The Shredded Pepperoni Kings

It’s the end of 2025, and let’s be honest: Windsor is still undisputed as the pizza capital of Canada. Forget New York slices or Chicago deep dish; here, we have our own religion. It’s built on a foundation of cornmeal-dusted crusts, tangy, oregano-heavy sauce, canned mushrooms (yes, canned—it’s tradition!), and the holy grail: shredded pepperoni.

But in a city with a pizzeria on nearly every corner, how do you choose? The competition is fierce, loyalties run deep, and everyone thinks their neighbourhood spot is number one. Based on consistency, legacy, and that perfect "Windsor flop," here are the top 5 pizza places dominating the scene in 2025.

1. Capri Pizzeria You cannot talk about Windsor pizza without bending the knee to Capri. Serving the city since the 1950s, they essentially wrote the rulebook for the Windsor style. Capri is where you go for the benchmark experience. Their crust has that essential crunch, and they load their "Super" pizzas with an aggressive amount of toppings that somehow always works in harmony. It’s history in every bite.

2. Antonino’s Original Pizza If Capri is the history, Antonino’s is the decorated champion. They consistently win international pizza awards, bringing global recognition to our local style. What sets them apart is the balance; their sauce has a distinct sweetness that perfectly counters the salty, savoury punch of the shredded pepperoni and Galati cheese. It’s polished, consistent, and incredibly addictive.

3. Arcata Pizzeria Arcata has a cult following that borders on fanatical. Famous for their thicker, heavier pies, Arcata is not for the faint of heart. Their secret weapon is their unique spice blend mixed right into the sauce, giving every slice a signature kick that you won't find anywhere else. It’s hearty, messy, and absolutely glorious comfort food.

4. Terra Cotta Pizzeria Sometimes, even a Windsorite needs a break from the cornmeal crust. Terra Cotta is the gourmet outlier on this list. Located downtown, they specialize in wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizzas. Think blistered, airy crusts, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and high-end toppings like prosciutto and arugula. It’s sophisticated, delicious, and a great change of pace.

5. Franco's Restaurant & Pizza A staple on Tecumseh Road for decades, Franco's delivers that reliable, comforting, old-school vibe. They perfectly execute the classic style without any gimmicks. Their pizzas are perfectly cooked every time, with a slightly thinner crust than some competitors, allowing the generous cheese and toppings to shine. It's the quintessential Friday night takeout spot.