Best Pizza in Inland Empire (Updated Fall 2023)

My mission? To try some of the best pizzas in this part of the world.

Armed with a fork and my appetite, I set off to sample all 12 pizza places in Inland Empire.

From wood-fired pies to restaurant-style and New York slices, I experienced it all!

Before you read on, let me caution you: my tongue is picky – it has tasted some of the most gourmet cuisine throughout the world! So buckle up – I’m about to reveal which pizzas truly hit the spot.

If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of California

#1 best pizza place in Riverside - Mamma Mia Restaurant and Bar

#1 Mamma Mia Restaurant and Bar

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9PM
Saturday: 4-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Great place to watch sports
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Offers dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu
  • Has some vegetarian options


The atmosphere of the place is definitely inviting, with a warm and cozy Italian vibe throughout. The staff is friendly and helpful, which makes you feel like part of the family.

As for the pizza, it was simply delicious! The thin crust was perfectly made, with just the right amount of chewiness. The sauce was flavorful and the cheese was melted to perfection. No matter what toppings you choose, each slice is packed with flavor.

I’ve had my fair share of pizzas over the years and I have to say that Mamma Mia’s version is one of the best I’ve ever tasted! Even if you don’t have a discerning palate like mine, you’re sure to be impressed by their cooking mastery. If you ever find yourself in The Inland Empire, this should be your go-to spot for a great pizza fix!

If you’re willing to go an extra 4 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in Riverside!

#2 best pizza place in Riverside - Antonio Pizza

#2 Antonio Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10AM-9PM
Tuesday: 10AM-9PM
Wednesday: 10AM-9PM
Thursday: 10AM-9PM
Friday: 10AM-10PM
Saturday: 10AM-10PM
Sunday: 10AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Has some vegetarian options


I always judge a pizza joint based on their crust, and Antonio Pizza did not disappoint. The crust was perfectly crisp on the outside, with a wonderfully soft and chewy center. The toppings were also spot-on, with just the right balance of flavor and texture.

I also have to give props to Antonio Pizza for their delicious sauces. From the garlicky white sauce to the bold tomato sauce, everything was so flavorful you didn’t even need extra cheese!

The staff at Antonio Pizza is also very friendly and helpful. They make sure your order is just right and even deliver it to your door! I’ve never had such great service from a pizza place before.

All in all, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in The Inland Empire, then look no further than Antonio Pizza!

#3 best pizza place in Riverside - D'Caesaro Pizza & Italian

#3 D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian

Open Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10AM-7:30PM
Wednesday: 10AM-7:30PM
Thursday: 10AM-7:30PM
Friday: 10AM-8PM
Saturday: 10AM-8PM
Sunday: 10AM-7PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Serves alcohol

Downsides
  • No delivery


You can tell these folks know what they’re doing. The atmosphere is perfect for a family outing, and the kid’s menu makes it awesome for them too. Plus, it serves alcohol which makes this spot great for happy hour!

The pizza is really something special. I almost didn’t want to share my slices – they were that delicious! However, I must warn you: there is no delivery here. You will have to dine in or take out the pizza if you want to experience what I just did.

Most importantly, make sure you leave room for dessert! D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian has some of the most scrumptious desserts around – and trust me, I’ve been all over the world and tasted a lot of sweets.

If you are looking for an enjoyable dining experience in The Inland Empire, look no further than D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian – their pizza is truly incomparable.

#4 best pizza place in Riverside - Lava Coal-Fired Pizza

#4 Lava Coal-Fired Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-8PM
Tuesday: 11AM-8PM
Wednesday: 11AM-8PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9:30PM
Saturday: 12-9:30PM
Sunday: 12-9PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Great place to watch sports

Downsides
  • No delivery


The minute I stepped inside, the smoky smell of coal-fired pizza engulfed my senses. The atmosphere was great, with a large projector screen playing sports and local artwork adorning the walls. I took a seat at one of their high-top tables and perused their extensive beer menu.

The service was outstanding. My server was friendly, knew her stuff about the beers and answered all my questions about their vegetarian options on the menu. After much deliberation, I decided on a classic Margherita pizza made with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella, finished off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

When it arrived at my table, I could tell the dough was hand-tossed to perfection! The thin crust was light yet didn’t lose its crispiness in spite of toppings. Every bite was loaded with flavor and just the right amount of heat from coal-fired ovens.

I even had enough room to sample some of their homemade desserts! From cheesecake to tiramisu or an affogato (espresso poured over ice cream), there’s something unique for everyone who visits Lava Coal-Fired Pizza!

To top it off, they don’t offer delivery (something I can understand due to their specialty ovens). So if you’re looking for some extraordinary pizza while in The Inland Empire area–Lava Coal-Fired Pizza is your place!

#5 best pizza place in Upland - San Biagio's Pizza

#5 San Biagio’s Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10AM-8PM
Tuesday: 10AM-8PM
Wednesday: 10AM-8PM
Thursday: 10AM-8PM
Friday: 10AM-8PM
Saturday: 10AM-8PM
Sunday: Closed

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Offers dessert


My first impression was that San Biagio’s Pizza had a great atmosphere. The staff were friendly, and the tables were adorned with checkered tablecloths reminding me of pizza shacks in Italy.

I decided to try their classic pepperoni pizza and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. The crust was perfectly thin but crispy, the sauce was flavorful and the cheese melted in my mouth. The pepperonis were salty and slightly spicy—just enough to give it a nice kick.

I’m not sure if it was because the ingredients are of high-quality or the pizza is cooked with love, but this was hands down some of the best pizza I’ve ever tasted!

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian pizza experience without leaving The Inland Empire, then look no further than San Biagio’s Pizza!

#6 best pizza place in Riverside - Papa Joe's Pizza

#6 Papa Joe’s Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10AM-9PM
Tuesday: 10AM-9PM
Wednesday: 10AM-9PM
Thursday: 10AM-9PM
Friday: 10AM-10PM
Saturday: 10AM-10PM
Sunday: 10AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Serves alcohol
  • Great place to watch sports
  • Has a kid’s menu


The crust was light and crispy, the sauce was savory, and the cheese was just the right amount of gooey. Even the toppings were impeccable – every little bit providing a burst of flavor. I had to keep myself from eating too much!

But what really sets Papa Joe’s apart is their atmosphere. From the moment you walk in you get a real hometown feeling – like everyone in there knows each other. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and it’s almost like they know your order before you even place it!

I highly recommend Papa Joe’s Pizza if you’re looking for some great pizza – it’s definitely worth a visit to The Inland Empire! You won’t be disappointed.

#7 best pizza place in Riverside - Pizza Pirates

#7 Pizza Pirates

Open Hours
Monday: 9AM-10:30PM
Tuesday: 9AM-10:30PM
Wednesday: 9AM-10:30PM
Thursday: 9AM-10:30PM
Friday: 9AM-11:30PM
Saturday: 9AM-11:30PM
Sunday: 9AM-10:30PM

This place is full of personality and they serve up some great pies. The first thing you notice when walking in the door is how incredibly friendly the staff are. They make sure that you’re comfortable and taken care of.

Once seated and presented with the menu, I have to admit that I was a bit overwhelmed by all the options! From classic cheese and pepperoni, to unique creative toppings like capers, feta, and banana peppers – Pizza Pirates has something for everyone. After much deliberation (it’s tough work being a food critic!), I opted for their signature “Pineapple Express” pizza, which did not disappoint! It was loaded with sweet chunks of pineapple, savory Italian sausage, creamy provolone cheese all on top of a perfectly golden crispy crust. Divine!

I also have to mention their drink selection- it won’t disappoint either! My favorite were the speciality sodas imported from Italy- taste just like the real thing!

To summarize- if you find yourself in The Inland Empire looking for a great pizza experience, Pizza Pirates is your spot! With amazing service, delicious pizzas and outstanding drinks, it comes as no surprise why they are considered one of the best establishments in town.

#8 best pizza place in Riverside - MOD Pizza

#8 MOD Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10:30AM-10PM
Tuesday: 10:30AM-10PM
Wednesday: 10:30AM-10PM
Thursday: 10:30AM-10PM
Friday: 10:30AM-11PM
Saturday: 10:30AM-11PM
Sunday: 10:30AM-10PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has some vegetarian options


The atmosphere was wonderfully inviting, so when I walked in all I wanted to do was find a seat and take a big bite of the pizza I had been anticipating. From the moment I bit into my custom-made MOD Pizza, I knew that no matter how far my travels took me, this would be one of my favorite go-to pizza joints for years to come.

The ingredients were fresh and the flavors blended together perfectly! Whether you’re looking for something different or just love classic ingredients, MOD Pizza has something for everyone. My favorite topping combination was a classic pepperoni with green peppers and olives. The combination of flavors was just exquisite!

The price might be a little higher than other places in The Inland Empire, but it’s totally worth it for the quality of their pizzas. Plus, you don’t have to wait long for your order because they make each pizza right after you order it!

All-in-all, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in The Inland Empire, then Mod Pizza is the place to go. Great atmosphere, great toppings and great taste – what more could you ask for?

#9 best pizza place in Riverside - Capone's Pizza

#9 Capone’s Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10AM-8PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10AM-8PM
Thursday: 10AM-8PM
Friday: 10AM-9PM
Saturday: 11AM-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-8PM

Benefits
  • Great place to watch sports
  • Serves alcohol


I’m a big fan of the crust and cheese at Capone’s Pizza. The thin crust is to die for, and the slightly crispy texture combined with their mozzarella cheese makes for a truly delicious experience. Plus, they have a great selection of toppings that always seems to please my palate.

Their sauce is nothing short of spectacular as well! It’s a very unique blend of herbs and spices that offers a real kick but never too much heat. I’d even go so far as to say that it’s probably the best pizza sauce I’ve ever had!

The service at Capone’s Pizza was really great too. The staff were welcoming, friendly and attentive throughout my visit making me feel like I was part of the family.

Overall, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in The Inland Empire, then look no further than Capone’s Pizza – you won’t be disappointed!

#10 best pizza place in Upland - Petrilli's Pizza

#10 Petrilli’s Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 2-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9PM
Saturday: 11AM-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

From the first scrumptious slice, I could tell this place was special. The crust is divine – perfectly doughy and flavorful. Plus, they don’t over-stuff their slices with ingredients, so every bite has a great balance of all the flavors.

Their selection of toppings is also impressive, offering creative combinations for all types of pizza-lovers. My personal favorite is their Mushroom and Quail Pizza, which features a delightful blend of earthy mushrooms and smoky quail sausage.

Not only does Petrilli’s have amazing pizza, they also provide top-notch service by friendly staff that make you feel right at home. They even went out of their way to ensure that I had the best experience possible!

If you’re looking for the best pizza in The Inland Empire then look no further than Petrilli’s! You won’t regret it!

If you’re willing to go an extra 14 miles, you can get to 27 more pizza places in Moreno Valley!

#11 best pizza place in Corona - Anthony's Pizza & Pasta

#11 Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9PM
Saturday: 11AM-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol
  • Offers dessert


I visited the restaurant on a warm summer evening and walked into a delightful Italian atmosphere. The place was cozy and inviting, but the best part was definitely the pizza!

The pizzas were prepared fresh to order with a delicious smell that filled the air. After tasting their pies, I can confidently say that Anthony’s has some of the best pizza in the area. Every slice was bursting with flavor, from their signature sauce to their homemade dough. In addition, they offer gluten-free options for those who are looking for an alternative.

I highly recommend this restaurant if you’re in The Inland Empire! Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta is certainly my top choice for where to get the best pizza around.

#12 best pizza place in Norco - Norco Pizza Company

#12 Norco Pizza Company

Open Hours
Monday: 2-7:30PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 2-8:30PM
Friday: 12-8:30PM
Saturday: 12-8:30PM
Sunday: 12-7:30PM

The ingredients are always top-notch, from the fresh mozzarella to the perfectly prepared dough. I’ve tried their specialty pies a few times and I’m never disappointed. The margherita pizza is my personal favorite – the simple combination of tomatoes, oregano, and basil work together so well it’s like eating a slice of Italy!

Another thing that sets Norco Pizza Company apart from other restaurants in the area is their attentive service. Every time I visit, they take special care to meet all of my requests and make sure I’m completely satisfied with my meal. From making sure I have enough napkins to topping off my drink, they make sure it’s an enjoyable experience each time.

Overall, Norco Pizza Company is one of the best places for pizza in Inland Empire. Their delicious pies and friendly staff easily make this restaurant stand out from its competitors. If you’re ever looking for great pizza in town then make sure to stop by Norco Pizza Company – your taste buds won’t regret it!

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