7 California Pizza Places That Stand Out From The Big Names
Pizza lovers in California share a well-kept secret: the state’s best pies aren’t coming from the glossy, neon-lit chain restaurants. Instead, tucked away in cozy neighborhoods and bustling city corners, local artisans are handcrafting pizzas that rival the best in the world.
Using farm-fresh ingredients, inventive flavor combinations, and time-honored techniques—often honed in wood-fired ovens—these independent pizzerias turn a simple slice into a culinary experience.
I’ve spent years exploring every corner of California’s diverse pizza scene, from no-frills hole-in-the-wall gems to refined, upscale dining rooms. These seven standout spots deserve your attention far more than any national chain could ever hope to.
1. Pizzana – Los Angeles’ Neapolitan Masterpiece
Celebrity chef Daniele Uditi transformed my understanding of pizza when I first tasted his Neo-Margherita at Pizzana. His dough ferments for 48 hours before being topped with organic San Marzano tomatoes and house-made fior di latte mozzarella.
The West Hollywood location buzzes with energy, but the pizza remains the star. Their crust achieves the impossible – simultaneously crisp and chewy with perfect leopard-spotted char marks.
What sets Pizzana apart? Their commitment to both Italian tradition and California innovation. Even their gluten-free crust (a recipe Uditi spent years perfecting) would impress the most discerning Neapolitan pizza purist.
2. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana – San Francisco’s Championship Pies
Winning the World Pizza Cup in Naples isn’t easy, but Tony Gemignani has done it multiple times. My first visit to his North Beach institution left me speechless – 12 different pizza styles under one roof!
The Margherita (limited to 73 daily) comes from a 900-degree wood-fired oven imported from Italy. Coal-fired, gas-fired, electric, and even ancient brick ovens produce distinctly different crusts for each style.
Lines form early at this pizza paradise, but watching Tony’s team work their magic makes the wait worthwhile. Pro tip: try the Detroit-style square pie with its caramelized cheese edge – it converted this die-hard thin crust fan immediately.
3. Pizzeria Mozza – Los Angeles’ Culinary Institution
Nancy Silverton’s sourdough crust changed my life. The legendary baker and chef created Pizzeria Mozza with a singular vision: California ingredients on an Italian-inspired canvas. Her signature puffy, chewy crust with its airy interior creates the perfect foundation.
My favorite? The squash blossoms, burrata and tomato pie. The contrast between creamy cheese, delicate blossoms, and that incredible bread-like crust creates pizza perfection.
The Highland Avenue location maintains its buzz even after 15+ years – a testament to consistent excellence. While celebrities often populate the dining room, the real star remains Silverton’s impeccable pizza, which strikes the perfect balance between rustic Italian tradition and California freshness.
4. Flour + Water Pizzeria – San Francisco’s Seasonal Sensation
Farmers market ingredients shine at this Mission District gem where I’ve watched seasons change through pizza toppings. Chef Thomas McNaughton’s dough undergoes a 48-hour fermentation, developing complex flavors before meeting San Francisco’s foggy air.
Their rotating seasonal pies showcase California’s agricultural bounty. Summer brings corn, padron peppers and cherry tomatoes, while winter features wild mushrooms, delicata squash and black truffle.
The casual, neighborhood vibe belies the serious culinary credentials behind each pie. Don’t miss their legendary black olive appetizer or the soft-serve ice cream finale. This place embodies Northern California’s food philosophy: simple preparations that highlight exceptional ingredients.
5. Burattino Brick Oven Pizza – Rancho Palos Verdes’ Hidden Treasure
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean sits the most unexpected pizza revelation I’ve ever experienced. This family-owned spot in an unassuming strip mall creates authentic Neapolitan pizzas that transported me straight to Naples.
Owner Vito’s handcrafted pies emerge from a 900-degree brick oven with perfectly blistered crusts. The Diavola – topped with spicy salami, fresh basil, and house-made mozzarella – delivers a beautiful balance of heat and sweetness.
The small dining room fills quickly with locals who keep this place their precious secret. Come early or call ahead – once the day’s dough is gone, they close shop. Their commitment to quality over quantity makes every pie a special occasion.
6. Pizzetta 211 – San Francisco’s Tiny Masterpiece
Four tables, one tiny kitchen, and the most enchanting pizzas in the Richmond District. My first visit to Pizzetta 211 felt like discovering a secret society where the password is exceptional food.
Their farm egg pizza with bacon, caramelized onions and fresh herbs remains etched in my culinary memory. The thin, crispy crust somehow supports these rich toppings without collapsing – a technical marvel.
Seasonal changes drive their compact menu, often featuring unexpected combinations like pear with gorgonzola or figs with prosciutto. Despite the inevitable wait (they don’t take reservations), the cozy atmosphere and phenomenal pizza make this shoebox-sized eatery worth planning your day around.
7. Apollonia’s Pizzeria – Los Angeles’ Creative Flavor Laboratory
Bold experimentation meets pizza tradition at this Mid-City LA spot where I’ve witnessed pizza boundaries shattered. Owner Justin De Leon treats his crust as a canvas for wildly creative combinations that somehow always work.
The Bee Sting – featuring sopressata, serrano chilies, and honey – delivers a perfect sweet-heat balance that’s become their signature. Their sourdough crust develops for three days, resulting in complex flavors and perfect texture.
The tiny storefront on Wilshire Boulevard might be easy to miss, but pizza aficionados make pilgrimages here. Justin’s constantly evolving menu keeps regulars coming back to discover what new pizza magic he’s conjured up. His refusal to compromise on ingredients or techniques makes each visit memorable.