Big Lou’s NY Style Pizzeria
5 SE 2nd Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32601
Big Lou’s NY Style Pizzeria Menu
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Address :
5 SE 2nd Ave
Gainesville, FL, 32601 - Phone (352) 335-7123
- Website https://www.biglouspizzeria.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
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Leah A.
This is a little hidden gem located in downtown Gainesville recommended by some of the people of Starbucks a few blocks over. It's in a great location and the decor is just adorable with an outdoor patio available. The service is fast and the food is pretty solid. Yes, HUGE PORTIONS. I recommend just getting a slice of cheese extra crispy with a side salad and garlic rolls with marinara. You really can't go wrong with that. It's plenty. Great little lunch spot that's inviting, unpretentious, super simple and reasonably priced in a college town that's very family friendly. Definitely would go back. :)
(4)Kevin C.
Description: I vaguely remember going to Big Lou's my freshman year to watch a Gator football game with my roommates. I say vaguely because honestly, it wasn't much of an experience at least from what I can recall. But boy have things turned around. I went to Big Lou's a few days ago for lunch and the place was pretty packed, definitely a good sign. Since I went by myself, I was able to get a seat at the bar to avoid waiting. I had an excellent experience and because of that I want to share why. Food & Service: Service was quick. I sat down and was immediately greeted by the bartender for something to drink. A few minutes later, a waiter (possibly the manager?) came to take my order. Something that stood out to me was his genuine nature. I was really adventurous and asked for two slices of pizza and a half dozen garlic rolls. Maybe it's because I'm a pretty slim guy, but he told me without hesitation that I didn't need to order that much. It speaks volume in my opinion especially when I've been in situations where I almost feel pressured to order more. I settled on a slice of sausage and basil pizza along with the garlic rolls and a side of marinara sauce. Food came out reasonably quick and he wasn't kidding, the portions are pretty big. I thought my pizza was delicious. It wasn't the best damn pizza I'd ever eaten but it was very satisfying. The garlic rolls were pretty yummy too. I will say that I thought they were a little dry but I have sources that tell me it's usually baked to perfection. For that, I am giving them the benefit of the doubt and blaming the noon lunch rush. Final Thoughts: Overall, awesome experience. Whenever I'm craving pizza, I'll know where to go. Plus with football season around the corner, it'll give me more reasons to come. Prices were very reasonable for the portions, especially the garlic rolls and their attentive and helpful service made me leave very satisfied. Keep doing you, Big Lou's!
(4)Jonathan C.
Review is based on location and vibe mainly, as their crust is not technically vegan (so sorry I asked) so I never order anything but beer here. Fries usually come with parmesan cheese, so ask they hold that. The 10" gluten free crust is vegan (and quite good) so thats the only way to get a totes vegan pie here. They use daiya if you'd like nondairy cheese. Stellar option if you are looking to accommodate a gluten free vegan, or just want to eat with your pals in a chill atmosphere like a normal person. Now that's out of the way. Big Lou's is one of my favorite places to see a friend at and stop by to have a beer while they eat. The outside patio is really chill, and a great place to people watch from as the sun goes down. Something about drinking a beer and sitting back in a patio chair downtown makes my gainesville senses tingle. What would make me happier? Well, vegan crust, but Im not holding out for that. Theyre a staple downtown, and Im glad that they aren't dominos or some bougie QSR.
(3)Mel B.
They now have vegan and gluten free options :) The vegan pizza is delicious! I think they use melt-y daiya cheese? The gluten free one is also confirmed good, by a normal person who eats wheat products so yay for my celiac buddies who can now join us in grease heaven.
(5)Damien S.
There's a magic here. It took approximately 4.2 seconds to feel totally comfortable, relaxed on the spacious patio, perusing a pizza heavy menu of carbs, garlic and red sauce. Maybe it's residual from the ghost of Mellow Mushroom, and the scruffy but loveable chipster gap it left behind. Maybe Lou's just owns its own simplistic, "casual is an understatement" vibe. Maybe pizza. Lunch specials stuffa you face with slices, salads and unlimited soft drinks for $5-$9, depending on total topping count and whether or not you can stomach two slices or the suggested one. Let this be your guide: Typical slice = v This slice = V (copy, paste, highlight, increase font size to 32, make bold) Snagged the daily special - grilled chicken, goat cheese, roasted reds, spinach, and garlic on a pesto base - with a big, crisp "side" Caesar, and an iced tea for $8. This isn't a steal; it's guilt-inducing grand larceny. How do they make money? My only gripes are minor: the raw bulb on the garlic rolls dominates with a vengeance, and the pizza crust was a bit over baked. Otherwise, the food's solid, the attentive staff balances the refill/quality check to unbroken conversation ratio well, and dat patio. Great spot!
(4)Emmy K.
Thin crispy New York style pizza. We used to go to I Love New York when we lived in Haile Plantation, so this is our replacement since we moved closer to the university. Always great. The wings are great too. They've been my biggest pregnancy craving. Unique very hot wing sauce.
(5)Alison M.
The husband and I were in town for a program at the library and had some ideas of where to go for lunch, but when the library offered us 20% off at Big Lou's as part of a promotion with their program, our plans suddenly became pizza! :) We wandered the couple of blocks over and found the neat little building tucked away on a quiet corner (well, probably quiet only because it was the middle of the afternoon, on a Saturday). Once inside we found a simple, quiet dining area and a standard pizza menu, from which we ordered the protein-powered and probably heart-attack-supporting Lotza Meatza. The pizza came out quickly, piping hot, and delicious. I was worried when I saw "meatballs" in the description, but there weren't any giant spheres of meat, just lots and lots of spicy meaty goodness. And the crust was my absolute favorite kind, the oddly soft-yet-crunchy thin crust, with enough crust on the outside to make a good handhold. Even without our discount, that pizza would have been a steal at the regular $20; we had enough to eat for lunch and a little extra for dinner later. This will definitely be on our go-to list for future Gainesville adventures!
(4)Dr Yolanda C Leon L.
Great food, friendly staff, reasonably priced. C.J. Was a great server and we had a great meal!!!!!!
(5)Rosaura Y.
I absolutely love this place! Every time I have friends from back home come visit me I make it a point to bring them here. Homey atmosphere, fast service, prices that can't be beat and most importantly crunchy, cheesy delicious pizza EVERY TIME!!
(5)Alan W.
Waitress was super high on the marijuana and was drawing cats and sparkles while we ordered. After a half hour, my girl went to check up on our food to see when it was coming. The waitress then put in our order with the kitchen, oops! About ten minutes later, the big salads came. Twenty minutes after that, the pizza slices arrived and after another fifteen minutes, the side salads were delivered. With this timeline, my table began to revolt. It was five of us. Emily and I didn't seem to care much, but the other three were getting increasingly riled up. My girl got angry and continued to express her frustration with the wait. Other guy was mostly annoyed and explained this often, but would tell the waitress whenever she pranced by that he understood how crazy the kitchen must have been. He doesn't like when kitchen staff spits in his food. The third girl was becoming more and more emotionally disturbed about 1.5-2 hours in as we waited for our check. She was beginning to tremble and it was clear that she probably would have jumped on the table, covered her ears with her hands, bent over at the waist, and started screaming. As this was going on, I just got really interested in my croutons, trying to eat the parmesan cheese strewn about my plate. A heady task indeed! The challenge of eating parmesan with a fork was exhilarating. I was super hungry and dreaming of eating crazy girl's salad since she hardly touched hers. Only now do I realize that it's probably better that I didn't partake as consuming mentally unstable salad often leads to headaches, burning urination and H1N1. One point to me! Food was pretty meh, but the lady at the counter only charged us $10 due to the sparkly unicorns on the check as the waitress never actually wrote any food items down when she took our order hours earlier. My rageful lady-friend's fuming began to subside with the $30 discount. On the way home, I told her about life in the old country when we slept on concrete slabs and only had a handful of rice mixed with pebbles for our one daily meal.
(2)Jessica S.
Holy Crap!! This is dayum good pizza!! Folks, there's no jesting you here. This place is perfection. I can always tell when I've found a keeper; if the food is so good that I go two nights in a row, then it's kismet. The place is easy to get to whether your form of transportation be a foot, biking, or car riding/driving. Plus, there is delivery, score! I'd recommend the Jai Alai IPA, for all my beer lovers. The white pizza. Lastly, the greek salad - a small is fit for two! Portions are huge, prices are small, smells are free, and the food is good. The End.
(5)Rebecca S.
I ate here about once a week for the last few years I lived in Gainesville (just moved, still visit, and still insist on eating there so yes this review is recent and relevant!) While there's nothing flashy about the ambiance or decor, it makes a perfectly relaxed Friday night to sit outside, order a pizza and a beer, and people watch while downtown starts filling up. (Bonus: You walk right across the street to Tall Paul's (bar) and your evening plans are made!) This is my favorite pizza in Gainesville. I have yet to find a Buffalo Chicken pizza (fried chicken, of course) that comes anywhere near Big Lou's at any pizzaria I've ever visited! I was also a big fan of the Big Lou's special, and they were happy to make minor changes to personalize it (meatballs instead of ham.) Even the wings here are good- just be aware you don't order a sauce... it's one sauce fits all!
(5)Rod K.
Pizza is good, wings are pretty good, and you can't beat the location. There are a ton of Pizza joints in Gainesville, most of them are average or above, but if I'm "going out" for Pizza there are only a few that I'd make the trip for and Big Lou's is one of them.
(4)Bret A.
This time around we tried dining on the patio and, yes, I am still a fan! The wrought iron patio tables are spread with plenty of space around the patio which faces a quiet street. Our pizzas were great and were large enough that we had plenty to take home. Dining al fresco on a nice night was perfect! I am sure this is rocking on game days - what a great atmosphere!!!
(4)Jackie S.
Came here on a Sunday night which was a short wait and easy parking. The ambiance reminded me of NYC with a small dining room filled with red checkered table clothes and easy viewing of the kitchen right when you walk in. My fiancé and I ordered both the 2- two topping pizza + a drink for $8. To our surprise portions were HUGe! The pizza had a good crunchy crust and topping were evenly distributed. Downfall is barely had any sauce and even though it was huge it was lacking a little more flavor. We also ordered the garlic rolls. The bread itself was fluffy but would had liked a good outside toast which lacked. Overall, I think it's a good joint and would try other items on the menu. As far as pizza I prefer "pizza by the slice" on University.
(3)Eden M.
Big Lou's is a perfect combination of quality food, good prices, and quick service. Whether you are running around downtown during the work day or grabbing a bite for date night this is a good choice. The pizza is definitely a good choice with tons of toppings to choose from. They also offer a few combination specials and always have an interesting "slice of the day".
(4)Carly R.
One of my favorite pizza places in Gainesville. Delicious, real NY-style pizza. Great service and toppings selection. Their calzones and garlic knots are great as well. Word to the uninitiated: If you just order slices, the slices are HUGE. One is filling, two is gluttony. One and a salad is the perfect lunch.
(5)Jessie Y.
Great NY style pizza! Fresh toppings and fast and friendly service. Also a very relaxed atmosphere where you can even bring your pups! Not to mention the great value! I'm from Chicago so I know my pizza and I would highly recommend this place!
(5)Ansley S.
I have to disagree with other reviewers and say that the gluten-free pizza here is great! It's more of a thin, crispy crust and only comes in small 10" pies but it was just what I was craving. I also talked to the manager who assured me that it is prepared separately from gluten-containing pizzas so you don't have to worry about cross-contamination (I'm looking at you, Dominoes). They also had several gluten-free ciders. My dad loved the beer selection and said that his sausage and mushroom slice was delicious. Overall, fantastic service, great atmosphere and delicious pizza. I'll be moving to Gainesville from NYC in the Fall and can definitely see this being my go-to pizza place.
(5)Thomas K.
O. M. G. Big Lou's has been on my "try every pizza place in town" list for awhile. Now that I've been there I don't know if I'm really interested in completing that list. My wife and I started off with the small order (six) of garlic rolls. I expected six little knots of crusty dough. What we got was six large rolls. They tasted just like the rolls my mom used to make (and my mom made great rolls), only with a garlic seasoning and a dish of pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Mmmm ... to be honest, I could have made a reasonable meal (a slightly light lunch) out of the rolls if I hadn't been splitting them with someone. Cost: Only $2.50! We followed that up with pizza. I had a slice with meatball and onion, she had sausage and roasted red pepper. Large slice, great flavor and properly done New York style crust (not soft, but not burnt to a crisp like some places seem to do no matter what; it was foldable and flavorful). If I recall correctly, each slice came to less than $4 with two toppings. Size-wise, they were essentially small pizzas. My wife had to bring half of hers home. So, two of us ate lunch and it came to maybe $13 including rolls, pizza and soft drinks. A truly fine meal for less than the cost of two fast food horrorburger combos. Beyond the great price and great food, stars for great service and great atmosphere. Our server, Jessica, was friendly and attentive; the place itself has that rare combination of "neighborhood hole in the wall" feel with obvious attention to cleanliness. My only regret is that I didn't have time to follow up with one of their advertised "more than 30 craft beers on tap." Next time I drop in there I'll have to finish lunch or dinner off with an IPA. And yes, I will definitely be back.
(5)Adam S.
I forgot that my go-to place (Italian Gator) for pizza in Gainesville was not open on Sundays so I ended up here instead. There is nothing wrong with the pizza her, but it is fairly average pizza that doesn't really separate itself from the pack. I had a large half pepperoni, half meatball pizza. The toppings were standard. The cheese was good. I felt the pizza was a little under sauced. I also felt like the crust was a little dry. I prefer mine chewier. Prices were not terrible. Like I said, not bad but not amazing either.
(3)Jessica K.
Agreed. Gluten-free pizza is not worth it. Not worth the amp up and subsequent disappointment. Dry and tasteless indeed. We got the veggie and they very nicely swapped eggplant for artichokes for no fee, but the pizza had very little sauce, very little cheese and the crust was gross, so it was like eating a hot salad, basically. I did like the big garden salad. It's a typical pizzeria mess, with iceburg lettuce and pizza toppings, but it was plentiful and came with a bunch of rolls. Would try the pizza again but make my boyfriend eat his own GF version. Also, the tomato sauce had the same gross seafood-ish taste as the salsa at Boca Fiesta. I'm very interested now. Florida-local tomato supplier? Same nasty water? Either way, the side of sauce we got to add some moisture was grosssss. Service sucked, too. We were swapped off, it seemed, and never had drinks refilled or were checked on after our food arrived. Someone else's server cleared our table, kindly. Beautiful patio and great location. Will maybe try again if it's convenient, I'd love to like it.
(2)Dave J.
My vote for best pizza Restaurant in town. I love Ameraucana food truck, this place has that classic vibe of a great New York pizza place. It's taste reminded me a bit of piesanos, which is pretty good, but tasted more authentic and not all like franchise pizza. The crust is similar but lighter. This some people might think is funny, but I like how the staff has a bit of the tough New York style attitude. Like how they are more straight up rather than overly friendly in any fake kind of way as is usually the case around here. I came back 1 day after I first tried their pizza, I wonder how many more days I can wait this time.
(5)Eric G.
Good pizza, not greasy. Salad was fresh. They have gourmet pizza. Nice downtown location. Good for date night. Ate there many times and the food was always good. Ps...get the garlic rolls.
(4)Gloria S.
Gluten free pizza sucks, dry, tasteless. Gave it to my dogs. Spaghetti and meatball rocks. Huge portion, hubby approved. Caesar salad, good dressing. Garlic rolls come with some orders. Street Parking is a game of hide and seek.
(3)Luke G.
2 stars because of the service, 5 stars for the food. I would order to-go next time. The small pepperoni calzone was HUGE. Enough to feed two people, the large was big enough to feed 8. Definitely worth every penny. The waitress never came to check in on us, no refills and we had to keep calling her over for things like straws or the bill. It was 1 so maybe it was just crazy because of the lunch hour....but she should have at least came over more to see if we were doing ok.
(2)Claire S.
We went here for pizza in Gainesville...oh boy lol. I like that my husband got half meatball. Big plus!! Anyway the pizza is really not very good, crust is wrong, needs more sauce, not inedible or anything, but just ok. The meatball was good for what its worth. Not a very big pizza, $18 to take it out--I'd go w/ Pizza hut or Papa John's over it.
(2)Greg C.
Keep in mind, this is Gainesville....not NYC pizza!! This is one of the best pizza places IN GAINESVILLE. Not NY....Gainesville. Gainesvilles parking sucks so deal with it, the food is really good and they do a really good job with what they have for the dough flavor. I like the garlic bread personally. Cheese pizza is my thing but I do occasionally like the sausage. This is a good place to go for a slice and hang out downtown before trivia or something like that. This is not a high end place, but it's good eats.
(4)Mike S.
Being from the nj/ny area I have extremely high standards for pizza and this is the best pizza I've had in Florida (after trying a few horrific places) Is it good as the pizza back home? Absolutely not but this is good pizza and some far authentic New York style The garlic knots were great
(4)Travis S.
Definitely one of my favorite pizza places in Gainesville, if not in general. I enjoy Satchels a lot, but Big Lou's is much more enjoyable to me. They have a lot of menu items, endless customizable options, and quick service! You can order pizza, calzones, wings, salad, and more! I've ate here more then 5 times and each time the customer service has been on point and quickly served. Crust is delicious and crunchy, toppings are fresh, and you can order individual slices that are more than filling and bigger then the plate.
(5)Jin Q.
One of my favorite local pizzerias! Priced just right, and tasty to boot! I love this place and usually do carryout about twice a month from here. Give it a try! You will not be disappointed!
(5)Annie S.
yup. delicious. open late, always hot and cheesy and gooey, they have booze, very close to the bars (and where i live), and... it's just great. last time i was there, my shoe had broken while across the street at tall paul's and the kind folks at lou's gave me duct tape to help. thanks guys!
(5)Travis L.
Hands down the best pizza by the slice place in Gainesville. They have great lunch specials so make sure to check those out (I recommend the salad and a slice combo that comes with a garlic knot). Pricing is resonable as you can get a full lunch and drink for $8. Each day they list their 5 toppings on the board and those are the options for slices. The serving size of the slices is very large. I highly recommend coming here for lunch. I have yet to come for dinner but they seem to have some more options for dinner so I'll have to come back.
(4)Michelle H.
"We use the highest quality mozzarella that we can get." I'm not really sure what that means exactly, but it tastes good and doesn't break me out. We ordered up a combination pizza and it had fat slices of sausage on it, not the crumbled stuff. It was awesome. The crust was thin but didn't cave under the weight of the toppings. The ends stayed the right mix of soft and crunchy. The small size was perfect for two people. While waiting for the pizza outside on the front patio, I caught a glimpse of the calzones. They are massive, as a calzone should be. Come hungry. Pro tip: Hit up the women's bathroom. The New Kids on the Block photo is worth it.
(4)Stephanie G.
If you are hungry for a slice, this is the place to go. The pizza slices are enormous and extremely reasonably priced. You can add all sorts of toppings and still not break the bank. Staff is adequate. I wouldn't say they were exactly attentive--some times the drinks go unrefilled and we usually have to flag them down for a box. But did I mention that the pizza is very yummy. And big? They do usually have a good stout beer on tap. And the sweet tea is pretty good. I have really liked the white pizza although recently a new cook must have dropped the pepper pot while making it because it was unedible due to so much black pepper on it. If you order a pizza instead of a slice, prepare to wait a while. The by the slice pieces are ready within minutes. It's sort of a college dive type place. The kitchen seems adequately clean as is the dining room--not immaculate, but passable. The pizza is good. Did I mention that already? The interior is not particularly clean, especially the entry way--a dark area with a lot of grime. Cleaning up is not their stellar point--a bit of a concern in a restaurant. The bathrooms are just plain...gross.
(4)Bill P.
My chicken wings are always cooked to the right crispiness and the flavor is supreme. Nice size wings and great choices of ranch or blue cheese. Love the iced tea and servers like Danielle and Jordon make a big difference.
(5)Simon P.
Great local place. When I am in downtown Gainesville and looking for basic lunch or dinner, this is the place. Unpretentious, no-nonsense. I usually order the calzone. Even their small calzone is plenty for a hungry adult male. The sauce is nothing special, but it's not bad, and the main thing is the crust anyway. They have a nice crust on the pizza/calzone. The dough is chewy, slightly sweet and nicely browned with a dusting of (I think) cornmeal. Just super tasty and a good value. Yum. Service is competent and efficient. Some of the waitresses have metal rings in their eyelids and noses and so forth, but they get the job done, and you just have to expect that stuff downtown. I'm really there for the food.
(4)Shelley S.
Love Big Lou's Pizza - they have a great lunch special with a slice, salad and a drink! Fabulous Caesar Salad (I get blue cheese for the dressing) and garlic rolls!
(4)Vern R.
Our trip to Big Lou's was a lot of fun and some good pizza. The place was really busy after the art festival, but the service didn't suffer. The small house salads were huge and the garlic knots were above average. Our pizza order was wrong when it arrived but our server caught the error, boxed up the erroneous pizza for us to take home and promptly put in a rush order for another pizza. We got the BBQ chicken pizza sans jalepenos and it was really good. To make up for the confusion, the server comped our beers in addition to the free pizza to go. To thank her for everything we tipped heavily since she more than fixed one error from the kitchen. It was a great first visit.
(4)Marc W.
Excellent pizza and really friendly atmosphere. Good beer, sides and salads. The service is really good and it's a very nice local place.
(4)Eve P.
We are Satchel's fans. But, since the fire, we've had to explore other pizza options. We finally gave Big Lou's a try. It was fine. A totally decent pizza. The toppings were pretty skimpy, but the price was good. We'd go there again.
(3)John L.
I can't believe I have yet to review Big Lou's. In a nutshell: Simple. Straight forward. Honest pizza. The undercrust tends toward medium-thin to thin and when the slice is suspended by the "cornicione" it sags from the tip to about the first third, without spilling the saucy, cheesy goodness all over your plate (just don't run that experiment when it's right out of the oven hot). Also-- the pie is cooked directly on the stone (thankfully not on a grate), the sauce is not too watery or overly sweet, and the cheese is as good as it has to be. This pizza will not blow you away; but NO pizza in this town will blow you away. But Big Lou's is certainly a notch above other vaunted, well respected pizza joints in the area. As far as pizzas go; this is one of the good guys!
(4)Patrick B.
Wow what great pizza and customer service. Monica was hustling the bar and take press wonderfully. Then managerZilla came into work. The whole place turned into a glass house with a bull running around. Whatever her name is needs to work in the back cutting onions. She was rude to customers as well as the staff. Girl manager life is to short to be like that in your twenties. I called a cab to get out of there and hang with more friendlier people. So sad.
(3)Coleen T.
So I came to try a steak & cheese sub and was very disappointed... I know they're not known for their steak & cheese, but it was greasy and flavorless... maybe I will be happier with some pizza, but as it stands, they suck!
(2)Dave D.
It's a pizza place. Good selection on the menu. Good taste and good service. Fair pricing. The patio is nice also.
(3)Greg H.
Best pizza in town as far as I'm concerned. The salads are amazing as well. Get the garlic rolls!
(5)Kristina H.
best pizza ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(5)Michelle G.
My favorite veggie pizza in town, though I customize it by removing the green peppers and adding jalepenos. So good I never tire of it. The pizza crust is thin, crispy, and tasty. Don't forget to ask about the daily beer special. Last night I ordered a veggie pizza and paired it with Dale's Pale Ale, which was on special. Heaven.
(5)Nick M.
This is typical, normal, nothing special, non-chain restaurant pizza. About a year ago, they used to serve pizza at ~33% less then the price they serve it now, with no corresponding change in the quality of the food. It's thin crust, NY style pizza, yes. However, note that they put a veeeeeeery thin layer of sauce on their pizza and that their crust tastes... off. This is not a one time thing, either; this is the way they make their stuff now. When I got to Gainesville three years ago, I went to Big Lou's and it was awesome. The pricing was great, the portion size was great, they piled on the cheese and lathered it in sauce. Now... not so much. They're just trying to scrape on by now, it seems. Now, that being said, the service here is either 1. just average, or 2. atrocious, depending on who you draw as your server. There is a manager lady who is quite possibly the rudest restaurant staff member I've had to encounter on a regular basis in this city. Most one-shot rude servers I do not see again (because they are fired, presumably), but this lady, being the manager, is just something else. She's thin and has evil-looking eyebrows and honestly makes you feel as though your existence is a significant burden to her enjoyment of life. She has verbally attacked people for doing absolutely nothing (I've seen it!) and is generally a dark stain on an otherwise decent place. She has been there for the entire three years I've lived here, so who knows... maybe she has something over the owner. I apologize for your misfortune if you draw her as your server. Also, note that they have a propensity to close randomly way before their stated closing time. Definitely call them before driving downtown if it's even two hours before their listed closing time, because they could be closed or closing soon. They have the best cannolli in Gainesville, though! As Vincent Vega says, "I don't know if it's worth (four) dollars, but it's pretty fucking good." 3 stars because it's really a 2.5 but it's probably closer to 3 than 2.
(3)Otto P.
Pepsi, pizza and great friendly service at a great price! Be warned...their serving sizes are huge! One slice of pizza (a quarter pizza) fills me up every time.
(4)Brook J.
Cheap food. Good portions. Tasty pizza. Best thin crust I have had in a long time. I will definitely come here again.
(5)Elizabeth R.
I like this place, good garlic rolls, good pizza, crispy crust, good ranch dressing and attentive servers. I like this place better than satchels, I just can't deal with the hippie wierdos over there, and Big Lou's takes credit cards.
(3)Marie O.
The pizza and service were decent, but there were so many damn flies inside that I eventually had to leave. Yes, it's a casual pizza place, but that doesn't mean it's okay for it to be swarming with flies.
(2)R.J. C.
Best Pizza in Gainesville. I know that's highly unpopular to say, but it's true. Satchel's is a unique atmosphere and an awesome salad, but it's pizza falls to No. 2 compared with Big Lou's and Blue Highway - they're a tie for No. 1.
(5)Chet L.
Having had these guys bring pizza to several meetings I've had, after today I think I can say I've tried one of every kind of slice they offer. And we're talking dozens of pies over the past few months that have been offered to me. Never tried anything but their pizza, but the delivery guy hasn't dropped a stack of them yet. And the slices droop but don't drip. They put eggs in their dough and bread, but they are up front about it if you request veggie pizzas - I doubt most places would do that. I have a slice of Chicken Pesto pizza in my fridge that may not survive the night... Edit: forgot to throw in that I find this to be the best pizza in the downtown & campus area. Edit again (6/15/12) I got a message from an employee telling me they don't use eggs. So either they changed their dough recipe, or the person on the phone who told me that didn't know what they were talking about.
(4)David M.
Big Lou's cannot be described as a restaurant. It is a local pizza joint and carries with it all of the badges of honor that come with that term. The pizza is good and creative. The beer is served in slightly faded pitchers. The salads have a salad dressing that I think I tasted in my local pizza joints years ago in the Boston area of the 1970's. Everything is fresh and all of the attention is giving to putting out the best quality food and pleasant, efficient service with little thought given to anything else. Go on a night when it will be comfortable to eat outside and relax while you enjoy your pizza. Big Lou's will satisfy you if you are hungry and give you a taste of the old days before everything was a chain, if you are seeking nostalgia. This place is a winner.
(4)Jamie M.
All I will say is, if I handed you two slices of pizza - 1 from here and 1 from Satchel's - and if you ate the Big Lou's slice first, you would take a bite of the Satchel's slice and spit it all over the floor. You'd be looking around for Aston Kutcher and the cameras... it is that much better than Satchel's... other pizza chefs at GREAT places have told me that this is their favorite spot, and they are FAST... even at lunch, I think I got my slice in 5 minutes... You can't lose, folks...
(5)Brent C.
Good NY style pizza, maybe the only option around Gainesville. Service is pretty slow, usually do to the amount of business, and times quoted for pick up at off by about ten mins. Prices are fairly unreasonable in my opinion.
(3)Jim B.
So, after moving my girlfriend's stuff all afternoon in the broiling heat - we decided we needed long hot therapeutic showers and pizza... and Big Lou's delivered the goods. Promised in 45 minutes, arrived in 30. Yes, thank you! Tonight's repast was an XL mediterranean with one veggie substitution and addition of chicken. And good lord, the thing was buried in the added protein... I was able to down 1.5 slices - the tiny miss could barely finish her one. The rest has been wrapped and is in the fridge for later and/or tomorrow. Happy tummy full of awesome noms.
(4)Nico S.
Best pizza, best service, best location! Thumbs up! :)
(5)Chris V.
I want a Big Lou's bumper sticker to put on my car when I ram people with Satchel's stickers. Big Lou's has made hundreds of dollars off me over the years and they are welcome to hundreds more. We've even given out gift cards to employee of the month at work, and an endorsement from a restaurant to another restaurant is pretty hard to come by. The pizza by the slice is huge and perfect New York style. Baskets of amazing curly fries are less than 2 bucks. Throw in a pitcher of beer and you have a meal fit for a king in the 10 dollar range. Last championship game my girlfriend's parents came down and wanted to watch at Big Lou's. They closed at 10 but let us stay until 11 to watch the whole game with them without attitude or dirty looks. Hands down one of the most consistent and best places I've found in Gainesville. Staff is very accommodating and laid back. Atmosphere is casual and an interesting mix of people. Support good local restaurants! Go to Big Lou's!
(5)Evan K.
This place is great! My favorite is the Mediterranean pizza. It's a great place to have lunch or dinner. I like to sit outside, order my favorite pizza and enjoy a pitcher of beer with friends. Arguably the best pizza place in Gainesville.
(5)April O.
The service is here is the best part of the experience. The servers are all kind and attentive. The food, while generously proportioned, is terrible. I've had a calzone here and a piece of the lasagna, and neither was good. The ingredients in the calzone didn't seem to be drained at all so the entire thing was a greasy, inappropriately sweet mess. The lasagna was passable but not exactly memorable. Based on this, I'm not exactly excited about trying their pizza. I may end up eating some, but I doubt it'll be my own idea.
(2)Jacqueline B.
I like this place. I am vegan and gluten-free so can't speak about the pizza directly but they have nice salads and super yummy fries. I ordered a large salad and got them to add every veggie they have in the house. They were great and only up-charged .50 for it all. The salad was HUGE. I totally chowed, shared with my hubby, and STILL had left-overs to share with my two friends the next day. My husband LOVES the pizza and he is a pretty harsh critic. It's not NY style (no orange grease running to your elbows) but definitely smells and looks great!! The prices are a bit high but compared to other comparable pizza joints, it's actually a check you don't begrudgingly pay for. Service is comprehensive and punctual. Check it out!
(4)Kevin W.
So it's kind of dirty. That's the bad. However, the food is freakin amazing!!! The lasagna may be the best I have ever had in my entire life. Ever. Sorry mom. The prices are reasonable, they deliver and there's take-out. The service is passable, but seriously, the best pizza too in Gainesville.
(4)Brian R.
Used to be my favorite thin crust pizza place in town, but the cost has gone up a lot. 19.99 for a three topping pizza. Also would not let us use a coupon cause we didn't present it at the beginning. The service has usually always been great. We've come here for years, but we're going to take a break from it for awhile.
(2)Ce G.
Am moving into the area and needed a food break. I remembered reading a friends' review about Big Lou's and decided to give it a try. (Thanks Laura N)! I love pizza but have never been a huge fan of tomato sauce (is that possible)? I usually order an Alfredo or white sauce. I called and the woman who answered the phone was really sweet and patient with me while I asked all sorts of questions. When I found out they didn't do an Alfredo, just a ricotta cheese white, I opted for the ricotta with italian sausage and mushrooms. Since she knew I had never been there before she gave me great instructions and tips on the parking. Thank you SO much for that! Anyway, fifteen minutes later I arrive and the pizza is ready to take home. The one thing that I did forget to ask was, "how much will this be?" It ended up being $19.05 (I added a glass of tea) plus tip totaling $21.00. I am not a cheapskate, but, over $20 for a medium pizza and tea?!?!?!? Yowzer......The pizza was really, really good. Better than any I've had in Gainesville. But, I'll have to get my fix by the slice or see if they have any specials next time.
(4)Doug B.
Good quality pizza.
(3)Lisa O.
The Eggplant-Parm Sub is pretty amazing. The calzones too. I asked for extra sauce once and the brought me a huge bowl of it. That's really cool.
(3)Paula R.
Definitely NOT NY-style pizza at all. I ordered a White Pie aka Pizza Bianca as we call it in NY, and some of their Garlic Rolls to go. The pizza had a mediocre taste, strange slices, and a crackery-type dough. Their rolls on the other hands were very good, very doughy but slathered with raw garlic oil which I found odd. Go to Mamma Mia's, that's as real NY style as it will get here in Gainesville.
(2)Fred P.
Best pizza, calzones, and cannoli in Gainesville.
(5)Kerri O.
This pizza is the best in Gainesville. Yes, it's better than Satchel's even if you can't eat in a bus or shop for junk while you wait. If you want pizza, come here. The prices are reasonable, too. It's not fancy, so you need to be ok with red checkered table cloths. I would highly recommend going for lunch as they usually have a two slice/drink special going that can't be beat.
(5)Curtis D.
Great place to grab a bite to eat while you're downtown. An inside/outside eatery right on the corner of 2nd Ave. and Main, pet friendly, even brought the puppy a bowl of water. Yummy pizza, and wonderful calzones, good service. Pizza sort of tastes like Sabros in most malls but still a nice treat in downtown. But the deals are great, Big Lou's special is two slices and a drink for $5.65 and the sweet tea is on par for the south.
(3)Francesco L.
What a pizzeria should be, good pizza, beer and service. Seriously, this seems simple but in Gainesville really seems to have a hard time with this type of stuff. So far its the best in Gainesville, and definitely the best to dine in at. It's only my opinion but that's why you read yelp.
(5)B W.
Okay, over the Christmas season my boss ordered Big Lou's take out pizza for lunch on two different occasions. I liked it better this time. There seemed to be more flavor, though in take out form the crust was a bit soggy. Still think there's much better pizza in town, but it's better than I first thought.
(3)Robert P.
Big Lou's is great pizza. It's also within walking distance to all kinds of Downtown Gainesville stuff. It's NY-style, so you better like thin crust. My regular: 2 slices of cheese and a sweet tea: 5 bucks. I haven't tried their pastas yet.
(4)Danny D.
Closest pizza joint to my apartment, but I tend to order pizza during 3am drunken stupors, and 5-Star is open 24 hours. What the hell's the point of this place?
(3)Dani W.
This place was close to where I worked in Gville, so I went a few times. Tasty pizza, huuuuuuuge slices.
(4)Heather S.
The pizza is ok but their buffalo wings are pretty good for Gainesville. Nice sauce with the right zing of vinegar and good crispiness. Gotta eat 'em there though, they'll get soggy and gross if you attempt take out.
(3)Dana H.
Let no one say that Big Lou's isn't a good deal. Two slices and a drink for about $5 is generous, especially when you see the slices. Some things to know before you go: Your two-slice special will be served on paper plates stuck together, and, considering that the pizza dwarfs the plates, a bit of your pizza will be touching the table. Also, this is NY style pizza, so you're expecting it thin, but Big Lou's is occasionally VERY thin, so that if they haven't made it crispy enough--which happens--cutting a piece with your knife is a bit like trying to slice a moist paper towel. The cheese has a subtle, almost bland flavor, and you may be tempted to put salt on it. But it's better with a little crushed red pepper that comes on every table. The long and short of it is this: I don't think the pizza is that great, but they are generous and cheap; they serve gigantic glasses of freely-refilled Coke; the atmosphere is pleasant, but you will have to hunt for free parking.
(3)Sarah L.
Big lou's pizza is not good and I don't understand how it has the ratings it does. The pizza slices I've gotten there just have the toppings slapped on at the last second, not baked with the pizza like every other pizzaria. I understand that it would be impossible to have a pizza waiting with every possible topping combination, but it is really unacceptable to put ham cold cuts on top of someone's pizza. When I tried something else, the spinach calzone, it was even worse. It was drippy, soggy and one of the blandest things I've eaten in a while. Don't eat here.
(2)Heather S.
I agree with Dan on all points - but can't believe he forgot about the best thing! Big Lou's has the MOST amazing, MOST garlicky, MOST butter-drippingly yum rolls this side of Leonardo's! They're a meal in themselves, but do try to save room for some of the other menu items, all are tasty! Plus, the wait staff are all super-cute and friendly.
(4)Dan S.
A lunch-spot favorite for us - close enough to the office to walk to, great prices/deals, and yummy thin-crust pizza! The daily lunch special is two slices of pizza (1/4 of a gigantic pizza, basically) and a drink (sweet tea highly recommended, naturally) for under $5. you'll be stuffed. Also have 1-slice and a salad with drink for same deal. Good beer prices too. Also have nightly dinner specials for each day of the week - the manicotti (Fri or Sat, I think?) is yummy.
(4)Logan f.
Great pizza, and close running to the best in Gainesville. The staff is kinda cool. It gets four stars because the food is overall inconsistant, but its so cheap.
(4)Eitan S.
Quick and friendly service, great crunchy crust, delicious toppings. Went with some friends and got a pie and spinach calzone, DELICIOUS! I wouldn't get a slice anywhere else, this place is the place to go for pizza in Gainesville. They just redid the patio too so its a great idea when its nicer out. Met Lou, great guy. Awesome place. Go and have a slice!
(5)Mckay S.
I went to this pizza joint on a weekend trip to Gainesville with a friend. I sat in Big Lou's quaint outside area hugging the street, which was well spaced. It had a nice city feel to it, complemented by the black wire tables. Unfortinately the 2-seater table my friend and I sat at had a serious wobbling problem. My drink as well as my food were in constant peril. I had a new server (yay! welcome to hell) but she was doing great and was attentive. The food came out on time with all smiles. I ordered a dinner salad and a calzone with ham and pepperoni (yeah, its artery-clogging awesomeness, try it). I believe I ordered the small dinner salad but from my recollection it was too big with too much lettuce. The calzone was good, with just enough cheese, good dough, and cooked well. But then again, my calzone was on a tin plate, which slid violently around the wobbly wire table. My calzone was like Charley Sheen in Platoon, and the wobbly table was Vietnam. It's one of those things that just violently pisses you off when eating out. Excluding the wobbly table, Big Lou's is a nice pizza spot that definitely satisfies when you want a NY-style Italian experience.
(2)Joy D.
Have come here for lunch a few occasions. I am happy with their calzones. The bread is soft and crusty on the outside and the filling is ample. You control the amount of the sauce which is served on the side. The small size is generous. Their marinara sauce has a lottt of garlic, a little too much. Received the same marinara for the garlic rolls which had quite a bit of garlic as well. Servers have always been pleasant and attentive. They serve Maduro, and sometimes run a special, so that's a plus in my bf's book. The pizza is alright, the crust is thin and crispy but is flavorless. The pizza itself was greasy. The cheese and sauce were nothing memorable. Overall bland and nowhere near the flavor of Italian Gator, my fav pizza place in the Ville so far. I wouldn't get the pizza again here, just calzones. My bf had the steak and cheese hot sandwich which again, was alright. He's not a foodie so it's easy to keep him content. The sweet tea is pretty good and nice on a hot day outside on their patio. I'm tempted to try their wings next time.
(3)Claudio S.
One of the best NY Style pizza places in Gainesville. Recommended.
(5)Donald S.
I have never had a worse eggplant anything. I don't think I have ever been served undercooked eggplant. It was do undercooked it was like trying to eat a steak sandwich and you couldn't bite through the meat. So when I pulled away from the sandwich, all the eggplant slid out leaving the doughy crust behind. Very disappointed.
(1)Coty S.
My experiences here have all been three star. The prices are decent compared to other local pizza places. The location is stellar and the outdoor seating area is really nice for those who are enjoying the weather. The garlic rolls were served cold to us. They were also hard and kind of stale. Our pizzas from here are usually what I refer to as par-baked. Where they are kind of runny and not crispy. If you are like me and want a crispy pizza, ask them them to cook it a little longer. For the record: I have never ordered slices here, just whole pies.
(3)James H.
Best pizza in Gainesville, hands down. I have always had fast service and great customer service.
(5)Laura Terese H.
Big Lous Is now open on Fridays and Saturdays till 3am. BUT, after 10 they ONLY serve from the front of the menu. So only Calzones, Pizza by the Slice, Whole pizzas, and strombolis. NO wings, salads, or hot/cold sandwiches. We went in craving wings and ended up getting a small pizza to share (anchovies, shrooms, artichoke hearts) and it was really good, but it kinda sucks knowing I cant get those wings that late :(
(4)Johnny L.
I should have come here more often. 5 years in one place and I've only been here a handful of times. Big Lou's is a fantastic place to grab a slice of pizza! They are very similar to Leonardo's By The Slice, but I like Big Lou's a little bit better. They're located on the corner of 2nd and Main Street. Parking can be a hassle, but just find a spot and walk on over. They have a nice patio outside, a bar inside, and an oddly cliché-Italian-restaurant dining room on the inside as well. (Checkered table mats and all) The pizza here is quite good. I've stuck to pepperoni slice all the times I've been here. Tried a pepperoni and sausage slice once (sliced sausage, which I like more than ground sausage) I order like 2 slices and a soda for like $5-6. They come out with this HUGE slice of pizza. It's NY-style thin fold-able pizza. Incredible. The crust is very crisp yet a little chewy (which I really like). It's got the right amount of cheese and sauce on both slices. Every bite makes you want another one. You know it's good when it forms that cheese bridge from the slice to your mouth. Great people and great pizza. They can be a little overpriced when ordering a whole pizza. I usually just stick with getting slices. Grab a beer while you're waiting for your pizza if you want. Definitely worth a visit. I'm gonna close my eyes and imagine a slice right now...
(4)