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As a cornerstone of the Kansas City community since 1988, Axcet HR Solutions is not only a locally-owned small business specializing in comprehensive HR services but also a fervent advocate for the unique spirit and heritage of our city. Our passion for supporting and promoting other local Kansas City businesses is at the heart of everything we do.
This dedication inspired us to embark on a flavorful quest to uncover the best pizza in Kansas City, exclusively focusing on local, independent pizza establishments that embody the essence of our community's culinary landscape.
In this exploration, we first delve into the rich Italian heritage that has profoundly influenced Kansas City's food scene, tracing back to the 1860s when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to our streets. Following our look into Kansas City's Italian roots, we'll unveil the winners of our in-office survey, where Axcet team members cast their votes to determine the city's best pizza.
Our city is renowned for its barbecue, but there's another culinary story woven into its streets — Kansas City's rich Italian heritage.
This story dates back to the 1860s when Italian immigrants first arrived, leaving a delicious legacy that continues to thrive. Iconic names like Lidia’s, Garozzo’s, Jasper’s and Cascone’s are testaments to this vibrant Italian influence, especially in the realm of pizza.
The first Italian immigrants mostly arrived in Kansas City from Sicily. They were primarily attracted to the North Kansas City area due to the meatpacking and garment districts, where they settled, in an area we know today as Columbus Park.
When immigrants arrived, this area was known as “The North End” and often referred to as “Little Italy”, after generations of immigrants built up their community. Italian markets, churches and many authentic restaurants began business, including the very first Garozzos Ristorante in 1989.
These establishments have played a pivotal role in shaping the diverse pizza scene in Kansas City, where you can find everything from Neapolitan to New York-style pizzas.
RELATED: View the Best Kansas City Barbecue Restaurants >>
To celebrate our city's love for pizza and highlight local businesses, we conducted an in-office survey here at Axcet to determine the best pizza in Kansas City. We sampled slices from 17 beloved local pizza shops and parlors, including D’Bronx Pizza, Spin! Pizza, Minsky's Pizza, Waldo Pizza, Pizza Shoppe, Sarpino’s Pizza and Il Lazzarone.
Our team's votes have helped us crown the top spots in this friendly pizza showdown. Read on as we reveal the two winners for the best pizza in Kansas City!
RELATED: Axcet HR Solutions Named 2019 Best Places to Work by Kansas City Business Journal >>
Minsky’s gourmet pizza came out on top as the number one favorite at Axcet, and has also been a local favorite for over 45 years. Their fresh, quality ingredients, hand-rolled dough and 100% Wisconsin mozzarella cheese earn them recognition as the best pizza establishment in Kansas City.
Their slogan, “Gourmet, and going to stay that way” rings true as their crusts are made from scratch daily, and fresh ingredients make up their house-made red sauce and numerous toppings.
Try your pizza “Kansas City Style” by adding barbecue sauce for no extra charge.
Founded by Gregg Johnson, also the co-founder of Godfather’s Pizza at the time, Minsky’s Pizza opened its first location in 1976 at 5105 Main Street, which still serves gourmet pizzas today. Since then, Minsky’s has opened 17 locations across the KC Metro and Lawrence and offers local catering and delivery services.
Minsky’s extends far beyond the realm of pizza, making a huge impact through fundraising and generous donations. For their 48th birthday, Minsky’s is donating free gourmet pizzas to local children’s charities, non-profit organizations, healthcare workers and first responders at police and fire stations for their Minsky’s Loves KC Campaign.
Minsky’s also supports numerous non-profits including Kansas City Pet Project, 15 and the Mahomies, Travis Kelce’s Running Foundation, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Through the Minsky’s Slice of Donation Program, a portion of profits is given to local groups, charities, schools, and non-profits when members dine at their local Minsky’s.
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Known as “Kansas City’s Great Little Spot for Pizza”, Waldo Pizza secured the second spot in our office poll for the best pizza in Kansas CIty. Located in the heart of Downtown Waldo, Waldo Pizza offers an array of pizzas all topped with garden fresh ingredients and special cheese blends for each crust.
Since its opening in early 1988, Waldo Pizza has a rich history. Originally from St. Louis, Phil Bourne bought the establishment from its original owners in 1993. Bourne began working at the restaurant two years prior, as a dishwasher, advancing to delivery driver, waiter to then owner.
Waldo Pizza transitioned ownership to longtime employee Steve Kingery in July of 2020, who remains the owner today.
Waldo Pizza still operates from its original location today, offering dine-in, curbside, carry-out and delivery options. Private parties are welcomed, as they offer to book for birthday celebrations, corporate events, holiday parties, and more.
Since our founding in 1988, Axcet HR Solutions has been more than a provider of the full suite of professional employer organization (PEO) services; we've been a steadfast participant in the Kansas City community, committed to uplifting and supporting the people and pets that make our city vibrant. Our dedication goes beyond business—it's a heartfelt pledge to contribute positively and meaningfully to the community we call home.
Our community initiatives are diverse, reflecting our comprehensive approach to local involvement. From the Dog Days of Summer event, which supports area pets through donations, and Pill Bottles for Puppies, to local rescues like KC Pet Project and The Rescue Project, to providing essential supplies to veterans and the elderly with pets, our team is deeply engaged in making a difference. But our commitment doesn’t end there.
We've mobilized our workforce to contribute to various causes, addressing a wide range of community needs. Food drives for Harvesters, winter coat collections for the homeless and gift-wrapping sessions at KidsTLC for families facing mental and behavioral health challenges are just a few ways we’ve lent a hand.
Our employees have also packed diapers for HappyBottoms, organized food donations at Veterans Community Project, and supported Newhouse KC’s gala to aid individuals fleeing domestic violence.
Furthermore, Axcet extends its support to the business community by providing free training on the latest HR issues and laws, and sponsoring local Chamber of Commerce and National Women in Construction events. These initiatives are a testament to our belief in the power of community engagement and the positive impact it can have on our city.
At Axcet HR Solutions, we’re not just another local business. We’re an award-winning company with a big heart, committed to making a positive impact in Kansas City every day. Our employees are at the forefront of this mission, dedicated to organizing and participating in efforts that support our community in myriad ways.
As we continue to serve the Kansas City area, we remain passionate about discovering new opportunities to give back and support the city we love. Join us in our ongoing journey to enrich our community, demonstrating the true spirit of Kansas City through action and compassion.
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