We set out on a mission to find the best Pizza in Santa Monica, CA, and let us tell you, we were not disappointed.

From the moment you take a bite, the flavors explode in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

With a wide array of options, from traditional to innovative, this coastal city offers something for every pizza lover.

Join us as we guide you through the top pizza joints in Santa Monica, where your taste buds will be treated to a truly unforgettable experience.

Key Takeaways

• Pizza Joint is known for its pizzas, pasta, and salad, and offers mini pizzas on the kids menu. It has a great wine selection and an Italian and Mediterranean vibe in the interior.
• Bruno's is a local favorite that has been serving handmade pizzas and Italian classics for over three decades. Their pizzas have a yummy and warm taste, similar to small restaurants in Venice. It's an ideal place for families and solo dates, with a convenient location for post-meal activities.
• Joe's Pizza, opened in 2006, is famous for its NY-style thin-crust pizzas. It serves authentic NY-style pizza with the right char and is an affordable yet yummy meal for kids. It's also a good choice for a late-night meal and has made the list of best pizza places in Santa Monica.
• Milo & Olive is an all-day bakery and pizza joint recognized in Michelins California guide. It offers an extensive menu with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, and has a trendy vibe for dates and hanging out with friends. One of their popular pizzas is the Burrata + prosciutto di parma pizza with rich burrata and fresh arugula.

Local Favorites

One of our top local favorites for pizza in Santa Monica is Brunos, which has been a beloved spot for over three decades. This hidden gem is known for its handmade pizzas and Italian classics that never fail to satisfy. The pizzas at Brunos are a real treat, with a perfect balance of flavors and a warm, delicious crust. They've a similar taste to the small restaurants in Venice, which adds to their charm.

Located conveniently, Brunos is the ideal spot for a post-meal activity. Whether you're looking to take a stroll on the beach or explore the lively Santa Monica Pier, Brunos' location makes it easy to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

The interior of Brunos is cozy and inviting, with red checkered tablecloths that add to its authentic Italian and Mediterranean vibe. It's the perfect place for families to enjoy a meal together or for a solo date night. The relaxed and upscale atmosphere ensures a pleasurable dining experience.

When you visit Brunos, be sure to try their famous hand-made pizza. Topped with sausage, pepperoni, mushroom, green pepper, onion, and olive, it's a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. The combination of fresh ingredients and expert craftsmanship make Brunos a standout among other pizza joints in Santa Monica.

If you're looking for a local favorite and a hidden gem, look no further than Brunos. With its delicious pizzas, convenient location, and inviting atmosphere, it's no wonder why this place has been a beloved spot for over three decades.

Authentic NY-Style Pizza

And let me tell you, nothing beats the taste of an authentic NY-style pizza. When it comes to finding the best pizza in Santa Monica, Ca, there are plenty of options to choose from. From local favorites to trendy and upscale options, the city offers a California twist on pizza that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

One of the hidden gems in Santa Monica for authentic NY-style pizza is Stefanos Pizzeria. Operating for over 20 years, this place offers a variety of delicious pizzas, deli sandwiches, pasta, salads, and desserts. Their NY-style pizzas have the perfect crust thickness, allowing you to fully enjoy the taste profiles of their toppings. The sleek and minimalist look of the restaurant, along with its outdoor seating area, creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

If you're looking for a fusion of cuisines, North Italia is the place to go. This upscale casual restaurant serves modern Italian classics and drinks. Their classic Margherita pizza with mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, and red sauce is a crowd favorite. The restaurant's hip vibe and open kitchen add to the overall dining experience.

For those who prefer a more traditional Italian atmosphere, Joes Pizza is a must-visit. Famous for their NY-style thin-crust pizzas, this place serves authentic NY-style pizza with the right char. It's also an affordable option, making it a great choice for a late-night meal. Their white pizza with garlic, mozzarella, ricotta, baby spinach, and olive oil is a unique flavor combination that you won't want to miss.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic NY-style pizza or a modern twist on Italian dishes, Santa Monica has it all. The local favorites and chains offer a wide range of options to satisfy any pizza lover's cravings. So, next time you're in Santa Monica, be sure to try out these authentic NY-style pizza places and indulge in their delicious offerings.

Trendy and Upscale Options

For a more upscale and trendy dining experience, we recommend checking out some of the best pizza places in Santa Monica, Ca. These establishments offer not only delicious pizzas but also an upscale ambiance and a trendy vibe.

One such place is Milo & Olive, an all-day bakery and pizza joint that has even been recognized in Michelins California guide. With an extensive menu that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, Milo & Olive offers a mix of Italian and American cuisine. It's the perfect place for a date night or hanging out with friends, thanks to its trendy vibe. One must-try pizza at Milo & Olive is the Burrata + prosciutto di parma pizza, topped with rich burrata and fresh arugula.

Another option for a trendy and upscale pizza experience is North Italia. This upscale casual restaurant serves modern Italian classics and drinks. Known as the best pizza restaurant in Santa Monica, North Italia offers fresh dishes with the right portion sizes. The crowded restaurant is a testament to the quality of their food, and the hip vibe and open kitchen add to the overall experience. A classic Margherita pizza, topped with mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, and red sauce, is a must-try at North Italia.

With their upscale ambiance and trendy vibe, these pizza places in Santa Monica are sure to satisfy your cravings for both delicious pizza and a memorable dining experience.

But if you're looking for a California twist on pizza, keep reading.

California Twist on Pizza

With a unique blend of flavors and fresh ingredients, our taste buds are delighted as California puts its own twist on traditional pizza. California fusion pizzas are all about innovative toppings that elevate the classic dish to new heights. One example of this is Milo & Olive, an all-day bakery and pizza joint that has achieved plate recognition in Michelin's California guide.

Their burrata + prosciutto di parma pizza combines rich burrata cheese with fresh arugula, creating a creamy and peppery combination that's simply divine.

Another place that offers a California twist on pizza is California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), a hip pizza chain known for its inventive creations. Their Thai chicken pizza is a perfect example of this, featuring peanut sauce, mozzarella, bean sprouts, cilantro, carrots, and scallions. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors makes for a unique and satisfying pizza experience.

Local Kitchen is another casual pizza place that embraces the California fusion concept. Their chef's seasonal pizza is a delightful mix of smoky, spicy, and nutty flavors, creating a taste sensation with every bite. For those looking for something beyond just pizza, Local Kitchen also offers a lamb meatball sandwich with yogurt, radish, pickled fennel, and herbs, showcasing their creativity and commitment to fresh ingredients.

In summary, California's twist on pizza brings together a fusion of flavors and innovative toppings that take this beloved dish to new heights. Whether it's the creamy burrata and fresh arugula at Milo & Olive, the Thai-inspired combination at California Pizza Kitchen, or the smoky and spicy flavors at Local Kitchen, these California fusion pizzas offer a unique and delicious dining experience.

Modern Italian Classics

When it comes to modern Italian classics, Santa Monica offers a range of options that showcase authentic Italian dishes with a twist.

From upscale casual restaurants to hip pizza joints, there are plenty of places to indulge in fresh and flavorful pizzas, pasta, and other Italian specialties.

Whether you're craving a classic Margherita pizza or a more innovative fusion dish, Santa Monica has something to satisfy every Italian food lover's palate.

Authentic Italian Dishes

Let's explore the mouthwatering selection of authentic Italian dishes that are considered modern Italian classics. Here are some delectable options that combine traditional flavors with a fusion of cuisines:

• Margherita Pizza: This classic pizza features a perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves. The thin and crispy crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• Bolognese Pasta: Indulge in a comforting bowl of pasta with rich and meaty Bolognese sauce. The slow-cooked blend of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and herbs creates a savory and hearty dish that will warm your soul.
• Burrata Salad: Treat yourself to a refreshing salad that combines creamy burrata cheese, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The creamy texture of the cheese complements the vibrant flavors of the salad.
• Tiramisu: Finish your meal with a classic Italian dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa create a luscious and indulgent treat.

These authentic Italian dishes offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and safe dining experience.

Fusion of Cuisines?

We can explore the fusion of cuisines in modern Italian classics by delving into the unique flavors and innovative combinations found in Santa Monica's best pizza joints.

These hidden gems offer a delightful blend of traditional Italian techniques with influences from other cuisines, creating a truly unique dining experience.

One such example is Milo & Olive, an all-day bakery and pizza joint that combines Italian and American flavors. Their burrata + prosciutto di parma pizza showcases the fusion of creamy burrata and savory prosciutto, topped with fresh arugula for a burst of freshness.

Another standout is Local Kitchen, where Neapolitan-style pizzas meet a variety of small plates and cocktails. Their chef's seasonal pizza is a fusion of smoky, spicy, and nutty flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

These pizza joints are truly pushing the boundaries of traditional Italian cuisine, making Santa Monica a haven for those seeking innovative and delicious modern Italian classics.

Hidden Gems in Santa Monica

When it comes to hidden gems in Santa Monica, there are a few key points to consider.

First, the battle between local favorites and chain restaurants is always a topic of discussion.

Second, the unique flavor combinations offered by some of these hidden gems can be a pleasant surprise for pizza lovers.

Local Favorites Vs. Chains

One of the most popular local favorites in Santa Monica is Brunos, a pizza joint that has been a beloved spot for over three decades.

Brunos offers a traditional and authentic taste, reminiscent of small restaurants in Venice.

The handmade pizzas and Italian classics are warm and delicious, satisfying every craving.

With its convenient location for post-meal activities, Brunos is an ideal choice for families and solo dates.

The red checkered tablecloths add to the cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a comfortable and safe dining experience.

When it comes to local favorites versus chains, Brunos stands out for its local charm and traditional flavors.

While international chains may offer innovative toppings and unique combinations, Brunos provides a sense of familiarity and reliability.

The restaurant's longstanding presence in the community speaks to its consistency and quality.

Unique Flavor Combinations

Let's explore some surprisingly delicious flavor combinations found at hidden gems in Santa Monica.

These pizza joints offer unique flavor combinations that are a fusion of cuisines, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

At Milo & Olive, you can try their Burrata + prosciutto di parma pizza, which combines the rich creaminess of burrata with the savory goodness of prosciutto and fresh arugula.

Local Kitchen offers a Chef's seasonal pizza with smoky, spicy, and nutty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

And at Ghisallo, you can savor their BBQ chicken pizza with grilled chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, red onions, and fresh cilantro.

These flavor combinations showcase the creativity and innovation of Santa Monica's pizza scene, making them hidden gems worth discovering.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

How can we experience the atmosphere and ambiance of the hidden gems in Santa Monica? Here are a few ways to immerse yourself in the unique vibe of these pizza joints:

• Brunos: With its red checkered tablecloths and warm ambiance, Brunos offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The Italian classics and handmade pizzas add to the authentic feel of the place.
• Joes Pizza: Joes Pizza, with its NY-style thin-crust pizzas, provides a casual and laid-back atmosphere. The interior design elements give it a vintage charm, while the outdoor seating options allow you to enjoy your pizza al fresco.
• Milo & Olive: This trendy bakery and pizza joint offers a mix of Italian and American cuisine. The interior has a modern yet cozy feel, perfect for a date or hanging out with friends. The outdoor seating options add to the overall experience.
• Stefanos Pizzeria: With its sleek and minimalist look and outdoor seating area, Stefanos Pizzeria provides a contemporary and relaxed atmosphere. The veggie-stuffed pizzas and other delicious offerings make it a must-visit spot in Santa Monica.

These hidden gems not only serve delicious pizzas but also create an ambiance that enhances your dining experience. Whether you prefer a cozy and nostalgic feel or a trendy and modern vibe, Santa Monica has something to offer for everyone.

Conclusion

After our mouthwatering journey through the pizza joints of Santa Monica, we can confidently say that this coastal city is a true paradise for pizza lovers.

From the traditional Italian classics to the innovative California twists, there's something for everyone's taste buds.

With crispy crusts, gooey cheese, and tantalizing aromas, these hidden gems truly redefine the art of pizza-making.

So grab a slice, embrace the flavors, and indulge in the diverse culinary landscape of Santa Monica.

Your taste buds will thank you.