These MA Pizzerias Among The Country’s Best, Food Writers Say

A new nationwide guide has singled out 27 pizzerias in 20 states.

By Chris Rhatigan, Patch Staff

Aug 25, 2026 1:42 PM EDT

A new nationwide guide has singled out 27 pizzerias in 20 states. (Ellyn Santiago/Patch)

Two pizza places are getting national attention from food writers who set out to find some of the best pies in America.

Pinocchio's Pizza & Subs in Cambridge and Palio Pizzeria in Hyannis are among the standout pizza destinations selected by USA Today Network food writers for a new nationwide guide. Writers singled out 27 pizzerias in 20 states that they considered worth seeking out, from neighborhood institutions to newer shops specializing in regional and traditional styles.

USA Today describes Pinocchio's as a "small, bustling pizza shop frequented by celebrities features simple tables, a service counter stacked with Sicilian and thin-crust pizzas, and a large hand-painted mural depicting Pinocchio eating pizza." The restaurant also features photos, memorabilia and signs of generations of student customers, giving the spot the feel of a "well-worn Harvard Square institution."

Palio offers brick-oven pizza that is "large and in charge," including a variety of specialty pizzas. One notable pie is the Cape Codder, described as "a white-based pizza with minced garlic, mozzarella, lemon, and shrimp and clams. Yes, shrimp and clams."

Read the full list from USA Today.

The selections show just how far American pizza has moved beyond the old New York-versus-Chicago argument. The list includes Neapolitan, Detroit-style, Sicilian, New York-style, and sourdough and brick- and wood-fired pies, along with regional specialties and restaurants putting their own spin on familiar styles.