Kansas City is full of opinions—especially when it comes to pizza. Thick crust or thin? Classic red sauce or a barbecue swirl? Everyone has a favorite, and at Axcet HR Solutions, so do we.
As a Kansas City-based business since 1988, we’re proud to support other local businesses that help make our city great. That’s why we launched a very important in-office initiative: find the best pizza in Kansas City—strictly local, independent spots only.
We tasted our way through 17 beloved pizza joints, debated crust styles, and cast our votes. The results? Two clear winners you’ll want to try. But first, let’s look at how Kansas City’s pizza scene became so iconic in the first place.
Before there was barbecue, there was brick oven pizza. Kansas City’s pizza scene is deeply rooted in its Italian immigrant history, which dates back to the 1860s.
Most Italian immigrants in KC arrived from Sicily and settled in what is now known as Columbus Park, once called “The North End” or “Little Italy.” This area grew into a tight-knit neighborhood with Italian markets, Catholic churches, and, eventually, restaurants that helped define the local culinary landscape.
Icons like Garozzos Ristorante, Cascone’s, Jasper’s and Lidia’s carry on that heritage. And when it comes to pizza? Their influence is everywhere—from Neapolitan-style pies to modern Kansas City twists.
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To celebrate our city’s love for pizza, we held an in-office showdown to determine which local shop deserved the title of best pizza in Kansas City. We sampled pies from 17 different restaurants across the metro, including:
After casting our votes, two standout winners emerged—both beloved, long-time staples in the KC community.
Minsky’s has been serving up gourmet pizza since 1976, and it’s still family-owned and Kansas City-based. What sets them apart? Hand-rolled dough made fresh daily, house-made red sauce, and 100% Wisconsin mozzarella. Their commitment to quality ingredients and “gourmet, and going to stay that way” approach earned them top honors from our team.
Go full KC and order your pizza “Kansas City Style” with barbecue sauce (no extra charge). Or stick with one of their fan favorites like the Prime Cut, Combo, or Cheeseburger Pizza. Gluten-free and cauliflower crust options are also available.
Founded by Gregg Johnson—who also co-founded Godfather’s Pizza—Minsky’s opened its first location at 5105 Main Street. Today, there are 17 locations across the KC metro and Lawrence, all staying true to the original vision.
Minsky’s also supports the community through:
The Minsky’s Loves KC Campaign, donating free pizzas to children’s charities, healthcare workers, first responders, and nonprofits
The Slice of Donation Program, where a portion of profits benefits local schools, organizations, and causes like KC Pet Project, 15 and the Mahomies, and Big Brothers Big Sisters
Minsky’s doesn’t just serve the best Kansas City pizza—they show up for the city.
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Waldo Pizza has been a neighborhood favorite since 1988. Located in the heart of the Waldo district, it offers handmade dough, garden-fresh toppings and custom cheese blends for each crust type. It’s no surprise they came in second in our office poll.
Waldo’s menu includes classic favorites and creative specialty pizzas. Choose from original, honey wheat or gluten-free crust, then top it off with unique blends like mozzarella-provolone or vegan Daiya. They even offer party trays, salad bars and dessert pizzas.
Waldo Pizza’s history is uniquely Kansas City. It was purchased in 1993 by Phil Bourne, a dishwasher-turned-owner who worked his way up. Today, longtime employee Steve Kingery owns and operates the restaurant, continuing the commitment to community, customer service and quality ingredients.
Waldo Pizza offers:
Dine-in, curbside, carryout, and delivery
Private party reservations for birthdays, corporate events, and celebrations
A commitment to inclusivity with vegan and allergy-friendly options
If you’re craving Kansas City pizza with a personal touch, Waldo Pizza delivers.
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.