Best Pizza Places Near 'U Of M'
For this tough, hard-nosed assignment, I jumped back into and near my stomping grounds, which is the University of Minnesota's Twin Cities campus. My task was to discover a wide variety of pizza joints that students, and everyone else, would enjoy.You may notice that one or two of your favorite pizza spots are not on the list. These are just 10 of the top, not the top 10 so don't be fooled if you don't see your favorite. It's a challenge to narrow it down to just 10, so feel free to leave a comment and let us know what makes your list.
My overall goal for this pizza list was to present a wide variety of establishments that offer different environments, different methods of "pizza engineering" and convenience. I tried to use my experience as a student at the University and with the delectable food that is pizza to offer up a valid opinion. So, take a bite out of this list and let me know how it tastes!
Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza
600 N. Washington Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55401-1249
Directory | Website
This is a place you sit down with a date, your family or friends. It's got a real mellow and welcoming atmosphere that beckons you to order a glass, or bottle, of wine. It's a great place for a quiet lunch or dinner.
Their pizza is described as being inspired by the first American method of cooking pizza, which included coal. However, it is not a dirty process by any means. On the contrary, the pizza shop's website boasts that they use a "clean burning, virtually emission-free Anthracite coal."
Pizza Nea
306 E. Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55414-1016
Directory | Website
This restaurant has a relaxed, mellow atmosphere that resembles Black Sheep's pizza place. However, it is inspired by traditional Italian pizza and offers outside seating.
It is also in a great area to enjoy a nice walk before or after enjoying the pizza. Bring a date or anyone who would like to enjoy a quaint meal.
Mesa Pizza
1323 4th St. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Directory | Website
This place is my personal favorite! Mesa is linked to Dinkytown and enjoys plenty of business from students and visitors alike. So, go and see the amazing selection and try pizza you've never tried before. My personal favorite is a pizza called "Southwest Bean."
It's open until "after bar time" on all days but Sunday, when it closes at midnight.
Seating is a problem late at night, but there should be places to sit if you go before 11 p.m.
Pizza Luce
2200 E. Franklin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Directory | Website
If reviews were all we went on, this place would be at the very top -- if there was a top. It's touted as having great, creative pizza with a nice bar/restaurant atmosphere. I've visited the place every now and then and haven't been disappointed with the chill, hip environment.
Students strapped for cash can check out Pizza Luce's specials.
Davanni's Pizza
2500 Riverside Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55454-1431
Directory | Website
This is a great place to call and order a great, delicious pizza. It's a fine alternative to the major chains like Pizza Hut, Domino's and Papa Johns. It also offers other good food, including hoagies and calzones.
Papa Johns Pizza
817 Washington Ave. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Directory | Website
Yes, this is a major establishment. However, it is a part of the campus and likes to cater to its younger neighbors. Call for a cheap, but solid, pizza.
Punch Pizza
802 Washington Ave. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Directory | Website
Punch is a great place to go for a carefully-crafted pizza and a pleasant, college environment. It's similar to Pizza Nea because it boasts authentic Italian wood-fired pizza. There is great seating and an open, fresh-air environment.
Leaning Tower Of Pizza
2501 SE University Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55414-3205
Directory | Website
This establishment mixes the two staples of a college campus: a bar (for the older college students, of course!) and a pizza place. It offers many types of specials and a newly-opened patio. Not the place to go for a quiet evening, but has its definite charms.
Domino's Pizza
215 SE Oak St.
Minneapolis, MN 55414-2908
Directory | Website
Sorry, Pizza Hut enthusiasts, but I picked Domino's! Sometimes, you just have to call up one of the "Big 3" pizza chains and get to work on some fast, cheap and convenient pizza. Just like Papa Johns, Domino's offers specials all the time. You only need to look online or call to find out!
The dancing people in the above picture were fantastic. They apparently travel to different Domino's and dance. They were pretty good and had obviously practiced the routine. I believe they were dancing to a song by a lady named "Keisha."
