Student-Friendly Pizza in Boston: Where to Find Top Picks Near Top Colleges
Boston is known for its vibrant student life and historic campuses, but it’s also a haven for pizza lovers. If you’re attending college in Boston or visiting someone who is, you’ll want to know the best pizza spots near universities. From classic New York-style slices to deep-dish, gluten-free, and gourmet creations, you’re covered. Explore these famous pizza restaurants and hidden gems near popular Boston colleges and universities.
Best Pizza Near Boston University and Boston College
Boston University (BU) and Boston College (BC) attract students from around the world. If you’re looking for great pizza close to these campuses, these spots are student favorites:
- T Otto Pizza – With locations near BU, T Otto is known for thin-crust, creative toppings and vegan options.
- Regina Pizzeria – A North End staple with a location near Fenway, perfect for BU students. Serving up coal-fired pies since 1926.
- Brighton’s Little Pizza King – A BC student go-to for classic late-night slices and affordable prices.
- Crazy Dough’s Pizza – Near BU East, it’s famous for Sicilian-style crust and plenty of flavors to choose from.
Most of these pizza shops offer delivery, takeout, and sit-down options. They also have vegetarian and gluten-free pizzas, making them ideal for any diet.
Pizza Spots Near Harvard University and MIT
Cambridge is home to Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The area features some of the most unique and delicious pizza places in the Boston area. Here are local favorites:
- Pinocchio’s Pizza & Subs – Located in Harvard Square, this is the spot for Sicilian-style squares, loved by Harvard alums and students.
- Area Four – A short walk from MIT, this eatery is known for wood-fired pizzas and a lively atmosphere. Their dough is made with natural levain and ferments for 30 hours.
- Source Restaurant – Near Harvard, this spot features farm-to-table ingredients and creative pizza flavors.
- Angelo’s Pizza – Near Central Square, Angelo’s offers classic pies and calzones with quick service for busy students.
Whether you prefer simple cheese or specialty pizzas, the pizza scene in Cambridge mixes tradition with innovation, offering top pizza picks near Harvard and MIT.
Best Pizza Places Near Northeastern University, Suffolk, and Emerson
The Back Bay, Theatre District, and Fenway neighborhoods are full of students from Northeastern University, Suffolk, and Emerson College. If you want fantastic pizza near these colleges, check out these favorites:
- Cappy’s Pizza & Subs – Across from Northeastern, Cappy’s serves huge slices and feeds hungry college crowds through late hours.
- Pavia – Located near Suffolk University, Pavia offers Italian-style thin crust, sandwiches, salads, and vegan options.
- Sal’s Pizza – Popular for oversized slices and group-friendly deals. There’s a location near government center for Suffolk and downtown colleges.
- New York Pizza – In the Back Bay, this spot near Emerson is known for foldable, classic New York-style slices and late-night hours.
These pizza parlors offer affordable combo meals, fast service, and plenty of choices for quick lunches or group study breaks.
Vegan, Gluten-Free, and International Pizza Options Near Boston Campuses
More Boston pizza places now cater to dietary restrictions and diverse tastes. If you’re searching for vegetarian pizza, vegan cheese, or gluten-free crust, try these student-loved spots:
- OTTO Pizza – Multiple locations near campuses, including BU and Harvard. Options include vegan cheese, gluten-free dough, and international flavors like mashed potato bacon or spicy chicken.
- Stoked Wood Fired Pizza Co. – In Brookline, close to Boston University. Known for innovative toppings and gluten-free and vegan options.
- Za Pizza – Near Kendall Square, offers organic and locally sourced ingredients, gluten-free crust, and unique salad pizzas.
- Cambridge Pizzeria – Near MIT, with halal and vegetarian-friendly selections.
With so many choices, you don’t have to miss out on pizza night just because of special dietary needs.
How to Choose the Right Pizza Place Near Your College
Finding the top-rated pizza shop near your Boston college can feel overwhelming. Here are quick tips to help you decide:
- Proximity: Look for locations within walking distance of your campus for convenience.
- Variety: Pick spots with a wide choice of toppings, crust styles, and dietary accommodations.
- Group Size: Pizza shops with large tables or quick takeout are great for group study sessions or club meetings.
- Price: Students often prefer budget-friendly slices, lunch specials, and pizza combo deals.
- Hours: Late-night hours are important for students burning the midnight oil.
Ask classmates or local students for their best picks. Student reviews and social media ratings can also guide you toward great deals and unique specialties.
Unique Pizza Styles to Try Near Boston & Cambridge Colleges
The diversity of Boston’s student communities inspires pizza shops to offer a range of international and regional styles. Here are some styles to try if you’re dining near campus:
- Classic New York-Style: Thin, floppy, and perfect for folding. Check out New York Pizza or Sal’s Pizza.
- Neapolitan: Wood-fired with simple, high-quality toppings. Try Area Four or Stoked Wood Fired Pizza.
- Chicago Deep Dish: Less common, but available at select restaurants in Boston.
- Sicilian: Thick, square, and chewy crust. Local favorite: Pinocchio’s Pizza.
- Gourmet/Artisan: Farm-to-table ingredients and creative flavors, like those at Source and Za.
Whatever your preference, you’ll find satisfying pizza joints within easy reach of Boston’s top colleges and universities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Places Near Boston’s Colleges
What are the most popular pizza shops near Boston University?
Near Boston University, students often choose OTTO Pizza, Regina Pizzeria, and Crazy Dough’s Pizza for their affordable prices, variety, and quick service.
Where can I find vegan or gluten-free pizza in Boston?
You can find vegan and gluten-free pizza at OTTO Pizza, Stoked Wood Fired Pizza Co., Za Pizza, and several other spots near major Boston campuses. Many restaurants now offer specialty crust options and dairy-free cheese.
Are there late-night pizza options near Northeastern and Emerson?
Yes, Cappy’s Pizza, New York Pizza, and Sal’s Pizza offer late-night hours. They are perfect for students studying late or heading out after events.
What kind of pizza styles are available near Boston colleges?
You can enjoy New York-style, Sicilian, Neapolitan wood-fired, thick crust, thin crust, and even gourmet international-inspired pizzas near Boston's top universities.
Which pizza restaurants deliver to Boston campus dorms?
Many pizza restaurants near colleges offer delivery, including OTTO Pizza, Little Pizza King, Pavia, and Sal’s Pizza. Delivery zones may vary, so check your address before ordering.









