A Local Pizza Heaven
A mural outside of Lovers Pizzeria says how we all feel
By Lou & Gabriella Sanchez
Everyone has their own love language, whether it be gift-giving or affirmations. For my husband and me, our shared love language is food. Many of life’s most special moments happen around a good meal — dinners with family and friends, vacations, and celebrations. Needless to say, we want to share our love language with you.
In the past few weeks, my husband and I have been enjoying slices of San Antonio. Pizza isn’t just a food — it’s a gathering place: team dinners after football games, date nights, business lunches, and birthday celebrations, all topped onto one slice.
We explored four local pizza destinations that are shaping the way San Antonio does pizza, from neighborhood staples to creative newcomers.
Julian’s Pizza & More
We first took an evening drive to Julian’s Pizza & More in the heart of the ever-trendy and growing Southtown. Walking into Julian’s felt like stepping into a family-owned Italian pizzeria, with a beautiful bar and an open kitchen for guests to watch fresh dough being tossed into the air. With the weather perfect at 75 degrees, the opportunity arose for us to enjoy the beautiful view from the outdoor seating — something rarely pleasurable during our scorching hot summers.
We started our meal with our oldest son, Max, an adventurous eater but still hesitant, trying the burrata appetizer, served with warm, fresh bread. Following the burst of flavors from the appetizer, we moved on to the main course. Our entrées were a pepperoni pizza, chicken cutlet sub, and a pesto and prosciutto sub.
The pizza was cooked to perfection, with the sourdough crust toasted just enough, coated with delicious, freshly made mozzarella and sauce. Both of our kids devoured the large pizza, crust and all, with not a crumb left behind. We then tried the two amazing, out-of-this-world subs, with flavors that transported us abroad. In addition to the tastes offered at Julian’s, the staff was warm and friendly. It’s a great spot for lunch, a date night, or a fun family evening.
2-1-Dough Pizza Co.
Off to the next adventure with the kiddos in tow, because let’s face it: pizza is a kid’s favorite food group. 2-1-Dough Pizza Co. did not disappoint. Greeted with a warm welcome and laid-back environment, we ordered another pepperoni pizza, six garlic parmesan and six lemon pepper wings, a meatball sub, and The Lone Star pizza. The Lone Star shone the brightest, blending Italy and Texas with its fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and pecans; yes, you read that right, pecans! The salty, savory, and lightly sweet flavors took the pie to another level. 2-1-Dough truly made its mark on the city with explosive flavors and topping combinations that bring guests to new heights of pizza pleasure.
Lovers Pizzeria
Nestled between Monte Vista and Tobin Hill is the infamous Poblano Pizza from Lovers Pizzeria, known for lines around the building starting at 4 p.m. We took the family right after the kids’ 3:30 p.m. school bell rang. As we walked into the cute restaurant, it was already filled with people awaiting their pies. From dads grabbing to-go orders to families soaking up the short-lived, beautiful weather, the eatery was active, yet still cozy and welcoming.
We ordered the pepperoni pizza, of course, and the poblano pizza with a side of homemade dill ranch. Because let’s all agree, pizza crust needs ranch. The pepperoni was delicious, but the poblano stole the show. If you haven’t tried it yet, run — don’t walk — to Lovers. The first bite was spicy but not overpowering, savory, and instantly left us wanting more. A dollop of ranch added a flavor explosion that underscored the freshness of the ingredients, and served as the perfect finishing touch.
Truly a slice of San Antonio in that poblano pizza. Of course, we cleansed the palate with a decadent red velvet tres leches — a perfect ending to a great family dinner.
Leo’s Hideout
Per la nostra ultima pizzeria, my husband and I went on a day date to Leo’s Hideout — a bit of a celebrity stop if you know San Antonio pizza. Located just a block from the River Walk in downtown San Antonio, this spot reminded me of Cheers, but with a bar and pizza. (Yep, pretty sure I exposed my age.)
The vibe is relaxed, but the food speaks loudly. The pepperoni pizza, hot and fresh with a crisp edge, a light and fluffy crust, and a soft but structured center, folded in perfect New York style. The cheese pulled beautifully and every bite was a consistent slice of heaven. Leo’s is a hidden gem, ideal for a chill date night.
Pizza may come from dough, sauce, and toppings, but in this city, it becomes so much more. Conversations stretched across a table, kids fighting over the last slice, couples stealing bites from each other’s plates, and friends lingering just a little longer before heading home; pizza in San Antonio becomes the art of making lasting memories.
From Southtown evenings to neighborhood staples and downtown hideouts, each stop reminded us that San Antonio doesn’t just eat pizza — we gather around it. It also reminds us to slow down, put the phone away after pictures, and savor the moment. Show your love language, grab your people, order the pepperoni pizza (and maybe something adventurous), and make a memory — one slice at a time. ■
