Ordering pizza should be straightforward, but what you actually get depends on the pizzeria's house policy and your choices at checkout. Understanding what's typically bundled into a pizza order—and what costs extra—helps you avoid surprises and compare pricing across different shops.
What Comes Standard With a Pizza Order
Most pizzerias include the pizza itself with your chosen crust style, sauce, and up to a certain number of toppings at no extra charge. A small usually feeds one person, a medium serves two, and a large covers three to four—though portion sizes vary by shop. The base price covers the dough, tomato sauce (or alternative base), and cheese; anything beyond that may trigger topping charges.
Standard included items typically are:
- Pizza with your choice of crust (hand-tossed, thin, deep-dish, stuffed crust, or gluten-free, depending on location)
- One sauce option (marinara, white sauce, BBQ, or pesto—choose one unless noted otherwise)
- Mozzarella cheese (some places now let you substitute or add specialty cheeses for an upcharge)
- Up to 2–4 free toppings (varies by size and pizzeria; larger pies often allow more)
Check the menu carefully—some shops advertise "unlimited toppings for one price" while others charge $1–2 per topping after the included amount. This difference can add $5–10 to your bill if you're customizing heavily.
Understanding Topping Charges
Toppings fall into two categories: standard and premium. Standard toppings (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives) are usually included in your free allotment. Premium toppings—bacon, extra cheese, anchovies, feta, or specialty meats—often cost $1.50–3 extra per pizza depending on the pizzeria and pizza size.
If you're ordering for a group and want multiple specialty items, a large pizza may be cheaper per person than two mediums with toppings. Some independent pizzerias also let you swap a free topping for a premium one at a reduced rate (paying $0.50 instead of $1.50, for example).
Sides: What's Usually Available and Priced
Pizza orders rarely include sides automatically unless it's a combo deal. Breadsticks, garlic knots, wings, and salads are sold separately at $4–10 per item. Here's what to expect:
- Breadsticks or garlic bread: $4–7 (typically 8–10 pieces)
- Buffalo or boneless wings: $7–14 per order (6–20 pieces depending on size)
- Salad: $6–10 (small house salad, Caesar, or Greek)
- Dips: $0.50–1.50 for marinara, ranch, or garlic sauce (sometimes free with breadsticks)
- Dessert: Brownies, cookies, or cinnamon sticks run $3–5
Combo and Bundle Deals
Most pizzerias offer package deals that bundle pizza with sides and drinks. A typical "two medium pizzas + breadsticks + 2-liter soda" combo costs $25–35, whereas ordering separately could run $35–45. These deals are genuine savings if you're ordering multiple items—good option for families or small gatherings.
Weekday specials and delivery-app exclusive discounts can knock 15–25% off, especially on slower days like Monday or Tuesday. Check the pizzeria's website directly and compare offerings on delivery apps, since pricing sometimes differs.
What You Should Verify Before Ordering
Ask or confirm online whether the pizza price includes delivery fees ($2–5 depending on distance), whether there's a minimum order amount ($10–20 is common), and what happens if you modify a combo deal. Some places allow substitutions (swapping a side for another) at no extra cost; others don't.
If you have dietary needs, confirm that gluten-free or dairy-free options are available and pre-made (not made-to-order with a 15–20 minute wait). Many pizzerias can accommodate requests, but knowing specifics beforehand saves time and frustration.
Tools like Mercoly let you compare pizzeria menus, pricing, and policies side-by-side, so you can spot which shop offers the best value for what you actually want to order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do pizza places charge extra for extra cheese? Yes, most treat extra cheese as a premium topping at $1–2.50 per pizza. Some "double cheese" specialty pizzas are pre-priced, so check the menu for those as a better deal.
Q: Are delivery fees included in the pizza price shown online? No—delivery fees are almost always added at checkout separately, ranging from $2–5 depending on distance and pizzeria policy.
Q: Can I substitute a free topping for a premium one? Some pizzerias allow it at a reduced rate (swapping pepperoni for bacon at $0.50 instead of full price), but many don't. Always ask before ordering or check the menu notes.
Compare pizzerias in your area on Mercoly to find the best value and options for your next order.