The Tangerine Tortoise

Nestled quietly within a mostly residential pocket of St. Catharines, The Tangerine Tortoise is a true culinary treasure for pizza aficionados seeking something beyond the ordinary. This pizza restaurant invites diners into an experience where quality ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations take center stage, elevating what might be perceived as a simple dish into an unforgettable feast.

The menu, while intentionally concise, delivers exquisite creativity. Standout options like the Asiago and Prosciutto Pizza effortlessly balance savory, salty prosciutto with the nutty richness of asiago cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Meanwhile, the Mushroom Brie Pizza offers an indulgent, earthy profile paired with the creamy, mellow notes of brie that melt into a perfectly blistered crust. For the adventurous, the Cheddar & Cherries pizza adds a delightful playfulness with the tart sweetness of cherries cutting through the sharpness of cheddar, crafting a nuanced bite you won’t forget. Complimenting the pizzas is the fresh, crisp Spinach Salad topped with candied almonds and cast barncaiser cheese, providing a refreshing counterpoint filled with texture and subtle sweetness.

The dough itself is a star deserving of a dedicated applause: airy and soft in the center with a lightly crunchy exterior, it strikes a perfect contrast that sustains each fold without collapsing. Several guests praise the "floppy middle" that holds together brilliantly, allowing for that ideal pizza slice experience. Adding to the layers of flavor are delightful touches like drizzles of hot honey that bring a sweet-spicy complexity to the pies.

The ambiance inside The Tangerine Tortoise is refreshingly understated and welcoming, with a clean, comfortable atmosphere that encourages diners to focus on the food and company rather than flashy decor. The simplicity of the space and the friendly professionalism of the staff create a warm environment that makes you feel right at home—even if you’re discovering this gem for the first time.

It’s important to note that The Tangerine Tortoise operates with a limited quantity of freshly made dough daily, meaning reservations are highly recommended to avoid disappointment. This measured approach to availability is a testament to their commitment to quality over quantity, ensuring every pizza that leaves the kitchen meets their high standards.

Pair your meal with thoughtful beverage choices such as the Wayne Gretzky Cab Merlot by the glass or local craft beers like the Hop City Barking Squirrel Lager, each carefully selected to complement the complex flavor profiles of the pizzas.

Don’t just take it from us—customers consistently rave about the experience. D. Burke calls it a “gem” with “friendly and polite” staff, while R applauds the expertly balanced toppings and perfectly crunchy crust. Hannah Sawyer highlights the “sweet, savory, and just a pinch of heat” on the hot pineapple pizza and praises the perfect dough texture. JC Le notes the “stellar pizza” quality and “comfortable atmosphere,” and Trevor Proulx’s kids declare it “the best pizza of my life” and “pizza heaven.”

The Tangerine Tortoise is more than a neighborhood pizzeria—it’s a heartfelt celebration of pizza craftsmanship and an invitation to savor each bite in a setting where passion and quality prevail. Whether you are a local or just passing through, securing a reservation at this charming spot ensures a memorable, lovingly prepared pizza experience that will linger well beyond the last slice.