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Best Pizza in San Diego CA (Updated Fall 2023)

Edward Brock

02/08/2024

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I’ve tried out 12 places here and, after much debate, am ready to share my opinion about the best pizza this city has to offer.

Forget authenticity; these recommendations have been taste-tested by yours truly! And even though I’m a serious food critic, I promise you won’t take any of this too seriously either.

So, whether you’re after a classic Margherita pie or something more out-there, join me as I rank my top picks for the best pizza in San Diego CA.

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

#1 Pizza e Birra San Diego

The restaurant has a unique atmosphere, with antique vaulted ceilings, wood-paneled walls, and exposed brick. It looks like something out of a classic Italian movie.

The pizza was superb. The crust was perfectly thin but crispy and it had just the right amount of cheese and toppings. It was cooked to perfection in their wood-fired ovens, retaining its Neapolitan flavor while still being uniquely San Diego.

My companion ordered a beer to go with the pizza and they served up some delicious craft beers that really complimented the meal.

All in all, Pizza e Birra San Diego has some of the best pizza in San Diego CA! They know how to make great pizza with just the right ingredients, cooked to perfection in their wood fired ovens. For an unforgettable pizza dinner experience, check out Pizza e Birra San Diego!

If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 24 more pizza places in San Diego!

#2 Square Pizza Co

I’m not exaggerating when I say that this place was well worth the visit. The atmosphere was inviting and the staff was friendly and helpful.

The pizza itself is simply divine! The crust was perfectly crisp, with just the right amount of char on it. The sauce was flavorful and had a nice balance of herbs and spices. And the toppings were fresh, juicy, and delectable.

One thing that really stood out to me was the variety of pies they have available – from classic pepperonis to savory BBQ chicken pizzas, there’s something for everyone here!

To top it all off, the price was very reasonable compared to other places I’ve been to. Plus, they offer delivery if you don’t feel like eating in. All in all, an amazing pizza experience that I would recommend to anyone who has a hankering for quality pie!

#3 Zia Gourmet Pizza

The first time I ate at Zia Gourmet Pizza, I was impressed with the variety of toppings they offered. From classic pepperoni to exotic options like fig and olive, you can definitely find something to tantalize your taste buds! The pizza itself is delicious – the crust was light and crispy and the cheese melted perfectly over the other ingredients.

The atmosphere at Zia Gourmet Pizza is great too. The decor is classic Italian-inspired with brick walls and dim lighting, creating a cozy environment. The wait staff were friendly and helpful, which really put me in a good mood!

Overall, I would give Zia Gourmet Pizza five stars out of five – if you’re looking for the best pizza in San Diego CA then look no further than Zia Gourmet Pizza!

#4 Massachusetts Mike’s Pizzeria

The first time I stepped foot in the restaurant I knew it was a winner. The staff was friendly and inviting, and the decor had a homey feel that made me feel welcome and relaxed.

I ordered the house special, a large pizza with Italian herbs and ricotta cheese, and it was heavenly! The crust was thin and crispy, topped with a generous amount of cheese, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices. Better yet, it had the perfect balance of sweetness from the sauce and salty flavors from the toppings.

Furthermore, the portions were incredibly generous – two slices filled me up (which is rare for a food critic!).

For dessert I tried one of their signature calzones stuffed with apple pie filling. It was simply divine! The pastry was light yet chewy while the inside was juicy and tart – a true explosion of flavors!

All-in-all Massachusetts Mike’s Pizzeria is definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in San Diego CA! From amazing flavors to generous portions to welcoming ambience – this restaurant has it all.

#5 Bronx Pizza

I expected the usual American fare, but Bronx Pizza blew my socks off with its incredible flavors and unique ingredients. The crust was just the right thickness – not too thick, but not too thin either. It had a good chew to it and was full of flavor.

The toppings were simply amazing! I’ve seen some odd pizzas in my travels, but this one really took the cake. Instead of your run-of-the-mill pepperoni and cheese, they had a combination of Italian sausage, spicy pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, caramelized onions and roasted garlic that made my taste buds sing.

And the sauces were to die for! The red sauce had just enough kick to make it interesting while the white sauce had a wonderful creamy texture that rounded out all of the flavors perfectly.

Overall, Bronx Pizza is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for some incredible pizza in San Diego CA!

#6 Tribute Pizza

I’m not sure how they do it, but the dough is light, crispy, and perfectly cooked. The toppings are always fresh and flavorful, and the amount of cheese is just right.

I love that Tribute Pizza also serves alcohol so I can pair a glass of wine with every slice. Plus, they have a great kids’ menu so I can bring my nieces and nephews along for some family time. Plus, their vegetarian options make everyone happy!

What’s more, when it comes to dessert – you won’t be disappointed at Tribute Pizza! Everything from soft-serve ice cream to brownies are served up here.

The only downside is that you can’t get delivery – that would be a bonus for sure! But if you’re looking for the best pizza in San Diego CA, then Tribute Pizza fits the bill nicely.

#7 Mom & Dom’s Pizza

I must admit that I was a bit skeptical at first; after all, this was my first time eating at Mom & Dom’s Pizza, and they were located in the small city of San Diego. But all skepticism disappeared when I took my first bite of the pizza. It was absolutely delicious! The crust was thin and crisped to perfection, the sauce had just the right amount of sweetness and spices, and the cheese melted into a perfect blend of flavors.

I was particularly impressed by the topping selection. They had all my favorite topping combinations such as pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms as well as a few unique pizzas like pesto chicken with feta cheese and artichoke hearts. Every combination tasted extraordinary!

The restaurant itself is quite cozy and family-friendly. There’s an old-fashioned jukebox playing classic hits from yesteryear and a limited but tasty selection of beer on tap. Plus, their prices are really reasonable for top-notch pizza!

All in all, I highly recommend Mom & Dom’s Pizza for anyone looking for some truly amazing pizza. This place has definitely earned a spot in my heart (and stomach!) as the best pizza in San Diego CA!

#8 Mom’s Pizza & Pasta

I love the atmosphere of this place. It’s got that classic Italian vibe with a modern spin, plus the wait staff is super friendly and accommodating. Plus, Mom’s definitely has the best selection of pizzas in San Diego!

When it comes to the pizza itself, I can honestly say that I’ve never had better. The combination of thick, yet light crust with gooey cheese and delicious toppings makes this one of my all-time favorite pies. And don’t get me started on their signature garlic knots! Perfectly crisp on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft inside – these are some serious game changers!

All in all, if you’re ever in San Diego and are looking for some truly awesome pizza, look no further than Mom’s. This place is definitely worth a visit if you want to experience top quality Italian cuisine in a fun and friendly environment!

If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 25 more pizza places in San Diego!

#9 TNT Pizza

When I arrived at the restaurant, I was immediately impressed with the atmosphere. The decor is fun and festive, creating a perfect atmosphere for enjoying a delicious pizza.

When it came time to order, I was overwhelmed by the menu options. There are so many different types of pizzas to choose from – from classic to specialty – that it’s hard to pick just one! Fortunately, I eventually decided on an old favorite: pepperoni and olive.

The pizza arrived hot and fresh out of the oven, loaded with tasty toppings and perfectly cooked crust. The flavors all worked together in perfect harmony, creating a delicious bite every single time! The cheese was perfectly melted and gooey, while the sauce had just enough zing without being overpowering.

Overall, I’d have to give TNT Pizza a 5-star rating! It may not be the fanciest place around but they certainly know how to make some of the best pizza in San Diego CA! Next time I’m craving a slice or two, you can bet that TNT will be my first stop!

#10 Pauly’s Pizza Joint

The pizzas here are truly a sight to behold. The crust is thin and crisp, and the sauce has great flavor. The toppings offer something for everyone; from classics like pepperoni and sausage to unexpected options like feta cheese and artichoke hearts.

But the true star of the show at Pauly’s Pizza Joint is the cheese. It’s creamy, gooey, and melts in your mouth like a dream. I’ve had some amazing pizza around the world, but nothing has come close to Pauly’s Pizza Joint!

I also have to give an honorable mention to their amazing customer service. Everyone seemed genuinely excited that we were there, which made us feel welcomed and appreciated. They also provided us with a few samples while we were waiting for our pizza — how could you not be impressed?

I highly recommend checking out Pauly’s Pizza Joint if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in San Diego CA!

#11 Sisters Pizza

When I arrived at Sisters Pizza, the first thing that caught my eye was the bright and vibrant decor. The colorful walls lined with vintage themed artwork made for a fun atmosphere.

The pizza itself was out-of-this-world fantastic! It had just the right amount of crunch from the thin crust and a delicious medley of rich flavors from the toppings, including a unique blend of spices that really set it apart.

The service was also quite impressive. Every order came with a warm smile and friendly attitude, which is always appreciated when you’re trying to enjoy your pizza!

Overall, if you’re looking for some truly amazing pizza in San Diego CA, then look no further than Sisters Pizza! I highly recommend them – it’s easily one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had!

#12 Pizzeria Luigi

The first thing that really caught my attention was the garlic knots. They were so soft and flavorful, I could hardly believe it! But then came the pizza. Oh, the pizza! The classic cheese pizza was near perfect – a super thin crust with just enough gooey cheese and savory sauce. It tasted like it was straight out of Italy!

I also tried two other pizzas: pepperoni and sausage. Both were delicious, but the pepperoni pizza stole the show. The artichoke hearts on top added an extra layer of flavor that made it unique and oh-so-tasty.

The service at Pizzeria Luigi is also fantastic – the staff is friendly and attentive, making sure each customer has a great experience. All in all, I can easily say this is some of the best pizza in San Diego CA!

Best Deep Dish Pizza – Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria

Now, before you roll your eyes and say, Deep dish in San Diego? Yeah, right! let me tell you, Lefty’s is the real deal. I stumbled upon this hidden gem while on a quest for the perfect pizza, and boy, did I strike cheesy gold!

Let’s start with the ambiance. Lefty’s is a nice tourist spot, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The dim lighting and cozy booths create the ideal atmosphere for indulging in pizza heaven. And did I mention they serve alcohol? Pizza and beer – a match made in cheesy heaven!

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – their deep dish pizza. It’s like a gooey, cheese-filled dream. The crust is buttery and flaky, forming a firm foundation for the mountains of cheese, sauce, and toppings that await you. Each bite is a cheesy explosion that will make you question all your life choices leading up to this moment.

But here’s the downside – Lefty’s doesn’t accept reservations. So, if you’re a planner like me, you may end up waiting for a table. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? Plus, you can use that time to drool over the dessert menu. Their homemade cannoli is to die for, and they have a selection of gelatos that will make you forget you ever had room for pizza!

So, my fellow pizza enthusiasts, if you find yourself in San Diego craving the best deep dish pizza, head to Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria. This place is a slice above the competition, and your taste buds will thank you for it!

Best Thin Crust Pizza – Landini’s Pizzeria

It’s like a slice of heaven wrapped in cheesy goodness, and I couldn’t get enough of it. Plus, the fact that they serve alcohol means you can pair your pizza with a nice cold beer or a glass of wine, because everyone knows pizza tastes even better with a little liquid courage.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. But Edward, I’m a vegetarian! Well, fear not my leaf-eating friends, Landini’s has got you covered. They have some fantastic vegetarian options that will make even the most dedicated carnivore reconsider their preferences. Trust me, I had a friend who claimed to be a meat-loving machine, but Landini’s veggie pizza changed his life. It’s that good.

But wait, there’s more! Not only does Landini’s serve mouthwatering pizza, they also offer delectable desserts. So, if you somehow manage to save room after devouring their pizza, you can treat yourself to a sweet ending. Just be warned, you might have to unbutton your pants after this indulgent feast.

Now, let’s get to the downsides. Unfortunately, Landini’s does not accept reservations. So, if you’re planning on coming here during peak hours, be prepared to wait. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to make new friends and discuss the wonders of thin crust pizza with fellow pizza enthusiasts.

All in all, Landini’s Pizzeria is a great spot for pizza lovers and tourists alike. So, grab a seat, raise a slice, and prepare for your taste buds to be forever grateful. And don’t forget to thank me later for introducing you to this pizza paradise in San Diego’s little Italy!

Best Wood Fired Pizza – Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill

Walking into Sammy’s, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of woodfire and melted cheese. As a distinguished food critic, I fancy myself quite the pizza connoisseur, so I jumped at the opportunity to try their famous pies.

First, I ordered their Classic Margherita pizza, which arrived at my table looking like a piece of art. The crust was perfectly charred and crispy, with just the right amount of chewiness. The fresh basil and juicy tomatoes danced harmoniously with the creamy mozzarella, creating a heavenly bite after bite. I couldn’t help but sing That’s Amore with every mouthful!

Next, I dived into their signature Maui Wowie pizza, with its delightful combination of ham, pineapple, red onions, and cilantro. Now, I know the pineapple-on-pizza debate can get heated, but trust me when I say that Sammy’s Maui Wowie will convert any skeptic. The flavors blended together like a tropical symphony, transporting me straight to a beachside paradise with every bite.

Now, let’s talk about variety. Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill offers an impressive selection of non-traditional toppings, like roasted garlic, marinated artichoke hearts, and even truffle oil. As someone who appreciates pizza that thinks outside the box, I was overjoyed with the endless possibilities.

To top it all off, the staff at Sammy’s were an absolute delight. With their cheerful attitudes and witty banter, they provided an unforgettable dining experience. Plus, their recommendations were top-notch.

So, my fellow pizza enthusiasts, trust me when I say that Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill is a slice above the rest. From their perfectly crafted dough to their innovative toppings, they have mastered the art of wood fired pizza. Whether you’re a local or a fellow traveler, make sure to drop by Sammy’s and experience a pizza party in your mouth. It’s a pizza experience that I’ll be