Los Angeles isn’t just the land of Hollywood dreams and sunny beaches—it’s also a pizza lover’s playground. Imagine this: you’re strolling through the city, the scent of freshly baked dough wafts through the air, and you’re faced with a delightful dilemma—where do you grab the perfect slice? LA’s pizza scene is as diverse as its people, offering everything from classic Neapolitan pies to innovative creations with a California twist. In this guide, we’ll explore the best pizza spots in Los Angeles, tailored for you, the end consumer, to find your next crave-worthy bite. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these pizzerias promise a delicious adventure.
Why Los Angeles is a Pizza Paradise
What makes LA a standout for pizza? It’s a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity spills over into its food scene. Since the mid-20th century, pizza has been a staple here, evolving from humble beginnings to a culinary art form. The city’s access to fresh, local ingredients—like ripe tomatoes, artisanal cheeses, and seasonal produce—gives pizzerias an edge. Add in a mix of traditional techniques and bold experimentation, and you’ve got a recipe for pizza perfection. From hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale eateries, LA has a slice for every mood and budget.
What Makes a Pizza Place the Best?
Before we dive into the list, let’s set the bar. The best pizza spots in LA shine thanks to a few key factors:
- Quality Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, vibrant sauces, and toppings that pop.
- Crust Perfection: Whether it’s crispy, chewy, or airy, the crust is the foundation.
- Creativity: Unique flavor combos that surprise and delight.
- Ambiance: A vibe that makes you want to linger—or grab and go with a smile.
- Customer Love: Spots that keep people coming back for more.
With that in mind, here are the top pizzerias you need to try.
The Best Pizza Spots in Los Angeles
1. Pizzeria Mozza (Hollywood)
Run by culinary legends Nancy Silverton, Mario Batali, and Joe Bastianich, this spot is a pizza pilgrimage. The wood-fired oven churns out pies with a crust that’s crispy yet tender. Try the Margherita for a classic fix or the Squash Blossom with burrata for a seasonal treat. The lively atmosphere, with its open kitchen and buzzing bar, makes it a memorable stop.
2. Jon & Vinny’s (Fairfax & Brentwood)
This hip hangout blends Italian-American nostalgia with LA cool. Known for thin-crust pizzas, it’s a go-to for bold flavors. The White Lightning—loaded with mozzarella, parmesan, garlic confit, and chili—packs a punch. Its retro-casual vibe is perfect for a laid-back night out with friends.
3. Prime Pizza (Fairfax & Downtown LA)
Craving New York-style? Prime Pizza delivers big, foldable slices with a satisfying crunch. The Pepperoni Square is a thick, cheesy dream with crispy edges. It’s no-frills and fast—ideal for when you need pizza now.
4. Roberta’s (Culver City)
Hailing from Brooklyn, Roberta’s brings its wood-fired magic to LA. The Bee Sting, with soppressata, chili, and honey, strikes a sweet-spicy balance that’s addictive. The industrial-chic space and spacious patio make it great for groups.
5. Triple Beam Pizza (Highland Park & Echo Park)
Roman-style pizza lovers, this one’s for you. Sold by the slice, these rectangular pies boast an airy, crispy crust after 48 hours of fermentation. The Mushroom pizza with wild mushrooms and truffle oil is a standout. The minimalist setting keeps the focus on the food.
6. Cosa Buona (Echo Park)
Chef Zach Pollack fuses Italian tradition with California flair. The wood-fired Pepperoni, spiked with house-made sausage and chili oil, is a fan favorite. Its retro, neighborhood feel adds charm to every bite.
7. Ronan (Fairfax)
Ronan’s seasonal menu keeps things fresh, with blistered crusts and inventive toppings. The Sweet Cheeks, featuring guanciale, ricotta, and black pepper honey, is a sweet-savory masterpiece. The stylish, intimate space (plus a cozy patio) elevates the experience.
8. Pizzana (Brentwood & West Hollywood)
Chef Daniele Uditi’s Neapolitan roots shine in slow-fermented dough and top-notch ingredients. The Cacio e Pepe pizza, inspired by the pasta dish, is creamy and peppery perfection. Sleek yet rustic, it’s a chic spot for pizza lovers.
9. Apollonia’s Pizzeria (Mid-Wilshire)
Detroit-style pizza fans, rejoice. Apollonia’s serves thick, airy crusts with crispy edges. The Red Top, with Wisconsin brick cheese and a marinara stripe, is bold and satisfying. It’s casual and fuss-free—just how pizza should be.
10. DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana (East Hollywood & Santa Monica)
For authentic Neapolitan vibes, DeSano imports Italian ingredients and fires up its 900°F oven. The San Gennaro, with sausage, peppers, and onions, is hearty and flavorful. The open, communal setup adds a warm, welcoming touch.
Insider Tips for Pizza Perfection
- Mix It Up: Step outside your comfort zone—try toppings like guanciale or truffle oil.
- Timing is Everything: Hit popular spots like Jon & Vinny’s during off-peak hours to skip the wait.
- Wine It Up: Pair your pizza with a local vintage—many of these places have stellar wine lists.
- Share the Love: Order a few pies to sample a range of flavors with your crew.
Why LA’s Pizza Scene Stands Out
LA’s pizza game is strong because it doesn’t play by one rulebook. You’ve got New York slices, Neapolitan classics, Roman rectangles, and Detroit squares—all in one city. The fresh produce and global influences let chefs get creative, while the laid-back LA vibe keeps it approachable. Whether you’re after comfort food or a gourmet experience, these pizzerias deliver.
Your Next Slice Awaits
Los Angeles is a treasure trove of pizza perfection, from the wood-fired elegance of Pizzeria Mozza to the quirky brilliance of Ronan. Each spot on this list brings something special to the table—be it a killer crust, standout toppings, or a vibe you can’t resist. So, rally your friends, pick a spot (or two), and dive into LA’s pizza scene. Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice or settling in for a feast, your perfect pizza moment is waiting. What’s your favorite LA pizza spot? Let us know!
