Buffalo, New York, has staked its claim in pizza history with an unmistakable approach to both flavor and creativity. While everyone knows about the city’s famous chicken wings, its pizza deserves just as much recognition. Discover what sets Buffalo pizza apart, why locals are so passionate about it, and where to experience the best slices in the area.

Buffalo’s Culinary Legacy

Food is a pillar of Buffalo’s identity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its pizza scene. Over decades, a blend of Italian-American tradition, local pride, and a little bit of culinary experimentation has shaped what many now crave as classic Buffalo pizza. The city has cultivated a style that’s hearty, flavorful, and wholly its own.

No conversation about Buffalo pizza is complete without mentioning the role of Buffalo wings. It all began in 1964 at the Anchor Bar, when chicken wings were deep-fried and then coated in a spicy, buttery sauce. That tangy, fiery flavor quickly became the blueprint for Buffalo’s culinary creativity.

It wasn’t a huge leap for local chefs to imagine those addicting Buffalo flavors as toppings for another beloved dish. By swapping out the usual tomato sauce for spicy Buffalo sauce and pairing it with mozzarella and tangy blue cheese, the Buffalo chicken pizza was born. The combination of saucy, spicy chicken; creamy cheese; and crisp crust gave Buffalo its signature slice.

Why Is Buffalo Pizza So Good?

Unique Local Ingredients 

Franco’s Pizza is a Buffalo staple, and our dedication to quality begins with the ingredients we choose. From aromatic herbs and seasonal fruits to rare spices and handcrafted crusts, every component tells a story of tradition, care, and passion. These unique local ingredients enhance the flavor and authenticity of our offerings. 

Method of Preparation

Creating an authentic Buffalo-style pizza begins with the dough. The foundation is a slightly thicker crust that achieves the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. Once the dough is ready, it is rolled out and placed on a well-oiled pan, ensuring a golden, crispy base as it cooks.

Next comes the sauce—a tangy and slightly sweet tomato base that is generously spread over the dough. The cheese then melts beautifully to create a bubbly, golden topping.

For toppings, classic options like pepperoni, sausage, and fresh vegetables remain crowd favorites. The assembled pizza is then baked in a high-temperature oven until the crust is perfectly golden, the cheese is molten, and the toppings are cooked to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering masterpiece that captures the essence of Buffalo’s beloved pizza tradition.

Regional Variations

Regional variations of pizza across the United States offer a diverse and flavorful exploration of this beloved dish. New York-style pizza, with its thin, foldable crust and light tomato sauce, appeals to those who enjoy a classic slice that’s easy to eat on the go. On the other hand, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza features a buttery, thick crust and is layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce, creating a hearty, casserole-like experience. Detroit-style pizza brings a unique square shape, caramelized edges, and a generous layer of Wisconsin brick cheese, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. 

What makes Buffalo pizza truly stand out is its spirit of fusion and originality. From the earliest days, local pizzerias weren’t afraid to stray from tradition, experimenting with new cheeses, sauces, toppings, and even shapes. Buffalo chicken pizza is the perfect example of this ingenuity—not simply a copy of other regional styles, but a bold and uniquely Buffalonian creation.

Long-Standing Tradition 

Pizza’s long-standing tradition can be traced back to its roots in Naples, Italy, where it began as a simple, affordable meal for workers. Over centuries, it has evolved from a humble flatbread topped with basic ingredients to a globally celebrated dish. This tradition remains alive today at Franco’s as techniques and recipes continue to be the backbone of our popular local pizza. 

Our Community 

At the heart of our success with pizza here at Franco’s is a vibrant and engaged community that plays an essential role in maintaining the high standards we strive for. Through open communication and a shared passion for excellence, we actively invite feedback from our customers to ensure that every experience meets, and even exceeds, expectations. 

Whether it’s suggestions for new flavors, comments on our techniques, or constructive criticism, each piece of feedback helps us refine our craft and honor authenticity while celebrating creativity. 

Where to Get the Best Buffalo Pizza

If you’re planning a pizza pilgrimage, some places are local legends for a reason. Franco’s remains one of the best destinations to experience authentic Buffalo pizza in all its glory. With several locations around Western New York, Franco’s takes pride in upholding the area’s traditions while always serving up piping hot, flavor-packed slices.

At Franco’s, expect more than a meal. It’s a chance to become part of the community, surrounded by the aromas and energy that have defined Buffalo’s food scene for generations. Along with our standout Buffalo chicken pizza, you’ll find a menu full of classic and creative pies, each made with time-honored recipes and fresh local ingredients.

Enjoy the Lasting Appeal of Buffalo-Style Pizza at Franco’s 

Buffalo pizza isn’t just about bold sauce or creative toppings. At its heart, it celebrates the city’s love of food, innovation, and bringing people together. Each slice tells a story of local tradition, shared experiences, and a willingness to shake up expectations.

Craving a real taste of Buffalo? Pull up a chair at Franco’s and see why this city’s pizza scene has earned such a loyal following. Bold flavors, warm hospitality, and a true Buffalo experience await—with every bite, you’ll understand why Buffalo pizza is in a league of its own.