We all know how much Angelenos love their pizza, and with the city being home to some of the best pizzerias in the country, it’s no surprise why. But what happens when you’ve exhausted all of your local options and are craving something new? Fear not, foodies, because we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’re taking a look at the best pizza restaurants outside of LA that you absolutely must try at least once. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to embark on a mouth-watering journey through some of the best pizzerias in California.
1. Rooftop Pizzeria & Draft Station, Sante Fe: Looking for a place to enjoy hot, fresh pizza, cold craft beer, and stunning views of Sante Fe? Look no further than the Rooftop Pizzeria & Draft Station. Their casual, laid-back vibe and menu featuring classic Margherita pizza and creative specialty pies make it a hit with both locals and visitors. Plus, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly rooftop restaurant for dinner or a fun hangout with friends, the Rooftop Pizzeria & Draft Station has got you covered. So if you’re in need of some seriously good pizza and a night out, head on up to the Rooftop Pizzeria & Draft Station. Your taste buds (and Instagram feed) will thank you.
2. Goodfellas, Staten Island: Listen up, folks. We’re about to let you in on a little Staten Island secret: Goodfellas Italian restaurant has pizza that will blow your mind. I’m not talking about your run-of-the-mill pizza, oh no. I’m talking about crispy, chewy, cheesy goodness that’ll make you forget your own name. And don’t even get me started on the toppings. From classic margherita to loaded meat lovers, they’ve got it all. Trust me, one slice and you’ll be a Goodfellas pizza convert for life.
3. Pizzeria Mozza, Newport Beach: Are you a pizza lover? Then you HAVE to visit Pizzeria Mozza, owned by none other than celeb chef, Mario Batali, and badass baker, Nancy Silverton. Their pizzas are served up the way they do in Naples – thin, crispy crust and topped with seasonal ingredients. But, the star of the show has gotta be the Funghi misti – a white pizza loaded with mouthwatering roasted mushrooms, fontina, taleggio, and thyme. This ain’t your run-of-the-mill pizza, folks – the flavours are perfectly balanced to create a taste that’s outta this world. Get your butt over to Pizzeria Mozza stat!
4. Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana, Houston: Houston is a foodie’s dream, and Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana is a prime example. This sibling-owned pizzeria serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pies with imported ingredients and a wood-fired oven. The crust is pillowy soft, and the toppings are packed with flavor (without being overcomplicated). The Margherita pizza is a crowd-pleaser that you absolutely have to try. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
5. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, San Francisco: Houston’s culinary scene is seriously impressive, and Pizaro’s Pizza Napoletana is the proof in the pizza pudding. With original and authentic Neapolitan-style pies created by a dynamic sibling duo using imported ingredients, each pizza is baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. The crusts are soft and chewy, and the toppings are simple but pack a punch in all the right ways. Want to know the fan favorite? You absolutely have to try the Margherita pizza – trust us on this one.
6. Apizza Scholls, Portland: Hey pizza lovers, have you heard of Apizza Scholls in Portland? They serve up some of the most delicious New York-style pizza you’ll ever sink your teeth into. The crust is thin, chewy and the toppings are like a party in your mouth. Make sure you order their signature pizza, the Apizza Amore, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, basil and extra virgin olive oil. Sure, the wait times can be long but trust us, it’s worth it. Don’t just take our word for it, go taste it for yourself!
7. Paulie Gee’s, Brooklyn: We’re gonna let you in on a little secret…Paulie Gee’s serves up the **best** wood-fired pizza in the whole of New York! **Seriously.** Their secret? It’s all in the special sourdough crust and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Yum! And, if you fancy a little *heat* with your pizza, you gotta try the Bee Sting pizza. It’s topped with spicy soppressata, honey, and chili flakes – a fan favourite! But, fair warning – this pizzeria isn’t for the faint-hearted. Get ready for some seriously spicy and flavour-packed slices. Are you up for the challenge? Head to Paulie Gee’s ASAP!
And there you have it, folks, the best pizza restaurants outside of LA that you absolutely have to try at least once. Whether you’re in Houston, San Francisco, or even New York, there’s a pizzeria for everyone. So, the next time you’re craving some pizza, skip the local chain and head over to one of these pizzerias for a truly unique and memorable experience. Happy eating!
Feature photo by Nadin Sh.
