Old school pizza in Toronto comes from longstanding institutions that have been slinging out slices of cheesy goodness for decades. In the face of countless gourmet pizzerias opening up around the city, these tried-and-true spots continue to do their thing.

Here are picks for the top old school pizza in Toronto. 

Mamma Martino's

This Italian restaurant has been a neighbourhood fixture on the Queensway for more than 37 years. Here you can build-your-own pizza where toppings run the gamut from ricotta cheese and mushrooms to prosciutto and roasted red peppers.

Oakwood Pizzeria

Thin crust pizzas are the specialty at this surprisingly big spot just south of Eglinton and Oakwood. Open in 1974, these crispy pies are affordable, come topped with a homemade tomato sauce and are great for delivery and pickup. 

Cheese locks in all the toppings at Danforth Pizza House. Photo by Jesse Milns.

Danforth Pizza House

The much-loved orange countertops of this longtime restaurant by Donlands has been serving up whole pizzas since 1964. Unlike other spots, all toppings go under the cheese, except for the tomatoes, which rest on top of gooey cheese. The result: puffy, chewy deliciousness. 

Il Paesano

Run by the same family since 1957, this Etobicoke restaurant has, for years, been a place for group gatherings itching for classic Italian meals. Pizzas are huge and fresh; getting these delivered is highly recommended, but make sure to reheat at home for ideal crispiness.

Grab a slice or a whole pie at Bitondo's in Little Italy. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Bitondo's

It's all about pepperoni pizza at this tiny pizzeria in Little Italy. Though the interior of this place has remained relatively unchanged since the late 60s, the spot still boasts pretty cheap prices for massive slices of old school pizza topped with delicious tomato sauce.  

Frank’s Pizza House

They may be better known for their huge calzones, but this Corso Italia restaurant has also been doing delicious handmade pizzas since 1965; with a fun, family-friendly environment, this spot is a classic. 

The slices of 'za are absolutely massive at The Real McCoy. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

The Real McCoy

This family-run spot in Scarborough is takeout only. Started by Elias Mihail and now run by his son George, this plaza restaurant is decked out in old-timey kitschy decor and sells enormous slices of greasy pizza.

Pizza Gigi

This Harbord Village joint has been serving pizza to U of T students and Annex residents for more than 30 years. They have 11 pizzas to choose from or you can always create your own. 

905ers can't enough of the pizza at Abruzzo Pizza. Photo by Libby Roach.

Abruzzo Pizza

Behold, one of Richmond Hill's top pizza producers since opening back in 1981. Customize your pizza to your liking or opt for their Abruzzo Special Pizza which comes with tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, mushroom, green peppers, bacon and onion.

Milano’s Pizza

Expect lots of medium crust pies with loads of toppings at this restaurant in Etobicoke, established in 1963. Flavourful pizzas covered with cheesy goodness make this spot a popular west end institution.