you’ll also be supporting a place that’s all about pushing the envelope and redefining what pizza can be. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

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