Berkeley, California, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse food scene. Pizza is unique in the hearts of locals and visitors and is among the many culinary delights.
Berkeley’s pizza scene is as eclectic and dynamic as the city. It offers traditional Italian wood-fired pies and innovative vegetarian options.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top pizza places in Berkeley, gathering insights from locals and food enthusiasts to bring you a curated list of must-try spots.
Whether you’re a student at UC Berkeley, a longtime resident, or just passing through, these pizza joints will satisfy your cravings.
1. Emilia’s Pizzeria: A Slice of Perfection
- Location: 2995 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
- Website: emiliaspizzeria.com
Emilia’s Pizzeria is often hailed as the best pizza in Berkeley, and for good reason. Tucked away on Shattuck Avenue, this small, unassuming pizzeria has garnered a loyal following thanks to its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The owner, Keith Freilich, is passionate about his craft, which shows in every pie from the oven.
Emilia’s Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
At Emilia’s Pizzeria, we craft whole, roughly 18″ made-to-order pizzas cut into 8 unequal slices. Our focus is on quality ingredients and carefully balanced flavors. Here’s a sample of our offerings:
| Category | Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pizzas | STANDARD | A plain pie without any modifications | $22.68 |
| GINA CALABRESE | With Calabrian hot sauce, onion, soppressata | $29.02 | |
| O.G. | With onion, sausage | $27.21 | |
| HOBOKEN | With sweet peppers, sausage | $29.02 | |
| VEGGIE | With mushrooms, onion, sweet peppers | $28.12 | |
| OOH MAMA | With onion, mushrooms, Aleppo pepper | $26.30 | |
| Drinks | Mexican Coke, San Pellegrino (plain or fruity), Izze | $2.72 |
Emilia’s is primarily a takeout spot, so don’t expect a dine-in experience. The focus here is entirely on the pizza, and it’s well worth picking up a pie and enjoying it at home or in a nearby park.
What Locals Say: “Emilia’s is the best pizza in the Bay Area. The attention to detail and quality is unmatched. Be prepared for takeout because seating is limited, but the pizza is worth it.”
2. Cheeseboard Collective: A Berkeley Icon
- Location: 1512 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709
- Phone: +1 510-549-3183
- Website: cheeseboardcollective.coop
No discussion of Berkeley’s pizza scene is complete without mentioning the Cheeseboard Collective. This worker-owned cooperative has been a community staple since the 1970s, and its pizza has become legendary.
The Cheeseboard offers a unique pizza experience: only one type of pizza is served daily, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Cheeseboard Collective Menu Highlights:
| Category | Item | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PIZZA! | Whole Pizza | $24 + tax |
| Half Pizza | $12 + tax | |
| Whole, Partially Baked Pizza | $24 | |
| Half Partially Baked Pizza | $12 | |
| GLUTEN-FREE FRIENDLY | Whole Pizza | $26 + tax |
| Whole, Partially Baked Pizza | $26 | |
| Whole Vegan Pizza | $28 + tax | |
| VEGAN | Whole Vegan Pizza | $26 + tax |
| DRINKS | Soft Drinks | $3 + tax |
| Beer in a Bottle | $4 + tax | |
| Beer or Cider in a Can | $6.50 + tax | |
| Wine (Bottle) | $20 + tax | |
| EXTRAS | Salad | $6 |
| Green Sauce | $5 / $2.50 | |
| Roasted Garlic | $2 | |
| A Cookie | $3 |
The Cheeseboard Collective has a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere. There’s often a line out the door, but it moves quickly, and the wait is part of the experience. You can take your pizza to go or enjoy it in the nearby park.
What Locals Say: “Cheeseboard is a Berkeley institution. The pizza is unique and consistently excellent. The green sauce is addictive, and the vibe is quintessentially Berkeley.”
3. Rose Pizzeria: A Rising Star
- Location: 1960 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
- Website: rosepizzeria.com
Rose Pizzeria is one of the newer additions to Berkeley’s pizza scene, but it has quickly made a name for itself. Opened in December 2021, Rose Pizzeria offers a modern take on classic pizza, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is run by two chefs who bring experience and passion.
Rose Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita | Classic pizza with Double 8 Dairy mozzarella, tomato sauce, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of pecorino. | $18.00 |
| Classic Pepperoni | A traditional pepperoni pizza topped with Ezzo pepperoni, jalapeños, Sicilian oregano, tomato, mozzarella, and pecorino romano. If you prefer, you can opt out of jalapeños. | $22.00 |
| Old Faithful | A hearty combo of fennel pork sausage, Mama Lil’s goat horn peppers (medium spicy!), green onions, mozzarella, pecorino, and tomato sauce with Sicilian oregano. | $22.00 |
| She Wolf Burrata | Luxurious local burrata paired with garlic confit, olives, capers, and Sicilian oregano. Perfect with a bottle of rosé. | $22.00 |
| Champion Mushroom | Earthy roasted mushrooms atop a creamy mozzarella base, finished with sherry vinegar and green onions. Note: White pizza, no tomato sauce. | $22.00 |
| Reed Sauce | Spicy and smoky with jalapeños, smoked mozzarella, fresh basil, red sauce, and pecorino. | $19.00 |
| Cheese Pizza | Simple and satisfying, this pizza features mozzarella, pecorino, tomato sauce, and oregano—the classic cheese pizza done right. | $16.00 |
| Vegan Margherita | It’s vegan-friendly and made with NuMu mozzarella, tomato sauce, fresh basil, and oregano. NuMu Mozzarella ingredients include water, Coconut Oil, Potato Starch, and more. | $17.00 |
| Louie – Louie | Savory fennel pork sausage, jalapeños, green onions, rich cream, mozzarella, and pecorino. Note: White pizza, no tomato sauce. | $22.00 |
| Green Deluxe | This green feast features rapini, fresh mozzarella, black pepper, creamy garlic confit, and a hint of lemon. Note: This is a white pizza without tomato sauce. | $22.00 |
| Vegan Old Faithful | A fully vegan option with NuMu cheese, soy-based “Soy-rizo” crumbles, peppers, green onions, and oregano. NuMu Mozzarella ingredients: Water, Coconut Oil, etc. | $22.00 |
| Alpine Gold | This delightful potato pizza features truffle cream, white onions, leeks, Yukon Gold potatoes, pecorino, and a touch of black pepper. | $22.00 |
| Third Coast Salami | Bold fennel pork salami with red onions, spicy pickled peperoncini, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pecorino. | $22.00 |
| Beach Club | Special Edition: A tropical twist with bacon, pineapple, pickled Mama Lil’s peppers (medium spicy), tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pecorino. | $24.00 |
Rose Pizzeria is a sit-down restaurant with a cozy, welcoming vibe. The outdoor patio, shared with The Butcher’s Son, is a great place to enjoy your meal, especially on a warm evening. The restaurant also has a carefully curated wine list focusing on natural wines.
What Locals Say: “Rose Pizzeria is a game-changer in Berkeley. The pizza is top-notch, and the restaurant is a great spot for a night out. Make a reservation, because it fills up fast!”
4. Gioia Pizzeria: Classic and Consistent
- Location: 1586 Hopkins St, Berkeley, CA 94707
- Phone: +1 510-674-0412
- Website: gioiapizzeria.com
Gioia Pizzeria has been a staple in Berkeley for years. It serves classic New York-style pizza with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Located on Hopkins Street, Gioia is a go-to spot for those craving a classic, greasy, cheesy pizza.
Gioia Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Category | Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pizzas | Acciughe | Sicilian anchovies, Calabrian chiles, mozzarella, tomato sauce | $34.00 |
| Formaggio | Mozzarella, grana padano, tomato sauce | $26.00 | |
| Funghi | Roasted mushrooms, thyme, garlic oil, mozzarella | $34.00 | |
| Gypsy Pepper | Sweet peppers, red onion, olives, ricotta, pecorino | $34.00 | |
| Julian | Kale, Sicilian sausage, chili flakes, mozzarella | $34.00 | |
| Pepperoni | Ezzo pepperoni, mozzarella, tomato sauce | $34.00 | |
| Pomodoro | Fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, mozzarella | $34.00 | |
| Salsiccia | Sicilian sausage, pickled jalapeños, mozzarella | $34.00 | |
| Spinach | Baby spinach, chili flakes, garlic, mozzarella | $34.00 | |
| Salads | Avocado & Arugula | Avocado, raisins, farro, pecorino, almonds | $15.00 |
| Chopped | Radicchio, fennel salami, chickpeas, cucumbers, ricotta salata | $15.00 | |
| Caesar | Romaine, croutons, grana padano, lemon-anchovy dressing | $11.00 |
Gioia Pizzeria has a casual, no-frills atmosphere. You can grab a quick slice or sit down for a relaxed meal. The fast and friendly service makes it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
What Locals Say: “Gioia is my go-to for a classic slice. It’s consistently good, and the mushroom pizza is a must-try.”
5. Sliver Pizzeria: Late-Night Delight
- Location: Multiple locations in Berkeley
- 2174 Shattuck Ave., Berkely, CA 94704
- 2468 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
- 5132 Broadway Ave., Oakland, CA 94611
- Website: sliverpizzeria.com
Sliver Pizzeria is a beloved spot for those late-night pizza cravings. With multiple locations around Berkeley, Sliver is known for its creative, vegetarian pizzas that cater to a broad audience. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement adds to its appeal.
Sliver Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Category | Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most Ordered | Pizza of the Day | Changes daily. Visit www.sliverpizzeria.com for details. | $28.00 |
| Cheese Pizza | Plain cheese, no tomato sauce. | $16.00 | |
| Gluten-Free Pizzas | Pizza of the Day on Gluten-Free Crust | Daily special on gluten-free crust. | $28.00 |
| Pizza of the Day on GF Crust with Vegan Cheese | Daily special on gluten-free crust with vegan cheese. | $28.00 | |
| GF Crust with Vegan Cheese Pizza | Plain dairy-free mozzarella, no tomato sauce. | $19.00 | |
| GF Crust Mozzarella Cheese Pizza | Plain cheese on a gluten-free crust, no tomato sauce. | $18.00 | |
| Vegan Pizzas | Vegan Pizza of the Day with Vegan Cheese | Changes daily. Visit www.sliverpizzeria.com for details. | $28.00 |
| Vegan Cheese Pizza | Dairy-free mozzarella, no tomato sauce. | $19.00 |
Sliver Pizzeria has a lively, casual atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for students and locals, especially late at night. The service is fast, and the vibe is upbeat, making it a great place to hang out with friends.
What Locals Say: “Sliver is my favorite for a late-night slice. The pizzas are always fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere is fun and laid-back.”
6. Jupiter: Pizza and Pints
- Location: 2181 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
- Website: jupiterbeer.com
Jupiter is more than just a pizza place – it’s one of Berkeley’s most popular spots for a night out. Located in a historic building in downtown Berkeley, Jupiter offers a great selection of wood-fired pizzas, craft beers, and live music. While the pizza may not be the main draw for everyone, it’s certainly worth a try.
Jupiter Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Half & Half Pizza | Customize each half with different offerings. |
| Andromeda | Four cheese blends: Mozzarella, Cheddar, Fontina, & Asiago. |
| Mercury | Tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, mozzarella, and marinara on olive oil crust. |
| Galileo | Artichokes, spinach, mushrooms, garlic, fresh tomato, Fontina, and aged Asiago. |
| Juno | Nduja sausage, pickled jalapeños, red onions, marinara, mozzarella, and oregano garnish. |
| Callisto | Garlic sauce, kale, roasted carrots, orange-zested roasted beets, delicata squash, chili flakes, lemon zest, mozzarella, and Asiago. |
| Xanthia | Thinly sliced potatoes, bacon, garlic, ricotta, red chili flakes, rosemary, thyme, and mozzarella on an olive oil crust. |
| Cassiopeia | Roasted chicken breast, sweet yellow onions, fresh cilantro, BBQ sauce, mozzarella, and marinara. |
| Triton | House-made pork fennel sausage, sweet yellow onions, fresh basil, mozzarella, and marinara. |
| Aries | Hobbs pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara. |
| Odysseus | Garlic sauce is based on Fontina, Asiago, and a mix of Cremini, Portabella, and white mushrooms. |
| Eutropia | Hobbs bacon, house-made pork fennel sausage, Hobbs pepperoni, green onions, smoked mozzarella, and marinara. |
| Circe | Shrimp, garlic, butter, green onion, red chili flakes, cracked pepper, and mozzarella on olive oil crust. |
| Gaia | Roasted chicken breast, spinach, button mushrooms, roasted garlic, ricotta, oregano, and mozzarella on olive oil crust. |
| Classic Veggie | Bell peppers, red onions, black olives, mushrooms, mozzarella, and marinara. |
| IO | House-made pesto, roasted chicken, red onions, Kalamata olives, and mozzarella. |
| Cheese Only | Mozzarella and marinara only. |
Jupiter has a vibrant, lively atmosphere with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The live music adds to the experience, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. Be prepared for a wait on weekends, especially during the school year.
What Locals Say: “Jupiter is the perfect place for a casual night out. The pizza is good, but the beer and atmosphere are what really make it special.”
7. Benchmark Pizzeria: A Kensington Gem
- Location: 1568 Oak View Ave, Kensington, CA 94707
- Phone: +1 510-368-2855
- Website: benchmarkpizzeria.com
Just a short drive from Berkeley, Benchmark Pizzeria is worth the trip. Located in the charming neighborhood of Kensington, Benchmark offers a menu of simple, delicious pizzas made with high-quality ingredients. The focus here is on traditional Italian-style pizzas with a modern twist.
Benchmark Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Benchmark Pizza | Tomato, mozzarella, basil, extra virgin olive oil | $20.00 |
| Fried Sage Pizza | Garlic, fresh mozzarella, brown butter, Grana | $21.00 |
| Wild Mushroom Pizza | Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, chanterelle & lobster mushrooms, pickled chard stems, lemon | $30.00 |
| Calabrian Bomba Pizza | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, cauliflower, spicy vegetable salsa with Calabrian chilies, Grana | $25.00 |
| Vegan Pizza | Blended cashew “cream,” spinach, mushrooms, lemon, Castelvetrano olives | $22.00 |
| Pepperoni Pizza | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, Grana, Pecorino | $25.00 |
| Meatball Pizza | Tomato, mozzarella, Grana, meatballs, parsley | $27.00 |
| Salami Pizza | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, Calabrian chilies, pickled red onions, Grana | $27.00 |
| Sausage Pizza | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, red onions, yellow gypsy peppers | $27.00 |
| K-Ninos Pizza | Kid-friendly cheese pizza with grated mozzarella, the same size as adult pizza | $17.00 |
Benchmark Pizzeria has a warm, inviting atmosphere. The small and cozy restaurant offers friendly service and a relaxed vibe. It’s a great spot for a quiet dinner or a casual lunch.
What Locals Say: “Benchmark is a hidden gem. The pizza is fantastic, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Definitely worth the trip to Kensington.”
8. Nick’s Pizza: Sourdough Sensation
- Location: 6211 Shattuck Ave, Oakland, CA 94609
- Phone: (510) 658-3903
- Website: nickspizzaonline.com
Technically located in Oakland, Nick’s Pizza is just a stone’s throw from the Berkeley border and is well worth the short journey.
Nick’s is known for its sourdough crust, which adds a distinctive tangy flavor to the pizzas. The restaurant has a loyal following, and for good reason – the pizzas are consistently delicious.
Nick’s Pizza Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 16″ Cheese/Build Your Own | Mozzarella and tomato sauce on thin sourdough crust. | $27.50 |
| 16″ Pepperoni | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and all-natural pepperoni on a thin sourdough crust. | $30.00 |
| 16″ Combo | Tomato sauce, housemade pork sausage, pepperoni, crimini mushrooms, red onion, mozzarella, and basil on a thin sourdough crust. | $35.00 |
| 16″ Midnight Special | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, crimini mushrooms, pepperoni, side of housemade ranch on a thin sourdough crust. | $34.00 |
| 16″ Olive and Herb | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, Castelvetrano, Kalamata olives, caramelized red onions, and fresh herbs on a thin sourdough crust. | $32.00 |
| 16″ Spinach & Mushroom | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, baby spinach, crimini mushrooms, and roasted garlic on a thin sourdough crust. | $30.00 |
| 16″ Half Cheese Half Pep | Half cheese, half pepperoni on thin sourdough crust. | $30.00 |
| 16″ White Pie | Ricotta, pecorino, marinated spinach, minced garlic, mozzarella, and chili flake on a thin sourdough crust. | $34.00 |
| 16″ Hot Coppa | Hot coppa, ricotta, pecorino, marinated spinach, minced garlic, mozzarella, and chili flake on a thin sourdough crust. | $36.00 |
| Key Route | Tomato sauce, pepperoni, pepperoncini, red onion, fresh mozzarella, grana, and mozzarella on a thin sourdough crust. | $35.00 |
| Guajillo Mushroom | Marinated guajillo mushrooms, pickled onions, cotija cheese, mozzarella, cilantro salsa verde on thin sourdough crust. | $34.00 |
| Early Girl Caprese | Early girl tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, arugula, and balsamic reduction on a thin sourdough crust. | $34.00 |
| Pesto Nardello | Roasted Jimmy Nardello peppers, early girl tomatoes, pesto, and mozzarella on a thin sourdough crust. | $35.00 |
| Sausage Pesto Nardello | Sausage, roasted Jimmy Nardello peppers, early girl tomatoes, pesto, mozzarella on thin sourdough crust. | $37.00 |
| 16″ Vegan Olive & Herb | Thin sourdough crust, tomato sauce, baby spinach, caramelized red onion, olives, fresh herbs (no cheese). | $28.00 |
| 16″ Vegan Spinach & Mushroom | Thin sourdough crust, tomato sauce, baby spinach, roasted garlic, crimini mushrooms (no cheese). | $27.00 |
| Vegan Guajillo Mushroom | Marinated guajillo mushrooms, spinach, pickled onions, cilantro salsa verde on thin sourdough crust. | $32.00 |
Nick’s Pizza has a casual, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The service is friendly and efficient, and the restaurant has a welcoming vibe that makes you feel at home.
What Locals Say: “Nick’s Pizza is the best in the area, hands down. The sourdough crust is amazing, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful.”
9. Pollara Pizzeria: Roman-Style Delight
- Location: 1788 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709
- Phone: +1 510-529-4548
Pollara Pizzeria’s Roman-style pizza brings something unique to the Berkeley pizza scene. Unlike traditional round pizzas, Roman pizza is baked in long, rectangular slabs and served by the slice. Pollara offers a variety of toppings, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Pollara Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Category | Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Meals (Feeds 4-5) | Vegetarian | Margherita & Mushroom Pie with Cabbage Salad. | $50.00 |
| Meat Lovers | Diavola & Sausage Pie with Little Gems Salad. | $59.00 | |
| Margherita Pie-Diavola Pie-Family Little Gems | Combo of Margherita and Diavola Pies with Family Little Gems Salad. | $52.00 | |
| Pies (Serves 1-3) | Bianca Pie | Olive oil and salt on the pizza crust. | $10.00 |
| Rossa Pie | Tomato sauce, olive oil, oregano. | $12.00 | |
| Vegan Pie | Olives, tomato sauce, chili flakes, oregano. | $20.00 | |
| Kids Pie | Mozzarella & tomato sauce. | $17.00 | |
| Margherita Pie | Mozzarella & basil. | $18.00 | |
| Cacio E Pepe Pie | Ricotta, pecorino, black pepper. | $22.00 | |
| Mushroom Pie | Straciatella, mushrooms, green onions. | $24.00 | |
| Potato Pie | – | $25.00 | |
| Diavola Pie | Mozzarella & spicy salami. | $28.00 | |
| Anchovy Pie | Stracciatella, sundried tomatoes, oregano, cayenne. | $26.00 | |
| Amatriciana Pie | Pecorino, tomato, guanciale, cayenne. | $24.00 |
Pollara has a modern, minimalist atmosphere with a focus on the food. The restaurant is bright and clean, with a few tables for dine-in customers. It’s a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
What Locals Say: “Pollara is a hidden gem. The Roman-style pizza is fantastic, and the sandwiches are some of the best I’ve had. Definitely worth a visit.”
10. Zachary’s Chicago Pizza: Deep-Dish Heaven
- Location: Multiple locations
- 5801 College Ave, Oakland, CA
- 1853 Solano Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707
- Phone: +1 510-655-6385
- Website: zacharys.com
Zachary’s Chicago Pizza is a local institution famous for its deep-dish, Chicago-style pizza. Founded in 1983, Zachary’s has served hearty, satisfying pizzas to Berkeley residents for decades.
With two locations in Berkeley and others in the Bay Area, Zachary’s is a must-visit for anyone craving a deep-dish heaven.
Zachary’s Chicago Pizza Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Size | Stuffed Price | Thin Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spinach and Mushroom | S / M / L | $28.05 / $33.95 / $39.10 | N/A | Fresh spinach, mushrooms, three cheeses, special spices. Stuffed only. |
| Zachary’s Special | S / M / L/XL/GF | $28.55 / $34.60 / $39.80 | $21.25 / $26.65 / $32.50 / $36.75 / $24.80 | Italian sausage, green pepper, onion, mushroom, mozzarella. |
| Chicken Special | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.45 / $35.75 / $40.75 | $21.75 / $27.65 / $33.55 / $37.95 / $26.40 | Free-range chicken breast, mushrooms, mozzarella, basil, garlic, and tomato sauce. |
| Mediterranean | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.10 / $34.95 / $40.15 | $21.35 / $27.15 / $33.10 / $37.00 / $25.00 | Red bell pepper, green olives, artichoke hearts, feta, Monterey Jack cheese. |
| Super Veggie | S / M / L/XL/GF | $28.55 / $34.60 / $39.80 | $21.25 / $26.65 / $32.50 / $36.75 / $24.80 | Zucchini, yellow squash, white corn, broccoli, red bell pepper, cheddar, Monterey Jack on wheat crust. |
| Good Health | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.45 / $35.75 / $40.75 | $21.75 / $27.65 / $33.55 / $37.95 / $26.40 | Free-range chicken, chopped spinach, reduced-fat mozzarella on wheat crust. |
| Barbecue Chicken | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.45 / $35.75 / $40.75 | $21.75 / $27.65 / $33.55 / $37.95 / $26.40 | Chicken breast, red onions, cilantro, barbecue sauce, cheddar, Monterey Jack. |
| Carne | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.45 / $36.20 / $41.00 | $22.10 / $27.75 / $33.65 / $38.25 / $26.50 | Italian sausage, pepperoni, salami, bacon, mozzarella. |
| Italian Tomato Thin | S / M / L/XL/GF | N/A | $20.80 / $26.30 / $32.20 / $36.20 / $24.60 | Thin crust, garlic, herb, olive oil, Roma tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella. |
| Pizza Blanca | S / M / L/XL/GF | N/A | $17.00 / $21.65 / $26.45 / $30.00 / $20.35 | Thin crust, garlic, herbs, olive oil, mozzarella, ricotta, fresh lemon. |
| Pizza Roma | S / M / L/XL/GF | $29.10 / $34.95 / $40.15 | $21.35 / $27.15 / $33.10 / $37.00 / $25.00 | Roma tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, mozzarella. |
| Create Your Own | S / M / L | $20.90 / $25.60 / $29.10 | $14.00 / $18.05 / $22.00 / $25.65 | You can choose your toppings (Veggie/Cheese $2.25-$3.45, Meat $2.90-$4.45). Add-ons like free-range chicken and pesto are also available. |
Zachary’s has a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The service is friendly and efficient, and the portions are generous. Whether dining in or taking out, Zachary’s is the perfect place for a casual, satisfying meal.
What Locals Say: “Zachary’s is the best place for deep-dish pizza in the Bay Area. The stuffed pizzas are incredible, and the thin crust is also really good. A Berkeley classic.”
11. Lucia’s Berkeley: Wood-Fired Wonder
- Location: 2016 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
- Phone: +1 510-225-9467
- Website: luciasberkeley.com
Lucia’s Pizzeria is the go-to spot for Neapolitan-style pizza in Berkeley. With its wood-fired oven and commitment to authentic Italian techniques, Lucia’s offers a taste of Naples right in the city’s heart.
The pizzas are simple, elegant, and flavorful, making them a favorite among pizza purists.
Lucia’s Pizzeria Menu Highlights:
| Pizza Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margherita | Hand-crushed tomato, mozzarella, basil (Vegetarian) | $20.00 |
| Diavola (Pepperoni) | Hand-crushed tomato, mozzarella, soppressata (spicy pepperoni) | $22.00 |
| Ham & Mushrooms | Hand-crushed tomato, mozzarella, prosciutto cotto (ham), mushrooms | $24.00 |
| Prosciutto Pie | Hand-crushed tomato, wild arugula, prosciutto crudo, Ramini bufala mozzarella | $26.00 |
| Quattro Formaggi | Mozzarella, gorgonzola, caciocavallo, smoked mozzarella, basil (+ mushrooms $3) (Vegetarian) | $21.00 |
| Sausage Pizza | Mozzarella, basil, smoked mozzarella, roasted potatoes, spring onions, Molinari Italian sausage | $22.00 |
| Ortolana | Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, basil, mozzarella, sundried tomatoes (Make it Vegan +$3) (V, *VG) | $24.00 |
Lucia’s has a cozy, intimate atmosphere and a focus on the food. The restaurant is small and has limited seating, so arriving early or preparing for a wait is best. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, adding to the overall dining experience.
What Locals Say: “Lucia’s is the best Neapolitan pizza in Berkeley. The wood-fired crust is perfect, and the toppings are always fresh and delicious. Highly recommended.”
12. Rotten City Pizza: Hidden Gem in Emeryville
- Location: 6613 Hollis St, Emeryville, CA 94608
- Phone: +1 510-655-2489
- Website: rottencitypizza.com
While technically located in Emeryville, Rotten City Pizza is close enough to Berkeley to be considered a local favorite. This unassuming pizzeria is known for its thin-crust, New York-style pizzas that are consistently delicious. Rotten City has a loyal following, and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
Rotten City Pizza Menu Highlights:
| Category | Item Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Pies | Bianco Verde Pie | Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, parmigiano, chili flakes, arugula pesto, asiago | $44.00 |
| Funghi Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, roasted cremini mushrooms, fresh thyme, toasted garlic | $46.00 | |
| RCP Combo Whole Pie | – | $49.00 | |
| Pepperoni Pie | – | $46.00 | |
| Neapolitan Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend | $38.00 | |
| Salumi Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, Toscano, red onions, fresh herbs | $46.00 | |
| Porchetta Whole Pie | Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, parmigiano, pork belly porchetta, salsa verde | $49.00 | |
| Meat Combo Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, pepperoni, salami, housemade sausage, fresh herbs | $49.00 | |
| Marinara Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, toasted garlic, chili flakes, Fleur de sel, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil | $33.00 | |
| Spinaci Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, baby spinach, extra virgin olive oil, chili, cracked pepper, Fleur de sel | $41.00 | |
| Calabrian Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, housemade Italian sausage, Gaeta olives, Calabrian chili sauce, toasted fennel seeds | $46.00 | |
| Meatball Whole Pie | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, ricotta, house meatballs, basil | $48.00 | |
| Fat Slices (Quarter Pie) | Calabrian Fat Slice | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, housemade Italian sausage, Gaeta olives, Calabrian chili sauce, toasted fennel seeds | $14.00 |
| Neapolitan Fat Slice | Tomato sauce, cheese blend (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $13.00 | |
| Bianco Verde Fat Slice | Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, Parmigiano, chili flakes, arugula pesto, asiago (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $14.00 | |
| Porchetta Fat Slice | Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, Parmigiano, pork belly porchetta, salsa verde (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $15.00 | |
| Salumi Fat Slice | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, Toscano, red onions, fresh herbs (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $14.00 | |
| Pepperoni Fat Slice | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, pepperoni (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $14.00 | |
| Funghi Fat Slice | Tomato sauce, cheese blend, roasted cremini mushrooms, fresh thyme, toasted garlic (Quarter of a pie cut in half) | $14.00 | |
| Wings | Lemon Pepper Wings | Mary’s Free Range Chicken Wings deep fried and tossed in lemon pepper seasoning and fresh lemon juice, with house ranch | $18.00 |
Rotten City Pizza has a no-frills atmosphere with a focus on the food. The restaurant is small and often busy, but the service is quick and efficient. It’s a great spot for takeout or a casual meal.
What Locals Say: “Rotten City Pizza is a hidden gem. The pizzas are consistently excellent, with a perfect thin crust. It’s worth the short drive from Berkeley.”
Conclusion
Berkeley’s pizza scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city, offering something for every taste.
From the classic New York-style pies at Gioia to the innovative vegetarian creations at Cheeseboard Collective, each pizzeria brings its unique flair.
Whether you’re a fan of deep-dish, wood-fired, or Roman-style pizza, Berkeley has a spot to satisfy your cravings.
So, the next time you find yourself in Berkeley, check out these top pizza places. Whether grabbing a quick slice or settling in for a leisurely meal, these pizzerias offer some of the best pizzas you’ll find anywhere in the Bay Area.
Happy eating!
Jesmin Bithi, the co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a culinary maestro who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the platform. Jesmin’s journey in the food world started in her home kitchen, experimenting with different recipes and flavors. Her passion for cooking soon transcended the boundaries of her kitchen, leading her to become a professional chef.
