01
Best overall pick
Kelly's Pizza
Howard Village Center • Family-Run Carryout Pizzeria • Classic Local Favorite
Small-town shop turning out well-topped pies that many Howard residents treat as their default pizza night choice.
Kelly's is the place most locals mention first, thanks to its reliably hot, cheesy pies and friendly, no-frills service. The menu leans classic—pepperoni, deluxe, and meat-loaded options—done with a slightly thicker crust and plenty of toppings. Call ahead for carryout on busy evenings, when the parking lot fills with regulars grabbing dinner on their way home.
02
Most convenient delivery
Domino's Pizza
Coshocton Road Strip In Howard • National Delivery Chain Shop • Best For Fast Delivery
Chain spot locals rely on for late-evening delivery, online deals, and fully customizable pies.
If you want pizza dropped at your doorstep around Howard or Apple Valley, this Domino's is usually the quickest bet. The appeal is the predictability: choose your crust, load on toppings, and track it from oven to door with the app. It is especially handy for lake rentals, game nights, and last-minute group orders when you do not want to cook.
03
Best Mount Vernon classic
Dirko's Pizza & Stromboli
East Side Of Mount Vernon • Old-School Local Pizza And Stromboli Joint • Best For Hearty Portions
Long-running Mount Vernon staple known for chewy crust, plenty of cheese, and hefty stromboli that can feed a crowd.
Just a short drive from Howard, Dirko's has been feeding the area for decades and feels like the kind of place everyone grew up with. Pizzas come with a slightly thicker, chewy crust and generous toppings, but the stromboli is what many regulars make the trip for. It is a solid choice when you want something more filling than a typical chain pie and do not mind a casual, old-school vibe.
04
Best for thin crust
Donatos Pizza
South Mount Vernon Corridor • Ohio-Style Thin-Crust Franchise • Best For Crispy Thin Crust
Crispy, edge-to-edge thin-crust pizza that is easy to share and hits the spot for those who like their slices on the lighter side.
Donatos in Mount Vernon is a go-to for fans of Ohio-style thin crust, where the toppings stretch right to the edge of the pie. The crust stays crisp under generous amounts of pepperoni, sausage, or veggie mixes, and the pies slice neatly into small squares that work well for groups. It is a smart pick for office orders, team dinners, or anyone who prefers a crunchier bite over a doughy slice.
05
Best small-town outing
Pizza Dock
Downtown Utica • Small-Town Dine-In Pizzeria And Pub • Worth-The-Drive Option
Casual Utica hangout with a loyal following, known for chewy-crust pizzas and a relaxed, linger-a-while dining room.
A short country drive from Howard, Pizza Dock feels like the classic small-town pizzeria where the staff remembers regulars and kids get excited to eat in. The pies come with a sturdy, chewy crust and well-seasoned sauce, and there are enough toppings and specialty combinations to keep repeat visits interesting. It is the kind of place you choose when you want to sit down, talk over a few pitchers and pizzas, and make an evening of it.