When it comes to satisfying your cravings for delicious pizza, look no further than Fort Walton Beach. Nestled along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast, this charming beach town is not only a popular vacation destination but also a hidden gem for pizza aficionados. From crispy thin crusts to mouthwatering toppings, the pizza scene in Fort Walton Beach offers something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the diverse and delectable pizza options available in this coastal paradise.
The History of Pizza in Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach may be known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, but it also has a rich history when it comes to pizza. The origins of pizza in this area can be traced back to the early Italian immigrants who settled in the region in the late 19th century. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, including their love for pizza.
Over the years, the pizza scene in Fort Walton Beach has evolved and adapted to local tastes and preferences. While traditional Italian-style pizzas still hold a special place in the hearts of many locals, there have been exciting innovations and unique twists on the classic dish. Fort Walton Beach has become a melting pot of flavors and techniques, resulting in a pizza culture that is both diverse and exciting.
Italian Influences on Fort Walton Beach Pizza
Italian immigrants played a significant role in shaping the pizza culture in Fort Walton Beach. They brought with them their traditional recipes and techniques, which laid the foundation for the pizza scene in this coastal town. Classic Italian pizzas, such as Margherita and Neapolitan, can still be found in many pizzerias, prepared with the same love and attention to detail as they were in Italy.
One of the most beloved Italian-style pizzas in Fort Walton Beach is the Margherita pizza. This simple yet flavorful pizza is made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of these high-quality ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is hard to resist.
Local Adaptations and Unique Flavors
While the Italian influence is strong, Fort Walton Beach has also developed its own unique pizza flavors. Local pizzerias have embraced the coastal lifestyle and incorporated regional ingredients and flavors into their pizzas. Seafood, for example, is a popular topping choice in Fort Walton Beach. Fresh shrimp, crab, and even oysters can be found adorning pizzas, adding a delightful taste of the sea to each bite.
Another local adaptation is the use of barbecue flavors on pizzas. Tangy barbecue sauce, tender pulled pork, and smoky flavors take center stage in these pizzas, adding a touch of Southern charm to the traditional Italian dish. These innovative combinations have garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Best Pizza Places in Fort Walton Beach
With a thriving pizza scene, Fort Walton Beach boasts several outstanding pizza places that are loved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Italian-style pizza or a unique creation, these top-rated pizzerias have got you covered.
1. Mama Mia’s Pizzeria
Mama Mia’s Pizzeria has been a Fort Walton Beach institution for over 30 years. This family-owned and operated pizzeria is known for its authentic Italian pizzas made from scratch. Using only the finest ingredients, Mama Mia’s serves up traditional favorites like Margherita and Pepperoni, as well as unique creations like the Seafood Delight, topped with shrimp, crab, and scallops.
2. Luigi’s Pizza
Luigi’s Pizza is a local favorite known for its New York-style thin crust pizzas. The dough is hand-tossed and baked to perfection, creating a crispy and chewy crust that pairs perfectly with their flavorful toppings. From the classic Cheese pizza to the Meat Lover’s delight, Luigi’s offers a variety of options to satisfy any pizza craving.
3. Beachside Pizza
As the name suggests, Beachside Pizza offers a dining experience with a view. Situated just steps away from the beach, this pizzeria combines delicious pizzas with a relaxed and beachy atmosphere. Their specialty pizzas, such as the Tropical Paradise topped with pineapple, ham, and bacon, capture the essence of the Fort Walton Beach lifestyle.
4. Pizzaiolo Italian Eatery
Pizzaiolo Italian Eatery is a hidden gem tucked away in Fort Walton Beach. This cozy and welcoming restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas that are bursting with flavor. Each pizza is made to order, ensuring that every bite is a taste sensation. Whether you choose the classic Margherita or the adventurous Fig and Prosciutto, Pizzaiolo delivers a pizza experience that will leave you wanting more.
5. The Pizza Joint
If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere and creative pizza options, The Pizza Joint is the place to be. This trendy pizzeria offers a variety of specialty pizzas that cater to all taste preferences. From the savory Bacon Cheeseburger pizza to the indulgent Chicken Alfredo pizza, The Pizza Joint pushes the boundaries of traditional pizza and delivers exciting and unique flavors.
Thin Crust vs. Deep Dish: A Pizza Lover’s Dilemma
One of the never-ending debates in the pizza world is the battle between thin crust and deep dish. Each style has its own merits and loyal following, and Fort Walton Beach is no exception. Let’s explore the characteristics of each style and discover where you can find the best thin crust and deep dish pizzas in Fort Walton Beach.
Thin Crust Pizza: Crispy and Delicate
Thin crust pizza is known for its crispy and delicate texture. The dough is rolled out thinly, resulting in a thin and crunchy crust that allows the flavors of the toppings to shine through. This style of pizza is favored by those who appreciate a lighter and more delicate pizza eating experience.
When it comes to thin crust pizza in Fort Walton Beach, Luigi’s Pizza takes the crown. Their New York-style thin crust pizzas are made with care and attention to detail. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor from the high-quality toppings.
Deep Dish Pizza: Thick and Indulgent
On the other end of the spectrum, deep dish pizza is known for its thick and indulgent crust. The dough is pressed into a deep pan and covered with a generous amount of cheese, toppings, and sauce. The result is a pizza that is hearty, filling, and perfect for those looking for a more substantial meal.
When it comes to deep dish pizza in Fort Walton Beach, Mama Mia’s Pizzeria is the go-to spot. Their deep dish pizzas are a crowd favorite, with a crust that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Each slice is packed with layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings, ensuring a satisfying and indulgent pizza experience.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Pizza Options
In Fort Walton Beach, no one has to miss out on the pizza experience, even if they have dietary restrictions or preferences. The local pizzerias have embraced the demand for gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a slice of pizza.
Gluten-Free Pizza: Celiac-Friendly Delights
For those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease, finding a safe and delicious gluten-free pizza is a top priority. Luckily, Fort Walton Beach has several pizzerias that offer gluten-free crust options.
One such place is Beachside Pizza, which offers a gluten-free crust that is made in-house. This pizzeria takes extra precautions to prevent cross-contamination, ensuring that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy their pizzas worry-free. From traditional toppings to unique combinations, Beachside Pizza offers a wide range of gluten-free options that will satisfy your pizza cravings.
Vegan Pizza: Plant-Based Delights
Fort Walton Beach has also embraced the growing demand for vegan options, including vegan pizzas. Pizzaiolo Italian Eatery is a standout when it comes to vegan pizza options. Their wood-fired pizzas can be made with a vegan cheese alternative, and they offer a variety of vegetable toppings to create a flavorful and satisfying vegan pizza.
Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or simply looking to try something different, Fort Walton Beach has pizza options that cater to your dietary needs and preferences.
Pizza Toppings Galore
One of the joys of pizza is the endless variety of toppings that can be piled on top of a delicious crust. Fort Walton Beach offers a wide range of topping options, from classic favorites to unique and unconventional choices. Let’s explore the toppings that make the pizza scene in Fort Walton Beach so exciting.
Classic Toppings: Timeless Favorites
When it comes to classic toppings, you can’t go wrong with the tried-and-true combination of pepperoni and cheese. Fort Walton Beach pizzerias pay homage to this classic by using high-quality pepperoni and a blend of cheeses that melt to perfection.
Another classic topping combination that is beloved in Fort Walton Beach is mushrooms and onions. The earthy flavors of mushrooms pair perfectly with the sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a delicious and comforting combination.
Seafood
Seafood Toppings: Taste of the Sea
Given its coastal location, it’s no surprise that Fort Walton Beach offers a variety of seafood toppings for pizza enthusiasts. Fresh shrimp, crab, and even oysters can be found adorning pizzas, adding a delightful taste of the sea to each bite. The briny flavors of the seafood pair perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese, creating a unique and mouthwatering pizza experience.
One popular seafood topping combination is the Shrimp Scampi pizza. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in garlic, butter, and lemon juice, then delicately placed on top of a pizza crust with a generous amount of mozzarella. The result is a pizza bursting with flavors that transport you to the seaside.
For those craving a taste of the Gulf, the Crab and Avocado pizza is a must-try. Lump crab meat is combined with creamy avocado slices, creating a luxurious and decadent topping. The freshness of the avocado complements the sweetness of the crab, resulting in a pizza that is both indulgent and refreshing.
BBQ-Inspired Toppings: A Southern Twist
Fort Walton Beach has embraced barbecue flavors and incorporated them into their pizzas, adding a touch of Southern charm to the traditional Italian dish. Tangy barbecue sauce, tender pulled pork, and smoky flavors take center stage in these pizzas, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.
One popular BBQ-inspired pizza in Fort Walton Beach is the BBQ Chicken pizza. Tender pieces of grilled chicken are smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and combined with caramelized onions and melted cheese. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering pizza that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
For those looking for a little kick, the Spicy Pulled Pork pizza is a must-try. Slow-cooked pulled pork is tossed in a spicy barbecue sauce and paired with jalapenos and red onions, adding a fiery kick to each bite. This pizza is not for the faint of heart, but it’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their pizza.
Pizza Delivery in Fort Walton Beach
Sometimes, you just want to enjoy a delicious pizza from the comfort of your own accommodation. Luckily, many pizzerias in Fort Walton Beach offer delivery services, making it convenient for you to enjoy a piping hot pizza without leaving your doorstep.
Convenience at Your Doorstep
Beachside Pizza takes pride in providing quick and reliable delivery services to their customers. Whether you’re staying at a beachside resort or a cozy vacation rental, Beachside Pizza will bring the pizza straight to your door. Their efficient delivery team ensures that your pizza arrives hot and ready to be enjoyed.
Mama Mia’s Pizzeria also offers delivery services, ensuring that their delicious pizzas can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. With a wide range of pizzas to choose from, including their famous deep dish creations, Mama Mia’s delivery service brings the taste of Italy straight to your doorstep.
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Delivery
While pizza delivery offers convenience, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that your pizza arrives in optimal condition. Firstly, it’s important to provide detailed and accurate delivery instructions, especially if you’re staying in a large resort or a building with multiple entrances. This will help the delivery driver locate your exact location more easily.
Additionally, consider ordering pizzas with toppings that can withstand the delivery process. While delicate ingredients like fresh basil or arugula may wilt during the delivery, heartier toppings like pepperoni or mushrooms will hold up better.
Lastly, make sure to enjoy your pizza as soon as it arrives. The longer the pizza sits, the more it will lose its crispness. So gather your friends and family, grab some napkins, and dig into your freshly delivered pizza feast.
Pizza and Beer Pairings
Nothing complements a good slice of pizza like a cold beer. Fort Walton Beach is home to several local craft breweries that offer a variety of beers that pair perfectly with pizza. Let’s explore the best local breweries and the pizza and beer pairings that will enhance your pizza experience.
Emerald Coast Brewery
Emerald Coast Brewery is a favorite among locals for their wide selection of craft beers. Their crisp and refreshing Blonde Ale is the perfect companion for a classic Margherita pizza. The light and clean flavors of the beer complement the simplicity of the Margherita, allowing the flavors to shine through.
If you’re looking for a little more hoppy bitterness, try pairing the brewery’s India Pale Ale (IPA) with a spicy barbecue chicken pizza. The hoppy flavors of the IPA help cut through the richness of the barbecue sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Props Craft Brewery
Props Craft Brewery offers a range of beers that pair beautifully with pizza. Their flagship beer, the Props Amber Ale, is a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of pizza styles. Its malty sweetness and balanced hop profile complement both classic and adventurous toppings.
For those who prefer a lighter beer, the Props Pilsner is an excellent choice. Its crisp and clean flavors cleanse the palate between bites, allowing you to fully savor the flavors of each slice.
Pizza Events and Festivals
Fort Walton Beach is known for its vibrant food scene, and pizza is no exception. Throughout the year, the town hosts various events and festivals dedicated to celebrating the art of pizza-making. These events offer a unique opportunity to taste a variety of pizzas, participate in pizza-making contests, and enjoy live music.
PizzaPalooza
PizzaPalooza is an annual event that brings together local pizzerias and pizza lovers for a day of pizza indulgence. Held in a scenic park in Fort Walton Beach, this festival showcases the diverse range of pizzas available in the area. Attendees can sample slices from different vendors, vote for their favorites, and even learn pizza-making tips from the experts.
In addition to the pizza tasting, PizzaPalooza features live music, local craft beer, and fun activities for the whole family. It’s a must-visit event for pizza enthusiasts and a fantastic way to experience the vibrant food culture of Fort Walton Beach.
Pizza-Making Workshops
For those who want to take their love for pizza to the next level, Fort Walton Beach offers pizza-making workshops. These workshops are typically hosted by local pizzerias or culinary schools and provide hands-on experience in crafting the perfect pizza.
Participants learn essential techniques such as dough preparation, proper stretching and shaping, sauce and cheese distribution, and baking tips. Not only do these workshops allow you to create your own delicious pizza, but they also provide valuable insights into the art and science of pizza-making.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pizza at Home
If you’re feeling inspired after exploring the pizza scene in Fort Walton Beach, why not try your hand at making your own pizza at home? Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these expert tips and tricks will help you create the perfect homemade pizza.
1. Start with Quality Ingredients
The key to a great homemade pizza is using high-quality ingredients. Invest in good-quality flour for the crust, fresh tomatoes for the sauce, and premium cheeses and toppings. The better the ingredients, the better the final result.
2. Master the Dough
The dough is the foundation of any great pizza. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to find the perfect dough for your taste. Make sure to give the dough enough time to rise and develop flavor, and don’t be afraid to get your hands messy when kneading.
3. Preheat Your Oven and Use a Pizza Stone
Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible to achieve a crispy crust. Place a pizza stone or baking stone in the oven while preheating to help distribute heat evenly and create a restaurant-quality crust.
4. Don’t Overload on Toppings
While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, less is often more when it comes to homemade pizza. Overloading the pizza with toppings can result in a soggy crust and uneven cooking. Stick to a few well-chosen toppings and distribute them evenly for the best results.
5. Experiment with Flavors
One of the joys of making pizza at home is the freedom to experiment with flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and try unique combinations that reflect your personal taste. From spicy pepperoni to fresh arugula, the possibilities are endless.
6. Invest in a Pizza Peel
A pizza peel is a handy tool for transferring your pizza onto the hot stone in the oven. It allows you to easily slide the pizza onto the stone without disturbing the toppings or misshaping the dough. Invest in a good-quality peel for a seamless cooking experience.
In conclusion, Fort Walton Beach offers a pizza experience like no other. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the diverse range of pizza options, from traditional to innovative, will leave you craving for more. So grab a slice, savor the flavors, and let the pizza in Fort Walton Beach take you on aculinary journey you won’t forget. From the rich history and Italian influences to the local adaptations and unique flavors, Fort Walton Beach has something to offer every pizza lover. Whether you prefer thin crust or deep dish, classic toppings or adventurous combinations, you’ll find a pizzeria that caters to your cravings.
The best pizza places in Fort Walton Beach showcase the town’s culinary prowess. Mama Mia’s Pizzeria, with its authentic Italian recipes and family-friendly atmosphere, has been a local favorite for decades. Luigi’s Pizza, known for its New York-style thin crusts and wide variety of toppings, is a go-to spot for pizza enthusiasts. Beachside Pizza offers a beachside dining experience with a range of specialty pizzas that capture the essence of Fort Walton Beach. Pizzaiolo Italian Eatery, tucked away in a cozy setting, serves wood-fired pizzas that are bursting with flavor. And The Pizza Joint, with its creative toppings and laid-back atmosphere, is perfect for those looking for a unique pizza experience.
The thin crust vs. deep dish debate has long been a source of contention among pizza lovers. Thin crust pizza enthusiasts appreciate the crispy and delicate texture, while deep dish lovers enjoy the thick and indulgent crust. In Fort Walton Beach, Luigi’s Pizza is the go-to spot for thin crust enthusiasts, with its New York-style pizzas that offer a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor. Mama Mia’s Pizzeria takes the crown for deep dish pizzas, with their crispy yet soft crusts and generous layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings.
Fort Walton Beach understands the importance of catering to all dietary needs and preferences. Gluten-free and vegan pizza options are readily available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a slice. Beachside Pizza offers a gluten-free crust option made in-house, with precautions taken to prevent cross-contamination. Pizzaiolo Italian Eatery excels in providing vegan options, allowing you to enjoy a pizza topped with vegan cheese and a variety of flavorful vegetables.
The pizza toppings in Fort Walton Beach are a testament to the town’s creativity and culinary diversity. Classic toppings like pepperoni and cheese never go out of style, and the earthy combination of mushrooms and onions is a local favorite. Seafood toppings take center stage, with fresh shrimp, crab, and oysters adding a taste of the sea to each bite. BBQ-inspired toppings, with tangy barbecue sauce and tender pulled pork, offer a Southern twist to traditional pizza flavors.
When you’re craving a delicious pizza but don’t want to leave your accommodation, Fort Walton Beach has you covered with convenient pizza delivery services. Beachside Pizza and Mama Mia’s Pizzeria offer reliable and efficient delivery, ensuring that your pizza arrives hot and ready to be enjoyed. Just provide detailed delivery instructions and be ready to indulge in a piping hot pizza feast.
To enhance your pizza experience, Fort Walton Beach’s local craft breweries offer a variety of beers that pair perfectly with pizza. Emerald Coast Brewery and Props Craft Brewery are two popular options, with their range of flavors and styles that complement the various pizza toppings. Whether you prefer a light and crisp beer or a hoppy and bold brew, there’s a beer out there to elevate your pizza enjoyment.
Fort Walton Beach embraces its love for pizza through various events and festivals. PizzaPalooza is an annual event that brings together local pizzerias and pizza enthusiasts for a day of pizza tasting, contests, and live music. Additionally, pizza-making workshops provide an opportunity to learn the art of pizza-making from the experts, allowing you to create your own delicious pies at home.
Speaking of homemade pizza, Fort Walton Beach offers tips and tricks for making the perfect pizza in your own kitchen. Starting with quality ingredients, mastering the dough, and using a pizza stone are essential elements for achieving a restaurant-quality result. Experimenting with flavors, investing in a pizza peel, and enjoying the process of making your own pizza are all part of the fun and satisfaction of creating a homemade masterpiece.
In conclusion, Fort Walton Beach is a pizza lover’s paradise. Its rich history, diverse pizza scene, and dedication to catering to all dietary preferences make it a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts. Whether you’re indulging in traditional Italian-style pizzas, savoring unique flavors and toppings, or perfecting your own homemade creations, Fort Walton Beach offers a slice of heaven on Florida’s Emerald Coast. So grab a slice, savor the flavors, and let the pizza in Fort Walton Beach take you on a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.