Houston might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think “pizza,” but our local pizzaiolos are putting in serious work to change that. From woodfired Napoletana pies that cook in 90 seconds to thick Detroit-style and cracker-thin tavern pizzas, in this episode of “Eat Like a Local” host Chris Shepherd dishes on some of the best versions of all types of pizza in Houston.
Pizaro’s Pizza Houston | 11177 Katy Freeway & 1000 West Gray
When Chris stops by Pizaro’s Pizza, he finds that the brother-sister team of Nicole Bean and Matt Hutchinson are devoted to authenticity and the craft of pizza making. They aren’t content with just one specialty — they’ve mastered three distinct styles: Napoletana, Detroit, and New York.
Their Napoletana (note: NOT Neapolitan) pizzas are made according to strict VPN (Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana) standards, meaning everything from the dough to the oven and the cheese meet the traditional requirements set in Naples, Italy. Each pie bakes in a blistering 90 seconds inside a wood-fired oven, producing the signature soft, chewy crust with just the right char.
- PREVIOUS EPISODE: Farmed Fresh: Gulf Coast oysters make waves in Houston restaurants
Chris’ advice? Order a Napoletana pizza to enjoy in-house, fresh out of the oven while it’s still bubbling and take home a classic New York–style cheese pizza for the family — thin, foldable, and perfectly balanced between sauce, cheese, and crust. Honestly, you can’t go wrong here. Pizaro’s pulls off all three styles with equal skill and precision — a rare feat even in major pizza cities.
Nonno’s Family Pizza Tavern | 1613 Richmond Ave.
After Pizaro’s, Chris heads to his local pizza joint, Nonno’s Family Pizza Tavern. Here, husband-and-wife restaurateurs Martin and Sarah Stayer are serving up a Chicago style favorite from Sarah’s childhood - but it’s not deep dish! They’re giving Houston a taste of Chicago’s lesser-known tavern-style pizza — a thin, crispy, square-cut pie.
Of course, the Stayers, known for their knack for creating warm, welcoming spaces with exceptional food, didn’t stop there. The menu extends far beyond pizza: mozzarella sticks, crispy wings, and a thoughtful pasta program all shine. A curated cocktail and wine list - plus pinball games and retro vibes - round out the experience and make it a favorite for all ages.
Chris Shepherd’s Backyard
Of course, pizza is a very personal choice and sometimes you want to make it just the way you like it. Chris invited world-renowned pizzaiolo Chris Bianco to his backyard to show him how to make the perfect pie.
Watch the episode to get Bianco’s backyard pizza making tips - and stick around for the outtakes to see if our Chris can finally master the pronunciation of Napoletana!
“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.
Season 3 of “Eat Like a Local”
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 56: Season 3 of ‘Eat Like a Local’ launches with chefs recognized by the James Beard Awards
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 57: Beer + Bites: Discover two of the Houston-area’s best craft breweries
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 58: Hungry for a short trip? 4 flavorful restaurants to try in Baytown
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 60: From tortas to paletas: Generations of Mexican-American flavor in Houston
- SEASON 4, EPISODE 61: Farmed Fresh: Gulf Coast oysters make waves in Houston restaurants