When you’re exploring a new town, one of my favorite ways to get a taste of its personality — literally and figuratively — is by following the scent of wood-fired pizza. In Reading, Ohio, that scent leads you straight to Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, a cozy, family-friendly gem with serious local flavor and just the right touch of sports bar energy.
Family Vibes Meets Fire-Kissed Flavor
Located at 8794 Reading Road, Strong’s is the kind of place that instantly feels like a neighborhood favorite. Families gather around big tables, date nights unfold over bubbling cheese, and the bar area hums with casual sports banter — TVs on the wall, a cold drink in hand, and plenty of cheers whether it’s for the game or a great slice.
I grabbed a table with a view of the brick oven (highly recommend it if you’re into food photography), and ordered their Pepperoni, Sausage, and Bacon Wood-Fired Pizza. Let me tell you — the crust was perfection: crispy on the outside, tender inside, with those irresistible charred edges that only a true brick oven can produce. The balance of spice and richness from the meats was spot-on. Every bite hit like a flavor high-five.
Dessert? Don’t Skip It.
I wrapped up dinner with a classic cannoli, and yes — it was as dreamy as you’d hope. Crispy shell, sweet creamy filling, and that drizzle of caramel, chocolate or raspberry sauce made it picture-perfect. And because I couldn’t resist, I grabbed one of their apple pizzas to take home. (Pro tip: warm it up the next day for a breakfast treat. You’re welcome.)
Pizza, Murals, and a Little Local History
What makes Strong’s even better? It’s surrounded by some seriously Instagrammable stops. Directly across the street, you’ll find the Love Blooms Mural — a bright, floral beauty that makes for the perfect selfie backdrop.
Just a few steps from there, look for the UNO mural and discover a fun local fact: the world-famous card game UNO was actually created right here in Reading, Ohio. Who knew?
Final Slice
Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria hits that sweet spot: warm, welcoming, full of flavor, and connected to the heart of the community. Whether you’re here for dinner with family, drinks with friends, or just passing through town, it’s a delicious stop you won’t want to miss. The staff is so friendly, you’ll think you are dining with family.
📸 From the lens: Snap the pizza-to-oven action for your story, grab a mural selfie afterward, and maybe pack an apple pizza to-go — it’s a flavorful way to remember your time in Reading.
Until the next bite,
Lenses and Latitudes
Strong’s Brick Oven Pizza
8794 Reading Road
Cincinnati, OH 45215
Follow them on Facebook and Instagram
