Full Breakdown
Study Identifies Round Table Pizza as Most Overpriced Chain in the U.S.
3/5/2026, 10:40:10 PM
Overview of the Study
A recent analysis by ACE.com has identified Round Table Pizza as the most overpriced pizza chain in the United States. The study examined 247,927 Google reviews from 19,942 pizza restaurants across 30 major U.S. cities, utilizing AI-powered natural language processing to identify price-related complaints. The researchers focused on keywords such as "overpriced" and "expensive," factoring in the frequency of these complaints alongside customer ratings.
Key Findings
Round Table Pizza received an average rating of 4.00 and recorded 71 price complaints per 1,000 reviews, leading the list of overpriced chains. Despite receiving positive feedback regarding the quality of its ingredients, pricing was highlighted as a significant concern among customers. For instance, one review stated, "Good pizza, great space, but very overpriced," while another remarked, "Round Table is mega overpriced — even though it doesn't taste that bad."
Following Round Table, Domino's and Pizza Hut were ranked as the second and third most overpriced chains, with 14 and 20 price complaints per 1,000 reviews, respectively. Their average ratings were 3.49 and 3.54. The study noted that both chains, despite their value-oriented branding, frequently face criticism regarding their pricing.
Sbarro and Pizza Ranch also featured in the analysis, with Sbarro having 62 price complaints per 1,000 reviews and an average rating of 3.36. Pizza Ranch recorded the highest rate of price complaints at 73 per 1,000 reviews but ranked seventh overall due to a stronger average rating of 4.13.
Pricing Insights
The study also highlighted geographical pricing trends, identifying San Jose, California, as the most expensive city for ordering pizza, while El Paso, Texas, was noted for offering the best value.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the study, Round Table Pizza emphasized its commitment to quality, stating, "We pride ourselves on providing high-quality offerings to our guests." The company mentioned its use of premium ingredients, including a signature three-cheese blend, and highlighted its Royal Rewards program and value-driven limited-time offers as options for customers seeking lower-priced entry points.
Criticism & Opposition
While the study provides a comprehensive overview of pricing complaints, it is essential to consider that customer experiences can vary widely. Some patrons may prioritize quality over price, which could influence their perception of value at Round Table Pizza and other chains.
Verbatim Quotes
- “One customer wrote, 'Good pizza, great space, but very overpriced,' while another noted, 'Round Table is mega overpriced — even though it doesn't taste that bad.'” — Anonymous Customer
- “providing high-quality offerings to our guests.” — Round Table Pizza Spokesperson
This analysis sheds light on consumer perceptions of pizza pricing in the U.S., with Round Table Pizza emerging as a focal point for discussions on value versus quality in the fast-food industry.
