Drive through the North Carolina High Country and you might not expect to find a pizza scene that spans nearly every regional American style. But the mountains have attracted pizzaiolos from New York, Detroit, Chicago, and Naples, and the result is a surprisingly diverse lineup of pizza styles available within a 30-minute drive.
New York-Style Thin Crust
Classic New York-style pizza — thin, hand-tossed, foldable — is widely available in the High Country. Capone's Untouchable Pizza in Boone serves a NY-style pie that stands up to anything you would find in the five boroughs. Their large pizzas are generously topped and the crust has that essential chewiness that defines the style.
Wood-Fired Neapolitan
Lost Province Brewing Company in Boone has elevated High Country pizza with their wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies. Cooked at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven, these pizzas feature a puffy, charred crust and simple, high-quality toppings. Their Margherita pizza, made with fresh mozzarella and basil, is a testament to the style's less-is-more philosophy.
Detroit-Style Square Pans
Detroit-style pizza, with its thick, rectangular crust and caramelized cheese edges, has made its way to the mountains. Several pizzerias in the area have started offering square pans that appeal to diners looking for something heartier than a thin-crust pie. The crispy, cheesy edges and airy interior make this style a favorite for sharing.
Southern Hand-Tossed
The South has its own pizza tradition — hand-tossed pies with a slightly thicker, chewier crust than NY-style, often served with a sweeter sauce. Mellow Mushroom in Blowing Rock offers a Southern-inflected menu that bridges traditional pizza with creative toppings like barbecue chicken, spinach and feta, and even a vegan pie that rivals the originals.
Chain Classics
National chains like Domino's, Pizza Hut, and Papa John's are well-represented in Boone and provide consistent, familiar options when you need a reliable delivery pie. While they may not offer the artisanal appeal of the independent shops, they excel at convenience, online ordering, and feeding large groups on a budget.