Big Ed’s Pizza
101 Broadway Ave, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830
Big Ed’s Pizza Menu
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Address :
101 Broadway Ave
Oak Ridge, TN, 37830 - Phone (865) 482-4885
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Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
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Jane K.
Finally tried the world famous Big Ed's and it was pretty good. We got it to-go because their restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. After two years of hype, I was afraid we would be disappointed. My husband is the pizza specialist, and he was happy with the crust. I agreed. We ordered plain cheese and as soon as I removed the paper bag wrapper, I was thinking "where's the oregano?" As I suspected, the sauce was kind of bland. My Brooklyn pizza hubby shared that opinion. The cheese was ok. Overall, we liked it. And it's an Oak Ridge experience, an institution. Given the price being a bit higher than other local options, the lack of an ADA restroom, and that they don't take credit cards, it's not an experience we will often repeat.
(4)Amy A.
I have been eating at Big Ed's since I was young....about 30 years worth. Last night was not the best experience. It was a Monday night, not busy and the service was lacking!....the hostess could not seat two of us because tables were not being bussed, our server seemed inattentive at best...had to ask for refills and to go bag for our pizza. I could understand this on a busy day but with they slid downhill for me after this visit! The quality of the product is no longer worth my 45 minute drive.
(2)John D.
Jessica was very helpful with our requests. Had a large birthday group and she helped me over the phone to get a important message to my wife. Great service all around. Will come back again with the whole family.
(5)Matt M.
I've been coming to Eds since i was a kid, and it hasnt changed a bit. The pizza is really good, a solid 4 stars, it has a thin and crispy crust, tasty sauce, the cheese has a nice finish, but the toppings are limited. It is also super addictive. The first bite is pretty good, but by the time youve finished the 5th slice YOU NEED MORE PIZZA!!! The dining room definitely has style and will send you in a timewarp right back to 1975. they give you tiny cocktail paper plates to eat off of and crappy plastic forks to saw through the pie. the pizza is pretty expensive as well, a large one topping with two drinks (no refills) was about 22 bucks. the crowd was huge and we waited about 45 minutes for a table. i guess personality goes a long way and Big Eds is oozing it. Food: 4 stars. Ambience: 4 stars. Service: 3 stars. Value: 3 stars
(4)Kevin C.
I think nostalgia is getting the best of people. This place had ok pizza. I'm sure local folks will disagree, but this place needs to modernize a bit. Get a credit card machine please. It's not some mom and pop diner that can't afford one. Also, enough with the small flimsy plates. They are just ridiculous. The beer selection was also very weak. There are a lot more other pizza places in the area I'll try before going back to Ed's.
(2)Richard G.
Big Ed's has the real deal when it comes to run down charm. No fake antiques that adorn a lot of theme or chain restaurants. Every inch of wall space is covered with some eclectic piece of history, sports memorabilia, or militaria (a couple of bronzed USMC drill instructor hats nestled amongst other odds and ends.) It is like eating in your crazy uncle's attic. Our seating was immediate, and our drink orders were brought to the table within a few minutes. The pizza was a different story. We waited close to 30 minutes for that part of the meal to arrive. Our waitress was doing an admirable job of holding her own against unfair odds. I counted approximately 92 seats and only 4 waitresses, and these ladies took orders, seated guests, bussed tables, and served the food. This added up to around 23 diners for each waitress to take care of. The atmosphere is noisy with the sounds of people having a good time and enjoying their meals. It was obvious from the diners, and the cars parked outside, that people come from all over to eat here. There is a noticeable loyal clientele. When our pizza finally arrived, it was one of the best I have ever had, on a par with Grimaldi's in NYC. The waitress said she would bring us some plates, and returned with several 5" paper plates for a 14" pizza. Unable to figure this one out, I just ate with my hands, which is how you should eat pizza anyway. If I lived anywhere close to Oak Ridge, Big Ed's would be a regular dining place. Great atmosphere, and great pizza. (I left that poor, over worked waitress a generous tip and a compliment. You should do the same.)
(4)John J.
There are many factors that one processes when selecting a place to dine. It might be simply that one wishes to 'catch a meal'. Or perhaps, someplace to take/meet someone to share a meal. Perhaps one is in the mood for something special, different; a dining experience that will sizzle the memory chips and set them rattling in your skull. Honestly, Big Ed's isn't the only place on the planet that offers greasy pizza, chincy paper plates, sticky plastic table coverings, various sports memorabilia, or refuses credit cards. Big Ed's is a local institution, not because of its food or service (both rather mediocre), but because of what it 'is' and what 'it remains'. It harkens back to a place from a different age - a non-franchise, non-prepackaged, one-of-a-kind idea opened by Ed Neusel in 1970. If old-time soda fountains had a pizza counterpart, it would be 'Big Ed's'. I remember when Ed would sit at the end of the counter and keep a not so benevolent eye on things during dinner shifts. Not to say he'd scowl, exactly. You just got the feeling that he didn't tolerate any mischief from patrons OR employees. Some eateries are about the food: Big Ed's doesn't stand in those ranks. A good frozen pizza will taste better, and can be had for a much cheaper price. Big Ed's is about a place to simply guzzle beer and eat pizza, and should this rank high in your dining selection processes, this place is for you.
(2)Ashley T.
If you are willing to make the drive to Oak Ridge, it is worth it. Possibly my favorite pizza around here, cheap beer, and eclectic decor. Get a free Big Ed's shirt on your birthday! Always packed if that says anything about the pizza.
(5)Jennie B.
In my never ending quest for pizza that even remotely resembles a slice of NJ or NY heaven, I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to have found Big Eds! Go Big Eds! I've tried the gamut of 'wanna-be-true-NY/NJ-pizza' in Knoxville and nothing compares. Pizza is a very simple, albeit delicious, food. And this review is as simple as it gets. If you're looking for awesome pizza in Knoxville, go to Oak Ridge. And by all means--Go to Big Eds.That's the catch--the best pizza in Knoxville is actually in Oak Ridge! It's cash only. And they serve you on small paper plates, which is annoying. But who cares? The pizza is thin crust, crispy and tastes like they imported NYC water. It's full of gooey, oily mozzarella cheese and the right amount of sauce. If you close your eyes you'll swear you died and went to New Jersey.
(5)Gary N.
Long line, not enough servers, slow, slow. By the time you get the pizza I could have orders Papa Johns and had delivered here to eat twice. Why are people coming here? Only accept cash or check and there is a long line to pay, wtf. Cash should not take long, but they inspect every bill like your passing off 100's. Pizza was ok.
(1)Amanda C.
Big Ed's in Oak Ridge is literally an East Tennessee Institution. You go because it is Big Ed's, because Big Ed's is unique. Operating under the core values of pizza and beer, don't go walking into this place expecting anything else. If you do, you might get shown the door! Now with that being said, get the pizza. It only really comes one way, but in different sizes. The crust is very good. It is light and crisp, additionally they don't go overkill on sauce and toppings. The funny part about this place is they don't use pizza cutters, they use scissors to cut the pizza! The beer selection is small, but they do have your standard American beers like Bud and Miller, but I opted for my Fat Tire and Yuengling. (DeLISH). Other than the good pizza, the atmosphere is what knocks this place out of the park. Memorabilia from Tennessee and the recently deceased owner is everywhere. The bathroom with teenage handwriting scribble litters the wall with lovers and quips. The juke box on the side of the wall to interject fun music is a great touch. The little paper plates and throw away silverware to dine with and the awesome service is what makes Big Ed's the place to be in East Tennessee. P.S. Cash only!
(4)Anna R.
I like this place because it is a local hang out. The pizza is good but honestly overpriced. The beer list is only ok. Better then a place like PapaJohns but not the best local place I have ever tried.
(3)Channa P.
Simple. That's the best way to describe this place. It's cash or check only. Takeout pizza is served in a brown paper bag (no boxes), and the paper menus literally fit in the palm of your hand. The food in this place is nothing spiffy. I split a 12 inch pizza with two others. We got hamburger meat with green peppers and onions. It was pretty good. The crust was not thin, but still a little crisp. I'm not a huge pizza fan, but this is definitely a must stop while in Oak Ridge.This is actually my second time dining here, and this time trumps the first. If you don't believe me trust the many people local and otherwise that pack the place for dinner.
(4)Tasha G.
Awesome pizza!
(5)Rob E.
Can't think of many good things to say about Big Ed's. The beer is cold, anyway. The "thin" crust would have possibly been better if it had been cooked all the way through, the bottom of it tasted ok but the top was gummy and undercooked. The sauce was not bad, decent flavor. Too much gummy cheese and half-cooked toppings. Terrible service, I got my drink and the server just turned away without taking my order. Had to chase her down to order. Prices were high, at those prices they could have used plates and metal utensils instead of cheap plastic forks and 6" paper saucers. I truly do not see the attraction here, and will not go back - and I am moving to Oak Ridge in the near future.
(2)Harry L.
Over rated grease pit. If you like a big greasy pizza this is your place. plenty of artery clogging going n here.
(1)Dave S.
Greasy. Chewy. Greasy. Cheesy. Greasy. Delicious. Not the best pizza in the world or anything, but pretty cheap and very good. The crust on my pepperoni pie was thin and crisp without being crackery, and the toppings were generous without bogging the whole thing down. Got mine to go, and they literally bagged it up - put in on a paper plate and stuffed it in a big paper bag. Worked pretty well to keep it warm, actually. Pizza place I worked in high school used the same trick. Mmm, nostalgia. In any case, pretty good pizza at a fair price. The place is definitely popular despite being back in one of Oak Ridge's intentionally labyrinthine neighborhoods off the main thruway. Call ahead for carry out, or be prepared to wait awhile. Can't speak to the service inside, but it looked like a typical laid-back hole-in-the-wall dive. I dig.
(4)Nikki H.
BEST PIZZA ON THE PLANET! As far as griping about the plates and plastic wear that's part of it's CHARM! It's a whole in the wall, dim, dark, dingy and DELICIOUS! It absolutely puts all other pizza to shame!! Think I'll go there Now!!! Crazy to not LOVE this place! Do yourself a favor and GO!
(5)John J.
This is undoubtedly the best pizza in the universe. It used to be even better before they lost their #1 sauce maker...
(5)Sarah R.
Big Ed's is some of the best pizza I've had in my life. I would almost consider moving to Oak Ridge, TN just so I could eat there whenever I wanted. The crust is perfect, the sauce perfect, the toppings (I like pepperoni/mushroom) perfect. I have not one bad thing to say about this pizza. I love the atmosphere, too. Casual, no nonsense.
(5)Andy P.
Best pizza around this neck of the woods. Eating in the restaurant is a noisy exciting affair and my family loves it. I'm a little quieter and they like that a lot more than me. One thing we agree on. Besides Harby's Pizza in Fountain City - this is the best pizza anywhere around here.
(4)Nathan R.
I've heard a lot about this s place since moving here from the north. I've been told it was super greasy. I've heard it was overrated. After two years of living here I tried it and it is very good. I'm used to New York style grease and this was not even close. The crust tasted the best but if I could give one big recommendation I would say order a pizza with bacon. Every other pizza place uses bacon bits. This was cooked in a pan bacon and tasted great. Best pizza I've had while staying in the OakRidge area which isn't saying much because all there is is papa johns and dominos. Cheers, and enjoy!
(5)Allen W.
Great staff and food! Always busy for a reason! Shop local and support these businesses!
(5)Bruce K.
So this is what all the hype is about for the residents of Oak Ridge. This place was the first place I heard of when I moved here, and walking in it have a feeling of the good ol' mom and pop shop with a ton of neon lights all over the place as well as nice old school placard signs and advertisements hung around the walls. Supposedly Big Ed's has a history, especially in Oak Ridge. If you don't know it, I'm sure someone would love to explain it because they're proud of it. What did I think of Big Ed's pizza? It was not bad. Especially with a good couple of pints with the pizza. I've heard things about this pizza as far as it being soaked in grease. It honestly wasn't too bad. The service wasn't bad, our waiter was very kind and kept our pitchers full. I think that the price of the pizza wasn't so welcoming, but I enjoyed my lunch here and I'll come back for more pizza and try out a different one!
(3)Kermit S.
This place hasn't changed in years and it doesn't have to. I was a kid the last time I ate here and when I walked in, it was just as I had left it. Great, hand-made pizza with quality ingredients. You can watch the pies being made! Be sure to ask for some cheese. This is a unique establishment that has such character. Big Ed was a big part of the character of this place, may he rest in peace. I am glad to see nothing has changed. Those ovens are seasoned with so much history and flavor that no other pizza can imitate the flavor or goodness. Don't be put off by the divey first impression. Just enjoy the ambiance, paper plates, and pitchers of beer or coke. My childhood is still running rampant in this place with a handfull of cheese! My sister and I actually drove from Greenville, SC to eat lunch here. I will do it again. Go here if you even remotely like pizza. And this place deserves the 5 Star rating solely based on the pizza. I did not include any stars for sentimental purposes. If I did, I would break Yelp!
(5)Melissa R.
Great Pizza. Cool atmosphere. Would reccommend!
(4)Bo W.
I've been eating at Big Ed's for about 30 years through 3 generations of owners (I went as a kid when Big Ed used to sit at the end of the bar and drink beer while doing paperwork). I made sure to take my wife here after we married and every time we're in TN, we make sure to stop by for some of their pizza. We love the place. The atmosphere is amazing. The pizza is warm and you can never eat enough. The beer is cold and served in frosty mugs. You can't ask for a better pizza joint. Recently, they've made some exciting changes. They actually upgraded from paper plates to smaller plastic ones. They now have a huge selection of tap beers to choose from (at one point the place two selections and one was always Michelob Light). They have a few more specialty pies to choose from. They now take credit cards too. The bathroom is still scary... ha. Reminds me of the cellar from the movie, "Saw". Not so bad for the guys, but this is the one thing that does upset the ladies in the family. Edit* My wife wanted me to add that the bathroom reminds her of "The Worst Toilet In Scotland" from the movie "Trainspotting" and not "Saw."
(5)Jimmy W.
This place is great! ... for Oak Ridge. Average to mediocre for pizza in general. There's nothing wrong with it, but it's not very different than any other mom and pop pizza shop you can get elsewhere. If you're a local and want some pizza, this is your spot. Otherwise, keep driving.
(3)Lawrence L.
Good honest thin crust cheesy yummy pizza... I've heard about this spot over the years from my former colleagues, and it's all true. They don't call it NY style, but it sure does taste like it, and I love a good NY style pizza. Big Ed's has the hole-in-the-wall feel, and they serve it up right. Highly recommend this spot if your in the area...
(5)Robert S.
I've been eating at Big Ed's for over 35 years and still haven't had a bad pizza. My only gripe about this visit isn't about the food or the service, it's about the table of knuckleheads that let their child squeal loudly throughout their meal. I know that it's not the child's fault. It's the idiocy of the parents. Man, what an absolute killer of a relaxing Saturday lunch!
(5)Kelly C.
I chose to eat here based on everything I have ever heard about this pizzeria. "Eat here!", "You have to try it!", is what I was told repeatedly. I thought the atmosphere was neat. The menu was... short, to say the least. They do not offer anything other than pizza, soda, and a small selection of beer. The pizza was ok. Although we ate the entire medium pizza, I felt this place could be so much more if they created cheese/bread sticks, or some type of appetizer... Anything. It was (what I felt) severely overpriced, and after eating, I felt it was not worth the money. Don't go into their bathroom, you may not find your way out (and it was very grimy).
(2)Johnny W.
Very much a part or the history and culture of Oak Ridge. Unchanged in decades, still great service and some of the best pizza around. Recently the paper plates turned into kitchen plastic but the plastic forks still are plastic. Try it once and you'll likely go back.
(4)Daniel H.
Best pizza around, hands down. New management came in within the last few years, not sure how that transition went internally, but I'm glad that I can pay with a debit card now. Favorite pizza: Large Special cooked with Garlic Powder and Oregano
(5)Keith H.
Big Ed's, when and why did you stop creating exceptional pizza pie? I really want to give this place a high rating but it's just not possible, 3.5 stars is all they're serving during lunch. It was good pizza, better than the chain restaurants, but it used to be much more enjoyable. The pizza dough was marginally under cooked, the toppings were mid-grade, but at least it wasn't overly greasy. I can understand why everyone loves this place, very good atmosphere, and after a couple cold brews I bet the pizza is even better. The wait staff was attentive and friendly but they had no sense of urgency or excitement/purpose to be there. Overall I'll go back when in town.
(3)Step C.
Our first time there 10/27/2014. We went around 2:00pm and found it to be a delicious pizza. I ordered cheese and pepperoni and my partner had pepperoni, olives, onions and mushrooms. The waitress was awesome and checked on if we needed refills and even wrapped up our left over pizza for us to take home. The sign on the door shows they take visa/mastercard/discover but we paid cash so can't confirm if they truly do or not.
(4)Martha C.
Honestly don't get what all the hype is for. I guess you have to be a local to love it. It wasn't bad, but I've been to a lot of GOOD pizza places and this was okay, average, and way overpriced for the taste.
(2)Bill L.
Best pizza I've had in TN by far, and I'm no stranger to good New York style pizza. Their pizza is comparable to a decent pizzeria you'd find in the New England area, where Italians demand a decent pie. The dough is delicious and unlike other places, is dry aged to give it a unique flavor and texture. You can tell the ingredients are all quality and beers by the pitcher ensure you won't get thirsty chomping down on your slice.
(5)Matthew M.
There are very few restaurants in this world appealing enough to make you drive an hour to get their food. Big Ed's Pizza has been that type of an establishment for decades. The pizza they make is so irresistibly delicious, it almost always burns the roof of my mouth because I literally can't wait ten minutes for it to cool down enough. You eat with plastic utensils and off of paper plates, but somehow it all blends together perfectly. The experience of eating in the restaurant, combined with the taste of the food is enough to easily give Big Ed's a 5 star rating.
(5)Mike F.
Best pizza around. For years me and my family have eaten here and it is always great. We always get great service and the food and atmosphere are phenomenal. Love being able to see them make all the pizza fresh and the fact they use real cheese. Me and my family will probably continue to eat here for years to come. I would highly recommend to anyone that likes good pizza.
(5)Bryan W.
Big Ed's is great, although the change to real plates and credit cards almost cost you a star. Yes it's greasy but great and the beer is cold. Argument at our table whether the crust or sauce is the star. And the ambiance is rather unique. Just don't re-design the t-shirts!
(5)Jamie F.
Best pizza I've had in Knoxville. I am not a huge pizza person, so when I find one with just the right amount of sauce (not too much) the right texture of crust, and no heartburn afterwards, I'm hooked!
(5)Matt M.
Fresh and tasty pizza. Not exactly what I'd call NY-Style(and I'm originally from NY), but it's damn good pizza, especially for Tennessee. Place can get extremely busy on Friday nights. Pizza sometimes takes a while, but you get it fresh out of the oven.. Prices are just OK.
(4)Chris W.
Great pizza!!! Fresh and hot. Made fresh so you will wait a bit (15mins) but worth it. Anchovies and or works if you like 'em!!
(5)Erica H.
This place is an institution! Definitely my favorite pizza ever, so if this review was just on food, it would be 5 stars. This is thin crust New York style, perfect sauce, tasty cheese, awesome pizza. However, they're usually slammed, loud, and don't take credit cards.
(4)Kayla F.
The only reason I give this a 4 is because I'm a pizza snob and it's not all it's cracked up to be by the locals. I was really excited when someone said I'd love it since it's close to Chicago thin crust, it's not like Chicago, lol. The food is good, the service is great, just wasn't what I was expecting. I'll be back for sure. Just allow extra time if you're going at peak time, the line gets out the door.
(4)Reginald J.
Big Eds is the best! I'm in and out of Oak Ridge for work each month and never miss grabbing Big Eds pizza. I am so happy they now accept credit cards since I must track expenses. I signed up just to write a review as it's been over 2 years coming but now I need all to know that Big Eds is the best pizza in town!
(5)Haley M.
This place will always be so close to my heart because of the great food, people, and all the memories our family has shared there. They're pizza is absolutely delicious.
(5)Josh C.
Always been a fan of this place! Anytime I'm up towards oak ridge I make ut a point to grab a slice! I am really happy that it's a long drive or I probably would be 300 lbs! The staff is great and really does a good job and make a hell of a pizza. If you're ever in this area you need to stop in and try it.
(4)Erik R.
Came all the way from California for some of this famous pizza. The atmosphere is fun and the pizza is good! If you're looking for a candlelit dinner, this is not the place for you. This is a spot to kick back and have a no frills pizza. Ask for some scissors to cut your pizza too.
(4)Christie E.
The pizza here is amazing! The crust is delicious and the pizza is fabulous. The topping options are limited, but they have the basics. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the place. It's fun to watch the staff tossing the crust and all of the memorabilia on the walls gives a unique feel. On the negative side, the service was only so-so. Our waitress stopped by our table to get our order and then drop off the pizza & drinks. She only spoke to us when taking the order. We also had to wait at the cash register for over 5 minutes waiting for an employee to ring us up. The pizza makes up for the lack of service. I will definitely be back, but maybe for carryout.
(4)Becky S.
After hearing about Big Ed's for more than ten years I finally got to eat here. No wonder everyone raves about and recommends this place. It was certainly some of the best pizza I've eaten. If you're passing through the area, this is a stop you ought to make.
(5)Matt R.
World famous Big Ed's Pizza is famous for a reason. Enjoy!
(5)George M.
The pizza here is great! Also as a decent price as well. The atmosphere was good. Next time I'm in Oak Ridge I will go back here.
(4)Casey F.
I want to marry this pizza. That's the best way I know how to put it. I've only been there twice, due to a.) discovering it only within the last year and b.) it being in Oak Ridge, which is a little out of the way for me. However, this pizza has literally ruined all other pizzas for me. Pizza Hut, Papa John's, all the big chains just can't hold a candle to Big Ed's. That being said, if you are expecting the fluffy, doughy pizza like you find in those chains, you will be sorely disappointed. This is a much thinner, NY-style pizza. Several of my friends who are from New York say this is as good as it gets without actually going to the city itself. The atmosphere is crowded and kind of dark, but I'm not here for ambiance. I'm here to devour some tasty pizza!
(5)Brent H.
Holy crap!!! My new favorite pizza place on the planet. I wish I lived closer than Denver. They also gave me a t-shirt for my birthday!
(5)Mary T.
This is definitely the best place for pizza in Oak Ridge. It has been around for years. There are a few things that I am not a fan of that Big Ed's does. First off, they give you plates for a slice of pizza that are way to small, not even a 2 year old should be eating off of these because they are not accident prone. Secondly, they give you plastic forks and eating utensils. Yes that's pretty lame! Third, they give you tiny plastic cups and you don't get free refills so you are best off ordering a pitcher. Fourth, the mushrooms are canned. However all these bad things are really all pretty small as long as the pizza itself is good, which it is. I am just warning you about the plates, utensils and drinks. Otherwise, Enjoy!
(3)Dustin R.
Great pizza...decent service
(4)Andy C.
Big Ed's Pizza. The pre and post spot for Friday Night football at good ol' Blankenship Field. It's been years since I've been to this place, but I will admit that I grew up in good ol' Oak Ridge, TN. For those of you Chicago Yelpers out there, this may come as a serious surprise, but yup - I'm actually from the south. The "greater Knoxville area," as I would say. This place isn't in the hopping downtown of Oak Ridge. Although nothing in the ridge is really "far away' from anything else, this place is located in one of the older areas on the east side. Think the Jackson Square tennis courts, that old motel across the street, and also the area of Ken's Barber Shop. The pizza is decent. It's not the worst, but it's definitely not the best. Sure, it's fun to watch people toss up dough and then put toppings on right in front of you, but in the end it's a very average pizza. If I weren't originally from the Ridge, I'd give this place 1, maybe 2, stars. However - since it is for all intensive purposes an iconic place to hang out with friends during the week or weekend, I'm going to have to give it a 3.
(3)Lance C.
It's just a known fact that if you plan on eating pizza in Oak Ridge, it better be at Big Ed's. This place reminds me of teh good pizza back home in Cali. Rock on guys!
(5)Jon C.
One rainy afternoon, I ask my roommate if he wants to embark on a pizza quest in Oak Ridge. I've read many things about Big Ed's, and it's apparent that a lot of people in the Knoxville/Oak Ridge area know of this place. So it was about time to check this place out despite my cynicism for thin crust pizza outside of New York. We walk in and found a table right away, which was surprising considering that we went on a Saturday afternoon. The ambiance of Big Ed's is something worth experiencing. I think there was no room on the massive wall to fit a kid's drawing. It's very interesting to have the entire menu on the size of two business cards. Then the pizza comes... It was a nicely cooked pie. The dough was soft and chewy, the sauce was dead on, and the cheese finished off a party that your mouth is having every time you take a bite. However, I don't think that $14 justifies a 14" cheese pie, not even if it was imported from Manhattan. For $14, you can get a lot more food at I Love NY Pizza and maybe Dazzo's.
(3)Ari W.
I have just been back recently, and all my previous review still holds true. I just want to add: 1. Personally I think the pepperoni pizza was average, I am not a pepperoni person. 2. Ham+green pepper+onion was good. 3. Ham+sausage+pepperoni+olives was really really good.
(4)Ryan F.
I have been traveling to Knoxville/Oak Ridge for a few months and finally decided to get to Big Ed's. From as far as Atlanta, people were telling me that if I was in Oak Ridge, I had to go to Big Ed's. It was the best pizza they had ever had. Well, I think all that hype has only led me to be dissappointed. The pizza is good, but certainly not the best I have ever had, and a little on the greasy side. Actually alot on the greasy side. However, for original pizza (not the big delivery chains), it may be the best in town. Better than the pizza is the joint. That's really the best way to describe it; A Pizza Joint. A lot of local history all over the walls that Big Ed started 40 yrs ago. Last tip before you go out to Big Ed's, it's "Straight Cash Homie", no credit, no debt. Be prepared.
(2)Jerry C.
Jannel P really nailed it! And Arisa W provided an excellent description of the way you eat Big Ed's pizza. I will add just a few details and curiosities. I have eaten here since I was a kid and I think the this place has changed less than anything else in my life- Same goblet shaped beer mugs, paper plates, napkins, plastic forks, table cloths, overhead hanging lights, paper bags for take out, sparse rest room facilities in the basement,. I could go on and on. I visited there recently and here are the only things that I noticed that have changed since the early 70s: First and foremost, I miss seeing the great man himself sitting at the bar. The juke box has been replaced with some kind of new fangled digital contraption. It appears that they now sell Fat Tire beer although the standard Michelob brands are still there. That is about it. I don't think anybody commented on the efficiency of the kitchen operation. It is a symphony of teenagers for the most part all happy and busy in a highly orchestrated process from the dough toss to the delivery. The genius here, in my view, is that the pie is taken out of the oven and delivered directly to the cutting table. There, another kid cuts the stuff into slices with scissors, sticks it on a cardboard plate and it is delivered to the table immediately, probably within 60 seconds of emerging from the oven. If you like pizza really hot, and i do, you can not beat this operation. I have had pizza from a 1000 degree coal fired oven and it did not arrive as hot as a Big Ed's pizza. The locals call those blisters in the roof of your mouth "Big Ed's Bubbles" What is really hard to describe is the way a Big Ed's pizza is more than a sum of it's parts. It just comes together in an singular way. It is almost always cooked perfectly (again the efficient adolescent kitchen operation- in another age these kids would have been chimney sweeps). The dough is lovely and perfect. The sauce is mild but really tasty at the same time. Cheese is a good quality mozz and they don't use that runny Buffalo crap. Yummy sausage. I have been sampling pizza my whole life trying to find the pie that comes together like Big Ed's in vein. Sitting here in Atlanta, I can't wait to go back. One criticism- canned mushrooms. They are always rubbery. Get some fresh shrooms and you would have perfection!
(5)Jennifer S.
If you talk to anyone from Oak Ridge they'll tell you that Big Ed's is the best pizza around. Talk to anyone not from Oak Ridge and they might not agree.... Big Ed's has NY-style pizza. The crust is crispy but very thin and the pizzas are cheesy. The slices are very greasy and they serve them on tiny plates with plastic forks--nothing fancy. These pizzas are not good next day or once they get cold--must be eaten hot!
(4)Ellen S.
Big Ed's is an institution in Oak Ridge. Other reviewers have described it pretty well. The pizza is good, and people love the atmosphere. On the other hand, it's noisy (particularly when it's crowded -- but even when it's not), the service quality is spotty (I've had ridiculously long waits there on occasion), and it isn't all that easy to eat pizza on small paper plates, using plastic cutlery and small napkins. The main reason I'm reviewing Big Ed's today is to point out that although the dining area may be wheelchair-accessible, the rest rooms are decidedly not -- they are down a flight of stairs from the restaurant.
(3)Tracy N.
Usually a big fan, but pizza was soggy and greasy! Service was great tonight.
(3)GD C.
Decided not to go the Sat. before Easter because it looked like a line out the door and a lot of cars. Went back on a Mon night, rest of the area was dead but the place had a decent crowd. You can watch the people toss dough or talk, it's mostly too dark to read while waiting. If there was a TV I didn't remember it. Pizza was pretty good, the cheese was runny hot at first and rubbery (just what mozzarella is, not a negative) by the last slice. At around 7:30 when we were done a big crowd of kids came in, that might be why some people say it's slow, we just came at a good time and didn't have to wait.
(4)Regan R.
I love Big Ed's. I grew up on it. And when I return home to visit I schedule all of my plans around how many times I can stop in. I love it fresh and I love it cold, love it, love it, love it!! On nights that I want pizza, I stop and think that if I were in Oak Ridge, I could have Big Ed's instead. Then I realize that I'm over 12 hours drive away, and my world comes crashing down....
(5)Casey D.
This is one place that I have to visit each time I am in Oak Ridge. As others have said, it is not the best pizza on earth, but Big Ed's is an Oak Ridge classic. One of the few restaurants in town that has withstood the test of time. I hope they never change their pizza, or their tiny menus, their tiny plates, their six-dollar T-shirts, or anything else.
(4)John S.
Great pizza place with tasty food and a good atmosphere. Very simple menu - just pizza and drinks, but they do it well, and the place isn't a local kids party spot so you can hear yourself speak.
(4)Jennifer C.
As a native New Yorker, I've been looking for places in TN that offer pizza simliar to NY style. Other places have said they were NY style, and they weren't even close. Big Ed's is as close as it gets down here. The slices are huge and you can't beat the price. The atmosphere is almost rustic with hardwood floors and the furniture. You eat off paper plates and have plastic silverware and it's very down to earth. The service was excellent and we didn't have a long wait at all. I'd definitely recommend that anyone who's from NY go to Big Ed's for pizza!
(5)Dave S.
Greasy. Chewy. Greasy. Cheesy. Greasy. Delicious. Not the best pizza in the world or anything, but pretty cheap and very good. The crust on my pepperoni pie was thin and crisp without being crackery, and the toppings were generous without bogging the whole thing down. Got mine to go, and they literally bagged it up - put in on a paper plate and stuffed it in a big paper bag. Worked pretty well to keep it warm, actually. Pizza place I worked in high school used the same trick. Mmm, nostalgia. In any case, pretty good pizza at a fair price. The place is definitely popular despite being back in one of Oak Ridge's intentionally labyrinthine neighborhoods off the main thruway. Call ahead for carry out, or be prepared to wait awhile. Can't speak to the service inside, but it looked like a typical laid-back hole-in-the-wall dive. I dig.
(4)Nikki H.
BEST PIZZA ON THE PLANET! As far as griping about the plates and plastic wear that's part of it's CHARM! It's a whole in the wall, dim, dark, dingy and DELICIOUS! It absolutely puts all other pizza to shame!! Think I'll go there Now!!! Crazy to not LOVE this place! Do yourself a favor and GO!
(5)John J.
This is undoubtedly the best pizza in the universe. It used to be even better before they lost their #1 sauce maker...
(5)Sarah R.
Big Ed's is some of the best pizza I've had in my life. I would almost consider moving to Oak Ridge, TN just so I could eat there whenever I wanted. The crust is perfect, the sauce perfect, the toppings (I like pepperoni/mushroom) perfect. I have not one bad thing to say about this pizza. I love the atmosphere, too. Casual, no nonsense.
(5)Andy P.
Best pizza around this neck of the woods. Eating in the restaurant is a noisy exciting affair and my family loves it. I'm a little quieter and they like that a lot more than me. One thing we agree on. Besides Harby's Pizza in Fountain City - this is the best pizza anywhere around here.
(4)Brian K.
Since I've been sampling so much East Coast pizza lately, the thought occurred to me yesterday of, "what IS my favorite pizza?" I like pretty much all pizza. I even like it when it's not very good. I've had pizza on both coasts now, many places in between, and in Asia (not good there) and in Italy (okay I was really young then and can't remember it admittedly.) If I were to pick a favorite pizza place, though, it would be Big Ed's in my small hometown. Notice I said "favorite" and not "best." Admittedly, East Tennessee is not exactly the Pizza Capital of the known world. "Big Ed" Neusel founded this place in... god only knows what year... When I was a kid, you could go there and see Big Ed himself, who looked exactly like the painted depiction of him on the window. It is always dark, so dark that it takes your eyes a while to adjust on a bright day. It's kind of a dump, really. The pizza is Greasy with a capital "G" and thin-crusted. When you pick it up, half of the toppings and cheese slide right off... right onto your flimsy paper plate, which is transparent with grease. Then you get to eat the little pile of toppings and cheese with your flimsy plastic fork, and you get to wipe your mouth with a tiny, tiny, napkin, so you need an entire stack of those. It's great. Do not ask for a metal fork, a real plate, or bigger napkins. They don't have them.
(5)franklin s.
I too have ate pizza from all over the world heck I lived in sicily for 6 months and I think big eds has some really good pizza. oh its not a 5 star restaurant but then again its just pizza all i can say its the best that you will find in the ridge let me tell ya.. And im the type that dont need a fancy place thats over priced to eat so i give him 5 stars cause he does what he knows best and thats pizza........................
(5)Amanda C.
Big Ed's in Oak Ridge is literally an East Tennessee Institution. You go because it is Big Ed's, because Big Ed's is unique. Operating under the core values of pizza and beer, don't go walking into this place expecting anything else. If you do, you might get shown the door! Now with that being said, get the pizza. It only really comes one way, but in different sizes. The crust is very good. It is light and crisp, additionally they don't go overkill on sauce and toppings. The funny part about this place is they don't use pizza cutters, they use scissors to cut the pizza! The beer selection is small, but they do have your standard American beers like Bud and Miller, but I opted for my Fat Tire and Yuengling. (DeLISH). Other than the good pizza, the atmosphere is what knocks this place out of the park. Memorabilia from Tennessee and the recently deceased owner is everywhere. The bathroom with teenage handwriting scribble litters the wall with lovers and quips. The juke box on the side of the wall to interject fun music is a great touch. The little paper plates and throw away silverware to dine with and the awesome service is what makes Big Ed's the place to be in East Tennessee. P.S. Cash only!
(4)Anna R.
I like this place because it is a local hang out. The pizza is good but honestly overpriced. The beer list is only ok. Better then a place like PapaJohns but not the best local place I have ever tried.
(3)Channa P.
Simple. That's the best way to describe this place. It's cash or check only. Takeout pizza is served in a brown paper bag (no boxes), and the paper menus literally fit in the palm of your hand. The food in this place is nothing spiffy. I split a 12 inch pizza with two others. We got hamburger meat with green peppers and onions. It was pretty good. The crust was not thin, but still a little crisp. I'm not a huge pizza fan, but this is definitely a must stop while in Oak Ridge.This is actually my second time dining here, and this time trumps the first. If you don't believe me trust the many people local and otherwise that pack the place for dinner.
(4)Tasha G.
Awesome pizza!
(5)Josh C.
Always been a fan of this place! Anytime I'm up towards oak ridge I make ut a point to grab a slice! I am really happy that it's a long drive or I probably would be 300 lbs! The staff is great and really does a good job and make a hell of a pizza. If you're ever in this area you need to stop in and try it.
(4)Erik R.
Came all the way from California for some of this famous pizza. The atmosphere is fun and the pizza is good! If you're looking for a candlelit dinner, this is not the place for you. This is a spot to kick back and have a no frills pizza. Ask for some scissors to cut your pizza too.
(4)Christie E.
The pizza here is amazing! The crust is delicious and the pizza is fabulous. The topping options are limited, but they have the basics. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the place. It's fun to watch the staff tossing the crust and all of the memorabilia on the walls gives a unique feel. On the negative side, the service was only so-so. Our waitress stopped by our table to get our order and then drop off the pizza & drinks. She only spoke to us when taking the order. We also had to wait at the cash register for over 5 minutes waiting for an employee to ring us up. The pizza makes up for the lack of service. I will definitely be back, but maybe for carryout.
(4)Becky S.
After hearing about Big Ed's for more than ten years I finally got to eat here. No wonder everyone raves about and recommends this place. It was certainly some of the best pizza I've eaten. If you're passing through the area, this is a stop you ought to make.
(5)Matt R.
World famous Big Ed's Pizza is famous for a reason. Enjoy!
(5)Regan R.
I love Big Ed's. I grew up on it. And when I return home to visit I schedule all of my plans around how many times I can stop in. I love it fresh and I love it cold, love it, love it, love it!! On nights that I want pizza, I stop and think that if I were in Oak Ridge, I could have Big Ed's instead. Then I realize that I'm over 12 hours drive away, and my world comes crashing down....
(5)John J.
There are many factors that one processes when selecting a place to dine. It might be simply that one wishes to 'catch a meal'. Or perhaps, someplace to take/meet someone to share a meal. Perhaps one is in the mood for something special, different; a dining experience that will sizzle the memory chips and set them rattling in your skull. Honestly, Big Ed's isn't the only place on the planet that offers greasy pizza, chincy paper plates, sticky plastic table coverings, various sports memorabilia, or refuses credit cards. Big Ed's is a local institution, not because of its food or service (both rather mediocre), but because of what it 'is' and what 'it remains'. It harkens back to a place from a different age - a non-franchise, non-prepackaged, one-of-a-kind idea opened by Ed Neusel in 1970. If old-time soda fountains had a pizza counterpart, it would be 'Big Ed's'. I remember when Ed would sit at the end of the counter and keep a not so benevolent eye on things during dinner shifts. Not to say he'd scowl, exactly. You just got the feeling that he didn't tolerate any mischief from patrons OR employees. Some eateries are about the food: Big Ed's doesn't stand in those ranks. A good frozen pizza will taste better, and can be had for a much cheaper price. Big Ed's is about a place to simply guzzle beer and eat pizza, and should this rank high in your dining selection processes, this place is for you.
(2)Ashley T.
If you are willing to make the drive to Oak Ridge, it is worth it. Possibly my favorite pizza around here, cheap beer, and eclectic decor. Get a free Big Ed's shirt on your birthday! Always packed if that says anything about the pizza.
(5)Jennie B.
In my never ending quest for pizza that even remotely resembles a slice of NJ or NY heaven, I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to have found Big Eds! Go Big Eds! I've tried the gamut of 'wanna-be-true-NY/NJ-pizza' in Knoxville and nothing compares. Pizza is a very simple, albeit delicious, food. And this review is as simple as it gets. If you're looking for awesome pizza in Knoxville, go to Oak Ridge. And by all means--Go to Big Eds.That's the catch--the best pizza in Knoxville is actually in Oak Ridge! It's cash only. And they serve you on small paper plates, which is annoying. But who cares? The pizza is thin crust, crispy and tastes like they imported NYC water. It's full of gooey, oily mozzarella cheese and the right amount of sauce. If you close your eyes you'll swear you died and went to New Jersey.
(5)Gary N.
Long line, not enough servers, slow, slow. By the time you get the pizza I could have orders Papa Johns and had delivered here to eat twice. Why are people coming here? Only accept cash or check and there is a long line to pay, wtf. Cash should not take long, but they inspect every bill like your passing off 100's. Pizza was ok.
(1)Lawrence L.
Good honest thin crust cheesy yummy pizza... I've heard about this spot over the years from my former colleagues, and it's all true. They don't call it NY style, but it sure does taste like it, and I love a good NY style pizza. Big Ed's has the hole-in-the-wall feel, and they serve it up right. Highly recommend this spot if your in the area...
(5)Robert S.
I've been eating at Big Ed's for over 35 years and still haven't had a bad pizza. My only gripe about this visit isn't about the food or the service, it's about the table of knuckleheads that let their child squeal loudly throughout their meal. I know that it's not the child's fault. It's the idiocy of the parents. Man, what an absolute killer of a relaxing Saturday lunch!
(5)Nathan R.
I've heard a lot about this s place since moving here from the north. I've been told it was super greasy. I've heard it was overrated. After two years of living here I tried it and it is very good. I'm used to New York style grease and this was not even close. The crust tasted the best but if I could give one big recommendation I would say order a pizza with bacon. Every other pizza place uses bacon bits. This was cooked in a pan bacon and tasted great. Best pizza I've had while staying in the OakRidge area which isn't saying much because all there is is papa johns and dominos. Cheers, and enjoy!
(5)Allen W.
Great staff and food! Always busy for a reason! Shop local and support these businesses!
(5)Bruce K.
So this is what all the hype is about for the residents of Oak Ridge. This place was the first place I heard of when I moved here, and walking in it have a feeling of the good ol' mom and pop shop with a ton of neon lights all over the place as well as nice old school placard signs and advertisements hung around the walls. Supposedly Big Ed's has a history, especially in Oak Ridge. If you don't know it, I'm sure someone would love to explain it because they're proud of it. What did I think of Big Ed's pizza? It was not bad. Especially with a good couple of pints with the pizza. I've heard things about this pizza as far as it being soaked in grease. It honestly wasn't too bad. The service wasn't bad, our waiter was very kind and kept our pitchers full. I think that the price of the pizza wasn't so welcoming, but I enjoyed my lunch here and I'll come back for more pizza and try out a different one!
(3)Kermit S.
This place hasn't changed in years and it doesn't have to. I was a kid the last time I ate here and when I walked in, it was just as I had left it. Great, hand-made pizza with quality ingredients. You can watch the pies being made! Be sure to ask for some cheese. This is a unique establishment that has such character. Big Ed was a big part of the character of this place, may he rest in peace. I am glad to see nothing has changed. Those ovens are seasoned with so much history and flavor that no other pizza can imitate the flavor or goodness. Don't be put off by the divey first impression. Just enjoy the ambiance, paper plates, and pitchers of beer or coke. My childhood is still running rampant in this place with a handfull of cheese! My sister and I actually drove from Greenville, SC to eat lunch here. I will do it again. Go here if you even remotely like pizza. And this place deserves the 5 Star rating solely based on the pizza. I did not include any stars for sentimental purposes. If I did, I would break Yelp!
(5)Melissa R.
Great Pizza. Cool atmosphere. Would reccommend!
(4)Bo W.
I've been eating at Big Ed's for about 30 years through 3 generations of owners (I went as a kid when Big Ed used to sit at the end of the bar and drink beer while doing paperwork). I made sure to take my wife here after we married and every time we're in TN, we make sure to stop by for some of their pizza. We love the place. The atmosphere is amazing. The pizza is warm and you can never eat enough. The beer is cold and served in frosty mugs. You can't ask for a better pizza joint. Recently, they've made some exciting changes. They actually upgraded from paper plates to smaller plastic ones. They now have a huge selection of tap beers to choose from (at one point the place two selections and one was always Michelob Light). They have a few more specialty pies to choose from. They now take credit cards too. The bathroom is still scary... ha. Reminds me of the cellar from the movie, "Saw". Not so bad for the guys, but this is the one thing that does upset the ladies in the family. Edit* My wife wanted me to add that the bathroom reminds her of "The Worst Toilet In Scotland" from the movie "Trainspotting" and not "Saw."
(5)Jimmy W.
This place is great! ... for Oak Ridge. Average to mediocre for pizza in general. There's nothing wrong with it, but it's not very different than any other mom and pop pizza shop you can get elsewhere. If you're a local and want some pizza, this is your spot. Otherwise, keep driving.
(3)Kelly C.
I chose to eat here based on everything I have ever heard about this pizzeria. "Eat here!", "You have to try it!", is what I was told repeatedly. I thought the atmosphere was neat. The menu was... short, to say the least. They do not offer anything other than pizza, soda, and a small selection of beer. The pizza was ok. Although we ate the entire medium pizza, I felt this place could be so much more if they created cheese/bread sticks, or some type of appetizer... Anything. It was (what I felt) severely overpriced, and after eating, I felt it was not worth the money. Don't go into their bathroom, you may not find your way out (and it was very grimy).
(2)Johnny W.
Very much a part or the history and culture of Oak Ridge. Unchanged in decades, still great service and some of the best pizza around. Recently the paper plates turned into kitchen plastic but the plastic forks still are plastic. Try it once and you'll likely go back.
(4)Daniel H.
Best pizza around, hands down. New management came in within the last few years, not sure how that transition went internally, but I'm glad that I can pay with a debit card now. Favorite pizza: Large Special cooked with Garlic Powder and Oregano
(5)Keith H.
Big Ed's, when and why did you stop creating exceptional pizza pie? I really want to give this place a high rating but it's just not possible, 3.5 stars is all they're serving during lunch. It was good pizza, better than the chain restaurants, but it used to be much more enjoyable. The pizza dough was marginally under cooked, the toppings were mid-grade, but at least it wasn't overly greasy. I can understand why everyone loves this place, very good atmosphere, and after a couple cold brews I bet the pizza is even better. The wait staff was attentive and friendly but they had no sense of urgency or excitement/purpose to be there. Overall I'll go back when in town.
(3)Step C.
Our first time there 10/27/2014. We went around 2:00pm and found it to be a delicious pizza. I ordered cheese and pepperoni and my partner had pepperoni, olives, onions and mushrooms. The waitress was awesome and checked on if we needed refills and even wrapped up our left over pizza for us to take home. The sign on the door shows they take visa/mastercard/discover but we paid cash so can't confirm if they truly do or not.
(4)Martha C.
Honestly don't get what all the hype is for. I guess you have to be a local to love it. It wasn't bad, but I've been to a lot of GOOD pizza places and this was okay, average, and way overpriced for the taste.
(2)Bill L.
Best pizza I've had in TN by far, and I'm no stranger to good New York style pizza. Their pizza is comparable to a decent pizzeria you'd find in the New England area, where Italians demand a decent pie. The dough is delicious and unlike other places, is dry aged to give it a unique flavor and texture. You can tell the ingredients are all quality and beers by the pitcher ensure you won't get thirsty chomping down on your slice.
(5)Matthew M.
There are very few restaurants in this world appealing enough to make you drive an hour to get their food. Big Ed's Pizza has been that type of an establishment for decades. The pizza they make is so irresistibly delicious, it almost always burns the roof of my mouth because I literally can't wait ten minutes for it to cool down enough. You eat with plastic utensils and off of paper plates, but somehow it all blends together perfectly. The experience of eating in the restaurant, combined with the taste of the food is enough to easily give Big Ed's a 5 star rating.
(5)Rob E.
Can't think of many good things to say about Big Ed's. The beer is cold, anyway. The "thin" crust would have possibly been better if it had been cooked all the way through, the bottom of it tasted ok but the top was gummy and undercooked. The sauce was not bad, decent flavor. Too much gummy cheese and half-cooked toppings. Terrible service, I got my drink and the server just turned away without taking my order. Had to chase her down to order. Prices were high, at those prices they could have used plates and metal utensils instead of cheap plastic forks and 6" paper saucers. I truly do not see the attraction here, and will not go back - and I am moving to Oak Ridge in the near future.
(2)Harry L.
Over rated grease pit. If you like a big greasy pizza this is your place. plenty of artery clogging going n here.
(1)Mike F.
Best pizza around. For years me and my family have eaten here and it is always great. We always get great service and the food and atmosphere are phenomenal. Love being able to see them make all the pizza fresh and the fact they use real cheese. Me and my family will probably continue to eat here for years to come. I would highly recommend to anyone that likes good pizza.
(5)Bryan W.
Big Ed's is great, although the change to real plates and credit cards almost cost you a star. Yes it's greasy but great and the beer is cold. Argument at our table whether the crust or sauce is the star. And the ambiance is rather unique. Just don't re-design the t-shirts!
(5)Jamie F.
Best pizza I've had in Knoxville. I am not a huge pizza person, so when I find one with just the right amount of sauce (not too much) the right texture of crust, and no heartburn afterwards, I'm hooked!
(5)Matt M.
Fresh and tasty pizza. Not exactly what I'd call NY-Style(and I'm originally from NY), but it's damn good pizza, especially for Tennessee. Place can get extremely busy on Friday nights. Pizza sometimes takes a while, but you get it fresh out of the oven.. Prices are just OK.
(4)Chris W.
Great pizza!!! Fresh and hot. Made fresh so you will wait a bit (15mins) but worth it. Anchovies and or works if you like 'em!!
(5)Erica H.
This place is an institution! Definitely my favorite pizza ever, so if this review was just on food, it would be 5 stars. This is thin crust New York style, perfect sauce, tasty cheese, awesome pizza. However, they're usually slammed, loud, and don't take credit cards.
(4)Kayla F.
The only reason I give this a 4 is because I'm a pizza snob and it's not all it's cracked up to be by the locals. I was really excited when someone said I'd love it since it's close to Chicago thin crust, it's not like Chicago, lol. The food is good, the service is great, just wasn't what I was expecting. I'll be back for sure. Just allow extra time if you're going at peak time, the line gets out the door.
(4)Reginald J.
Big Eds is the best! I'm in and out of Oak Ridge for work each month and never miss grabbing Big Eds pizza. I am so happy they now accept credit cards since I must track expenses. I signed up just to write a review as it's been over 2 years coming but now I need all to know that Big Eds is the best pizza in town!
(5)Haley M.
This place will always be so close to my heart because of the great food, people, and all the memories our family has shared there. They're pizza is absolutely delicious.
(5)Jane K.
Finally tried the world famous Big Ed's and it was pretty good. We got it to-go because their restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. After two years of hype, I was afraid we would be disappointed. My husband is the pizza specialist, and he was happy with the crust. I agreed. We ordered plain cheese and as soon as I removed the paper bag wrapper, I was thinking "where's the oregano?" As I suspected, the sauce was kind of bland. My Brooklyn pizza hubby shared that opinion. The cheese was ok. Overall, we liked it. And it's an Oak Ridge experience, an institution. Given the price being a bit higher than other local options, the lack of an ADA restroom, and that they don't take credit cards, it's not an experience we will often repeat.
(4)Amy A.
I have been eating at Big Ed's since I was young....about 30 years worth. Last night was not the best experience. It was a Monday night, not busy and the service was lacking!....the hostess could not seat two of us because tables were not being bussed, our server seemed inattentive at best...had to ask for refills and to go bag for our pizza. I could understand this on a busy day but with they slid downhill for me after this visit! The quality of the product is no longer worth my 45 minute drive.
(2)John D.
Jessica was very helpful with our requests. Had a large birthday group and she helped me over the phone to get a important message to my wife. Great service all around. Will come back again with the whole family.
(5)Matt M.
I've been coming to Eds since i was a kid, and it hasnt changed a bit. The pizza is really good, a solid 4 stars, it has a thin and crispy crust, tasty sauce, the cheese has a nice finish, but the toppings are limited. It is also super addictive. The first bite is pretty good, but by the time youve finished the 5th slice YOU NEED MORE PIZZA!!! The dining room definitely has style and will send you in a timewarp right back to 1975. they give you tiny cocktail paper plates to eat off of and crappy plastic forks to saw through the pie. the pizza is pretty expensive as well, a large one topping with two drinks (no refills) was about 22 bucks. the crowd was huge and we waited about 45 minutes for a table. i guess personality goes a long way and Big Eds is oozing it. Food: 4 stars. Ambience: 4 stars. Service: 3 stars. Value: 3 stars
(4)Kevin C.
I think nostalgia is getting the best of people. This place had ok pizza. I'm sure local folks will disagree, but this place needs to modernize a bit. Get a credit card machine please. It's not some mom and pop diner that can't afford one. Also, enough with the small flimsy plates. They are just ridiculous. The beer selection was also very weak. There are a lot more other pizza places in the area I'll try before going back to Ed's.
(2)Richard G.
Big Ed's has the real deal when it comes to run down charm. No fake antiques that adorn a lot of theme or chain restaurants. Every inch of wall space is covered with some eclectic piece of history, sports memorabilia, or militaria (a couple of bronzed USMC drill instructor hats nestled amongst other odds and ends.) It is like eating in your crazy uncle's attic. Our seating was immediate, and our drink orders were brought to the table within a few minutes. The pizza was a different story. We waited close to 30 minutes for that part of the meal to arrive. Our waitress was doing an admirable job of holding her own against unfair odds. I counted approximately 92 seats and only 4 waitresses, and these ladies took orders, seated guests, bussed tables, and served the food. This added up to around 23 diners for each waitress to take care of. The atmosphere is noisy with the sounds of people having a good time and enjoying their meals. It was obvious from the diners, and the cars parked outside, that people come from all over to eat here. There is a noticeable loyal clientele. When our pizza finally arrived, it was one of the best I have ever had, on a par with Grimaldi's in NYC. The waitress said she would bring us some plates, and returned with several 5" paper plates for a 14" pizza. Unable to figure this one out, I just ate with my hands, which is how you should eat pizza anyway. If I lived anywhere close to Oak Ridge, Big Ed's would be a regular dining place. Great atmosphere, and great pizza. (I left that poor, over worked waitress a generous tip and a compliment. You should do the same.)
(4)Casey F.
I want to marry this pizza. That's the best way I know how to put it. I've only been there twice, due to a.) discovering it only within the last year and b.) it being in Oak Ridge, which is a little out of the way for me. However, this pizza has literally ruined all other pizzas for me. Pizza Hut, Papa John's, all the big chains just can't hold a candle to Big Ed's. That being said, if you are expecting the fluffy, doughy pizza like you find in those chains, you will be sorely disappointed. This is a much thinner, NY-style pizza. Several of my friends who are from New York say this is as good as it gets without actually going to the city itself. The atmosphere is crowded and kind of dark, but I'm not here for ambiance. I'm here to devour some tasty pizza!
(5)Brent H.
Holy crap!!! My new favorite pizza place on the planet. I wish I lived closer than Denver. They also gave me a t-shirt for my birthday!
(5)Mary T.
This is definitely the best place for pizza in Oak Ridge. It has been around for years. There are a few things that I am not a fan of that Big Ed's does. First off, they give you plates for a slice of pizza that are way to small, not even a 2 year old should be eating off of these because they are not accident prone. Secondly, they give you plastic forks and eating utensils. Yes that's pretty lame! Third, they give you tiny plastic cups and you don't get free refills so you are best off ordering a pitcher. Fourth, the mushrooms are canned. However all these bad things are really all pretty small as long as the pizza itself is good, which it is. I am just warning you about the plates, utensils and drinks. Otherwise, Enjoy!
(3)Casey D.
This is one place that I have to visit each time I am in Oak Ridge. As others have said, it is not the best pizza on earth, but Big Ed's is an Oak Ridge classic. One of the few restaurants in town that has withstood the test of time. I hope they never change their pizza, or their tiny menus, their tiny plates, their six-dollar T-shirts, or anything else.
(4)John S.
Great pizza place with tasty food and a good atmosphere. Very simple menu - just pizza and drinks, but they do it well, and the place isn't a local kids party spot so you can hear yourself speak.
(4)Jennifer C.
As a native New Yorker, I've been looking for places in TN that offer pizza simliar to NY style. Other places have said they were NY style, and they weren't even close. Big Ed's is as close as it gets down here. The slices are huge and you can't beat the price. The atmosphere is almost rustic with hardwood floors and the furniture. You eat off paper plates and have plastic silverware and it's very down to earth. The service was excellent and we didn't have a long wait at all. I'd definitely recommend that anyone who's from NY go to Big Ed's for pizza!
(5)Brian K.
Since I've been sampling so much East Coast pizza lately, the thought occurred to me yesterday of, "what IS my favorite pizza?" I like pretty much all pizza. I even like it when it's not very good. I've had pizza on both coasts now, many places in between, and in Asia (not good there) and in Italy (okay I was really young then and can't remember it admittedly.) If I were to pick a favorite pizza place, though, it would be Big Ed's in my small hometown. Notice I said "favorite" and not "best." Admittedly, East Tennessee is not exactly the Pizza Capital of the known world. "Big Ed" Neusel founded this place in... god only knows what year... When I was a kid, you could go there and see Big Ed himself, who looked exactly like the painted depiction of him on the window. It is always dark, so dark that it takes your eyes a while to adjust on a bright day. It's kind of a dump, really. The pizza is Greasy with a capital "G" and thin-crusted. When you pick it up, half of the toppings and cheese slide right off... right onto your flimsy paper plate, which is transparent with grease. Then you get to eat the little pile of toppings and cheese with your flimsy plastic fork, and you get to wipe your mouth with a tiny, tiny, napkin, so you need an entire stack of those. It's great. Do not ask for a metal fork, a real plate, or bigger napkins. They don't have them.
(5)franklin s.
I too have ate pizza from all over the world heck I lived in sicily for 6 months and I think big eds has some really good pizza. oh its not a 5 star restaurant but then again its just pizza all i can say its the best that you will find in the ridge let me tell ya.. And im the type that dont need a fancy place thats over priced to eat so i give him 5 stars cause he does what he knows best and thats pizza........................
(5)Andy C.
Big Ed's Pizza. The pre and post spot for Friday Night football at good ol' Blankenship Field. It's been years since I've been to this place, but I will admit that I grew up in good ol' Oak Ridge, TN. For those of you Chicago Yelpers out there, this may come as a serious surprise, but yup - I'm actually from the south. The "greater Knoxville area," as I would say. This place isn't in the hopping downtown of Oak Ridge. Although nothing in the ridge is really "far away' from anything else, this place is located in one of the older areas on the east side. Think the Jackson Square tennis courts, that old motel across the street, and also the area of Ken's Barber Shop. The pizza is decent. It's not the worst, but it's definitely not the best. Sure, it's fun to watch people toss up dough and then put toppings on right in front of you, but in the end it's a very average pizza. If I weren't originally from the Ridge, I'd give this place 1, maybe 2, stars. However - since it is for all intensive purposes an iconic place to hang out with friends during the week or weekend, I'm going to have to give it a 3.
(3)Lance C.
It's just a known fact that if you plan on eating pizza in Oak Ridge, it better be at Big Ed's. This place reminds me of teh good pizza back home in Cali. Rock on guys!
(5)Dustin R.
Great pizza...decent service
(4)GD C.
Decided not to go the Sat. before Easter because it looked like a line out the door and a lot of cars. Went back on a Mon night, rest of the area was dead but the place had a decent crowd. You can watch the people toss dough or talk, it's mostly too dark to read while waiting. If there was a TV I didn't remember it. Pizza was pretty good, the cheese was runny hot at first and rubbery (just what mozzarella is, not a negative) by the last slice. At around 7:30 when we were done a big crowd of kids came in, that might be why some people say it's slow, we just came at a good time and didn't have to wait.
(4)Jon C.
One rainy afternoon, I ask my roommate if he wants to embark on a pizza quest in Oak Ridge. I've read many things about Big Ed's, and it's apparent that a lot of people in the Knoxville/Oak Ridge area know of this place. So it was about time to check this place out despite my cynicism for thin crust pizza outside of New York. We walk in and found a table right away, which was surprising considering that we went on a Saturday afternoon. The ambiance of Big Ed's is something worth experiencing. I think there was no room on the massive wall to fit a kid's drawing. It's very interesting to have the entire menu on the size of two business cards. Then the pizza comes... It was a nicely cooked pie. The dough was soft and chewy, the sauce was dead on, and the cheese finished off a party that your mouth is having every time you take a bite. However, I don't think that $14 justifies a 14" cheese pie, not even if it was imported from Manhattan. For $14, you can get a lot more food at I Love NY Pizza and maybe Dazzo's.
(3)Ari W.
I have just been back recently, and all my previous review still holds true. I just want to add: 1. Personally I think the pepperoni pizza was average, I am not a pepperoni person. 2. Ham+green pepper+onion was good. 3. Ham+sausage+pepperoni+olives was really really good.
(4)Ryan F.
I have been traveling to Knoxville/Oak Ridge for a few months and finally decided to get to Big Ed's. From as far as Atlanta, people were telling me that if I was in Oak Ridge, I had to go to Big Ed's. It was the best pizza they had ever had. Well, I think all that hype has only led me to be dissappointed. The pizza is good, but certainly not the best I have ever had, and a little on the greasy side. Actually alot on the greasy side. However, for original pizza (not the big delivery chains), it may be the best in town. Better than the pizza is the joint. That's really the best way to describe it; A Pizza Joint. A lot of local history all over the walls that Big Ed started 40 yrs ago. Last tip before you go out to Big Ed's, it's "Straight Cash Homie", no credit, no debt. Be prepared.
(2)George M.
The pizza here is great! Also as a decent price as well. The atmosphere was good. Next time I'm in Oak Ridge I will go back here.
(4)Jerry C.
Jannel P really nailed it! And Arisa W provided an excellent description of the way you eat Big Ed's pizza. I will add just a few details and curiosities. I have eaten here since I was a kid and I think the this place has changed less than anything else in my life- Same goblet shaped beer mugs, paper plates, napkins, plastic forks, table cloths, overhead hanging lights, paper bags for take out, sparse rest room facilities in the basement,. I could go on and on. I visited there recently and here are the only things that I noticed that have changed since the early 70s: First and foremost, I miss seeing the great man himself sitting at the bar. The juke box has been replaced with some kind of new fangled digital contraption. It appears that they now sell Fat Tire beer although the standard Michelob brands are still there. That is about it. I don't think anybody commented on the efficiency of the kitchen operation. It is a symphony of teenagers for the most part all happy and busy in a highly orchestrated process from the dough toss to the delivery. The genius here, in my view, is that the pie is taken out of the oven and delivered directly to the cutting table. There, another kid cuts the stuff into slices with scissors, sticks it on a cardboard plate and it is delivered to the table immediately, probably within 60 seconds of emerging from the oven. If you like pizza really hot, and i do, you can not beat this operation. I have had pizza from a 1000 degree coal fired oven and it did not arrive as hot as a Big Ed's pizza. The locals call those blisters in the roof of your mouth "Big Ed's Bubbles" What is really hard to describe is the way a Big Ed's pizza is more than a sum of it's parts. It just comes together in an singular way. It is almost always cooked perfectly (again the efficient adolescent kitchen operation- in another age these kids would have been chimney sweeps). The dough is lovely and perfect. The sauce is mild but really tasty at the same time. Cheese is a good quality mozz and they don't use that runny Buffalo crap. Yummy sausage. I have been sampling pizza my whole life trying to find the pie that comes together like Big Ed's in vein. Sitting here in Atlanta, I can't wait to go back. One criticism- canned mushrooms. They are always rubbery. Get some fresh shrooms and you would have perfection!
(5)Jennifer S.
If you talk to anyone from Oak Ridge they'll tell you that Big Ed's is the best pizza around. Talk to anyone not from Oak Ridge and they might not agree.... Big Ed's has NY-style pizza. The crust is crispy but very thin and the pizzas are cheesy. The slices are very greasy and they serve them on tiny plates with plastic forks--nothing fancy. These pizzas are not good next day or once they get cold--must be eaten hot!
(4)Ellen S.
Big Ed's is an institution in Oak Ridge. Other reviewers have described it pretty well. The pizza is good, and people love the atmosphere. On the other hand, it's noisy (particularly when it's crowded -- but even when it's not), the service quality is spotty (I've had ridiculously long waits there on occasion), and it isn't all that easy to eat pizza on small paper plates, using plastic cutlery and small napkins. The main reason I'm reviewing Big Ed's today is to point out that although the dining area may be wheelchair-accessible, the rest rooms are decidedly not -- they are down a flight of stairs from the restaurant.
(3)Tracy N.
Usually a big fan, but pizza was soggy and greasy! Service was great tonight.
(3)