Birmingham, August 17, 2025
News Summary
Tortugas Homemade Pizza in Birmingham has been awarded the title of best pizza in Alabama by the Food Network. Known for its rich history and authentic Chicago-style pizzas, Tortugas, founded by the Vizcaino family in 1999, has become a beloved part of the local food scene. The restaurant’s specialty, the stuffed crust pizza, has drawn praise from locals, including many from Chicago, and contributes to its growing legacy. Tortugas continues to thrive, with a second location opened by the next generation in 2017 and multiple accolades highlighting its culinary excellence.
Birmingham’s Tortugas Homemade Pizza Recognized as Alabama’s Best
Birmingham’s Tortugas Homemade Pizza has been awarded the title of having the best pizza in Alabama, according to the Food Network. The restaurant is celebrated not only for its delectable offerings but also for its rich history and deep family roots that contribute to its delightful dining experience.
Tortugas, which specializes in both thin-crust and the famous Chicago-style stuffed pizza, has become a staple in the Birmingham food scene since its establishment in 1999 by Carlos and Carol Vizcaino. Meeting at a pizzeria in Chicago during the 1980s fueled their passion for deep-dish pizza, which they successfully brought to Alabama.
A Taste of Chicago in Birmingham
Food Network highlights Tortugas’ gooey stuffed pies as a must-try, noting the restaurant’s authenticity as it captures the essence of Chicago pizza. Locals, including many transplants from Chicago, have come to treasure Tortugas’ pies, often claiming they are the closest thing to home. The star of the menu, the stuffed crust, features a buttery shell filled with melted mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and hearty meats, distinguishing it from traditional pizza offerings.
Among the most popular choices is the Carne Special, which is loaded with Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and bacon, offering a flavor explosion that appeals to meat lovers. The quality and dedication behind every pizza are reflected in the loyal customer base that spans both local residents and those who’ve moved from Chicago.
Family Business with Legacy
The Vizcaino family’s commitment to the pizzeria extends into the next generation, with their son Matt opening a second location in 2017. Both Tortugas locations cater not only to loyal local customers but also serve Chicago expats and newcomers eager to experience authentic Chicago-style pizza.
Consistently ranked at the top of pizza spots in Birmingham, Tortugas has also garnered several accolades, including recognition among Alabama’s Top 10 Restaurants by Alabama’s Top Rated Local Restaurant award. It has been featured in the Local Eats Top 100 and named one of the “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die” by I Love Alabama Food.
Conclusion
With its combination of a warm family atmosphere and a menu filled with mouth-watering pizzas, Tortugas Homemade Pizza stands as a shining beacon of the culinary scene in Birmingham. As the city celebrates this esteemed recognition, locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy pizza that truly embodies the flavors of Chicago right in the heart of Alabama.
FAQs
What type of pizza does Tortugas specialize in?
Tortugas specializes in both thin-crust and stuffed pizzas, with a strong emphasis on authentic Chicago-style stuffed pizza.
Who founded Tortugas Homemade Pizza?
Tortugas was founded in 1999 by Carlos and Carol Vizcaino, who brought their passion for Chicago pizza to Birmingham.
What is the standout pizza at Tortugas?
The standout item is the stuffed crust pizza, particularly the Carne Special, which includes a blend of meats such as Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and bacon.
Has Tortugas received any awards?
Yes, Tortugas has been recognized among Alabama’s Top 10 Restaurants and included in various food lists highlighting must-try dishes in Alabama.
Key Features of Tortugas Homemade Pizza
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founders | Carlos and Carol Vizcaino |
| Established | 1999 |
| Specialty | Chicago-style stuffed pizza |
| Top Menu Item | Stuffed crust pizza, Carne Special |
| Accolades | Top 10 Restaurants in Alabama, Local Eats Top 100 |
| Second Location | Opened by Matt Vizcaino in 2017 |
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Additional Resources
- Montgomery Advertiser: Tortugas Homemade Pizza Recognized as Alabama’s Best
- Tasting Table: Best Chicago Style Pizza Outside Chicago
- Bham Now: 5 Spots in Birmingham to Enjoy Deep Dish Pizza
- Patch: New Pizzeria Coming to Northport
- Alabama News Center: 5 Places to Enjoy the Country’s Trendiest Pizza in Alabama
- Wikipedia: Pizza
- Google Search: Best pizza in Alabama
- Google Scholar: Chicago style pizza
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pizza
- Google News: Alabama pizza
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
