REVIEW: Let’s grab lunch at Republic Pizzeria in Youngstown

Trying the pizza at Republic Pizzeria in Youngstown
Trying the pizza at Republic Pizzeria in Youngstown

If you’re looking for a good spot for a quick but filling lunch in Youngstown, head to Republic Pizzeria.

The family-owned business is located right on Youngstown State University’s campus and is a classic for a good reason.

They’re serving hand-tossed pizza by the slice from Monday through Friday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. at 133 Lincoln Ave. in Youngstown.

What’s it like to eat at Republic Pizzeria?

Open since 2018, this wasn’t my first slice from Republic Pizzeria, but I always walk away smiling.

The customer service is terrific and feels like a little slice of home for YSU alumnae with the Penguin City Brewing Company and Block Y logos.

There are plenty of tables to eat inside, with excellent early 2000s alternative rap and hip-hop on the radio.

I’m usually a fan of plain cheese pizza, but readers of my last review will know lately, that I can’t resist a meat lovers pizza.

At Republic, my eyes instantly went to the hearty helping of pepperoni on the classic pepperoni pizza and my mouth watered.

Dough was popular with reviewer

Despite the abundance of pepperoni, that wasn’t my favorite part; it was the dough. (I wrote in my notebook, “Dough-m-g” it was so good.)

The soft, slightly oven-charred dough tasted perfect and the paper plate could barely contain the melting slice underneath it. Their recipes have been described as a hybrid of Italian and New York-style and it’s one of my favorite meals when visiting YSU.

On my next visit, I’ll stop by after work to try the arancini with my pizza and a Penguin City Beer.

While finishing your slice, you might even run into a friend like I did (Hi Natalie!).

If it’s warm out, there’s a great spot overlooking Youngstown’s downtown, just a few blocks from Republic. Take your slice to the steps by the Tyler History Center. There are tables set up perfect for taking a breather during a lunch break and admiring the architecture and art of Youngstown.

If it’s warm out, there’s a great spot overlooking Youngstown’s downtown just a few blocks from Republic
If it’s warm out, there’s a great spot overlooking Youngstown’s downtown just a few blocks from Republic

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Aaron Moody is a sports and general reporter for the News & Observer. Here is a second sentence for the bio because it will probably be longer than this. Maybe even longer I don't know. Support my work with a digital subscription

This story was originally published October 23, 2023 at 1:48 PM