This is the pizza that converts non-pizza lovers. With reviews claiming it’s the “best pizza ever had,” this spot has clearly mastered the art of the perfect pie. Patrons rave about the friendly, knowledgeable service and the incredible crust, with one visitor whose Italian-born father declared it the best he’s had outside of Naples. It’s a place people plan to return to, a new go-to for their pizza fix.
The experience is elevated beyond a simple slice shop. It’s a “fancier pizza joint” with cloth napkins, a curated beer and wine list, and a cool, downtown-core ambiance. What truly sets it apart is the dedication to craft, offering multiple distinct styles of pizza. Whether you’re a fan of the thinnest tavern-style crust, a classic hand-tossed New York slice, or their signature thick and bready Detroit-style, there’s a perfect pizza waiting for you.
This culinary destination that has diners dreaming of their leftovers for breakfast is Blue Pan Pizza. Located in the Highlands, it has quickly become a neighborhood favorite and a must-visit for anyone in Denver seeking a truly memorable meal.
What We Love
The Legendary Detroit-Style Pizza
This is the main event. Reviewers consistently describe the Detroit-style pizza as something to “die for.” It’s the thickest, most substantial option, baked in a pan to create a caramelized, cheesy crust edge that provides an incredible textural contrast to the soft, airy dough and flavorful toppings. It’s so popular and well-executed that it has become the restaurant’s signature offering.
A Style for Every Pizza Lover
While the Detroit-style gets top billing, the menu’s variety is a massive draw. For those who prefer a crunchier, lighter bite, the Tavern style is the thinnest available, with a crispy crust cut into triangles. The New York style offers a more traditional hand-tossed experience with a puffy, soft end crust. This extensive menu means that every member of your group can find a pizza that perfectly suits their taste.
Exceptional Service & Ambiance
The experience is more than just great food. The staff is frequently described as friendly, sweet, and knowledgeable, guiding customers through the extensive menu with ease. Combined with thoughtful touches like cloth napkins and a pleasant, bustling atmosphere, it creates a welcoming environment that feels a cut above the average pizzeria and perfect for a night out.
Menu Highlights
Louis Style Pizzas
A variation on the classic, the St. Louis style pizza offers a unique, cracker-thin crust that’s made without yeast. This results in a distinctively crispy texture that holds up well to a generous amount of toppings and cheese, offering a crunchy alternative to the doughier styles.
Detroit Style Pizza
The star of the show, this is a deep-dish, rectangular pizza with a thick, airy crust. Baked in authentic blue steel pans, the cheese caramelizes up the sides, creating its famous crispy, cheesy “frico” crust that provides an unforgettable texture and flavor.
Brooklyn Bridge
A popular specialty pie, the Brooklyn Bridge is a masterpiece of flavor, typically built on their famous Detroit-style crust. It often features a delicious combination of pepperoni, Italian sausage, and a creamy ricotta cheese, making it a hearty and satisfying choice for meat lovers.
Parma Italia
This pizza brings a taste of Italy to Denver with its sophisticated toppings. The Parma Italia is highlighted by high-quality prosciutto, often paired with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of salty, savory, and tangy flavors that feels both rustic and refined.
Sweetie Pie
As the name suggests, this pizza offers a delightful touch of sweetness to complement its savory base. It’s known for combinations that might include ingredients like figs or a drizzle of honey, famously seen on the “Little Rose” pie with its Mike’s Hot Honey finish, creating a complex and crave-worthy flavor profile.
Atmosphere & Setting
Blue Pan Pizza offers an atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between a casual neighborhood joint and a polished, destination restaurant. You’ll find a lively, bustling energy inside, with the sounds of conversation and the welcoming aroma of baking pizza filling the air. Details like cloth napkins and a well-presented bar with a tap list of beers and wines elevate the experience, making it feel special without being stuffy.
The space is well-located in the Highlands, with readily available street parking making access easy. The interior is cozy and modern, and some locations feature indoor/outdoor dining that is perfect for summer evenings. Whether you’re grabbing a table for a family dinner, a date night, or a meal with friends, the setting is comfortable, cool, and perfectly suited for enjoying some of the city’s best pizza.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. While it may be priced as a “fancier pizza joint,” the value comes from the exceptionally high quality and unique offerings that you can’t find just anywhere. The ingredients are fresh, the flavor combinations are creative, and the execution, particularly on the signature Detroit-style pies, is flawless. Patrons feel the price is more than justified by the delicious, filling, and memorable meal they receive.
For those dining solo or who don’t want to commit to a large pizza, the option to get a personal-sized Detroit-style pizza is a fantastic value. It allows you to experience the best of what Blue Pan has to offer without worrying about leftovers. Considering the rave reviews and repeat customers, it’s clear that this is a dining experience well worth the cost.
Insider Tips
The menu is not just large; it’s a detailed guide to a world of pizza styles. With three distinct types of crusts and a huge list of specialty pies, it can be overwhelming for a first-timer. It’s a great idea to check out the menu online before you go to get a sense of what you might want to order, or simply ask the knowledgeable servers for a recommendation based on your preferences.
Don’t sleep on the non-pizza items or specific fan-favorite combinations. The Greek salad is praised for its freshness and makes a great starter. If you like a bit of sweet and spicy, the Little Rose pizza with Mike’s Hot Honey is a frequently mentioned standout. Finally, takeout is a fantastic option that holds up well, so if you can’t snag a table, you can still enjoy an incredible meal at home.
For a city with many pizza options, Blue Pan Pizza has carved out a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. It’s a testament to doing something exceptionally well, focusing on quality ingredients, perfected techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it becomes your new go-to spot or a special occasion treat, it delivers a five-star pizza experience every time.
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