I enjoy upscale dining as much as the next person, but sometimes after a round of golf, I just want to take a hot shower, put on a comfortable pair of jeans and settle into a good pizza.

So, whenever I get a yen for crust, sauce and cheese, I go to Oregano’s Pizza Bistro, the best place for pizza on an Arizona golf vacation.

With two locations in Scottsdale, and one each in Phoenix, Tempe, Tucson, Flagstaff and Mesa, it seems one of these 1950s-themed, Chicago-style pizza joints is never too far away. And, despite being a mini chain, each of the quirky, privately owned restaurants still feels delightfully quirky and privately owned.

The 1950s Swing and Sinatra atmosphere is homage to owner Mark Russell’s father, Lawrence Gibbilinni, nicknamed “Lawrence of Oregano” for his skill in the kitchen, which was definitely passed down to his son.

The menu features a tasty smorgasbord of traditional and modern pizzas (in thin crust and stuffed-crust varieties) such as The Southwest Signature (cilantro pesto, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion and roasted red peppers) and the Sproccoli (spinach, broccoli and roasted garlic).

While pizza is the specialty of the house, there are also a ton of other inventive sandwiches, pasta dishes and appetizers. I’m partial to the Boom Dip, a gooey mixture of spinach, artichokes and cheese served with crusty bread.

Many of the restaurants feature outdoor patios (with heaters if it gets chilly at night), which contributes to the friendly, laid-back vibe, and attract a young, good-looking crowd. I can’t think of a better environment in which to enjoy a pie.

Did you know?Golf Vacation Insider and Golf Odyssey are the world's only golf publications that travel anonymously and do not accept advertising, discounts, or "freebies" from the golf courses, resorts or restaurants they review.

Not already a subscriber to Golf Vacation Insider? Click here to receive our free newsletter filled with insider travel tips on the world's finest golf courses and resorts. As a bonus, we will send you a free copy of Planning the Ultimate Golf Vacation, a 40-page book filled with insider tips from the editors of Golf Odyssey.