The White River region of north central Arkansas offers world-class trout fishing, but there’s also a little pizzeria called Nima’s that offers world-class pizza.
I often scroll through the internet looking for pizza spots I’m not familiar with. Once in a while a place catches my eye that makes me stop to do a double take. This is how I felt when I found Nima’s Pizza, a restaurant in northern Arkansas. I consider myself to be pretty well-versed in pizza, but when I read their website I wondered how I never knew about this place.
As I read their backstory and accolades, I had to stop again. Nima’s isn’t just another pizzeria in a big city. It’s located in the back roads of the Ozark mountains in the small town of Gassville. Gassville’s claim to fame is the neighboring town of Cotter is the trout fishing capital of America. That’s impressive, but the pizza at Nima’s should be the star of the area.
Nima’s has stacked up more top finishes than anyone else at the prestigious International Pizza Challenge in Las Vegas. This local gem has proven that world class flavor doesn’t just belong to big cities.
Check out these International Pizza Challenge awards Nima’s has won:
#2 in World Best Non-Traditional Pizza – 2017
Regional Winner Non-Traditional Pizza – 2017
Regional Winner Traditional Pizza – 2016
Regional Winner Traditional Pizza – 2015
Regional Winner Non-Traditional Pizza – 2015
#2 in World Best Traditional Pizza – 2013
Regional Winner Traditional Pizza – 2013
#4 in World Best Non-Traditional Pizza – 2012
Regional Winner Non-Traditional Pizza – 2012
#4 in World Best Traditional Pizza – 2011
Regional Winner Traditional Pizza – 2011
#2 in World Best Traditional Pizza – 2010
USA Best Traditional Pizza – 2010
Regional Runner-up Best Traditional Pizza – 2009
Regional Runner-up Best Traditional Pizza – 2008
If this isn’t reason enough to take a pizza road trip to Gassville, I don’t know what is.
Nima’s is definitely a destination pizza. There are well known chefs at top ranked pizza restaurants that don’t have anywhere near the recognition that Nima’s has. The crew here takes great pride in every pizza they make, using only the freshest ingredients. The hospitality is also outstanding. Friendly people and delicious pizza made this a great visit.
While I’m not daring enough to try their competition pizza features, others are. This place is extremely popular, and not just with locals. People travel from far and wide to try their slices. The walls are covered in magazine and newspaper articles, as well as awards, and there is a reason why. It’s really good.
For those who wonder why I would just eat a cheese pizza when in the presence of pizza greatness, the answer is simple. You need to have a great foundation. I love the simplicity and flavor of a well made cheese pizza. The basics of the crust, sauce, and cheese make or break the pizza. You can taste the quality and freshness in every bite at Nima’s. It’s no surprise they’ve won so many awards.
If you find yourself trout fishing on the White River and don’t want to eat the fish you catch, go to Nima’s. Even if you’re not fishing, take a drive there. It’s a beautiful area, there’s lots to see and do, and the pizza will make it worth it.
Places like this are what make the hunt for slices fun. The stories and people are equally as enjoyable as the pizza they serve.
~ Marty The Pizza Guy ~
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