Los Angeles, a city known for its sun-drenched beaches and Hollywood glamour, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious pizza scene. From classic New York-style slices to inventive gourmet pies, there's a pizza for every palate in the City of Angels. This comprehensive guide explores 37 of the best pizza places in Los Angeles, categorized for your convenience. This list includes established favorites and exciting newcomers, ensuring you find your next pizza obsession.
Classic New York Style
These pizzerias deliver that quintessential thin-crust, foldable slice experience.
- Joe's Pizza: A true LA institution, Joe's serves up generous, classic New York-style slices that are perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal. Their simple cheese slice is a masterpiece.
- DeSano Pizza: DeSano offers a slightly more upscale take on the classic NY slice, using high-quality ingredients and a wood-fired oven.
- Little Dom's: This popular spot serves both pizza and Italian-American comfort food, their pizzas are thin crust and delicious.
- Prince Street Pizza: A newcomer, bringing a taste of Brooklyn's best to Los Angeles. Expect long lines, but the wait is worth it!
Chicago Deep Dish & Detroit Style
For those who prefer a thicker, more substantial pizza experience.
- Pequod's Pizza: This Chicago-style deep-dish institution is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a truly deep, cheesy, and satisfying pizza.
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: Another Chicago deep-dish stalwart, known for its buttery crust and generous toppings.
- Buddy's Pizza: Authentic Detroit-style pizza with its signature thick, crispy crust and toppings right to the edge.
Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza emphasizes quality ingredients and a simple, yet elegant preparation.
- Gjelina: A popular Venice Beach spot known for its wood-fired pizzas and trendy atmosphere.
- Osteria Mozza: Nancy Silverton's acclaimed restaurant offers exceptional Neapolitan pizzas in a refined setting.
- Pizzeria Stella: This stylish restaurant serves up authentic Neapolitan pizzas with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
- Bestia: Bestia is a popular spot for their creative pizzas in a bustling atmosphere.
Gourmet & Creative Pizzas
These pizzerias push the boundaries of traditional pizza-making, creating innovative and delicious pies.
- Antica Pizzeria Romana: A popular spot serving delicious Roman-style pizza.
- Pizza Antica: Another Roman style pizza place with a wonderful crust.
- Angel City Pizza: Serving LA residents with many different styles of delicious pizza.
- Prime Pizza: Offers creative gourmet pizzas with unusual toppings and high quality ingredients.
- Wood fired Pizza: A great spot for those looking to try a creative take on wood-fired pizza.
- The Butcher's Daughter: Known for its creative pizzas and vegan options.
- Superfine Pizza: Offers unique pizza combinations and has a great atmosphere.
- Guerrilla Tacos: Not strictly a pizza place but their occasional pizza offerings are legendary.
Other Notable Pizza Places
This category encompasses pizzerias that don't fit neatly into the previous categories but still deserve recognition.
- Stella Barra Pizzeria: A popular spot for their wood-fired pizzas and excellent service.
- Caioti Pizza Cafe: Offers an eclectic mix of styles and flavors.
- Two Boots Pizza: Known for its quirky atmosphere and unique pizza toppings.
- 800 Degrees: A fast-casual spot offering customizable pizzas.
- Pizzana: Celebrated for its creative pizzas and high-quality ingredients.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
These are some lesser-known but equally delicious pizza spots in Los Angeles.
- Lido Di Dolce: Offers classic and unique pizza choices in a hidden gem of a location.
- Roscoe's House of Chicken 'N Waffles: Although known for its chicken and waffles, their pizza is a delightful surprise.
- Sotto: A popular Italian restaurant with delicious pizzas.
- La Piazza al Forno: Offers traditional and creative pizzas in a great atmosphere.
- Firenze Ristorante: Authentic Italian cooking with delicious pizzas.
Vegan & Vegetarian Pizza Options
For those seeking plant-based pizza delights:
- Crossroads Kitchen: A popular vegan restaurant with delicious pizzas.
- Gracias Madre: Another popular vegan restaurant known for its creative and flavorful food.
- Sage Vegan Bistro: Offers delicious pizzas and other vegan options.
Pizza by Neighborhood
Here's a breakdown by area to help you find a pizza place near you:
- Downtown LA: Joe's Pizza, 800 Degrees
- West Hollywood: Pizzeria Stella, Prime Pizza
- Santa Monica: Gjelina, Caioti Pizza Cafe
- Venice: Gjelina
- Silver Lake: DeSano Pizza
- Hollywood: Prince Street Pizza
Finding Your Perfect Slice
This extensive list provides a starting point for your Los Angeles pizza adventure. Consider the style of pizza you prefer, your budget, and the neighborhood you're in when making your selection. Don't be afraid to try something new and explore the diverse world of pizza that Los Angeles offers!
(Note: This list is not exhaustive, and many other excellent pizza places exist in Los Angeles. This is just a selection of some of the most highly-rated and popular options.)
Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, menus, and online ordering options before visiting. Enjoy your pizza journey through the City of Angels!
