My ears perk up a bit when I hear the words pizza and East Side in the same sentence. There's a nice backstory about this spot and I suggest anyone curious to check out the multiple stories in local media on this. I've been converted to Detroit-Style pizza since moving to the Midwest and naturally this becomes an easy must-try option. I see this as a completely different approach than Futuro so if you're looking for a comparison there isn't much of one. Sam's Square Pie really embraces the art of a crispy cheese edge to an extent that it becomes a very distinct outside layer. The pizza itself becomes very stable to hold a piece despite heavy toppings, but also the greasiness feels contained. Overall it is a nice presentation and the sauce/toppings are added on artfully. You will feel the calorie density as you eat the pizza, it's a rewarding experience. Normally I make my way deep into a pizza but found myself tapping out two slices into the El Jefe. A true meat lovers experience can be had with the El Jefe as well as other options. I look forward to seeing more collaborations and combinations. read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Crush Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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If you have never had pizza like this...this is the place! This is one of those places you see on Instagram and just have to hit up. The crispy edges, the fresh sauce, and ricotta dollops...HEAVEN! I recommend extra hot honey and extra napkins. The garlic knots are also 10/10, anything would be with the amazing sauce. Don't over order (or DO if you want extra), but you will probably eat a garlic knot or two and a slice and tap out. read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

A Pizza Pilgrimage Worth Every Mile--Sam's Square Pizza is the Real Deal Back in Indy for the 500, returning after 50 years of tradition, I figured I had seen it all when it comes to pizza reviews. Most places boast, but few deliver. So when I stumbled across the rave reviews for Sam's Square Pizza, I raised a skeptical eyebrow--but decided to roll the dice. Let me just say: this was not a pizza stop--it was a culinary event. From the moment we walked in, Sam himself greeted us like we were long-lost family. You could feel it--this guy lives for the food he makes. The place radiates pride and passion. It is not manufactured hospitality; Sam genuinely connects. That alone set the tone. Then came the pizza. The El Jefe. I am not exaggerating when I say I have never had anything like it. When it hit the table, I actually paused. Thick crust--sure--but airy, light, and somehow still hearty. Sam casually mentions a four-day cold ferment on the dough. You can taste the patience. You can feel the craft. And the toppings? Ricotta, jalapeño, and a honey glaze so perfectly balanced it made me want to stand up and slow clap. This is not just pizza--it is what every other pizza wants to be when it grows up. If you are anywhere within 100 miles of Indianapolis, make the trip. Sam's Square Pizza isn't just a must-visit--it is a must-experience. read more

Great Detroit style pizza! I have been dying to try Sam's Square Pie since before their brick and mortar location opened. The pictures of the pies make my mouth water, and justly so. I ordered an El Jefe for pickup on a Saturday evening. Wait time was 45 minutes which, honestly, was right about what I had figured based on how busy they might be. I was maybe 5 minutes past my pickup time and got the notification that my pizza was ready just before I arrived. That's a pretty accurate estimated time. This was my first time in their restaurant and loved the set up. Very clear pickup area, and I was greeted immediately upon entering. The dining space isn't large by any means but it was clean and welcoming. I will say, if you haven't been in this area of Indy before, be warned that this is a bit of a sketchy zone. Across the street there is a gas station and bus stop that have hosted quite a few criminal incidents. Sam's Square Pies and a few other businesses are starting to lift up the area but just stay aware when getting in and out of your car around here. Now, the best part. The pizza itself. I wasn't feeling terribly hungry, but ordered a large in order to have leftovers. But that dough, the sauce, the toppings...one bite and I thought that I should have ordered two pies. I love this pizza! I stuffed myself with a few pieces and a garlic knot. Not sure if the garlic knots are intentionally a little soft, kind of doughy. They were delicious, but I typically prefer a little more of a crunch to my garlic knots. Different strokes for different folks. I ate the leftover pizza for lunch and dinner the next day. I cannot wait to try other pizzas from Sam's Square Pies. Phenomenal experience. read more

An amazing pizza joint! If you are local or a foodie you have to try Sam's Square Pies. They are one of a kind in style and taste. You get an authentic taste with every bite. Would recommend to any pizza connoisseur. read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Garlic Knosts and a speciality pepperoni pizza - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Tonight, we visited Sam's Square Pie for dinner and it will not be our last! Upon entering, we were warmly greeted by the owner and a staff member. They gave us a run down of the menu, drinks, and answered all our questions. I let them know I was excited for their new gluten-free crust which led to a great convo about how they make their (traditional)crust. It's a 3 day process so you know it's got to be good. We ordered a traditional Crush Pie, the Loving Cup, and the Crush Pie on gluten free crust. We were NOT disappointed. My gluten-free crust wasn't a thick deep dish but it had a really satisfying chewy texture that held up to the toppings well.Light texture and not gluey at all. My husband and daughter loved their traditional crust. They said it was light and airy with a great texture. The crispy cheesy edges were delicious. I am not celiac so I didn't ask questions about cross contamination because that's not an issue for me. We love having a locally owned pizza joint so close to our neighborhood! Great food and excellent customer service. Can't wait to come back with friends and family! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Crush Pie on gluten free crust. Check out those crispy edges! - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

What a quaint little pizza shop. I really liked the decor here. Somebody got creative. The staff was super friendly and helpful. You order at the counter and if you are dining in, your pie will be brought out to you. Be aware that everything is served in paperplates and cups and plastic cutlery. It can be a challenge to cut a deep Detroit style pizza with a puny little plastic knife. I opted to just eat with my hands as soon as it was cool enough to do so... Yes I did burn both hands and mouth at first since some of us just can't wait a minute. Anyway, the pizza may seem small for the price, but it is very filling so keep that in mind. I enjoyed the "James". I don't know who James is, but his pizza is delish. Nice and cheesey with a glob of savory red sauce on top. Now what sets this one apart is the little drizzle of Hot Honey, just enough so tantalize your tastebuds, not drowned in it. It could use a bit more of the toppings, but that's just my opinion. Beforehand we had the galic knots which came in a set of three and had plenty of garlic sauce swimming in the basket, so you could dip every bite into that garlicky goodness. This place gets a thumbs up from me. There is also ample parking behind the building. read more

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Wow! Wow! Wow! El hefe is at the top of the list for best pizza we have ever had! Ever!! We loved all of the fun decor. Sam is one of the friendliest welcoming people we've ever met and his generous hospitality made us feel right at home. This was hands down the best food we ate and the best place we visited in Indianapolis! read more

Mmmm! This pizza is so good! Garlic knots and the pizza were so tasty and different than your usual pizza experience. Service was great and I love the casual but fun setting. You can order carry out or dine in, ordering at the counter. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about the sauce on top of the pizza but turns out I'm a fan. Mikes hot honey on top is also a nice touch. read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Bitchin camaro add onion - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Best Detroit style pizza I've ever had! I went the drifter and it was so flavorful and good. I would highly recommend Sam's to locals and traveler's alike . Seriously one of the best pies of my life. I also heard the owner say that his pizza took 2nd place in an international pizza makers competition. Indy's best kept secret but not for kind read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This place is all about the pizza. I like all styles of pizza when done well, but this is not the place if you are in the mood for typical thin, tavern style, Chicago deep dish, hand-tossed, or artisan brick oven pizza of Naples. No, Sam's does its own take on Detroit-style pizza and it is awesome, especially if you are not expecting something else. I love places that focus on doing something unique very well vs. everything poorly. That is Sam's. They make the dough and the sauce themselves. All other ingredients are clearly very fresh. We had the El Jefe, which has 3 cuts of pepperoni among other ingredients so you get crunchy and chewy textures. The crust is focaccia-like, but with a very tasty crispy edge. For the uninitiated, snag a corner piece for yourself. Service was very personable and they have a wine/beer bar with lots of local and interesting wines/brews , too. I can honestly say that this is the best pizza I have eaten in Indy and will make a special trip when in the area. read more

Food was delicious and presentation A +. Restauraunt and bar,,small, clean, and beautiful with fresh flowers on each table and art on the walls. Service so friendly, informative and on top of it. read more

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Came at opening to celebrate some family birthdays ..... Jeff and his team were super accommodating to our large party. Genuine friendly service and even gave us some birthday tiramisu that tasted wonderful . Got 5 different pizzas and each was a hit!! The crust, sauce, and ricotta on top was amazing. Definitely recommend eating in ( clean, small dining area but many tables and fun decor) or take out. Can completely understand why this pizza wins awards around the country. Must try this place if you like pizza. read more

There's pizza and then there's Sam's! I heard great things about this spot prior to eating here and it definitely lived up to the hype. Amazing pizza, friendly staff, and good vibes. Proportions are great too! Get to this place.. ASAP. read more

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Sam is amazing and so is his pizza! Excellent food and service! The small atmosphere is fun and makes it feel like your friend just made you pizza. As a horn and raised Chicago native I'd eat Sam's over tavern or deep dish any day of the week! read more

Finally got to try this place out and was not disappointed! Great pizza, decent price, lovely owner interaction, and friendly staff. I noticed that they personally thanked each patron group as they left and I love that. Well worth the trek read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Great pizza! The service was impressive & we will definitely be back as we need to try more! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza! - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I have been following Sam's Square Pies journey for quite some time and I finally got my hands on a pie. When I walked in I was immediately greeted and walked through the menu options. The staff was super friendly and the owner was walking through chatting with the locals. I just love to see the neighborhood connection and care. I decided to go with the El Jefe which is two kinds of pepperoni, spicy italian sausage, brick cheese blend, red sauce, jalapeno garlic ricotta, Mike's hot honey, pecorino and parmesan. Let me tell you... this red sauce is amazing. It tastes like your nona was stewing it on the stove for days just to perfection. All the different flavoring elements hit on this pizza. The ingredients all tasted fresh and high quality. I definitely recommended read more

Sam’s Square Pie - El Jefe - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Best pizza in Indy - can't wait to try all of the others on the menu. Highly recommend trying this place read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This place is tiny but a real gem, the pizza is fantastic, fresh ingredients and dough is delicious. A small has 6 large pieces, easily feeds 3. The staff is so friendly and welcoming, I have not experienced this type of service in a very long time. They genuinely made you feel like they were very happy you came in. Fresh flowers on every table was such a nice touch, especially when it's 20 degrees out. We really enjoyed our Saturday night at Sam's Square Pie. Think they just opened 11 months ago, but sure hope they will consider bringing that success story to Fletcher place and fountain square neighborhood 's. I'm thinking take over 3 Carrots old location. Please! Regardless you have a new fan, and I will share your deliciousness with everyone I know. read more

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Nestled on the near east side , plenty of parking, seating is cozy with tables close together, walked in at 630 and was able to sit without a wait, service was interesting as my order was started then stopped several times due to more important people coming in. Wait time on the pizza was about 20 minutes, not bad , had garlic knots which were tasty but in my opinion were drenched in butter and a bit messy, they came out with the pizza, the pizza, thick and hearty, delicious sauce, thick and tangy , thick crust which was at times a bit chewy, plastic utensils on a pizza this thick does not work, ended up eating the pizza with my hands which was difficult due to the thickness and chewy nature of the pie. Overall service was interesting could use some help, pizza was ok. Pizza, knots and 2 drinks 50$ read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pepperoni/Cheese - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Fantastic pizza. Small place in former 18th st brewing off 10th and rural on near east side. Order at counter and they bring food to you. Pizza is very filling. Each pie comes with 8 pieces. I ate 4 and felt incredibly full, and I am usually insatiable. It's detroit style deep dish. Ingredients high quality. Truly is craft pizza. The pics that have been posted do not do this pizza justice in terms of shear size. These things are good for 3-4 people per pizza. Because I underestimated, ordered two pizzas, did not even get through a quarter of the total pizza between 2 ppl. Cost seemed high (pay when order at counter) until pizzas were delivered and at that point the elevated prices were justified IMO. Did cost over 90 dollars for two pizzas, garlic knots just as heads up. Will definitely return for one pizza next time! read more

Great Pizza, lots of flavor, love the thick crust! Beer & wine available, very personable, great service!! This is the start of the next big thing. Recommend the bitchin Camero, el Jefe and the jerk chicken with pesto drizzle read more

This was our second time to dine at Sam's Square Pie at 2829 E. 10th Street, across from the old Pogue's Run store and next door to Another Fine Mess. The area is challenged for sure, which makes us love the owner, Jeff, even more. He took a risk opening where he did. But it's really nice inside with fresh flowers on the tables and fun artwork and music posters on the walls. It's also clean and well run. We enjoyed sitting at the bar tonight so we could chat with Jeff about music and other things. But the food, you ask? Let me tell you, he has the best pizza and garlic knots either of us has ever had. Anywhere. He told us he hears that a lot, and I believe that to be true. It's Detroit-style and perfect in every way. The dough alone will make you thankful you're alive. We ordered their small Just Kissed pizza (six hearty slices), an order of garlic knots, and two waters, and the bill came to $27 without the tip. It's so reasonable, especially since we brought home leftovers. They're open Thursday through Sunday and are absolutely worth your visit. You can dine in or order carryout. read more

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There really aren't enough words to describe how good this pizza is. I first had Sam's Square Pie when Jeff started making pizzas during 2020 and he was making them anywhere he could. It was the best pizza I had ever had. I knew I had to get back for more. Fast forward to December of 2023, and Jeff has outdone himself. He has refined the pizza and somehow made it even better than before. He truly cares about the art of making these, and loves to share with his patrons. The new space is great, not too big, not too small. An intimate setting for a food that is best shared with friends. I showed up with a huge group of coworkers, and for DAYS it was all anyone could talk about. We are all talking about our next trip to Indy. The pizza is super filling. 2 pieces will leave you full, and 4 will leave you walking slow! We tried one of everything, and there is nothing bad on the menu! If I had to pick just one, it's the International Pizza Award winning El Jefe. Show up hungry, leave happier than you've ever been at a pizza parlor. read more

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Great pizza , AMAZING customer service I never walked in to a restaurant and felt so welcomed. Will be returning! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - El jefe pizza. - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Came in on a whim before the Indy 500. The pizza was phenomenal absolutely tastefully done. It's a Chicago style (dough, cheese, topping, and sauce bottom to top) and doesn't deserve any hate. The team really did a great job keeping the thicc crust moist and soft on the inside while getting nice and crispy. The addition of jalapeño ricotta and hot honey to finish added a nice sweet by spicy kick at the end. You can tell this guy is passionate about pizza and sandwiches because of all the little touches down to the food. I'd make a pilgrimage from Oregon to this spot. I wish I was a local because they'd make my superbowl parties a game winner read more

I FINALLY got one!! Sams Square Pie BABY!!! OMG this man's story and journey will warm your heart, but I went in for that Detroit style crispy crust friends! We tried the "Just Kissed My Baby" Two kinds of pepperoni, brick cheese blend, red sauce, Mike's hot honey, jalapeno garlic ricotta, pecorino and parmesan. The Garlic Knots and Cheesy Bread. I thought for SURE the pie dough and cheesy bread would be my fave - I mean BRING ON ALLLLLLL THE BREAD!! However - his sauce is truly the star!! Holy GET IN MY BELLY hail - whatever he's got in it - I'll take a GALLON!! WOW. And the garlic knots perfectly baked and drizzled with AMAZING garlic infused butter - yeah what cheesy bread?? Do yourself a favor and ORDER NOW!! You will be blown away!! read more

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We had heard good things about Sam's so we decided to give it a try. It did not disappoint. We were warmly greeted when we arrived. After looking at the menu we decided to start with the garlic knots. They were delicious! Just the right amount of garlic and butter. For our pie we went with the El Jefe. This Detroit style pizza had the perfect crisp to the crust, and the toppings were spot on. The space itself felt warm and inviting. We will definitely go back! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Garlic knots - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

First time trying their pizza and garlic knots. Was not disappointed. The food was great, the staff was friendly, and the place is really nice! Will definitely be returning soon! read more

oh my gosh! My new favorite pizza! And Sam is amazing at the customer service. Go there!! read more

My favorite pizza place ive ever had! Been i don't know how many times and I'm always pleased. The owners are super nice and it's a great vibe inside. I highly recommend the garlic knots! read more

Amazing taste and nothing else like it near Indy. Jeff is always friendly and appreciative of our support. Valentines night was awesome, crowd was a positive problem. The words getting out. read more

The best Detroit style pizza I've ever had. Seriously. Also, the owner was very cool and the service was excellent. The place isn't big but the pizza is worth every penny. The El Jefe won 5th place in a pizza competition in Vegas. The pizza had 2 types of pepperoni, spicy sausage, hot honey, and jalapeño garlic ricotta. And the presentation was so good I didn't want to eat it at first. The crust was crispy and light in the middle. Plenty of cheese. The sauce was excellent. The entire pizza was amazing. The only knock is the price. But still it's worth it. Can't wait to come back! read more

Amazing pizza! And the owner was so friendly. You can tell running this restaurant and being apart of the community is a passion of his. I highly recommend. read more

Sam’s Square Pie - El Jefe - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

"We know we're right before we know why we're right. First we decide, then we deduce." Louis Menand, The Metaphysical Club. When it comes to pizza I have a problem; specifically, I'm from a part the country that had a higher than average number of Italian-Americans and, therefore, a large number of good to excellent pizzerias. Since moving to Indy, I've found a lot of good pizza (King Dough, for one) but none that I found to be exceptional. Sam's fills that void. I've been lucky enough to follow the Sam's journey from pop-ups in SoBro and Indy's Kitchen to the establishment of a brick and mortar at 10th and Rural. One thing is consistent, and that's the quality of the pie. Currently working primarily in the Detroit style (think a deeper, pillowy inside leading to crunchy cheesy edges), the pizza shows the mark of someone who really cares and focuses on execution. The sauce has the right amount of tang and spice, the toppings are of a high quality (and ample), and the crust ties it all together. The first time I had Sam's, I knew that it was the best pizza in Indianapolis. After having it a few more times, I know my first instinct was the right one. read more

If you haven't tried it you are missing out on the most amazing pizza ever!!! Small out of the way but oh myyyyy so delicious!!! Detroit style with the best crust you could imagine... give it a try you won't be sorry! read more

Exceptional!! The food is delicious & creative while the service & staff pay attention to detail. You won't be disappointed & will be full! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

My girls and I went Friday night to Sam's Square Pie. It is everything and more! When you walk in, you are immediately greeted by the friendliest counter staff. She is very helpful in talking you through the menu and what might meet your taste. We went with the garlic knots and El Jeffe pizza. The garlic knots were light and fresh and were coated with real butter and fresh garlic. They were delicious! Then, comes the pizza ! It is to die for! It is a Detroit style pizza. The crust is light and airy. It is not heavy at all. Then it is encrusted in crunchy cheese edges. There is a good amount of cheese on the pizza. The meat that comes with the el jeffe is pepperoni and sausage. There was a large amount of pepperoni on the pizza. It is then topped with fresh sauce whipped jalapeño ricotta cheese and topped of with Mike's hot honey. Once you take a bite, all you can say is OMG this is delicious. The ambiance of the restaurant is really artsy which I love ! You must give Sam's Square Pie a try! read more

Sam’s Square Pie - El Jeffe Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I have been wanting to try this place since I heard they were open. However, I must say I don't understand all the hype. My husband stopped by to bring a pizza home and was told they don't take special requests/changes, and the cheese was the "veggie" option. This was basically a BIG chunk of dry focaccia with an overly cooked thin cheese top with sugar crusted crunchy crispy edges and dollops of sauce with very little flavor overall. The garlic knots were basically sitting in a puddle of melted butter. My 7 yr old thought it was fun and messy. I'll stick to my favorite Italian seasoned Chicago thin crust pizza or the special occasion Chicago deep dish. Detroit, if this is all you have, you can keep it. read more