Hudsonville, Michigan - It was absolutely dumping rain—classic Michigan spring storm. You know the type: sideways sheets, windshield wipers on panic mode. So my buddy and I made a sharp audible: skip the grill, head to DJ’s Pizza in Hudsonville. When in doubt, carb up.
We pulled into the Hudsonville Plaza, just across from Gemmens. Judging by the packed parking lot and lineup at the door, it looked like the entire Hudsonville softball league had the same idea. Apparently, rainout equals pizza night. Jerseys, wet cleats, and big family tables filled the place. DJ’s was buzzing.
We put our name in, waited maybe ten minutes—a respectable wait considering the chaos—and snagged a table. First impression? The vibe was local, cozy, not some over-polished chain aesthetic. This place had soul. No fake Italian opera music or minimalist lighting. Just hometown comfort and a crowd that knows where to find good food.
Drink orders: Diet Coke and water. We started with the Crack Stix—yes, that’s the name. And yes, it’s accurate. Buttery, garlic-laced breadsticks served with marinara and garlic dipping sauces. Bold name, bold flavor. They don’t shy away from the branding, and honestly, the taste justifies it.
The environment hit that sweet spot—lively but not overwhelming. You could hold a conversation without raising your voice. The staff, mostly younger, were attentive and friendly, checking in frequently without hovering.
We ordered two 10-inch pizzas—personal-sized and portioned just right. I went with the Supreme; my friend chose pepperoni and sausage (The Michigan Pizza). Roughly 15–20 minutes later, our pizzas arrived, fresh from the oven.
The pizza style? Call it elevated tavern-style—thin but sturdy crust, cut into six generous slices, with solid cheese coverage and well-balanced toppings. No floppy slices. No topping avalanches. The crust had enough structure to hold everything in place.
The pepperoni had that signature curl and crisp edge, and the sausage had real flavor—not the flavorless pebbles you get from chain spots. The Supreme was loaded but balanced, with a well-executed blend of onions, peppers, and olives.
An exciting update: DJ’s is currently working on a rooftop expansion, projected to open by summer 2025. Once completed, it will offer Hudsonville’s first rooftop pizza experience—a major local upgrade. Picture this: summer evening, rooftop views, Crack Stix in hand. That’s a scene worth coming back for.
After we finished up (at a fair price, by the way), we walked across the plaza to Gemmen’s—because if you’re already there, why wouldn’t you? It’s part of the local tradition.
Final Verdict: DJ’s isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel or chase trends. It’s delivering solid, dependable, and delicious pizza with a hometown feel. A 7.6 out of 10 feels right. Probably the best pizza in Hudsonville—and definitely worth the visit.
You should eat.
Eric McKee is a lifetime resident of West Michigan. Married with two energetic boys, he spends his days balancing work with dad life. Also, a firm believer that Almond St. Claus Windmill Cookies are the ultimate snack (and maybe a little too good).
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