Empire Pizza in Meriden, CT, is a culinary destination that has earned a loyal following for its exceptional menu offerings and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the city, Empire Pizza combines traditional Italian flavors with innovative twists to satisfy all kinds of pizza lovers.
Whether you’re craving a classic slice or an adventurous gourmet pie, their diverse menu ensures there is something for every palate. From fresh, hand-tossed dough to a variety of toppings, each pizza is crafted with care and quality ingredients that reflect a commitment to excellence.
The menu’s breadth extends beyond pizza to include appetizers, salads, and specialty entrees that complement the main star — the pizza. The staff takes pride in accommodating dietary preferences, offering gluten-free crusts and vegetarian options to ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.
Empire Pizza’s dedication to freshness and flavor has made it a community favorite and a go-to spot for family dinners, casual hangouts, and special occasions alike.
Whether you’re dining in, ordering takeout, or getting delivery, the Empire Pizza menu in Meriden, CT, presents a rich variety of choices that highlight the best of Italian-American cuisine. The balance between classic favorites and inventive dishes invites guests to explore new tastes while enjoying the comforting familiarity of their beloved pizza staples.
Signature Pizzas
The signature pizza selection at Empire Pizza showcases their expertise in combining unique flavor profiles with traditional pizza-making techniques. These pies are crafted to impress, with each offering a distinct personality through thoughtfully chosen toppings and sauces.
At the core, each signature pizza features a hand-tossed crust that strikes the perfect balance between chewy and crispy. The sauce is made from a proprietary blend of ripe tomatoes and Italian herbs, lending a robust and slightly sweet base.
Toppings range from premium meats and fresh vegetables to artisanal cheeses, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that stand out with every bite.
The menu highlights classic options like the “Empire Special,” loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, and onions, perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, flavor-packed experience. For those seeking something different, the “Mediterranean Delight” offers a lighter, vibrant mix of sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh spinach.
- Empire Special: Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, onions
- Mediterranean Delight: Sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta, spinach
- BBQ Chicken: Grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, red onions, cilantro
- White Garlic: Alfredo sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, spinach
“Our signature pizzas are designed to bring together the freshest ingredients with bold flavors, ensuring every slice tells a story of quality and passion.” – Empire Pizza Chef
Build-Your-Own Pizza
The build-your-own pizza option at Empire Pizza offers complete customization, allowing guests to tailor their pie exactly to their taste preferences. This feature is ideal for families or groups with varied likes, as well as for those who enjoy experimenting with combinations.
Starting with a choice of crusts, customers can select from classic hand-tossed, thin crust, or a gluten-free option. The sauce options include traditional tomato, Alfredo, barbecue, or olive oil and garlic for a more delicate base.
From there, the extensive list of toppings allows for endless creativity.
Empire Pizza categorizes toppings into meats, vegetables, and cheeses to streamline the ordering process. Each category features fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced locally when possible.
This approach ensures not only flavor but also freshness and nutritional value.
Topping Options
- Meats: Pepperoni, sausage, grilled chicken, bacon, ham, meatballs
- Vegetables: Mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives, jalapeños, tomatoes, spinach
- Cheeses: Mozzarella, cheddar, feta, ricotta, parmesan
| Crust Type | Calories (per slice) | Texture |
| Hand-Tossed | 250 | Chewy with crispy edges |
| Thin Crust | 180 | Crispy and light |
| Gluten-Free | 220 | Soft and tender |
Guests appreciate the flexibility and control the build-your-own option provides, often praising the staff’s helpfulness in suggesting complementary toppings that enhance the flavor profile of their custom creation.
Appetizers and Sides
Empire Pizza’s appetizers and sides are thoughtfully prepared to complement the pizzas and provide a well-rounded dining experience. These offerings are perfect for sharing or for those who want to start their meal with a burst of flavor.
The appetizer menu features classic Italian starters such as garlic knots, mozzarella sticks, and bruschetta. Each item is made fresh to order, ensuring crisp textures and rich flavors.
Many of these dishes pair wonderfully with the pizza selections, especially when shared among friends or family.
In addition to traditional favorites, Empire Pizza offers unique sides like stuffed mushrooms and baked ziti, giving diners a chance to explore more hearty and satisfying options beyond pizza. These dishes often feature the same attention to quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods that define the entire menu.
- Garlic Knots: Freshly baked dough knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan
- Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy breaded cheese sticks served with marinara sauce
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cheese and herbs
“Starting your meal with our appetizers is a tradition for many guests who want to enjoy the full range of flavors Empire Pizza offers.” – Regular Customer
Salads and Healthy Options
Empire Pizza recognizes the importance of offering fresh and nutritious choices, which is why their menu includes a variety of salads and healthy options. These dishes provide a refreshing contrast to the indulgence of pizza and cater to health-conscious diners.
The salad selection features classics like Caesar and garden salads, as well as more inventive creations such as the Greek Salad with Kalamata olives and feta cheese. Each salad is made with crisp, fresh vegetables and premium dressings crafted in-house.
For those seeking lighter fare without sacrificing flavor, the menu also offers grilled chicken breast and vegetable-based sides. These options allow guests to enjoy a balanced meal that meets their dietary preferences while still indulging in the Empire Pizza experience.
- Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons, Caesar dressing
- Greek Salad: Mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta, red onion, vinaigrette
- House Salad: Mixed greens, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, choice of dressing
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Served with a side of steamed vegetables or salad
| Salad | Calories | Key Ingredients |
| Caesar Salad | 320 | Romaine, parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing |
| Greek Salad | 280 | Mixed greens, olives, feta, cucumbers, tomatoes |
| House Salad | 150 | Mixed greens, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes |
Specialty Entrees
Beyond pizza and appetizers, Empire Pizza’s menu features a selection of specialty entrees that bring authentic Italian dishes to the table. These meals offer a heartier option for those looking for more substantial fare.
Popular entrees include classics like Eggplant Parmesan, Chicken Marsala, and Baked Ziti. Each dish is prepared with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful experience.
The entrees pair well with the sides and salads available, creating a complete meal.
The portion sizes are generous, making these entrees a great choice for guests with a larger appetite or those who want to enjoy a full Italian dining experience without leaving the comfort of their favorite pizza place.
- Eggplant Parmesan: Breaded eggplant baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella
- Chicken Marsala: Sautéed chicken breast with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce
- Baked Ziti: Pasta baked with ricotta, mozzarella, tomato sauce, and Italian herbs
- Lasagna: Layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese
“Our specialty entrees are crafted to bring the heart of Italy to Meriden, delivering comfort and satisfaction in every bite.” – Empire Pizza Owner
Desserts
No meal at Empire Pizza is complete without indulging in their tempting dessert options. The dessert menu features classic Italian sweets and American favorites, providing a perfect ending to any meal.
Among the most popular choices are tiramisu, cannoli, and homemade cheesecake. These desserts are made fresh daily, using traditional recipes and premium ingredients.
The balance of sweetness and texture in each dessert complements the savory flavors of the main dishes beautifully.
Empire Pizza also offers seasonal specials and occasional limited-time desserts, keeping the dessert menu exciting and inviting repeat visits. Whether you prefer a light, creamy finish or a rich, decadent treat, the dessert options cater to a wide range of tastes.
- Tiramisu: Layered espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream
- Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips
- Cheesecake: Creamy, dense, and served with a variety of toppings
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm cake with a gooey chocolate center
| Dessert | Calories | Description |
| Tiramisu | 420 | Espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream |
| Cannoli | 350 | Pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips |
| Cheesecake | 450 | Creamy cheesecake with choice of fruit topping |
Beverages
Empire Pizza offers a well-curated beverage menu designed to complement their food offerings and enhance the dining experience. From soft drinks to specialty coffees, there is a drink to suit every guest’s preference.
The beverage selection includes classic sodas, freshly brewed iced tea, and a variety of juices. For adults, Empire Pizza offers a modest wine list and beer selections that pair well with the rich flavors of their pizzas and entrees.
Additionally, the restaurant serves espresso-based drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes, perfect for those who want a warm finish to their meal or a mid-day pick-me-up. The staff is knowledgeable about pairing beverages with dishes and happy to make recommendations.
- Sodas: Cola, diet cola, lemon-lime, root beer
- Iced Tea: Freshly brewed, sweetened or unsweetened
- Beer: Domestic and craft selections
- Wine: Red and white varieties
- Coffee & Espresso: Cappuccino, latte, espresso shots
“Pairing the right drink with your meal can elevate the entire dining experience — at Empire Pizza, we strive to offer options that do just that.” – Beverage Manager
Conclusion
Empire Pizza in Meriden, CT, stands out as a versatile dining destination where quality, variety, and authenticity converge. The menu’s extensive selection caters to all tastes, from signature pizzas that celebrate classic Italian-American flavors to customizable options that invite creativity.
Complementing the main dishes are carefully prepared appetizers, salads, entrees, desserts, and beverages, all designed to provide a comprehensive and satisfying experience.
The commitment to fresh ingredients, attentive service, and accommodating dietary needs makes Empire Pizza a reliable choice for families, groups, and individuals alike. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick slice, enjoying a full meal with loved ones, or celebrating a special occasion, the menu’s depth ensures a memorable dining experience every time.
Empire Pizza’s blend of tradition and innovation not only honors its culinary roots but also embraces the evolving tastes of its community, solidifying its place as a beloved Meriden institution.
Exploring Empire Pizza’s menu is more than just a meal — it’s an invitation to enjoy the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with a local touch. With each visit, guests can expect consistent quality, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that feels like home.
For those in Meriden and beyond, Empire Pizza remains a top choice when craving delicious, thoughtfully prepared pizza and more.
