🍕 Best Pizza in Santa Cruz
Wood-fired, New York-style & local favorites
Santa Cruz Pizza Scene
Santa Cruz has an excellent pizza scene with everything from authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pies to classic New York-style slices. Whether you're looking for a quick slice on the go or a sit-down dinner with wine, there's something for everyone.
From the creative California-style pizzas at Pleasure Point to the late-night slices downtown, Santa Cruz pizza makers use quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. You'll find traditional Italian pizzerias, college hangouts, and everything in between.
Top Pizza Spots
1. Pleasure Pizza
Beloved local favorite with creative toppings and a fun atmosphere. Known for unique combinations and quality ingredients.
2. Pizza My Heart
Santa Cruz institution serving New York-style pizza by the slice or whole pie. Perfect for a quick bite downtown or near the boardwalk.
3. Kianti's Pizza & Pasta Bar
Italian restaurant with excellent wood-fired pizzas. More upscale dining experience with full bar and extensive wine list.
4. Woodstock's Pizza
College town favorite with huge slices and a fun vibe. Great for groups and families. Known for creative specialty pizzas.
5. Aldo's Harbor Restaurant
Waterfront dining with solid pizza options. Great views of the harbor while you eat. Full Italian menu available.
6. Zachary's Chicago Pizza
Deep dish Chicago-style pizza. A different style but worth trying if you love thick, hearty pizza. Order ahead - it takes time!
Pizza by Style
🗽 New York-Style
Large thin slices, perfect for quick lunch or late night. Foldable and delicious.
Pizza My Heart
🔥 Wood-Fired
Neapolitan-style thin crust with artisan toppings. Cooked at high heat for that perfect char.
Kianti's Pizza & Pasta Bar
🌊 California-Style
Creative, fresh toppings with local ingredients. Unique flavor combinations.
Pleasure Pizza
🏙️ Chicago Deep Dish
Thick, hearty pies with layers of cheese and toppings. Takes time but worth it!
Zachary's (Capitola)
🍕 Pizza Pro Tips
- 🕐Late Night Slices: Pizza My Heart downtown stays open late - perfect for post-bar munchies on weekends!
- 🏖️Beach Pizza: Grab slices from Pizza My Heart near the Boardwalk and eat on the beach for a classic Santa Cruz experience.
- 📱Delivery Options: Most pizza places deliver or are on DoorDash/Uber Eats. Great for beach house dinners!
- ⏰Deep Dish Timing: Zachary's deep dish takes 45+ minutes to bake. Call ahead or order for pickup!
- 🍷Wine Pairing: Kianti's has an excellent wine list that pairs perfectly with their wood-fired pizzas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best pizza for a quick slice in Santa Cruz?
Pizza My Heart is the go-to for quick New York-style slices. They have multiple locations including downtown and near the Boardwalk, and stay open late.
Where can I find wood-fired pizza in Santa Cruz?
Kianti's Pizza & Pasta Bar downtown offers excellent wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza in an upscale setting. It's perfect for date night or a special dinner.
Which pizza place is best for families in Santa Cruz?
Woodstock's Pizza near UCSC is great for families and groups with its fun atmosphere, large pizzas, and sports on TV. Aldo's at the harbor also offers family-friendly waterfront dining.
Can I get pizza delivered in Santa Cruz?
Yes! Most pizza places deliver directly or are available on DoorDash and Uber Eats. Pizza My Heart, Woodstock's, and Pleasure Pizza all offer delivery.
What's the best late-night pizza in Santa Cruz?
Pizza My Heart downtown stays open late and is the perfect spot for post-bar pizza. They serve by the slice until late on weekends.