Food Network has recognized Tortugas Homemade Pizza, with locations in Hoover and Birmingham, as the top spot in Alabama for a slice of pizza.
National Recognition for a Local Favorite
In its feature “50 States of Pizza Slices,” Food Network highlighted one standout restaurant in every state. For Alabama, it chose Tortugas, a pizzeria beloved for its Chicago-style deep-dish creations. The restaurant has been serving the Birmingham area for more than 25 years, earning multiple awards and a loyal following along the way. Its two-inch-thick stuffed pizza even appeared on the list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.”
Other restaurants to make the list include Steve’s Pizza in Florida; Fellini’s Pizza in Georgia; Pizza Delicious in Louisiana; Five Points Pizza in Tennessee and more.
A Family Dream Turned Birmingham Tradition
Tortugas was founded in 1999 by Carlos and Carol Vizcaino, who met while working at a pizzeria in Chicago. After moving to Birmingham, the couple introduced the city to authentic stuffed pizza from the Windy City. Their son, Matt, later expanded the family business by opening a second location in 2017. Today, both restaurants serve up hand-tossed thin crusts and hearty stuffed pies that locals and Chicago transplants alike swear by.
Where to Find Tortugas
Popular menu items include the carne special, filled with Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and bacon, along with a wide selection of classic and specialty pizzas. Customers can visit Tortugas at 2801 Highway 150 in Hoover or at 1304 2nd Avenue South in Birmingham.
Sign up for the Homely Birmingham newsletter to stay up to date on Birmingham.
