Other than the regionally ubiquitous crab, you won't find many non-traditional pizza toppings at this Highlandtown pizzeria, which stakes claim as Baltimore's very first pizza joint. Opened in 1943, Matthew's Pizza is a hard-core traditionalist establishment, offering simple variations on a cheese-and-tomato pie. Having been voted Baltimore's best pizza year after year by various local publications, Matthew's has remained consistently excellent as well as affordable. Start with an antipasto salad or fresh tomatoes and mozzarella while you're waiting for your pie. For the main event, go for a classic choice such as the Margherita, the crab, or the Everything, which mixes pepperoni with favorite toppings such as olives, anchovies, mushrooms and green peppers. A white pizza features three cheeses and no tomatoes. Spaghetti, other pasta dishes, and subs are also available. For dessert, Matthew's imports cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory, cannoli from Vaccaro's, and it makes sorbet and gelato on-site.
Full bar. Serving lunch and dinner daily.
"The pizza itself is somewhat controversial — the fluffy, high-rimmed crust sags under heavy toppings, and isn’t the best bet for carry-out — but for many, this is simply what pizza ought to be."
— Gayot