By ChinRes 
Pizza chains are beloved across the United States, but not all are created equal. Whether you’re craving classic pepperoni or something more adventurous, the quality and flavor of your pizza can vary drastically depending on where you order.
Here’s a rundown of 16 popular pizza chains, ranked from worst to best, based on factors like taste, quality of ingredients, menu variety, and overall customer satisfaction.
16. Little Caesars
Little Caesars may be known for its affordability with the “Hot-N-Ready” pizza, but it’s often criticized for being inconsistent. While the prices are hard to beat, the quality sometimes leaves much to be desired. The crust can be dry, and the toppings are often sparse. For a quick, budget-friendly fix, Little Caesars works, but for a gourmet pizza experience, it falls short.
15. CiCi’s Pizza
CiCi’s offers an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet, which is great for those on a budget. However, quantity doesn’t always mean quality. The pizzas are basic, and while the salad and dessert options add variety, the chain’s pizza lacks the flavor complexity of higher-ranked competitors. It’s an excellent spot for family outings, but seasoned pizza lovers may be disappointed.
14. Papa Murphy’s
As a take-and-bake option, Papa Murphy’s stands out because you finish the pizza at home. While this chain offers fresh ingredients and an enjoyable experience, it requires extra effort from the consumer. Some love the customizable options, but others find that the results can be uneven depending on their home ovens, making it more hit-or-miss compared to traditional delivery or dine-in options.
13. Pizza Inn
Pizza Inn has been a favorite in the South and Midwest, offering a mix of traditional and specialty pizzas. While it doesn’t have the same national reach as some of the bigger chains, it holds its own with a variety of flavors. The downside is that the quality can vary depending on location, and many of its offerings tend to lean toward the average side.
12. Jet’s Pizza
Jet’s offers Detroit-style pizza, which sets it apart with its thick, cheesy crust and caramelized edges. Known for their deep-dish pizzas, Jet’s delivers a satisfying bite of cheesy, saucy goodness. However, the heavy nature of the pizza can be overwhelming for some, and it’s not the go-to spot for lighter, more traditional options.
11. Marco’s Pizza
Marco’s offers an elevated pizza experience with fresh toppings and a robust menu of sides, subs, and salads. While its pizza is generally considered flavorful with a decent crust-to-sauce ratio, the chain lacks the strong national presence of its competitors. Still, it’s a solid choice for those who want to support a smaller chain with quality offerings.
10. Sbarro
Sbarro is often found in mall food courts, serving New York-style pizza. While not known for its innovation, Sbarro provides reliable, oversized slices that hit the spot for a quick meal on the go. The flavors aren’t the most memorable, but it’s a good standby for mall-goers needing a fast and tasty option.
9. Round Table Pizza
Round Table prides itself on using premium ingredients, and it shows in the flavor of its pizzas. With a wide array of toppings and a focus on quality, it’s a reliable chain for those wanting something more refined than typical fast food options. The downside is that it’s more expensive than many other chains, making it less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.
8. Godfather’s Pizza
Godfather’s Pizza has been a fan favorite for years with its hearty, thick crusts and generous toppings. While not as widely available as other chains, it offers a distinct taste and high-quality pizza that many find irresistible. The atmosphere in its restaurants feels like a throwback, which can be nostalgic but may also seem outdated to some.
7. Papa John’s
Papa John’s built its brand on the idea of “better ingredients, better pizza.” While it may not always live up to the hype, its pizzas are generally solid, with a decent balance of sauce, cheese, and crust. The addition of garlic dipping sauce is a nice touch, and the chain’s commitment to delivery deals makes it a popular choice. However, some feel that it doesn’t stand out enough to compete with higher-end options.
6. Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza revolutionized the fast-casual pizza industry with its customizable, artisanal approach. Customers can build their pizza from scratch with a wide range of fresh ingredients, all cooked in a high-temperature oven for a crispy crust in record time. The high-quality ingredients and fast service make it a great option for those seeking a more upscale, yet affordable pizza experience.
5. California Pizza Kitchen
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) brings a unique twist to traditional pizza with its innovative toppings, including BBQ chicken and Thai-inspired flavors. Known for its creativity, CPK caters to those looking for something different from the usual pepperoni or cheese pizza. While it’s a bit pricier, the flavor combinations are worth the splurge.
4. Domino’s
Domino’s has come a long way in recent years, revamping its recipes and expanding its menu. Its hand-tossed crust, improved sauce, and variety of toppings have made it a standout among the big chains. The convenience of online ordering and fast delivery also adds to its appeal. While it’s not quite gourmet, it’s reliable, tasty, and affordable, making it a favorite for many.
3. MOD Pizza
MOD Pizza follows a similar fast-casual, build-your-own model as Blaze Pizza but with an even stronger focus on customization. The unlimited toppings at one flat price is a major draw, and the quality of ingredients is consistently high. Plus, the casual dining experience makes it a hit for families and groups. It’s a step up from traditional fast food pizza, offering both flavor and fun.
2. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut has been a dominant force in the pizza industry for decades, known for its pan pizza with a thick, buttery crust. The chain has expanded its menu with new crust options, wings, and desserts, making it a versatile option for group dining. While some may argue that its pizzas have become a bit greasy, the sheer variety and classic flavors keep it near the top of the list.
1. Lou Malnati’s
Taking the top spot is Lou Malnati’s, a Chicago-based chain known for its legendary deep-dish pizza. What sets Lou Malnati’s apart is its buttery, flaky crust, generous amounts of cheese, and fresh, flavorful toppings. The pizza is hearty, filling, and simply delicious, making it a favorite among pizza connoisseurs. Though it’s not as widely available as some other chains, it has a cult following for a reason—this is pizza done right.
These rankings reflect a combination of taste, quality, and overall experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick and cheap pizza or a more gourmet pie, this list has something for every type of pizza lover.