Long Beach, California boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and pizza holds a prominent place in its diverse gastronomic landscape. From classic New York-style slices to inventive gourmet creations, Long Beach offers a pizza experience for every palate. This comprehensive guide explores 27 of the best pizza places in Long Beach, ensuring your next pizza night is nothing short of exceptional. We've categorized them to help you find your perfect slice.
Classic New York Style Pizza in Long Beach
New York-style pizza, known for its thin crust and large, foldable slices, remains a beloved staple. These Long Beach pizzerias excel in this category:
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Bella's Pizzeria: Bella's is a Long Beach institution, famous for its classic cheese slices and generous toppings. Their sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and the crust achieves that perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. Expect a wait during peak hours – it's a testament to their popularity!
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Tony's Pizza Napoletana: While not strictly just New York style, Tony's offers a fantastic rendition of a thin-crust pie with high-quality ingredients. Their commitment to fresh ingredients elevates this above your average slice.
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Brooklyn Avenue Pizza: True to its name, this spot delivers a taste of Brooklyn right to Long Beach. Their Sicilian square slices are especially noteworthy, offering a thick, soft base that’s perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Gourmet and Creative Pizza Options
Long Beach is also home to numerous pizzerias pushing the boundaries of pizza creation. These establishments offer unique flavor combinations and innovative approaches to the classic pie:
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Pieology Pizzeria: Pieology is a build-your-own pizza haven, offering an extensive selection of crusts, sauces, cheeses, and toppings. This is perfect for those with specific dietary needs or adventurous palates.
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Deano's Pizza: Deano's frequently features unique, seasonal pizzas that change with the availability of fresh ingredients. Check their website for their current offerings – they often showcase inventive combinations that are sure to surprise and delight.
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The Habit Burger Grill (Yes, Really!): While primarily known for their burgers, The Habit's surprisingly delicious pizza is worth a mention. They offer creative combinations and a more casual, quick-service experience.
Unique Pizza Styles and Experiences
Beyond the classic and gourmet, Long Beach also offers some truly unique pizza experiences:
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Naples Pizzeria: Serving up authentic Neapolitan pizza, Naples utilizes traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients to create pizzas that are both flavorful and visually appealing. Expect a slightly charred crust and a bubbly, airy texture.
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PizzaRev: Another build-your-own option, PizzaRev uses a fast-casual model to allow you to fully customize your pizza creation. This is great for larger groups with varying preferences.
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Wildflour Bread Co.: Although not strictly a pizzeria, Wildflour frequently offers delicious, wood-fired pizzas. Their crust is the real star here, benefiting from their bakery expertise.
Finding Your Perfect Slice: A Quick Guide
To help you navigate this delicious landscape, consider these factors:
| Category | Best for | Example Pizzeria(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Classic NY Style | Quick, affordable, familiar flavors | Bella's Pizzeria, Tony's Pizza Napoletana |
| Gourmet & Creative | Unique flavor combinations, upscale feel | Pieology, Deano's Pizza |
| Unique Styles | Authentic Neapolitan, wood-fired options | Naples Pizzeria, Wildflour Bread Co. |
Beyond the 27: Honorable Mentions
While this list showcases 27 stand-out pizzerias, many other excellent options deserve recognition. Local favorites, smaller independent shops, and hidden gems offer a unique culinary experience. Don't hesitate to explore and discover your new favorite Long Beach pizza spot!
Conclusion: Your Long Beach Pizza Adventure Awaits!
Long Beach's pizza scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you crave a classic slice or an inventive gourmet creation, you're sure to find a pizza paradise in this coastal California city. So, grab your friends, family, or even just yourself, and embark on a delicious pizza adventure in Long Beach – you won't be disappointed! Remember to check the websites or call ahead for hours of operation and availability, especially during peak times. Happy eating!
