01
Best overall pick
Marion's Piazza (Englewood)
Englewood / North Main Corridor • Classic Dayton-Style Square-Cut Parlor • Dayton Icon
Beloved Dayton-style institution turning out ultra-thin, square-cut pies in a big, family-friendly dining room.
If you ask around Fort McKinley for a go-to pizza, Marion's almost always comes up first. The Englewood location is an easy hop up the road, with generously topped, cracker-crisp pies cut into little squares made for sharing. Order at the counter, grab a big table, and settle in for a very local taste of Dayton tradition.
02
Best bar pie
Old Dayton Pizza at Riverside Hideaway
Riverside / Old North Dayton • Neighborhood Bar-And-Pizza Joint • Best For A Low-Key Night Out
Relaxed neighborhood bar where the crispy, edge-to-edge-topped pies are as much of a draw as the patio and occasional live music.
Head east from Fort McKinley and you land at this unpretentious spot where locals linger over pizzas and cold drinks. The crust comes out with a satisfying crunch and the toppings run right to the edge in true area style. It’s a smart choice when you want something more laid back than downtown but still crave a solid pie and a friendly bar vibe.
03
Best for foodies
Wheat Penny Oven and Bar
Downtown Dayton • Italian-Inspired Wood-Fired Spot • Best For Inventive Toppings
Creative pies from a serious pizza oven, backed by seasonal toppings, house-made dough, and a strong cocktail list.
A short drive south from Fort McKinley drops you at one of Dayton’s most talked-about modern pizza kitchens. Wheat Penny leans into chewy, blistered crusts and thoughtful combinations, so you’ll see things like roasted vegetables, interesting cheeses, and house-made sausage on the menu. It’s the pick when you’re in the mood to make pizza the centerpiece of a full sit-down dinner.
04
Best for groups
Dewey's Pizza (Brown Street)
Near University Of Dayton • Lively Sit-Down Pizzeria • Best For Families And Groups
Bustling pizzeria known for big salads, specialty pies, and an easygoing, bring-the-kids atmosphere.
Brown Street is a quick straight shot from the north side, and Dewey’s is a reliable landing spot when you’ve got a crowd. The menu mixes tried-and-true favorites with more adventurous specialty pies, and you can always split a large salad to start. Expect a busy dining room at peak times, but the service stays sharp and the pizzas are consistent.
05
Best carryout option
Dayton's Original Pizza Factory
Wayne Avenue / South Park • Old-School Carryout And Delivery Shop • Takeout Go-To
Counter-service staple for build-your-own pies, hefty subs, and big party orders near downtown.
When you want to swing through from Fort McKinley, grab pizza, and get back home, Pizza Factory fits the bill. The crust is sturdy enough to handle plenty of toppings, and the menu branches out into wings, subs, and salads for mixed crowds. It’s especially handy for game days or last-minute gatherings when you need a lot of good pizza fast.