- Attraction: Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza
- Location: 600 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.blacksheeppizza.com/
Minnesota made pizza history when Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza opened its doors in 2008 as the state’s very first coal-burning pizzeria.
Located in Minneapolis’ trendy North Loop neighborhood, this award-winning restaurant revives an authentic American pizza tradition that dates back to the earliest pizzerias in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New Haven.
Chef-owners Jordan Smith and Colleen Doran have crafted something truly special here, using anthracite coal to fire ovens that reach scorching temperatures of 1,200 degrees, creating pizzas with that distinctive crispy-yet-chewy crust and signature char that you simply cannot replicate with conventional ovens.
What sets Black Sheep apart isn’t just the coal-fired technique—it’s their commitment to doing everything from scratch. From hand-peeling garlic and roasting red peppers to preparing house-made sausages and meatballs, every element receives careful attention before meeting those blazing-hot ovens.
Pizza Perfection & Signature Creations
The Coal-Fired Difference: You’ll immediately notice the remarkable texture contrast that makes these pizzas legendary.
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Keep Exploring →The thin crust achieves that perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender interior, with those coveted charred spots that add smoky depth to every bite. The coal fires burn consistently hot and clean, ensuring each pizza emerges with beautiful leopard-spotting and an irresistible crunch.
No. 7 Pizza (The Showstopper): Food Network highlighted this sauceless masterpiece as the restaurant’s crown jewel, and one bite explains why. Oyster mushrooms provide meaty richness while smoked mozzarella and ricotta create layers of creamy indulgence.
Fresh rosemary and paper-thin garlic slivers complete this sophisticated flavor profile that feels both rustic and refined.
Meatball Pizza: Don’t overlook this unexpected gem that has converted countless pizza purists. The house-made meatballs offer superior flavor and texture compared to traditional fennel sausage, creating hearty bites that pair beautifully with the tangy marinara and melted cheese blend.
Build-Your-Own Options: The kitchen excels at half-and-half combinations, allowing you to explore multiple flavor profiles on a single pie. Popular combinations include Persian beef with unique spice blends, or the lemon ricotta cheese pizza that brings bright citrus notes to complement the smoky crust.
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Discover MoreCheese & Sauce Classic: Pizza purists consistently praise this stripped-down version that showcases the fundamentals. The house marinara strikes an ideal balance between tangy and sweet, while the cheese blend melts into perfect golden bubbles across the charred surface.
Gluten-Free Crust: The restaurant offers a surprisingly excellent gluten-free option that maintains good texture and flavor, though those with celiac disease should note potential cross-contamination concerns due to the shared oven and flour-heavy prep environment.
Atmosphere & North Loop Vibes
Industrial Chic Design: The interior embraces the North Loop’s warehouse aesthetic with exposed brick, high ceilings, and industrial fixtures that create an urban-sophisticated atmosphere. Modern murals add artistic flair while maintaining the neighborhood’s gritty-cool character.
Coal Oven Theater: The massive coal-fired oven serves as both functional centerpiece and conversation starter. Many guests enjoy watching the pizza-making process, and friendly kitchen staff often accommodate requests to peek behind the scenes at this impressive 1,200-degree workhorse.
Outdoor Seating: During warmer months, sidewalk tables offer prime people-watching opportunities along busy Washington Avenue. The outdoor space provides a more relaxed alternative to the bustling interior energy.
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Keep Exploring →Date Night Appeal: The dim lighting, craft cocktail program, and intimate booth seating make this an excellent choice for romantic dinners. The shared pizza format naturally encourages conversation and connection.
Neighborhood Energy: Located in one of Minneapolis’ hippest districts, Black Sheep captures the North Loop’s dynamic spirit. Expect a mix of young professionals, food enthusiasts, and tourists exploring the area’s attractions.
Other Considerations
Premium Pricing: Expect to invest around $90 for two people with appetizers, pizza, and drinks. While prices reflect the premium ingredients and specialized cooking method, many guests find the quality justifies the cost, especially considering the unique coal-fired preparation you won’t find elsewhere in Minnesota.
Craft Beer Selection: The rotating tap list features 20 carefully curated craft beers that pair excellently with the pizza’s bold flavors. Wine by the glass and bottle options cater to different preferences, while house-made cocktails add sophisticated touches.
Parking Challenges: Street parking dominates the area and can prove frustrating, especially during peak dining hours and weekend evenings. Plan to arrive early or budget extra time for finding spots several blocks away.
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Discover MoreService Pace: The coal ovens work quickly, so expect faster-than-average pizza arrival times. However, during busy periods, securing tables may require patience, and service can occasionally feel rushed when understaffed.
Size Recommendations: Twelve-inch pizzas work perfectly for individual meals, while sixteen-inch pies provide ideal sharing portions for couples or small groups. The thin crust means you’ll likely finish more than expected.
Best Visiting Times: Weekday lunch periods and early dinner service typically offer shorter waits and more attentive service. Friday and Saturday evenings draw larger crowds, creating livelier atmosphere but potentially longer delays.
Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza
📍 600 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
