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Best Pizza in Riverside CA (Updated Fall 2023)

Edward Brock

02/08/2024

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I’ve sampled twelve of the most popular pizza places in this area, each one offering unique flavors and styles. From the best saucy slice to the cheese-pull perfection, I’m here to help you choose the perfect spot for your pizza craving.

The journey will be long but delicious; you can trust me! After all, I’m a highly experienced food critic who has had pizza all over the world and know what it takes to make a good one.

With that said, let’s get started on our quest to find Riverside’s best pizza!

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

#1 D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian

The atmosphere is nice and it’s a great tourist spot. But let’s get to the main attraction – the pizza! This restaurant is definitely worth the visit.

The crust is perfectly cooked, and the toppings are just as delicious! They offer an extensive menu with all of your favorite Italian classics like pepperoni pizzas and calzones. I was especially impressed with their kid-friendly options, which are sure to please even the pickiest eater.

To top off the meal (literally!) they also offer a variety of desserts, such as cannoli and tiramisu, that will make any sweet tooth happy. And if you’re in the mood for a beer or glass of wine to accompany your meal they also serve alcohol.

My only complaint is that they don’t offer delivery, so you have to dine in or take out if you want to enjoy their delectable pizza. But even without delivery, D’Caesaro Pizza & Italian remains my top pick for the best pizza in Riverside CA!

If you’re willing to go an extra 4 miles, you can get to 36 more pizza places in Upland!

#2 Lava Coal-Fired Pizza

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical at first. After all, the name “Lava Coal-Fired Pizza” conjured up images of an erupting volcano and not a restaurant. But my skepticism quickly dissipated when I tasted their delicious creations.

The pizzas here are cooked in a coal-fired oven, giving them a unique flavor that you can only get from this type of cooking. All of the ingredients used to make their pies are top-notch, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. There are also plenty of vegetarian options to choose from, so there’s something for everyone!

Another great thing about Lava Coal-Fired Pizza is the atmosphere. The restaurant is a great place to grab some food and watch your favorite sports team on one of their many big screens. Plus they have some amazing desserts that you won’t find anywhere else.

On the down side, Lava Coal-Fired Pizza does not offer any delivery services. This means you’ll have to take the time to visit their restaurant in person if you want to enjoy their pizza.

All in all, if you’re looking for some delicious pizza with unique flavors, then Lava Coal-Fired Pizza is definitely worth checking out!

#3 Antonio Pizza

I was skeptical at first, seeing as this was my first time here. But I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. From the moment I walked in until the time I left, the atmosphere and staff were so welcoming and kind.

The pizza itself? Absolutely delicious! The crust was perfectly crisp, the toppings were flavorful and fresh, and the cheese was melted to perfection. It almost felt like eating a little slice of heaven.

Moreover, their prices are surprisingly affordable for such high-quality food. All around, Antonio Pizza is definitely an experience I wouldn’t want to pass up if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Riverside CA – it’s worth it!

#4 Antonious Pizza

From the moment I walked through the door, I could tell this was an establishment dedicated to crafting true Italian-style pizza. The smell of fresh dough and melted cheese filled my nose and I knew I had found something special.

The staff is warm and welcoming, and it’s obvious they take great pride in their creations. After speaking with one of the owners about their history and process, I was even more impressed. They make their own secret recipes for sauces and dough that has been passed down through generations.

I tried two different pizzas from Antonious Pizza: a margherita pizza with must fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, as well as a pepperoni pizza with some of the most flavorful pepperoni I’ve ever tasted! Both pies were cooked to perfection; nice and crispy on the outside, yet still soft on the inside!

I’m amazed at how much flavor can be packed into every bite of Antonious Pizza’s pies. It’s no wonder they have such a loyal fan base in Riverside CA. If you’re looking for authentic Italian-style pizza, Antonious Pizza should definitely be your go-to spot!

#5 Capone’s Pizza

I’m a big fan of thin crust pizza and Capone’s serves up an amazing version, with a delicious crunchy edge. The toppings are always fresh and flavorful, and the cheese is melted to perfection. A lot of places skimp on the cheese but not here!

My favorite part about this place is the atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a Prohibition era speakeasy, complete with mobster music, photos of Al Capone adorning the walls, and even vintage newspapers printed with headlines from back in the day. I can’t help but feel transported back in time whenever I visit.

Speaking of time travel… their delivery is lightning fast! I placed an order for two large pizzas and had them at my door in under fifteen minutes. Now that’s efficiency!

Overall, I highly recommend Capone’s Pizza for anyone looking for the best pizza in Riverside CA. Whether you’re stopping by or having it delivered, you’re sure to be dazzled by their delicious slices and authentic ambiance!

#6 Papa Joe’s Pizza

I can say, without a doubt, that no other pizza place even comes close to Papa Joe’s Pizza. From their perfectly cooked crust and toppings to their friendly staff, this place is a real gem.

The sauce was sweet and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat to keep you wanting more. The cheese was melty and gooey in all the right places, and the selection of toppings was second to none. I especially loved their signature olive oil drizzle on top — it added a subtle smokiness that made for an extra delicious bite!

The atmosphere of Papa Joe’s Pizza is cozy yet inviting, with pleasant staff that make you feel at home as soon as you step inside. You can tell they are passionate about making sure each customer has a positive experience.

As far as I’m concerned, Papa Joe’s Pizza is definitely one of the best out there! They offer an unbeatable combination of delicious pizza and super friendly service — it’s no wonder why they are highly recommended among locals!

#7 MOD Pizza

I had the opportunity to sample their famed Mushroom and Prosciutto pizza, and boy, was I impressed. Their crust was light and fluffy, with a great balance of crunchiness on the outside. The combination of mushrooms and prosciutto was sublime, giving off an earthy flavour with a hint of smokiness.

The toppings at MOD Pizza were generous and well-portioned–no skimping here! My only complaint is that they weren’t quite generous enough; I could’ve easily eaten two pizzas by myself!

The atmosphere in the restaurant wasn’t bad either–it had a casual yet friendly vibe that made me feel right at home. The staff members were friendly and helpful too, which was an extra bonus.

Overall, I definitely recommend MOD Pizza for anyone looking for the best pizza in Riverside CA. From top-notch ingredients to unbeatable service, this place has it all!

#8 Fiesta Pizza

I was immediately struck by their unique and flavorful crust. It had a crunchy texture and just the right amount of garlicky flavor that really set it apart from other places. The toppings were also quite impressive – freshly made with incredibly delicious flavors. I especially enjoyed their combination of sausage, onion, bell pepper, and olives.

The service at Fiesta Pizza was great too! The staff were friendly, helpful, and eager to please. They even provided me with a few samples so that I could get a better feel for the place before ordering my meal.

All in all, I’d highly recommend Fiesta Pizza to anyone looking for some of the best pizza in Riverside CA!

If you’re willing to go an extra 11 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in Fontana!

#9 DeMatteo’s Pizza – Riverside

I was absolutely amazed by the selection of pizzas they had – from classic Italian styles, to unique gourmet flavors. The crust was perfectly thin and crispy yet still managed to hold up all the delicious toppings. The sauce was rich and flavorful, not too sweet or salty, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs throughout.

All in all, I can honestly say that DeMatteo’s Pizza – Riverside has some of the best pizza in all of Riverside CA! I plan on being a regular from now on – this place is definitely worth the trip!

#10 Blaze Pizza

The place has a cool vibe and an even cooler layout with the open kitchen, allowing you to watch your pizza get made and baked in minutes. The staff was knowledgeable and accommodating, answering all my questions about the different types of pizza.

I tried their signature pepperoni pizza and it was just as amazing as I thought it would be. The crust was super thin, crisp, and beautifully charred. The sauce was flavorful; not too sweet or spicy but just right. And the pepperoni? Perfectly salty and zesty! You can also top your own pizza with over forty fresh ingredients that they have available—just ask!

I’ll definitely be back to Blaze Pizza soon, because I’m sure they offer some of the best pizza in Riverside CA!

#11 University Pizza Company (UPC)

UPC’s menu options are diverse and exciting, with something to appeal to everyone. From traditional Italian-style pizza to a variety of gourmet toppings, UPC certainly knows how to tantalize their patrons’ taste buds.

The crusts are fresh and chewy, with just the right amount of crunch. The cheese is dripping off each slice and the array of toppings — from garlic to mushrooms — is bursting with flavor. You can sample some unique combinations here that I haven’t found anywhere else.

The atmosphere in UPC is also inviting and energetic. With its modern decor and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot for grabbing a slice after class or celebrating a big win!

It’s no wonder why UPC has been voted as some of the best pizza in Riverside CA; it truly lives up to its reputation! So what are you waiting for? Get yourself down to University Pizza Company tonight!

#12 Marcello’s Pizza & Pasta

The atmosphere of the restaurant was great. The staff were very welcoming and accommodating, and the décor was inviting and cozy. There was a wide selection of pizzas on offer, ranging from classic margherita to more creative flavors like Italian sausage, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. I don’t even want to mention how delicious the hand-crafted sauces were! The price was also surprisingly affordable; I could get a large pizza for less than ten bucks.

I was even more impressed when my pizza came out. It had all the elements that make for a perfect pizza: crispy yet chewy dough, plenty of cheese and just the right amount of sauce. The flavor balance in each bite was spot on – nothing overpowered anything else which resulted in an unforgettable experience!

All in all, Marcello’s Pizza & Pasta is definitely worth trying if you’re looking for the best pizza in Riverside CA. You won’t be disappointed as it really does provide a top-notch experience with its friendly staff, wide selection of pizzas, delectable sauces, and superbly crafted pies!

Best Deep Dish Pizza – Romano’s Chicago Pizzeria

Walking into Romano’s, I immediately felt as if I had been teleported to the windy city of Chicago. The aroma of freshly baked pizza stuffed the air, and my taste buds could hardly contain their excitement. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things cheesy and saucy, I knew I was in for a treat.

Taking a seat, I eagerly perused the menu, which boasted an impressive array of toppings. From classic pepperoni to extravagant combinations like bacon and pineapple (for all you daredevils out there), Romano’s had it all. But let’s not forget the star of the show – the deep dish itself. This pizza was so thick, I half-expected it to have its own gravitational pull. Each bite was a journey through layers of crust, cheese, and tomato sauce that left me contemplating the meaning of life.

The servers at Romano’s were a delight, striking the perfect balance between attentive and amusing. They charmed me with their Chicago accents and even entertained me with a few pizza-themed jokes. Just how many slices of pizza can fit into a backpack? Only a pepperoni! Cue my eruption of laughter alongside the rest of the diners.

As a seasoned traveler, I must say that Romano’s Chicago Pizzeria is a hidden gem in Riverside, offering a taste of the windy city without actually having to brave the frigid temperatures of Chicago. So if you find yourself craving some of the best deep dish pizza in Riverside, don’t hesitate to pay Romano’s a visit. Your taste buds will thank you, and your backpack might just fit a few extra slices too!

Best Thin Crust Pizza – Ray’s Pizza

Walking into Ray’s Pizza, I immediately felt like I had stepped into a sports bar. The walls were covered with giant TV screens broadcasting every game you could imagine. It was like watching the Super Bowl surrounded by pizzas. Talk about a touchdown! And the best part? You can wash down your delicious pie with a cold beer or a fancy cocktail. It’s like they know that pizza and alcohol are a match made in cheesy heaven.

Now let’s talk about the food. As a vegetarian, I must say, their vegetarian options were surprisingly impressive. From veggie-loaded pizzas to scrumptious salads, Ray’s Pizza has got you covered if you’re a veggie lover like myself. And if you have any room left after devouring a whole pizza (which I doubt), they also offer mouthwatering desserts. Their Nutella calzone is a gooey delight that melted my heart, and my taste buds.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. No reservations? Seriously Ray’s? I mean, come on! Is it too much to ask for a guaranteed spot in this pizza wonderland? I guess you just have to cross your fingers and hope there’s a table available when you’re ready to indulge. But let me tell you, it’s definitely worth the risk.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best thin crust pizza in riverside ca, with the added bonus of a sports bar atmosphere, Ray’s Pizza is the place to be. Just be prepared to take your chances on a table. Happy munching!