The takeout boxes pile up early at Calgary’s Crispy Crust Pizzeria

Looking for something different than a blistered artisan pizza with scant toppings? Then check out Crispy Crust Pizzeria, in a southwest strip mall, which proudly proclaims the “cheesiest pizza Calgary has ever seen.”

It’s no idle boast, given Crispy’s 17 years in business and the steady stream of late-afternoon takeout traffic at this Woodbine neighbourhood pizzeria.

Inspired by Greek-style pizza, these thick pies feature a crispy top layer, with gooey cheese atop a crispy crust. “In crust we trust” indeed.

A true neighbourhood takeout pizzeria

Ordering by phone for pickup is the way to go, as I have a 25-minute wait for my on-the-spot order during pizza rush hour. But it gives me time to admire an efficient team of upfront servers and relentlessly busy cooks piling up the takeout boxes.

When it does arrive, my 12-inch Greek pizza ($27) weighs in at a hefty three pounds, enough for three moderate appetites. Though I  could grab one of a handful of tables (and an on-tap beer), I join the parade of box-toting customers out the door.

Maybe the heftiest pizza I’ve ever eaten

But I only make it as far as the car, almost scalding my mouth on this volcano of pepperoni, Greek staples and a ton of mozzarella, surrounded by that devastating crust.

It’s not artisan pretty, but boy is it satisfying.

Crispy Crust Pizzeria
B, 464 Woodbine Boulevard SW, Calgary
Opens 4 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Monday
403-251-3329