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Best Pizza in Costa Mesa (Updated Fall 2023)

Edward Brock

02/08/2024

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I’ve curled up with a pie in some of the most glamorous cities around the world—from New York to Chicago, and Rome to Tokyo. But I’m here now to tackle the much more local challenge of finding the best pizza in Costa Mesa!

I’m ready with my appetite and open mind- come with me as I check out no less than twelve delicious places, each offering their own take on pizza perfection. So buckle up, grab a slice (or several!), and let’s get tasting—it’s going to be a cheesy ride!

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

#1 Trenta Pizza & Cucina

I had heard so much about this pizzeria and was eagerly anticipating my visit. I was greeted with friendly smiles, a pleasant atmosphere filled with the aroma of delicious pizza, and an incredibly helpful staff – all of which only heightened my expectations.

But then came the pizza. Wow. It really lived up to the hype! The crust was thin and crisp yet absolutely packed with flavor, while the sauce and toppings were fresh and tasty. Each slice was like a symphony of flavors that created something magical in every bite.

I have officially declared Trenta Pizza & Cucina as having some of the best pizza in Costa Mesa! Not only is their pizza amazing but their prices are reasonable too, making the whole experience even better. If you’re ever in Costa Mesa, I definitely recommend dropping by for a slice – or better yet, grab a whole pie and enjoy it with some friends!

If you’re willing to go an extra 5 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in Irvine!

#2 Kuro Artisanal Pizza

When I first arrived at Kuro Artisanal Pizza, I was met by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff greeted us with friendly smiles and took the time to explain all of their specialty pizzas.

I decided to try their signature Kuro Deluxe pizza, which they promised would be unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. They weren’t exaggerating! The dough was perfectly cooked, creating an airy and slightly crunchy crust with a flavorful sauce that blended perfectly with the mozzarella cheese.

The toppings were also impressive – fresh ingredients that complemented the other flavors perfectly. I could tell that it was made by an expert hand who had taken care to select only the best ingredients.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Costa Mesa, Kuro Artisanal Pizza is definitely worth a visit. Their delicious pizzas are sure to please even the most discerning palate, and their friendly staff will make your experience all the more enjoyable!

#3 Massimos Pizza and Pasta

I was truly taken aback when I walked into the restaurant. Everything from the decor to the smell of freshly-baked dough suggested that this would be an exceptional pizza experience.

My expectations were fulfilled as soon as my first slice arrived. The crust had a great texture, with just the right amount of crunch and flavor – not too salty and not too greasy. The toppings were fresh and plentiful, and I couldn’t tell which one was my favorite!

The service was also top-notch. Everyone who worked there was helpful and friendly, and made sure I had everything I needed. Even when they were busy with other customers, they still managed to give me their full attention – something that’s hard to find in a lot of restaurants these days.

All in all, Massimos Pizza and Pasta is an absolute gem in Costa Mesa. If you’re looking for the best pizza in town, this is definitely the place for you!

#4 Pizza D’Oro

I’ve tried a lot of pizza, and Pizza D’Oro is one of the few that really stands out. Their crust has just the right amount of crunch, their sauce is incredibly flavorful, and their toppings are always fresh and generously portioned.

But the best part about Pizza D’Oro is their staff. Everyone who works there has been friendly and helpful every time I’ve visited. From taking my order to asking how I liked my meal, they always make me feel welcome.

Honestly, it’s hard for me to find fault with Pizza D’Oro. If you’re looking for amazing pizza in Costa Mesa, this is definitely a must-try!

#5 2145 EATS

This restaurant had a great atmosphere for watching sports, with several TVs lining the walls. I was also pleased that they served alcohol – this made my experience even more enjoyable!

For those looking for other food options, 2145 EATS offers some vegetarian options and delicious desserts. Perfect for anyone who loves pizza but wants something different too.

The only downside to this place is that there is no delivery service. So if you’re craving pizza but don’t want to leave your house, you’re out of luck! However, it’s worth making the trip to pick up some of their delicious pies.

Overall, if you’re looking for an amazing pizza experience in Costa Mesa, 2145 EATS is the place to go!

#6 Al’s New York Cafe

When I walked in, I was immediately overwhelmed by the intense smell of pizza baking in the oven. It was enough to make my mouth water! The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with wooden décor contrasting against the white-tiled walls. The staff was friendly and made sure my experience was top notch.

As for the pizza itself, it delivered everything I could have asked for in a meal. From the fresh-baked crust to the gooey mozzarella cheese, Al’s New York Cafe has absolutely nailed it. Every bite was bursting with flavor — that perfect balance between savory sauces and herbs mixed with delicious toppings like pepperoni or mushrooms.

In short, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza Costa Mesa has to offer, you can’t go wrong with Al’s New York Cafe!

#7 Doria’s Haus of Pizza

The fresh ingredients and creative toppings are hard to beat. The crust is perfectly crispy and never soggy, and the cheesy goodness melts in your mouth with each bite. I was especially impressed with the variety of toppings available, from classic pepperoni to something more adventurous like artichoke hearts.

The atmosphere at Doria’s Haus of Pizza is one-of-a-kind too – it’s like a combination of a traditional Italian pizza joint and an old-timey soda shop, complete with neon lights, checkered tables, and lively music. Plus the wait staff are always friendly and accommodating (and they don’t mind if you sing along to the jukebox!).

But the best part of all is the price – you definitely get what you pay for here! You’d be hard pressed to find better pizza in Costa Mesa at such an affordable rate.

If you’re ever in Costa Mesa, make sure to stop by Doria’s Haus of Pizza – I’m sure it will be worth your time! In my opinion, it’s easily one of the best pizzerias around!

#8 Rance’s Chicago Pizza

I’m going to be honest—my first impression of Rance’s Chicago Pizza was not great. The place looks like it hasn’t been renovated since the 1970s and there were a few cobwebs here and there. But then I tasted their pizza. Wow!

I had the Chicago-style deep dish pizza and it was amazing. It was thick, cheesy, and flavorful. Plus, the crust was perfectly baked with a delicious crunchy texture. The tomato sauce was so good that I actually licked my plate clean!

The staff at Rance’s are also really friendly and welcoming. They make you feel at home as soon as you walk in the door—genuinely happy to see you and eager to serve up some of that delicious pizza.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Costa Mesa (or anywhere else!), I highly recommend Rance’sChicago Pizza! You won’t be disappointed!

If you’re willing to go an extra 5 miles, you can get to 28 more pizza places in Huntington Beach!

#9 The Pizza Press

I was immediately impressed when I walked in the door. The interior had a trendy, industrial vibe that made it feel like a hip pizzeria. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable too; they recommended some of their best combinations and I decided to try out their Hawaiian creation.

The pizza itself was absolutely delicious. The crust was so light and fluffy and the generous amount of pineapple chunks on top added a great sweetness that balanced out the salty prosciutto nicely. It had an amazing smoky flavor from their wood-fired oven that really brought out all the flavors!

All in all, I would highly recommend The Pizza Press to anyone looking for the best pizza in Costa Mesa. It’s definitely one of my new favorite places!

#10 Napa Valley Pizza & Pasta

I arrived full of anticipation, expecting the best. Special attention was instantly shown to make sure my experience was top-notch. The atmosphere is inviting and made me feel right at home. It’s a great place to bring family or friends, or just treat yourself!

The pizza? Outstanding! Perfectly thin crust, perfectly melted cheese and perfectly cooked toppings that tasted just like they were freshly picked from the garden. I definitely recommend trying their signature pies – you won’t be disappointed!

Their pasta dishes are also superb. My ravioli with pesto sauce and portobello mushrooms was cooked perfectly al dente and the flavor mix balanced perfectly between salty and sweet – truly a masterful combination!

My visit to Napa Valley Pizza & Pasta exceeded all my expectations, making it hands down the best pizza in Costa Mesa. If you’re feeling adventurous and want an authentically Italian experience, then this should be your top choice for pizza night.

#11 Nick’s Pizza Ristorante Italiano

The crust was the perfect combination of crunchy and chewy, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs. The sauce was flavorful and not too sweet, while still being robust enough to cut through the cheese. And speaking of cheese – it melted perfectly with a nice texture to match.

Topping options were endless, from classic pepperoni to chicken and pineapple. My favorite was definitely the hot sopressata, which had an unexpected sweetness that really tamed down the spice.

The staff at Nick’s Pizza was top-notch; friendly and efficient without being intrusive. I also appreciated their focus on sustainability as they used recyclable materials for packaging and composted food scraps whenever possible.

Overall, I can confidently say that Nick’s Pizza is one of the best pizzas in Costa Mesa – if not the best! Try it out for yourself to experience a truly delicious Italian feast.

#12 Gina’s Pizza and Pastaria

First, the atmosphere. With my trusty food critic’s hat on, I’d have to say that Gina’s definitely has nailed it in the ambience department. From the classic Italian music in the background to the string lights adorning the walls, it was just so cozy and inviting.

Next up: the service. The smiling servers were all fantastic! They were warm, attentive and very knowledgeable about their menu items. Plus they didn’t hover over our table or rush us out – always a plus in my books.

And now for what you’ve all been waiting for – the pizza! It was divine. The crust had just enough crispness and flavor; not too thick like some places and not too thin either. And oh man, that cheese – ooey gooey stretchy goodness with just a hint of garlic and herbs throughout – perfection!

All in all, if you’re ever in Costa Mesa looking for some of the best pizza around, look no further than Gina’s Pizza and Pastaria!

Best Deep Dish Pizza – Rance’s Chicago Pizza

As soon as I walked through the door of Rance’s Chicago Pizza, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory tomato sauce tickled my nose, sending my taste buds into a wild frenzy. I glanced around and noticed the quirky Chicago-themed decor, complete with a mini Statue of Liberty sporting a Cubs cap. Talk about ambiance!

Now, onto the star of the show – the deep dish pizza. Holy Cannoli, Batman! This pizza was a mountain of cheesy goodness. The crust was thick and buttery, with just the right amount of crispiness. It was like biting into a cloud made of pizza dough. Toppings? They had it all: pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and even a medley of brightly colored bell peppers. I almost expected to find a pot of gold at the end of this pizza rainbow.

What really sets Rance’s apart from other pizza joints is their attention to detail. The cheese was perfectly melted, creating long, tantalizing strands that stretched from my plate to my mouth. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, like a party in my mouth that only Chicago could throw.

But wait, there’s more! Rance’s also offers a variety of other delicious dishes like their mouthwatering cheese-filled garlic bread and tangy Caesar salad. And let’s not forget the friendly and enthusiastic staff who made my experience truly unforgettable. They even let me wear a chef’s hat and join in on the pizza-making fun!

So if you’re looking for the best deep dish pizza in orange county ca, look no further than Rance’s Chicago Pizza. Your taste buds will thank you, and your waistline… well, let’s just say it’s worth every glorious bite.

Best Thin Crust Pizza – Rance’s Chicago Pizza

As soon as I walked into Rance’s, the aromas of melted cheese and crispy crust wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds. I couldn’t help but salivate as I ogled their pizza creations lining the counter like edible art. And let me tell you, this place is not your average pizza joint.

The first bite of their thin crust pizza was a revelation. It was so thin and delicate, I felt like I was eating a cloud with a cheesy, tomato sauce surprise. The toppings were perfectly balanced – not too heavy, not too light – just enough to satisfy my hunger without overwhelming my stomach. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors, with the tangy sauce playing lead and the cheese providing the harmonious backdrop.

And the cheese! Oh, the cheese. It stretched and melted like a cheese lover’s dream. I almost felt guilty as I devoured slice after slice, but hey, a traveling food critic has to do what a traveling food critic has to do, right?

The ambiance of Rance’s added to the whole experience. The dim lighting and cozy booths made me feel like I was in a Chicago speakeasy, hiding from the mob, except, you know, with amazing pizza. The staff was friendly and efficient, making sure my glass was never empty and my pizza was always hot.

In conclusion, if you’re in Orange County and craving the best thin crust pizza around, Rance’s Chicago Pizza is your go-to. Just make sure to bring your appetite and maybe some elastic waistband pants. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Best Wood Fired Pizza – Pitfire Pizza

First off, let me just say that walking into Pitfire Pizza feels like entering some sort of pizza wonderland. The scent of freshly baked dough and bubbling cheese fills the air, instantly making your mouth water. It’s like being enveloped in a warm, cheesy hug.

Now, I’ve had my fair share of wood fired pizzas, but the ones at Pitfire Pizza take the cake (or should I say, pie?). The crust is perfectly charred, with just the right amount of chewiness. It’s so good that I actually shed a tear of joy. And let me tell you, it takes a lot to make me cry – I’ve survived eating pizzas from all corners of the globe!

But it’s not just the crust that steals the show at Pitfire Pizza. The toppings are out of this world! They have everything from classic Margherita to inventive creations like the Pitfire Special – a combination of caramelized onions, mushrooms, Gruyere cheese, and truffle oil. I honestly thought I had died and gone to pizza heaven.

And the best part? The staff is friendly and always ready with a witty pizza pun. They truly understand the power of a well-delivered pun. It’s like doughing it right in the humor department!

So, if you’re in the mood for some top-notch wood fired pizza in orange county, look no further than Pitfire Pizza. Trust me, your taste buds will thank me later. And who knows, you might even shed a tear of joy yourself!