Pizza in central Iowa carries its own kind of charm — a mix of long‑loved institutions, college‑town favorites and family spots that feel like part of the community fabric.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after a game, settling in for a slow evening with friends or picking up a box on your way home from work, these places offer something familiar and satisfying.
Here are five local pizza shops that bring their own personality to the table.
Great Plains Sauce and Dough Company
Great Plains has been part of Ames’ rhythm for decades. Since it opened in 1979, it has been known for its hearty, old‑school approach to pizza and its unmistakable whole‑wheat crust. Walking in feels like stepping into a place that’s seen generations of students, families and regulars pass through. The menu leans into comfort — thick, chewy dough, generous toppings and a sauce that’s been a local talking point for years. Many people swear by the honey for dipping the crust, a tradition that’s become almost synonymous with the restaurant. It’s the kind of spot where you settle in, take your time and enjoy the feeling of a meal that’s meant to be shared.
Location: 129 Main St., Ames
Contact: facebook.com/greatplainspizza, 515-232-4263
Cubbies on Main
Nevada’s Cubbies on Main loves cooking old favorites for its customers. The pizza uses the iconic recipe handed down from the George family, who owned the iconic George’s Pizza for decades. When they opened Cubbies, the Stoeffler family began offering George’s pizza, based on the old, beloved recipe. Their pizzas lean toward familiar flavors — hearty meats, well‑balanced veggies and a crust that holds up whether you’re dining in or grabbing a box to go. It’s the kind of place where you might run into someone you know or strike up a conversation with someone you don’t. Cubbies fits neatly into Nevada’s Main Street energy — friendly, unfussy and proud of the community it serves.
Location: 1125 6th St., Nevada
Contact: cubbiesonmain.com, 515-382-2700
Pizza Pit
Pizza Pit has been a go‑to for Iowa State students and late‑night diners for decades, thanks to its fast service and crowd‑pleasing menu. The pizzas are straightforward and satisfying, with a crust that’s sturdy enough for generous toppings and a sauce that leans tangy. Beyond pizza, the menu branches into wings, breadsticks and other game‑night staples, making it a reliable choice when you’re feeding a group. There’s an easygoing feel to Pizza Pit; it’s the kind of place where you know exactly what you’re getting, and that’s part of the appeal. It’s built for convenience, but it still carries the charm of a local spot woven into Ames’ college‑town identity.
Location: 207 Welch Ave., Ames
Contact: pizzapit.biz/ames-ia, 515-292-6600
Jeff’s Pizza
Jeff’s Pizza has earned a loyal following with its creative topping combinations and its willingness to lean into bold flavors. The vibe is casual and energetic, often buzzing with students grabbing dinner before heading out for the night. Jeff’s crust strikes a balance between chewy and crisp, giving their pizzas a texture that stands out. The menu includes classics, but many people come for the specialty pies, such as the Cordon Chicken and the Spinach Havarti Artichoke, that feel a little adventurous without straying too far from familiar territory. It’s a spot that feels distinctly Ames — lively, welcoming and always ready to feed a crowd.
Location: 2402 Lincoln Way, Ames
Contact: jeffspizzashop.com, 515-292-2321
Ge‑Angelo’s Italian Restaurant
Ge‑Angelo’s offers a sit‑down experience with a menu that stretches beyond pizza into pasta, salads and Italian‑American comfort dishes. Their pizzas have a softer, more traditional feel, with a crust that’s tender and a sauce that leans warm and savory. Dining here feels relaxed, with friendly service and a pace that encourages lingering over the meal. Ge‑Angelo’s brings a sense of familiarity — the kind of place where you settle into a booth and know you’ll leave feeling full and content.
Location: 823 Wheeler St., Ames
Contact: geangelos.com, 515-233-0959
Ronna Faaborg covers business and the arts for the Ames Tribune. Reach her at rfaaborg@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Five iconic pizza places in the Ames area offer comfort by the slice
Reporting by Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune / Ames Tribune
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By Ronna Faaborg, Ames Tribune | USA TODAY Network
