Best Pizza in El Cajon (Updated Fall 2023)

I’m sure locals already know which pizzerias are worth checking out, but I decided to take it a step further and check out 12 of them for myself.

So if you’re looking for a good pizza and don’t want to take a chance on a new place, stick around and read my review on the best pizza in El Cajon. With my worldly taste buds and lighthearted approach, you can trust that I’ll give an honest critique.

Bon Appétit!

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 El Cajon - Ace New York Giant Pizza

#1 Ace New York Giant Pizza

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

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Serves alcohol


When I first arrived at Ace New York Giant Pizza, I knew I was in for something special. The restaurant has a classic, old-school pizza parlor atmosphere that sets the perfect stage for my taste test.

The menu had some great options – I decided to go with the classic pepperoni pie. This was no ordinary pepperoni pie – it was jumbo sized and loaded with toppings. The cheese was melted to perfection, while the crust had the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness. All of the flavors complemented each other perfectly and tasted incredible!

I also tried one of their specialty pies, which had sausage, white onions, and green peppers – it was delicious! For dessert, I went with a slice of their homemade cheesecake. It was smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness.

To top everything off, Ace New York Giant Pizza has great service. The staff is friendly and helpful; they always make sure you’re taken care of from start to finish.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in El Cajon then Ace New York Giant Pizza is definitely worth checking out!

If you’re willing to go an extra 6 miles, you can get to 26 more pizza places in La Mesa!

#2 best pizza place in El Cajon - Italia Pizza

#2 Italia Pizza

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

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


From the moment I stepped into Italia Pizza, I knew I was in for a treat. The old-world charm of the restaurant was a welcome respite from my journey. From the classic Italian decor to the friendly staff, it was clear that this was a place that takes pride in its food and service.

When I finally got around to sampling their pizza, it became obvious why Italia Pizza is acclaimed as serving some of the best pizza in El Cajon. The crust was perfectly thin yet miraculously crunchy with an irresistible flavor that had me wishing for more! Topped with flavorsome toppings and oozing with cheese – this pizza hit all the right notes.

However, with all of the great things about Italia Pizza, perhaps what impressed me most is their dedication to providing quality products at an affordable price. Being a traveling food critic on a budget, this place certainly made my day!

My experience at Italia Pizza reminded me why I continue to search for great pizza wherever I go; it’s simply one of life’s greatest pleasures! If you want to taste some of the best pizza in El Cajon, then you should definitely head over to Italia Pizza – you won’t regret it!

#3 best pizza place in El Cajon - Mamma Rosa Italian Restaurant

#3 Mamma Rosa Italian Restaurant

Open Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:30AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11:30AM-9PM
Thursday: 11:30AM-9PM
Friday: 11:30AM-9:30PM
Saturday: 3-9:30PM
Sunday: Closed

Benefits
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has a kid’s menu


I was impressed by the thin crust, which was cooked to perfection. You could really taste the quality of their ingredients – the sauce and cheese were so flavorful. I loved how the toppings were evenly distributed and generously portioned – it made for an overall delicious pizza experience!

The atmosphere at Mamma Rosa is also worth mentioning. The staff were all so friendly and welcoming. Plus, they played great music from Italy that really helped to set the mood for a great night out.

I’ll definitely be back soon to try more of their delicious offerings! If you want the best pizza in El Cajon, then look no further than Mamma Rosa Italian Restaurant!

#4 best pizza place in El Cajon - Botani Familia Pizzaria

#4 Botani Familia Pizzaria

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

I was extremely impressed with the quality of the ingredients used. The crust was perfectly crisp and chewy, the tomatoes were vine-ripened to perfection, and the cheese was just the right amount of melty. Each bite was full of flavor and I could tell from just one slice that this pizza was made with love.

The staff at Botani Familia Pizzaria made me feel welcome as soon as I stepped inside. They had a friendly demeanor and were more than willing to answer any questions I had about their pizza selection. They even happily shared their recipes so that I could make my own version at home!

The atmosphere in the restaurant was great too. It had a cozy, inviting feel that made it easy to relax and enjoy a tasty slice of pizza without feeling rushed or hurried. The music they played added to the overall vibe in the place which helped create an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for some delicious pizza in El Cajon, do yourself a favor and check out Botani Familia Pizzaria! You won’t be disappointed!

#5 best pizza place in El Cajon - Marechiaro's 2nd Street

#5 Marechiaro’s 2nd Street

Open Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11:30AM-7PM
Thursday: 11:30AM-7PM
Friday: 11:30AM-7:30PM
Saturday: 11:30AM-7:30PM
Sunday: 11:30AM-7PM

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Has some vegetarian options


The restaurant itself is a warm and inviting place with a cozy atmosphere. I have to confess, though, that it’s the pizza that truly makes it special. The dough is light and fluffy, the sauce is full of flavor, and the toppings are always fresh and generously portioned. Not a single bite has been a disappointment!

Ah, what can I say? Marechiaro’s 2nd Street really has some of the best pizza in El Cajon. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic margherita or want to get creative with their build-your-own option, this place never fails to hit the spot. Highly recommended!

#6 best pizza place in El Cajon - Di Leone's Italian Restaurant

#6 Di Leone’s Italian Restaurant

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
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu


From the warm and inviting atmosphere to the delicious pizza, Di Leone’s Italian Restaurant stands apart from the competition. The restaurant is actually owned by a family that have been making pizzas for generations, so it’s no surprise that the quality of their pies is top-notch.

I had the pleasure of trying several of their signature pizzas, including their classic pepperoni, and was not disappointed. The crust was light and fluffy, perfectly cooked in their wood-fired ovens. The sauce was homemade and had a nice balance between sweet and savory flavors. The toppings were also fresh and diverse – clearly they take great care in curating their ingredients! They also offer some unique options like truffle oil or vegan cheese as toppings.

Overall, I’m confident in saying that Di Leone’s Italian Restaurant serves up some of the best pizza in El Cajon! If you’re ever in the area looking for an unforgettable pizza experience, this is definitely one to check out!

#7 best pizza place in El Cajon - Monavala Pizza

#7 Monavala Pizza

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

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Has some vegetarian options


On my first visit, I was expecting your typical run-of-the-mill pizza joint experience. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised when I stepped inside! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a huge mural of a smiling chef that greeted me at the door.

The menu had something for everyone. From classic pepperoni to pesto chicken, and even some vegan options! But what stood out most were the fresh ingredients. Everything from the dough to the herbs to the cheeses were top notch. And it definitely showed in their pizza!

The thin and crispy crust was delightful, perfectly complemented by their house-made marinara sauce and variety of toppings. I tried a few slices and they all hit the spot! Not too heavy, not too greasy – just right.

If you’re looking for some of the best pizza in El Cajon, look no further than Monavala Pizza! It’s definitely worth checking out!

#8 best pizza place in El Cajon - Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant

#8 Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant

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

Benefits
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Has a kid’s menu


I recently visited this restaurant for a pizza pie and couldn’t believe the deliciousness I was about to experience. Upon walking in, I knew I was in for something special. The atmosphere was inviting, with a wood-fired oven blazing at the center of the restaurant – it just screamed “Pizza Heaven”!

The pizza itself really took my breath away. The crust was light and fluffy, and the homemade sauce had a perfect blend of herbs and spices that left me wanting more after every bite. Every slice was loaded with absolute deliciousness – there were so many flavors coming together that it felt like I’d traveled back in time to Rome and had some authentic Italian pizza!

I can easily say that Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant has some of the best pizza in El Cajon! If you’re ever looking for a delicious slice of heaven, make sure to check out this place. You won’t be disappointed!

If you’re willing to go an extra 12 miles, you can get to 28 more pizza places in Poway!

#9 best pizza place in El Cajon - Franco's Giant Pizza

#9 Franco’s Giant Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10:30AM-8:30PM
Tuesday: 10:30AM-8:30PM
Wednesday: 10:30AM-8:30PM
Thursday: 10:30AM-8:30PM
Friday: 10:30AM-9:30PM
Saturday: 10:30AM-9:30PM
Sunday: 10:30AM-8:30PM

Benefits
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Offers dessert
  • Has a kid’s menu


The first thing that struck me when I arrived at Franco’s Giant Pizza was its size. The restaurant is huge! Just looking around, it’s obvious that each pizzeria has its own unique style and character.

Next, I noticed the great selection of pizzas on offer. From classic pepperoni pizza to exotic creations like Hawaiian BBQ chicken pizza, there really is something for everyone here. I spent a while exploring all the choices before settling on the classic Honolulu Special: ham and pineapple.

I have to say that Franco’s Giant Pizza didn’t disappoint – this was one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had! The crust was crunchy and flavorful, the sauce was savory with just enough sweetness from the pineapple, and the toppings were fresh and delicious. Absolutely mouth-watering!

Overall, my experience at Franco’s Giant Pizza was nothing short of amazing. If you want some of the best pizza in El Cajon, look no further than Franco’s Giant Pizza!

#10 best pizza place in El Cajon - Pizza Xpress

#10 Pizza Xpress

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

Benefits
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Offers dessert


From the moment I arrived, I could tell this place was special. The traditional brick-oven and inviting atmosphere created a great sense of anticipation before my first bite, and it didn’t disappoint.

The pizzas here are cooked to perfection! The dough is thin and crisp with just enough chewiness. The combination of fresh ingredients, the right amount of cheese, sauce that’s not too sweet but still flavorful, and a hint of oregano give it the perfect Italian flavor.

What really makes Pizza Xpress stand out is their creative topping combinations. Whether you like classic toppings like pepperoni or meatballs or prefer something more adventurous like pineapple and jalapeno peppers, they have something for everyone.

To top it all off (no pun intended), the service here is friendly and efficient. The staff is always helpful and willing to accommodate any requests.

So if you’re looking for the best pizza in El Cajon, look no further than Pizza Xpress. Delicious food plus a friendly atmosphere make this place one of my favorites!

#11 best pizza place in El Cajon - Boardwalk Pizza

#11 Boardwalk Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 3-8PM
Tuesday: 3-8PM
Wednesday: 3-8PM
Thursday: 3-8PM
Friday: 12-10PM
Saturday: 12AM-10PM
Sunday: 12-8PM

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has a kid’s menu

Downsides
  • No delivery


The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and I love the beachy vibes. The servers were all super friendly, always checking in to make sure my pizza experience was top notch.

Speaking of the pizza, it’s out of this world! The crust is perfectly thin and crunchy while the toppings are flavorful and just the right amount. And they have a variety of specialty pizzas like veggie supreme and pesto chicken – yum!

I also appreciate that Boardwalk Pizza serves alcohol – always nice to pair a cold beer with your pizza. And there’s something for everyone with a kid’s menu!

My only complaint is that they don’t do delivery – you’ll have to pick it up yourself or get it delivered through another platform. But no matter how you get it, Boardwalk Pizza has the best pizza in El Cajon, hands down!

#12 best pizza place in El Cajon - URBN

#12 URBN

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

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Serves alcohol


After walking in, I was immediately transported to a pizza-lover’s paradise. Everything was designed for the perfect pizza experience; from the rustic wood decor to the sizzling wood-fired oven in the corner.

The menu at URBN is really unique and has something for everyone. From classic Margherita options to creative combinations like Bacon & Brussels Sprouts, I could not decide what I wanted! With such an amazing selection of signature pizzas, it was hard to pick just one. After much deliberation (and drooling), I settled on the Truffle Mushroom – and it did not disappoint!

The crust was thin and perfectly crisp; it had that nice hint of char from the wood-fire oven that made each bite so delicious. The toppings were so fresh and flavorful that it felt like a dream bite after bite. Simply put, this pizza was out of this world!

If you’re looking for the best pizza in El Cajon, URBN should be at the top of your list. This place definitely sets itself apart with its unique menu and dedication to perfection. What more could you want in a pizza parlor?

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