01
Best overall pick
Dewey's Pizza
Old Worthington • Bustling Modern Pizzeria • Best Overall Pick
Creative pies, big salads, and a lively room make Dewey's an easy go‑to near Riverlea.
Just south of Riverlea in Old Worthington, Dewey's turns out chewy, flavorful crusts topped with combos that feel adventurous without being fussy. The open kitchen lets you watch the crew toss dough while you work through a big shareable salad. It’s a dependable choice for families, groups, or anyone who wants great pizza without overthinking it.
02
Classic Columbus tavern pie
Villa Nova Ristorante
North High Street Corridor • Old‑School Italian Tavern • Classic Local Favorite
Villa Nova serves thin, crispy Columbus‑style pies in a dim, cozy dining room that feels unchanged in the best way.
A short drive south on High Street from Riverlea, Villa Nova is the kind of place regulars grow up with. Expect crackery thin crust, generous toppings, and a red‑sauce menu that keeps everyone at the table happy. It’s especially good when you want a booth, a pitcher, and a pizza that tastes like local tradition.
03
Coal‑fired and live music
Natalie's – Worthington
Worthington High Street Strip • Coal‑Fired Pizza And Live‑Music Venue • Best For Date Night And Live Music
Coal‑fired pies and a legit music calendar make Natalie's a standout when you want more than just dinner.
Just beyond Riverlea’s southern edge, Natalie's pairs blistered, coal‑fired pizzas with one of the stronger small‑venue music lineups in the region. The crust comes out with charred bubbles and a tender bite, topped with thoughtful ingredient combos that feel a bit more elevated than your average slice. It’s an easy pick when you want pizza plus a night out without driving into downtown Columbus.
04
Game‑day hangout
JT's Pizza & Pub
Linworth / West Dublin‑Granville • Sports‑Bar Pizzeria • Best For Game Days
JT's is a lively, TV‑filled spot turning out hefty pizzas, wings, and pitchers a few minutes west of Riverlea.
Head west along Dublin‑Granville Road and you’ll hit JT's, a neighborhood bar where the pizza matters as much as the score. The crust is sturdy enough for serious toppings, from classic pepperoni to loaded specialty pies built to share. It’s the place to go when you want to catch a game, split a big pizza, and not worry about being too loud with your crew.
05
Late‑night institution
Pizza House
North Side Columbus • Late‑Night Pizza Institution • Late‑Night Slice Pick
A no‑nonsense North Side classic, Pizza House is known for generous, saucy pies and friendly late‑night service.
A quick hop southeast from Riverlea, Pizza House has that lived‑in, family‑run feel that makes late‑night pizza taste better. The pies are hearty, with plenty of cheese, a slightly sweet sauce, and toppings that go all the way to the edge. It’s a reliable option when other kitchens are closing but you’re still in the mood for a proper sit‑down pizza.