Tortugas Homemade Pizza has been recognized by Food Network as serving the best pizza in Alabama, earning a spot in the network’s “50 States of Pizza Slices” feature.
Food Network spotlighted the restaurant’s Chicago-style stuffed pizza, a specialty that has defined Tortugas since its opening in 1999.
Founded by Carlos and Carol Vizcaino, who moved from Chicago to Birmingham with a plan to bring the Windy City’s iconic deep-dish style south, the pizzeria has become a staple for pizza lovers seeking authentic, hearty slices. Today, the family’s son, Matt, continues the tradition, helping expand the business beyond its original Hoover location to Birmingham’s Southside.
According to Food Network, while both locations serve thin-crust slices, the true standout is the stuffed variety, including the popular carne special — a robust pie packed with Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and bacon.
The recognition from Food Network adds to an already impressive list of accolades highlighted by the restaurant. According to the restaurant, Tortugas has been named Top Pizza in Birmingham by the Birmingham Business Journal, won Best Pizza honors eight times from the Hoover Sun, and appeared in Birmingham Magazine’s roundups of the best pizza in the city. It has also been listed among the 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die by I Love Alabama Food and recognized as one of Alabama’s top ten restaurants by the Top-Rated Local Restaurants Award.
In addition to its signature stuffed pies, the restaurant’s menu features a range of Chicago-inspired offerings. Guests can find thin-crust slices alongside stuffed pizzas filled with layers of cheese, meats, and vegetables. The carne special remains a favorite, but Tortugas also highlights other classic combinations that showcase its deep-dish roots.
Tortugas Homemade Pizza currently operates in Hoover (2801 John Hawkins Parkway) and Birmingham’s Southside (1304 2nd Avenue South).
With its national recognition and loyal following at home, Tortugas continues to be celebrated as one of Alabama’s most beloved pizzerias.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
