Additional Coverage:
- 6 Worst Pizza Chains in America (cheapism.com)
Unmasking the “Not-So-Hot-N-Ready”: A Look at America’s Least Loved Pizza Chains
Ah, pizza. It’s practically America’s favorite food group, with the average person enjoying a whopping 180 slices each year.
That’s a lot of cheesy goodness! But let’s be honest, not every slice is created equal.
We’ve all been there: a soggy crust, burnt toppings, or cheese that leaves you wondering what exactly you just ate. While we champion the local pizzerias and hidden gems, sometimes, in a pinch, we turn to the big chains.
But which ones consistently fall short of our pizza dreams? Based on widespread customer sentiment and a general lack of culinary enthusiasm, we’ve rounded up a list of national pizza chains that many consider the bottom of the barrel. So, if you’re planning your next pizza night, you might want to consider steering clear of these contenders.
Sbarro
Just when you think this New York-style slice haven of yesteryear has vanished, you’ll inevitably stumble upon one in an airport concourse or a forgotten corner of a mall food court. It seems Sbarro thrives on being the only option available during a late-night travel layover.
Diners often lament the pizzas sitting under heat lamps for what feels like an eternity, leading to dried-out crusts and lukewarm toppings. The general consensus?
Keep walking, there’s likely a better (or at least fresher) option just around the bend.
Papa Johns
For many, Papa Johns exists primarily for two things, and neither of them is the pizza itself: the iconic garlic dipping sauce and those tangy pepperoncini peppers. It’s often joked that these complementary extras are essential to make the pizza “remotely edible.”
Beyond the flavor, the chain has also faced its share of public controversy, which, without truly stellar pizza to fall back on, makes it tough for many to justify a repeat order. The pizza, it seems, just doesn’t quite “cut it.”
Cicis Pizza
The allure of an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet is undeniable, especially for those with bottomless appetites (we’re looking at you, high school sports teams!). Cicis hinges on this concept, offering endless slices at a budget-friendly price.
However, many customers find that the quality suffers significantly. Pizzas often sit on the buffet line for extended periods, transforming from fresh to forgettable – with some even drawing comparisons to cardboard.
While the price is right, the ingredients and overall experience often leave a lot to be desired for the average diner.
Chuck E. Cheese
Ah, Chuck E. Cheese.
A childhood institution, yes, but primarily for arcade games, animatronic entertainment, and a chaotic good time – not necessarily gourmet pizza. The chain even attempted a clever rebranding during the pandemic, marketing its pizza as “Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings” on delivery apps, seemingly to trick unsuspecting adults into ordering it without the noisy, kid-centric atmosphere.
The truth is, for most, the pizza here is a side dish to the birthday party experience; without the screaming children and fever-dream animatronics, the appeal of a Chuck E. Cheese pizza quickly dwindles.
Pizza Hut
For a certain generation, Pizza Hut holds a special place in their hearts, conjuring images of Book It! personal pan pizzas and bustling dine-in buffets.
However, many agree that the glory days of Pizza Hut are long past. What was once a family favorite is now often described as serving pizzas that are “round sponges sopping wet with oil.”
While nostalgia might keep some coming back, the current offerings struggle to ignite any genuine cravings, leading many to believe the chain is largely surviving on its storied past rather than its present-day culinary prowess.
Little Caesars
Little Caesars gets credit for its unapologetic commitment to affordability and convenience. You can often snag a “Hot-N-Ready” pizza for around six bucks, and sometimes, that’s all you need.
But as the name implies, it’s “hot” and “ready,” not necessarily “hot and delicious” or “good and ready.” Diners frequently note the pizzas are often greasy, with a crust that’s just barely passable.
While your wallet might thank you for the savings, your taste buds (and perhaps your stomach) might have a different opinion. It’s a quick fix, but rarely a culinary triumph.
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- 6 Worst Pizza Chains in America (cheapism.com)