Set just north of Athens, The Plains sits within easy reach of some of southeast Ohio’s most satisfying pizza. From a longtime carryout counter on the main road to creative pies baked in Athens’ college-town ovens, you can find a slice for almost any mood. Whether you’re grabbing a quick box to take home after a game or lingering over a pitcher with friends, these spots deliver on flavor and local character.
The Plains’ own Little Italy serves no-frills, satisfying pies that locals rely on for weeknight dinners and game-day takeout.
This small shop on South Plains Road is the kind of place where people know their usual order by heart. Expect thick layers of cheese, well-seasoned sauce, and generous toppings on sturdy crusts built to travel. It is especially handy when you want a hot pizza without driving into Athens.
Avalanche turns out inventive, boldly topped pies that feel more like chef-driven specials than standard college-town pizza.
A short drive from The Plains, Avalanche is where Athens locals send anyone looking for something beyond pepperoni and mushrooms. The menu leans into creative combinations, with toppings like house-made sausages, roasted vegetables, and specialty cheeses on a chewy, flavorful crust. It is a strong pick when you want to impress visiting friends or split a few specialty pies at a table.
Goodfella’s is the Court Street institution for oversized, foldable slices that hit the spot after a night out in Athens.
This downtown counter-service spot is all about speed, slices, and people-watching. Pies are baked large with a thinner crust, plenty of cheese, and crowd-pleasing toppings, then sold by the slice until the early hours. It is not fancy, but if you are in town for a game or concert, grabbing a slice here is part of the Athens experience.
Donatos is known for edge-to-edge toppings on a crisp thin crust, making it a reliable choice when you are feeding a crowd.
Located along the main commercial strip in Athens, Donatos is easy to reach from The Plains and set up for fast carryout or delivery. Pizzas come cut into squares with a layer of toppings that stretches right to the rim, so every piece feels loaded. It is especially useful for team dinners, watch parties, or any night when you need several predictable, crowd-pleasing pies.
Pizza Cottage pairs hearty, topping-heavy pies with a relaxed dining room that works well for families and groups.
A short hop from The Plains, this regional chain offers roomy booths, plenty of TVs, and a menu that stretches from pizzas to appetizers and salads. The crust is slightly thicker, with a soft bite that holds plenty of cheese and toppings. It is a comfortable option when you want to sit down, let the kids spread out, and linger over a couple of pizzas and a shared basket of sides.