Why La Festa is One of Dover, New Hampshire’s Superior Pizza Places

To me, there is no competition.

I've lived in this area for a long time and have never questioned my undying love for this pizza place. I don't remember the first time I went, but I was certainly sold from the first slice.

Through the years, I've made lots of fun memories catching up with friends and exchanging stories over mouth-watering pizza and garlic knots. For those who haven't yet had the pleasure of visiting this spot in the heart of downtown, here are some reasons that make it a top pizza spot in Dover.

1. First Thing's First: the Pizza (Duh)

Let's address the elephant in the room: for a pizza place to be good, they have to sell good pizza. This place does just that, with both brick oven and NY-style pizza options to choose from.

In addition to an extensive list of toppings, the website lists plenty of specialty options like 'nighthawk', 'cukamunga', and 'grandma margherita'. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.

The slices themselves are huge, so you're sure to get what you pay for.

2. NY-Style Pizza

For New Yorkers longing for a taste of home, many visitors have positively compared La Festa's NY-style pizza to actual NY pizza.

Julio Mendez says on Google Reviews that "Growing up in Uptown Manhattan, I enjoyed the best pizza. This is the closest I've had to a NY slice since moving to NH." 

Brian C. goes a step further, stating that "this is hands down the BEST pizza I've ever had in my entire life." That's a high compliment, right there.

3. Craft Beer

I myself don't drink beer (I'm more of an early-stage wine mom), but those who do have had lots to say on Google Reviews about La Festa's craft beer options.

Scott Dodier describes the offerings as "top notch", while Ben Lambert considers the selection to be "one of the best around, and always changing and updating".

4. The GARLIC KNOTS

Sorry, got a little excited there. I just can't help it with these things. No matter how much pizza I eat, I can always make room for a delicious house-made garlic or cinnamon knot. La Festa even created a specialty pizza called 'Garlic Knot Pizza', so that proves they're worth the hype.

5. Location, Location, Location

This pizzeria is conveniently located right in the heart of downtown Dover, within walking distance from several shops and businesses.

Looking for something sweet after your meal? Turn down Washington Street and stop for dessert at Lickee's & Chewy's.  If you have kids and are looking for some family fun, the Children's Museum of New Hampshire is on that same road.

6. We Love a Nice Atmosphere

From the cozy, dim lighting to the variety of seating options (they've got everything from bar and window seats to booths), this spacious atmosphere suits everyone's fancy.

If you're looking for a quieter spot, you can snag a more secluded table for a bit more privacy. For the most part, though, La Festa is a great place for people to socialize and hang out in a relaxing space.

And who knows? You may even catch an impromptu performance, just as this Tik Tok user did when the Seacoast Men Of Harmony a capella group stopped in for a bite.

Are you a fan of La Festa? Dover certainly offers several other pizza places (some I haven't tried yet), including Strafford House of Pizza, Kendall Pond Pizza II, and River Bend Pizza and Subs that could be top spots, too.

Which place is your favorite? Let us know!