Emmy squared is excellent pizza (if a little, maybe a lot pricey). It's Detroit style which is similar to Chicago style in that it's a deep pan cooked pizza but it's more like standard pizza than Chicago style which is almost more like a lasagna or something. I really enjoy Detroit style pizza and it's not something you see a lot of around NC so that's nice. They also have a very good Gluten Free option which is nearly the same as the traditional crust - and if you ask they can mock up the cheesy sticks using the GF crust as well. The service is always super friendly at any location I've been to. As I mentioned, it's pretty pricey for pizza but it's also something you can't quite get around here otherwise and it's a nice place to go for something like date night. read more

I did carry out and it was my first visit. I'm not new to Detroit style by a long shot so I was excited to try it. The flavor is a 4.5/5. The sauce is pretty darn good. Sweet with a little bit of tang and you can definitely taste the seasoning. The crust has the right thickness the right crunch and the right give. The crust could stand to have a little more flavor but overall it was a solid crust. My issue with the food was for $25 on a 8x10 pizza, there should be enough cheese in the mix to cover more than 60% of the pizza. They have a "signature cheese blend" but then 40% of the pizza doesn't get any of it. A bit disappointing. Which gives the value a 2/5 at best. In addition to these two factors I was asked my name for the order when I arrived. The young lady walked off and then I spotted her on her phone in the corner, followed by folding pizza boxes in a different corner. Eventually a gentleman approached with the same question. Wouldn't you know it, my order was sitting right there next to the host stand. Not impressive. The ambiance is a bit pretentious for a place serving pizza which I found to be pretty greasy. The ambiance definitely matches the price so I guess that's what they are going for. The only lot for parking is paid but I suppose that may be the norm for "downtown" Durham. The flavor again was very good, but the value and the competency of the staff are a miss. As a frequent traveler I think I'd explore the other options next time rather than return. read more

One of the best pizzas I've had in the triangle by far! Great atmosphere, food and service. read more

I've been craving pizza and having to settle for ok pizza options as I'm gluten free, ugh not by choice either, we happed to find this place that had a gf option. Let me tell you that this was literally the best gf pizza I've ever had! It tasted like legit dough that was fluffy and the perfect crisp. You would never know it was even GF. I don't think I can even fully describe how f-ing good this pizza is. It blows every pizzas joints gf options wayyyy out of the water! We will 1000%%% be going back!! The whole staff was amazing and friendly as well! Thanks for a great time and food! read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - GF Big Hawaiian Pizza and GF The Founders Pizza and two Emotional Damage cocktails. - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I stopped in Emmy Squared for a Deep dish gluten free pizza and it did not disappoint. I parked in Brightleaf Square and was able to get 2 hours free parking in the restaurant. You scan the QR code and put in your license plate and phone number and then give your phone number in the restaurant and it will validate your parking. It's right across from the restaurant and a simple walk in. I have always ordered the big Hawaiian but I was encouraged to get the VIP and I'm so glad that I did. It is a taste explosion and I highly recommend it if you like a little spice. The crust is thick and unlike another gluten free pizza crust. The atmosphere is quiet and cozy today but I came at 3pm. The waitress was very attentive and great with recommendations that were spot on. I highly recommend you try this out if you are looking for some fun flavor combinations for pizza with amazing crust. read more

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My folks were visiting from Ohio and we ended up at Emmy Squared for my dad's 85th birthday. It was our first time at E² which couldn't have been a better choice. Friendly service, cool atmosphere, and the pizza was phenomenal! I had a plant-based, gluten-free pizza (extra $4 for each) that was among the most memorable pizzas I've had. Pictures wouldn't do it justice. My dad went so far as to say it was the best pizza he's ever had - and that's 85 years of pizza eating, y'all! As an unexpected treat, they brought out a huge brownie with ice cream and a candle for my dear ol' dad. A week later I'm still smiling at what a great experience it was, and I can't wait to go back. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Had an amazing experience trying Emmy Squared for the first time. We sat outside where they had about a half dozen four-seaters and service was great. We went on the early side at like 5:15 and so it was fairly empty but still, our server communicated proactively and checked in on us, and was a friendly part of the conversation. Food was really good. I do quite like a Detroit style pizza with the focaccia-style crust. I also thought it was really clever that they offer a "thin" version which effectively cuts the crust in half horizontally to make it even lighter, great for when you're not looking for as large a meal. The three of us split a regular crust 6-piece, a thin crust 6-piece, and some wings. Perfect amount of food. We really liked both the pizzas we ordered the sriracha wings were good too. The vodka pizza had that sweet vodka sauce that paired great with the little sausage on it and then the red pizza with pepperoni and honey was delicious too. Would definitely return. read more

I heard a lot about this place in regards to its pizza, so we were excited to try it. We started with the brussels sprouts salad, which came out super fast. It was tangy with a strong blue cheese flavor but a little too salty. The cranberries were plump and added a nice balance though. That was the highlight of our meal though, because the pizzas were underwhelming. We tried 3 pizzas (the VIP, miranda, and one with honey) in the regular size, which gave us plenty of leftovers. The crust on all of them was much thicker and doughier than I prefer. They use a focaccia-like dough that they put toppings on top, which is their signature style. It just makes for a meal that's 90% bread. Regardless, staff were really nice and very attentive, and there was both indoor and outdoor seating. The vibes of the interior were nice and spacious. I just wouldn't come back for the pizza. read more

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I love Emmy Squared! I've been a handful of times and it never disappoints. The Detroit style crust is perfectly buttery, chewy, and the cheese makes it deliciously crispy at the edges. You can't beat those corner slices. I usually get the Deluxe Pizza which has red sauce, sausage, mozzarella, mushrooms, and peppers - classic flavors executed just right. I've also had their Big Hawaiian Pizza, and on my most recent visit I tried the Good Paulie pizza. I loved both of these pizzas, but I think the Deluxe is my favorite by just a smidge. The seasonal watermelon burrata salad is phenomenal, bursting with fresh flavors that complement one another. I've always loved the Brightleaf Square area of Durham, and I'm so glad that Emmy Squared chose to set up shop there. The exposed brick interior, tall windows, and open layout make for an inviting atmosphere. When the weather is nice, one could take advantage of their outdoor seating. Service has always been friendly and efficient. Overall this is one of my favorite pizza places in the Triangle. read more

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One of my favorite pizza places!!! Pizza is Detroit-style, so the pizza is square (shaped), the dough is airy and fluffy (even the gluten-free crust), and the crust has a cheesy layer (called "frico")! You can tell that all of the ingredients here are high quality and fresh, every time. The original location is in Williamsburg, NY (my first time trying Emmy's)- and I would say the quality holds constant across all locations. My favorite pizza here is the vodka style pizza-homemade vodka sauce, basil, and pecorino. The Caesar salad here is AMAZING because of their homemade anchovy Caesar dressing; you will love it if you love Caesar salads! The burger at this location is also a 10/10- "Le Big Matt" has won several awards in TN, NY, and NC. It's a grass-fed angus beef (super JUICY), topped with American cheese, greens, pickles, bacon (add-on), on a fresh Pretzel bun! The skillet baked brownie is also an awesome dessert- it's a warm chocolate brownie, topped with vanilla ice cream and sea salt. The brownie was rich and chocolatey, and most importantly, piping HOT. The inside of the restaurant has a cute little bar you can sit at, as well as tables (both chairs and booths), and there is outdoor seating (with umbrellas). Highly recommend making a reservation on the weekend (weekdays are usually ok to get a table). Saw a sign last week that they're serving pizza by the slice now, which is a big development! Go here about once a week, and will say the food is consistently great; highly recommend!! read more

I finally made it to Emmy Squared, 905 West Main Street, Durham, after meaning to visit since they opened here over a year ago. I had heard of them. With 28 locations worldwide, how couldn't you. But last night I got to taste it for myself. Our table ordered an MVP, a meat lovers, several pepperoni pies, and one with a kick from chili peppers. Each with that crisp‑edged crust, deep dish, and fulfilling. We also had wings, cheesy bread, and cheese sticks. All spot‑on in flavor. Daven, MaryBeth, and the rest of the crew worked the entire restaurant with energy, warmth, professionalism, and efficiency. Their attention never felt rushed, yet nothing lagged. We'll be back. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Delishhh!! I ended up in Raleigh for awhile without a car available so I ordered Emmy's squared pizza on Uber Eats. It came hot, freshly prepared and sooo tasty. I've never had a crust with sesame seeds on it but wow it works. It added simple flavor and crunchiness to an already perfectly baked pizza. I loved the combination of vodka sauce with the parsley pesto and red sauce. I absolutely would order again from Emmys, everything looks so good it was hard to decide what to get. Portion is fair for the pricing and pizza is filling. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - MVP pizza - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Good pizza at Brighleaf Square. They are basically thick dish square pizzas and it is a nice atmosphere.

Detroit style deep dish heaven. I've had this pizza before in other cities, but this was the first time in Durham. I love the restaurant location with old-town vibe feels in downtown Durham. The pizza. Phenomenal! Pineapple and bacon was the choice this time. Sweet and savory with a drizzle on top. The outside sitting area was quaint with plenty of shaded options. Definitely passed the vibe check and the pizza was amazing! read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This spot was a huge surprise. First they validate parking for up to two hours which is amazing. Second- their award winning burger was so worth the hype. It was absolutely delicious. So juicy so flavorful. The pizza we got was unique and had a seeded crust but the flavor was excellent. Highly recommend this spot read more

I such high hopes for this place but it just didn't hit the mark for me! The pizza was ok but overpriced for the serving. I thought it needed more cheese or sauce or something. It was more like focaccia than pizza. The salad was pretty bland with not enough dressing. We ordered a basic pepperoni pizza and salad. Additionally the pepperonis were very small and pretty burnt. The service was great with very kind wait staff! The venue is cool too and very trendy. Parking was strange and maybe I just couldn't figure it out but after paying for parking and the food, I thought it was just overpriced for what we ate read more

This place has such delicious pizza! It is a little bit pricey, but every single pizza we ordered was delicious. The servers were super nice and knowledgeable about their menu, and I definitely would love to come back to this place. There is also validated parking (two hours) for the lot next to the restaurant. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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The pizzas were so good went with a few friends and we all sampled what each other got so good!

Did not expect this Detroit style pizza place to have a leg up over the other upscale pizza places in the area, but I was proven wrong. And weirdly, the only pizza that I didn't like was the Margherita. Guess when not in Rome don't try to be Roman. The sauce and the fresh mozzarella didn't balance each other and overall too salty and meh. It was actually the more unusual ones, like the MVP, the Nashville hot, and the pesto mushroom white that were good. Would also recommend the Brussel sprouts pizza. When the wrong chicken wings came out, our server offered to leave or take away the wrong order but still bring out the right one. Small gesture, as they'd probably have to throw the wrong one away anyway, but the sort of thing that makes our celebration night better. read more

I ordered takeout last night (04/30): 1 pizza, an order of wings, fries, and a brownie ($64.32 total). My order was supposed to be ready at 8:11 PM, and I got there around 8:20 only to be told my food had been given to someone else. Mistakes happen, but that's a pretty big error and shows a lack of verification on their part. They told me they'd remake my food free of charge (which of course....they gave my order away), but it still took almost 26 minutes. Between arriving, finding out what happened, and waiting for them to remake everything, I was without my order for almost an hour because of their mistake. I'd actually been here 4 times before this and always had a great experience, so this was really disappointing. More than the mistake itself, it was the lack of urgency in fixing it that rubbed me the wrong way. Definitely left a bad taste in my mouth, and unfortunately, I won't be back. read more

I got the sixer roni supreme and the cheese sticks and they were amazing! The service was great and the bartender made sure I was enjoying my time there and enjoying my food! read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Cheesy Garlic Sticks - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

My first time trying Detroit-style pizza! Came here for lunch on a Monday with a friend; service was great & fast, ambiance is very nice (honestly everywhere in Brightleaf Square is so aesthetic). We got the: - Zia Fries (seasoned waffle fries, blanco cheddar queso, scallions, bacon, ranch): This was utter perfection! Wonderfully crunchy, salty, cheesy, savory. My only warning is that the portion is huge & it feels pretty heavy, so you may end up feeling too full for the pizza haha (we definitely did). - Big Ang Pizza (house made vodka sauce, ricotta, double pecorino, Italian sausage, banana peppers): Extremely cheesy, super fluffy dough, and very crunchy crust. I do feel the cheese to sauce ratio was off & it could have used a lot more sauce. Good amount of sausage & banana peppers (which provided a very needed flavor contrast). We got the large pizza, which is huge & provided a lot of leftovers (which were even better tasting in the next few days). 8/10 would recommend! read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Big Ang Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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One of the best pizzas I've ever had. Probably the best deep dish pizza (as in Detroit style and Sicilian style, not Chicago style though) that I've ever had. We tried the MVP pizza and it was outstanding! Made with vodka sauce, tomato sauce and pesto, it was really tasty. The crust was the perfect level of crispy with a chewy interior. We also had the watermelon salad. Kind of like tomatoes caprese if you substituted watermelon for tomatoes. It was very good too. This is the rare chain restaurant that gets the Stevie K Certified Legit designation. It's that good! read more

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The homemade crust on the gluten free pizza was delicious! The staff was also super knowledgeable and helpful regarding allergies. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Gluten free pizza - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I've heard great things about this place and have always wanted to check it out. The person I went with is gluten free and therefore this time around we got the gluten free mvp pizza. Honestly may have been the best gluten free pizza I have ever had. I've also had their normal crust pizza and can also confirm best Detroit style pizza in the triangle. Definitely will be back to try their other pizzas. The atmosphere inside was great. We went on a weekday and it was pretty empty around 6 pm. The staff was super friendly and help and got us seated quickly. We did not have to make a reservation but you can if you want. The one downside is that is place is definitely pricey. The pizza we got for 6 squares came out to around $23 (I think it's $19 for regular crust). Parking is also a hit or miss. There is street parking and paid lots around the area. Overall, this place has some of the best pizza in the triangle but definitely on the pricey side. I will be back to try some of their other pizzas/seasonal items! read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Atmosphere - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Great vibe, well decorated with seating for some larger groups. Menu has a wealth of options... sandwiches, pasta, pizza (obviously), salads and awesome shareables. Service was perfect, Ivy crushed it! Can't wait to come back! read more

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The pizza here is so good!! I get the founders and the combo of the pepperonis, jalapeños and honey is to die for. Service is great, super friendly but sometimes when you walk in you end up waiting at the front for a second before being greeted. I have been on a Tuesday around 4:30 and there was no one there and I've also been on a Sunday at 2p and there was also no one there maybe it's just the days I go I'm not sure why I haven't seen more people. Anyways the pizza is a deep dish style and you could eat a whole sixer by yourself. Outdoor and indoor seating and you can order alcoholic beverages. I love Emmy squared. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Best gluten free pizza in the world! (Ok, only one I can trick my friends into think it's not GF)

A girlfriend took me to Emmy squared while I was in town for a visit. It's a quaint restaurant in Downtown Durham surrounded by other small businesses and restaurants. It was a Friday night, so they were very busy. No idea what the wait time would have been if we didn't have a reservation. With the reservation, we were seated right on time. The interior was cozy. A few tables, booths, and a small bar. We were greeted immediately by the waiter and a bottle of water. He took our drink order, left, then quickly returned with our drinks. I ordered a Bull City Cider and my friend ordered a cinnamon bourbon drink. We then ordered quite a bit of food. The Kale salad, Zia Fries, an order of wings and the Colony Pizza. The kale salad had butternut squash and cheese and it was massaged with a vinegarette. The Zia Fries were my absolute fave. The fries were crunchy and savory. Somehow the cheese sauce also tasted like ranch dressing. I just wish the fries were topped with a little more scallion. The wings were Krispy and sticky. We split the order inton2 flavors. Lemon pepper and BBQ. They were standard, but really good wings and ranch. The Colony Pizza was delicious. I think pickled jalapeños would have been better for me to add the heat, but also break up some the the fat from the cheese and pepperoni the Tomato sauce was sweet and light. The crust was perfectly crispy and buttery. Overall a great experience! Service was friendly, fast, and accurate. I would recommend these place for lunch and/or a fun night out. read more

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Super cute spot with delicious deep dish pizza. Started with the Watermelon Smash, which was good but would try another cocktail next time (lots of good choices). For lunch, we had Margherita (winner!) and Big Hawaiian. My husband had the burger with fries, and enjoyed it but the pizza won. I would definitely come back. read more

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Been a while since I've been to one, but Emmy Squared is a nice chain. This splendid brick building with ample outdoor seating was such a nice place to eat that it was full of people dining in even on a Monday. I came for takeout, however. It wasn't immediate and there wasn't a great place to wait, but it wasn't too long and what I got was quite pleasant. A shaved brussels sprout salad was good for a couple of days. While I didn't realize it initially, my hot pizza came with some separately packaged cool burrata to put on top in order to match the in-person dining experience, which I thought was nice. And the level of crispness that a Detroit-style pizza offers is always craveably good. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Margherita Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Another great experience at Emmy Squared Pizza in Durham. The food is terrific and the gluten free crust is amazing. The service is wonderful in the way they treat you and invite you to simply relax and enjoy the experience. Highly recommend! read more

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Family weekend at NCCU and I was craving pizza. The restaurant was across from our hotel and had great reviews and it did not disappoint. We were seated immediately, our server was great. The restaurant was quiet, but very nice. You could sit indoors or outdoors, we decided to sit inside. The pizza was amazing, drinks were amazing, not pictured Caesar salad was delicious also. Highly recommend! read more

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Best thick gf crust I've ever had! Although, I paid for specific toppings and only a few were added on my pizza even though I paid the extra for each... read more

First timer a verdict is would only come back as a couple or group not a great solo dining place. Food: I ordered the fries and regular deluxe pizza (sausage only on half). Everything tasted amazing! Fries were well seasoned and crispy (not soggy or oily). Both were very large portions. I had the reg margarita on Monday for their happy hour deal. It was good and strong. Service: I walked in at 4 and wasn't sure if the place was open. No one greeted me for some time. After someone finally saw me I was seated where ever I wanted as there was only 1 other party present. I was brought water but took some time to take my order. Seemed like only 1 person was working the tables and maybe 1 at the bar. I ordered drinks and food all together. My food came out but my drinks never did. I had to remind the waiter of my drink order. Ambiance: great decor and seating options. Also has outdoor seating which is a nice option on a nice sunny day. I think pricing is steep but you do get a lot of food. Most felt shareable. This is a great place for groups or couples. I took so much food home that didn't taste as good because it wasn't fresh and was reheated. Wish there were smaller (half) portions. read more

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Pizza was good. Came out hot and fresh. Don't have the New York style taste I was looking for but over all ok. Service was on time. Couldn't say much about ambiance as it was a to go order. read more

I love the NY one so you know we had to drive to make it to the Durham one. Stephanie the manager is TOP notch. 100% the best of the best in service and going the extra mile. We can't thank her enough for keeping our little one busy with the dinosaurs and bringing him snacks while we waiting for our pizza. She's the reason why I would come back time and time again ( plus the amazing pizza and drinks) Worth the visit and drive. Thanks Stephanie! read more

Came back again and still amazing!! Best marinara sauce I've ever had, however they infuse that much flavor is amazing!! I got pickup this time and it was hot and ready upon arrival. This pizza reheats so wonderfully too! read more

Absolutely delicious! if you are looking for Detroit style pizza, this is the place. There are limited vegetarian options but you are able to customize most pizzas. The vodka pizza was very marinara-like and honestly a little salty, so I will skip it next time. Otherwise, the Margherita hits the spot, and I plan to do takeout to try this again. It was crowded on a weekend, so making a reservation would be helpful. They have a nice patio area with space for large groups. The vibe is great for a weekend night and I plan to be back! read more

Tried this Detroit-style pizza place for an early Saturday lunch. It's in Brightleaf Square which we hadn't been to in a long time. Parking was in a nearby lot that said free for Brightleaf customers for 2 hours. (we were told later when I asked that we didn't need to validate anything, and nobody checked). Another note about Saturday lunch parking is heads up there's a Saturday outdoor flea market and it was packed! We got lucky to get a spot. Also got lucky that the restaurant wasn't crowded. But they do allow folks to use their two restrooms to try on clothes, which was not something I was a fan of as a customer. We were given our choice of sitting inside or out, booth or table, and we chose an indoor booth. Two unsweetened teas later we shared a small Colony with sausage added. This was just the right amount for two of us as it is super rich! Even though the doughy crust is thick, it's also light (must be lots of oil). Full of flavor. Love the tangy sauce. And not expensive at all, especially for the quality. Service very good. Also note they are apparently known for their burger as well, but it would be hard to go there and not get that pizza. read more

Emmy Squared Pizza - Durham - Colony w/added sausage - Pizza Near Me - Durham, North Carolina