Scott and I hit the ground running (because walking doesn’t help in burning the carb-overload from our research…) in search of Alexandria’s best pizza. After 3 years in this area, and dozens of Friday night pizza dates in the bag, we have narrowed down the list to our 5 favorite pizza places.  Friday night is typically “Pizza Date” in our house, so we head to the following for a slice of our favorite pie:

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Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Tap – the newcomer on this list has quickly become one of the most popular kick-it spots for Neapolitan-style pizza in Alexandria. Though the menu boasts a variety of other appetizers, entrees, and desserts, you’re crazy not to order the Korean BBQ pizza at-least once (and then you’ll order it every time, trust me).  If you want the full experience, find a spot on the patio on a gorgeous summer evening and grab a bottle of wine to accompany your pie. And when it gets cooler, the fire-pit is the perfect spot for dinner with friends. Pizza comes as 10″ or 14″, and ranges in price from $12-$24. We can’t complain – we’ve seen Lena’s kitchen and gadgetry, and know that only the finest ingredients and best practices are used crafting the perfect slice. Located at 515 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA.

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Red Rocks – Though we have only been a few times, Red Rocks ranks up there as a consistent and delicious option on King Street. The pizza is Neapolitan-style, which we have grown to love.Though there is slightly more crust than I would like, I eat the middle and Scott eats my crust. Such a good man.  All are priced between $13-$16 a pie, so we get two to split. Another nice thing about Red Rocks is the prime location for people watching. Hope for a seat on the patio and eat your pizza right on King Street. It’s fabulous. Located at 904 King Street, Alexandria, Va.  22314.

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Del Ray Pizzeria – Scott likes to describe this to friends as your neighborhood bar/pizza place. It’s relaxed, easy, and the perfect way to spend a Friday evening (or Saturday, or Sunday, or Monday….you get the idea). Nestled right on a street corner in Del Ray, it’s quaint and makes no pretense at having some of the best pizza in Alexandria. The beer list is fabulous, and this is one time I’ll order a beer with my pizza, instead of wine, and be perfectly content. There is a variety of specialty pizzas on the menu, but what I love most is that the toppings are abundant. I don’t like small pie with all bread and no good stuff. Del Ray Pizzeria serves it right up my alley. Located at 2218 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301.

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Pizzeria Paradiso – A local staple, we have only been into Pizzeria Paradiso once, but it made our list with ease. Like I mentioned, too much crust puts me off, however the concept that founded this brand was about well-made pizza that focused on the crust. The best yeast, slow rise, and baked to perfect in the oven is what grounds this pie, and I have to admit this is one crust that I won’t pass over to Scott. It’s worth every bite. And of course, I love a loaded veggie pizza, and they deliver one of my favorites in the area.  Prices range between$12-$21.  Located down near the waterfront on King Street in Alexandra, you can’t miss it on your next evening stroll through Old Town. 124 King St Alexandria, VA 22314

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Bugsy’s – I think it is safe to say that every member of BOTH of our families has eaten at Bugsy’s, as we find it the best pizza for our Northern guests. Not too pretentious, and the reasonable price-tag coupled with well-made pie a sure win every time. I think our favorite feature is the historical atmosphere, and we have had some of the best service in Old Town at this quaint pizza spot. These days, everyone is serving a trendier version of our old favorites: the gourmet donut, cupcake, burger – you name it. But something needs to be said about the tried and true – the classic pizza pie. And in our world? Bugsy’s is it. Don’t neglect the rest of the menu, however. My dad came and had a seafood entree that he still talks about to this day -it’s worth a try.  Located at 111 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

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image via RedBrickTown

Honorable Mention: Paisano’s. What can I say? It’s located within walking distance of our place, and in a late night pinch when all a human can crave is a great take-out pizza to enjoy on their couch, Paisano’s is the call we make every time.  You know you do it too.

So where do you get pizza on Friday nights??  Do tell….