Pizza in Paris: the best places to eat in 2026

Paris, the capital of gastronomy, attracts millions of visitors every year in search of authentic flavors. Among the most popular dishes, pizza holds a special place in the hearts of gourmets. Finding the best pizzas in Paris becomes a culinary adventure through the city’s neighborhoods.

An Italian tradition firmly established in the capital in 2026

Pizza has been conquering Paris for decades. Today, the city boasts hundreds of pizzerias, from the most modest to the most refined. Each arrondissement offers its own nuggets, often run by passionate artisans.

Parisians have become demanding. They are now looking for slow-risen dough, fresh produce and wood-fired cooking. This quest for quality has transformed the landscape of Parisian pizzerias in recent years.

As a result, many Italian pizza makers have chosen to set up shop in the capital. They bring with them a know-how handed down from generation to generation. Tasting the best pizzas in Paris is like traveling to Italy without leaving France.

“A good pizza is first and foremost a mastered dough, quality ingredients and an oven at the right temperature.”

Must-see neighborhoods for pizza lovers

The Marais, Belleville and the 11th arrondissement are home to many renowned addresses. These neighborhoods attract a young, inquisitive clientele, ready to queue up for an exceptional slice. What’s more, the lively terraces add to the tasting pleasure.

The Pigalle district also offers some nice surprises. There are intimate pizzerias with creative recipes. On the other hand, the more residential arrondissements sometimes hide little-known treasures.

• Neapolitan dough: light, airy and baked in less than 90 seconds
• Wood oven: ideal temperature between 400 and 450 degrees
• Mozzarella di bufala: imported directly from Campania
• San Marzano tomatoes: grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius
• Extra virgin olive oil: cold-pressed to preserve aromas

The criteria for recognizing an exceptional pizza in 2026

The first indicator of quality is the dough. A good Neapolitan pizza has a puffy, slightly charred cornicione (edge). It should be soft in the center, never cardboardy or too thick. This texture is the result of a long fermentation process, sometimes lasting more than 48 hours.

Toppings also play an essential role. Serious pizza makers prefer PDO products and seasonal vegetables. They also use their ingredients sparingly, so as not to weigh down the dough. Finding the best pizzas in Paris requires attention to detail.

Baking in a wood-fired oven remains the standard of excellence. It gives the pizza incomparable smoky notes. However, some establishments use modern electric ovens with excellent results. The key is to control temperature and cooking time.

The service is just as important as the product. A pizza must arrive hot at the table, without delay. The best addresses train their staff to present the specifics of each recipe. This educational approach enriches the customer experience.

Pizza styles to discover in the capital

Neapolitan pizza dominates the Parisian market. Its soft dough and authentic flavors appeal to purists. However, other styles are gaining in popularity with discerning pizza lovers.

The thinner, crispier pizza romana attracts a different clientele. It allows you to enjoy more generous toppings without feeling heavy. Similarly, pizza al taglio (by the slice) appeals to those in a hurry who want to eat on the go.

Some pizzerias offer original creations. They incorporate French products such as goat’s cheese or Bayonne ham. These best pizzas in Paris reflect a successful fusion of two gastronomic cultures.

How to make the most of your pizza experience in Paris

Advance reservations are still advisable for the most popular addresses. Queues can exceed an hour at weekends in some establishments. So a call in advance is a good way to avoid disappointment.

For greater peace and quiet, opt for staggered hours. An 11:30 a.m. lunch or a 9:30 p.m. dinner often offers better availability. What’s more, service is generally more attentive during off-peak hours.

Don’t hesitate to ask the pizza maker for advice. These artisans love to share their passion and guide customers to their signature creations. Some of the best pizzas in Paris turn out to be little-known recipes on the menu.

Accompany your pizza with an appropriate beverage. A glass of Italian wine, a craft beer or simply sparkling water enhances the flavors. This harmony between food and drink transforms a simple meal into a memorable moment. The search for the best pizzas in Paris continues to enthrall gourmets in 2026.

• best pizzas in Paris