Pizza restaurantReading

Paparone's Pizza

4.6(353)$
Unclaimed

Paparone's Pizza in Reading delights locals with its house-made dough, tangy sauce, and specialty pizzas like the Upside Down and Sicilian Special. Guests love the family-run atmosphere and the flavorful sides, including crispy mozzarella sticks and onion rings.

Paparone's Pizza Logo

Food at Paparone's Pizza

PizzaItalianSandwiches & DelisCheesesteaksDine-inTakeout-focusedFast CasualCatering

Known for: Upside Down Pizza, Sicilian Special, Grandma Pizza, Tomato Pie, Mozzarella Sticks

Featured on the BerksConnect blog

Paparone's Pizza appears in this post, researched and written by us.

What people love about Paparone's Pizza

Upside Down Pizza

This unique specialty is repeatedly lauded for its tangy sauce-forward approach and delivers a memorable twist on traditional pizza.

“The upside down pizza is a 10/10… the sauce really has a nice tang… having it on top really helps get lots of the sauce flavor in every bite.” (Review 9)

Paparone’s Sicilian Special

Customers compare it to top-tier city offerings, marking it as a standout that rivals even their hometown favorites.

“Paparone’s Sicilian Special… stacks up to my favorite place in Philly. That is, until now! This pizza is amazing!” (Review 48)

About Paparone's Pizza

When you’re craving an authentic, family-friendly pizza experience in Reading, Pennsylvania, look no further than Paparone’s Pizza. This locally owned pizza restaurant has been serving up handcrafted pies, famous sides, and warm hospitality to generations of neighbors—and quickly earning the reputation as Reading’s go-to spot for a delicious, comforting meal whether you dine in, pick up, or have it delivered to your door.

Handcrafted Pizza Mastery

At Paparone’s Pizza, every pie begins with house-made dough that’s expertly stretched, fermented, and baked to achieve a golden, chewy crust. Reviewers can’t stop talking about the flavorful tomato sauce that’s spread with just the right tang, locking in rich, fresh-tomato notes with every bite. From classic cheese and pepperoni to bold specialty creations, Paparone’s elevates pizza night into a culinary event.

  • Upside Down Pizza: Experience sauce on top in a way that maximizes every splash of flavor—customers rave that the extra tang “helps get lots of the sauce flavor in every bite.”
  • Paparone’s Sicilian Special: With a thick, pillow-like base and a premium cheese-to-sauce ratio, this square pie stacks up to top-tier city offerings, earning comparisons to the best Sicilian pies in Philadelphia.

A Menu That Delights Beyond Pizza

While pizza takes center stage, Paparone’s Pizza also serves a thoughtfully curated selection of salads, subs, and snacks that keep every member of the family happy. Specialty salads—crisp greens, vibrant toppings, and house vinaigrette—are described as “freakin’ amazing,” and the Italian sub is a hearty, flavor-packed option for anyone on the go. Sides like battered mozzarella sticks and perfectly crunchy onion rings deliver that satisfying golden-crisp bite customers adore.
Note: Some pasta entrées and wings have inspired mixed feedback, and while most guests rave about the fresh ingredients, a few have found certain pasta dishes overcooked. If you’re in the mood for a non-pizza treat, appetizers and subs consistently earn high marks.

Warm, Family-Run Hospitality

Step through Paparone’s doors and you’re greeted like one of the family. Owners Elena and Vinnie know most guests by name, sharing lively conversation and genuine smiles at every table. This personal touch transforms routine dining into a memorable occasion—one where you feel welcomed from the moment you order until the very last bite. Whether it’s a quick hello behind the counter or a thoughtful check-in mid-meal, the staff’s friendliness keeps neighbors coming back time and again.

Seamless Takeout & Delivery

Busy weeknights and weekend gatherings are made easier with Paparone’s streamlined online ordering system. Guests appreciate fast pickup and reliable delivery, placing their orders at any hour via a user-friendly portal. While most orders arrive quickly and accurately, a handful of reviews note longer waits at peak times—and Paparone’s team is continually refining processes to ensure you get your pizza hot, fresh, and on time.

Exceptional Value in Every Slice

Paparone’s Pizza is praised not just for its flavor, but for its value. Generous slices, premium ingredients, and consistent portion sizes make every meal feel like a deal. Guests often remark that the prices are “phenomenal” given the top-notch quality, turning a casual pizza night into an easy, budget-friendly indulgence without compromise.

Cozy, Casual Dine-In Atmosphere

Inside Paparone’s, you’ll find a casual, family-friendly dining room designed for laughter, conversation, and the occasional friendly debate over topping choices. Soft lighting, checkered tabletops, and Italian-inspired artwork set the scene for a relaxed meal. While most visitors applaud the clean, welcoming environment, a few have suggested touching up table upkeep to match the high standards set by the kitchen.

Plan Your Visit to Paparone’s Pizza

Whether you’re a longtime Reading resident or just passing through, Paparone’s Pizza offers a delicious taste of small-town hospitality and pizza craftsmanship. Come discover why guests leave with full hearts, happy taste buds, and plans to return—again and again. Call ahead for delivery, or simply stop in and join the family at Paparone’s Pizza in Reading, PA. Your new favorite slice awaits!

Unique Details About Paparone's Pizza

Crowd

  • Groups

Parking

  • Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking

Children

  • Kids' menu
  • High chairs
  • Good for kids

Payments

  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Amenities

  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Beer
  • Coffee
  • Alcohol
  • Quick bite
  • Comfort food
  • Small plates

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Quiet
  • Casual

Highlights

  • Fast service

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible seating
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Catering
  • Table service

Service options

  • Dine-in
  • Takeout
  • Delivery
  • No-contact delivery

Contact Paparone's Pizza

3803 W Penn Ave
Reading, PA 19608
United States of America

County: Berks County

Website: Visit Website

Claim This Business

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars

Based on 353 reviews

Review data

5 star reviews

78%

4 star reviews

14%

3 star reviews

4%

2 star reviews

1%

1 star reviews

3%

Working Hours / Hours of Operation

Monday:
Closed
Tuesday:
11AM-9PM
Wednesday:
11AM-9PM
Thursday:
11AM-9PM
Friday:
11AM-9PM
Saturday:
11AM-9PM
Sunday:
11AM-9PM

Follow Paparone's Pizza on Social

Similar Pizza Near Reading, PA

Schaylor Brewing Company - Reading, PA

Brewery

Schaylor Brewing Company - Reading, PA

4.6(492)Reading

Schaylor Brewing Company in Reading, PA, offers a diverse range of acclaimed beers and a lively, social atmosphere. Guests enjoy fun games, notable brews like "Sippin’ With Sid," and crowd-pleasing snacks, complemented…

Chicho Bella Pizzeria & Subs

Pizza restaurant

Chicho Bella Pizzeria & Subs

4.6(226)Reading

Chicho Bella Pizzeria & Subs in Reading serves pizza, cheesesteaks, hoagies, wings, salads, pasta plates and pierogies for eat-in, takeout or delivery. Regulars praise the crisp-edged crust, pretzel bread sandwiches,…

Giuliana's

Italian restaurant

Giuliana's

4.5(828)Sinking Spring

Giuliana's in Sinking Spring, PA, is a celebrated Italian restaurant offering homemade pasta, unique cocktails, and standout pizza specials in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Renowned for exceptional service, including…

Gino's Cafe Italian Restaurant Pizzeria And Catering

Restaurant

Gino's Cafe Italian Restaurant Pizzeria And Catering

4.5(424)Reading

Gino's Cafe in Reading is a casual Italian restaurant and pizzeria serving pizza, baked pastas, gnocchi, cheesesteaks, subs, wraps, salads and daily specials, plus catering. Regulars praise the distinctive homemade…

Carlos Pizzeria Restaurant

Pizza restaurant

Carlos Pizzeria Restaurant

4.5(225)Reading

Carlos Pizzeria Restaurant in Reading serves up homemade bread, crispy garlic wings, and a variety of satisfying pizzas and pastas. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and signature cheesesteak…

Bella's Subs and Pizza

Pizza restaurant

Bella's Subs and Pizza

4.4(286)Wyomissing

Bella's Subs and Pizza in Wyomissing, PA, delights with its renowned Grandma’s pizza and inventive deep-fried cheesesteak wrap. Guests appreciate the hearty subs, affordable prices, and welcoming in-store atmosphere.

Salvatore's Pizza, Pasta & Subs

Pizza restaurant

Salvatore's Pizza, Pasta & Subs

4.5(16)Reading

Salvatore's Pizza, Pasta & Subs in Reading, PA, is celebrated for its delicious menu and top-tier pizza, often praised as the best in Berks County. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and friendly service, particularly…

Berks Lanes

Restaurant

Berks Lanes

4.3(1,695)Sinking Spring

Berks Lanes in Sinking Spring offers a well-maintained bowling facility with a diverse arcade, known for exceptional event catering and attentive staff.