Introduction and Atmosphere
We went to Colony Grill in Stamford more for the atmosphere than the food. The plan was simple: enjoy the evening, grab a drink, and set a low bar for tomorrow’s trip to New Haven, where the pizza scene is legendary. Colony Grill, founded in 1935, is a Stamford institution with deep community roots. The space has a classic tavern vibe, framed with its famous “Wall of Heroes” honoring veterans and first responders. It feels lived in, comfortable, and proudly local.
Our expectations weren’t high. After all, this was supposed to be just a warm-up for New Haven. But as soon as the pizza hit the table, everything changed.
The Pizza Experience
Holy cow, this pizza is absolutely amazing. Colony Grill is known for its bar-style pizza, which has become one of the best pizza options in Stamford CT. Their pies are super thin crust, crispy almost to the point of being cracker-like, yet packed with flavor in every bite. It is lighter and thinner than the famous New Haven apizza, but somehow just as satisfying.
What really sets it apart is the hot oil topping, which is their signature move. This chili-infused oil seeps into the crust while baking, adding a fiery punch that transforms the entire pie. I ordered a pepperoni with hot oil, and it was the perfect combination. The pepperoni brought a savory chew, the crust held its crunch, and the hot oil delivered a spicy kick that lingered just long enough. If you are searching for thin crust pizza in Stamford, this is the place that should be at the top of your list.
A Wild Card: Salad Pizza
As unusual as it sounds, I also had two full slices of the salad pizza. Picture half a pizza crust covered in fresh greens, cucumbers, carrots, and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette. It is fresh, crunchy, and surprisingly delicious. The crisp salad against the cracker-thin crust gave a balance that worked far better than expected. This wasn’t just a novelty item, it was genuinely enjoyable and something I would order again. It might just be the most unique pizza in Stamford CT.
Reflections and the New Haven Dilemma
Walking out of Colony Grill, I was left with an unexpected worry: had we peaked too early? Tomorrow was supposed to be the big day in New Haven, but after tasting Colony’s hot oil pizza, we honestly wondered if anything could top it. Colony had set the bar sky-high when it was only supposed to be the opening act.
Online Queso Pizza Scores
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Pepperoni with Hot Oil: 8.5 / 10
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Salad Pizza: 8.4 / 10
Both pies impressed, but the pepperoni with hot oil slightly edged out the salad pizza thanks to that perfect harmony of spice, crunch, and flavor.
Quick Facts About Colony Grill
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Heritage: Opened in 1935 in Stamford’s Irish neighborhood
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Style: Thin, crispy “bar pie” style pizza
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Signature Topping: Hot oil, a spicy, chili-infused drizzle
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Atmosphere: Classic tavern vibe with a community focus
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Menu Fun: Includes salad pizza, breakfast pizzas, and more
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Recognition: Consistently ranked among the best pizza in Stamford CT
Final Thoughts
Colony Grill surprised us in the best way possible. What started as a casual night out turned into a memorable pizza experience filled with texture, heat, and flavor. Their hot oil pizza is a true standout, the salad pizza is a clever twist, and the atmosphere makes it all come together. If you are exploring pizza restaurants in Stamford, Colony Grill is a must-visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Colony Grill known for?
Colony Grill is famous for its thin, crispy bar-style pizza and its signature hot oil topping, a chili-infused drizzle that adds heat and flavor.
2. How does Colony Grill compare to New Haven pizza?
New Haven is famous for its coal-fired apizza, which has a chewy, charred crust. Colony Grill’s pizza is much thinner, crispier, and lighter, offering a completely different but equally enjoyable experience.
3. What is the hot oil at Colony Grill?
The hot oil is a blend of olive oil and chili peppers. It is added before baking, so it bakes into the crust and toppings, giving each slice a spicy kick.
4. Is the salad pizza worth trying?
Yes. While it sounds unusual, the salad pizza combines the crunch of Colony’s thin crust with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette. It is refreshing and surprisingly delicious.
5. What is the atmosphere like at Colony Grill?
The atmosphere is casual, lively, and community-focused. With a classic tavern feel and their Wall of Heroes honoring veterans and first responders, the vibe is welcoming and full of local pride.
6. What is the Online Queso Pizza Score for Colony Grill?
The pepperoni with hot oil earned an 8.5 out of 10, while the salad pizza scored an 8.4 out of 10. Both are worth trying if you visit.
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