Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in Berkeley for Pizza Lovers: The Best Pizza Places to Satisfy Your Cravings!

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When it comes to pizza, the city of Berkeley is home to some of the best pizzerias in the Bay Area. From classic thin-crust pies to gourmet creations, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Whether you're a student at UC Berkeley or a local resident, finding the perfect slice of pizza can be a daunting task. That's why we've put together a guide to the best pizza in Berkeley, complete with mouth-watering descriptions and recommendations.

First up on our list is Gioia Pizzeria, a beloved institution in the North Berkeley neighborhood. This family-owned pizzeria has been serving up delicious pies since 2004, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Neapolitan techniques. Their thin-crust pizzas are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy yet chewy crust that's hard to beat. Highlights from their menu include the Margherita, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, and the Funghi, featuring wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and ricotta cheese.

If you're in the mood for something a bit more experimental, head over to Sliver Pizzeria on Center Street. This popular spot is known for their daily-changing menu of gourmet pizzas, each one crafted with unique ingredients and flavor combinations. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, with colorful murals lining the walls and communal tables for sharing. Some of their most popular pies include the Potato, topped with thinly sliced potatoes, rosemary, and mozzarella, and the Shrimp & Pesto, featuring juicy shrimp, house-made pesto, and roasted red peppers.

For a taste of classic New York-style pizza, look no further than Fat Slice Pizza on Telegraph Avenue. This bustling pizzeria has been a favorite of UC Berkeley students for over 30 years, thanks to their generous slices and affordable prices. The pizza here is big, bold, and loaded with toppings, making it the perfect choice for a quick lunch or late-night snack. Their signature pie is the Fat Slice, piled high with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.

If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, head over to Lucia's on Shattuck Avenue. This elegant Italian restaurant offers a sophisticated take on pizza, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The pizzas here are cooked in a wood-burning oven and feature toppings like prosciutto di Parma, burrata cheese, and arugula. In addition to pizza, Lucia's also serves up delicious pasta dishes and an extensive wine list.

No guide to the best pizza in Berkeley would be complete without a mention of Cheese Board Pizza on Shattuck Avenue. This legendary pizzeria has been a staple of the Berkeley food scene since 1985, known for their daily-changing menu of vegetarian pies and welcoming community atmosphere. The pizza here is always fresh and seasonal, featuring toppings like roasted garlic, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Be sure to come early, as the lines can get long!

For those in search of gluten-free or vegan pizza options, there are plenty of great choices in Berkeley. One standout is Jupiter on Shattuck Avenue, which offers gluten-free crusts and vegan cheese for their delicious wood-fired pizzas. Their outdoor patio is a popular spot for live music and craft beer, making it a great choice for a night out with friends. Another option is Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub on San Pablo Avenue, which offers both gluten-free and vegan crust options and a variety of creative toppings.

So there you have it, our guide to the best pizza in Berkeley! Whether you're in the mood for traditional Neapolitan-style pies or experimental gourmet creations, this city has something for everyone. We hope this guide has inspired you to try out some new pizzerias and discover your own favorite slice.

Introduction

Berkeley is known for its diverse food culture, and pizza is no exception. From thin-crust to deep-dish, the city has a lot to offer when it comes to pizza. In this article, we will be discussing some of the best pizza places in Berkeley that are worth checking out if you're a pizza lover.

1. Zachary's Chicago Pizza

Zachary's Chicago Pizza is a popular pizza place in Berkeley that has been serving delicious deep-dish pizzas for over 30 years. The pizza here is made with fresh ingredients and their crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Their most popular pizza is the spinach and mushroom pizza which is a must-try for anyone visiting Zachary's.

2. Cheese Board Pizza

Cheese Board Pizza is another popular pizza place in Berkeley that offers a unique experience. They only offer one type of pizza each day, but it's always delicious and made with fresh ingredients. Their pizza is thin-crust and topped with a variety of cheeses, vegetables, and meats. The atmosphere is also great as they have live music and a friendly staff.

3. Emilia's Pizzeria

Emilia's Pizzeria is a cozy little restaurant located in Berkeley that serves Neapolitan-style pizza. Their pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven and is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. They also use fresh ingredients and have a variety of toppings to choose from. Their margherita pizza is a classic and a favorite among customers.

4. Sliver Pizzeria

Sliver Pizzeria is a popular pizza place in Berkeley that offers unique toppings and flavors. They have a different pizza each day, and their toppings range from classic to exotic. Their crust is thin and crispy, and their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients. Their potato and bacon pizza is a must-try for anyone visiting Sliver.

5. Gioia Pizzeria

Gioia Pizzeria is a family-owned pizzeria in Berkeley that has been serving delicious pizza since 2004. They use fresh ingredients and have a variety of pizzas to choose from. Their crust is thin and crispy, and their toppings are always delicious. Their pesto pizza is a favorite among customers and is worth trying.

6. Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub

Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub is a popular pizza place in Berkeley that offers a variety of pizzas and craft beers. Their pizzas are hand-tossed and made with fresh ingredients. They also have vegan and gluten-free options available. Their meat lovers pizza is a favorite among customers and is a must-try.

7. Build Pizzeria

Build Pizzeria is a unique pizza place in Berkeley that allows you to create your own pizza. They have a variety of crusts, sauces, and toppings to choose from. Their pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven and is always delicious. Their build-your-own pizza option is a hit among customers as they can customize their pizza to their liking.

8. Phil's Sliders & Pizza

Phil's Sliders & Pizza is a popular pizza place in Berkeley that offers both pizza and sliders. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and their crust is thin and crispy. They also have a variety of toppings to choose from. Their buffalo chicken pizza is a must-try for anyone visiting Phil's.

9. Arizmendi Bakery

Arizmendi Bakery is a popular bakery in Berkeley that also serves delicious pizza. Their pizza is made with fresh ingredients and their crust is thin and crispy. They have a variety of pizzas to choose from, and their cheese pizza is a favorite among customers. They also have vegan and gluten-free options available.

10. La Val's Pizza

La Val's Pizza is a popular pizza place in Berkeley that has been serving delicious pizza since 1958. They use fresh ingredients and their crust is thin and crispy. They have a variety of toppings to choose from, and their pepperoni pizza is a must-try for anyone visiting La Val's.

Conclusion

Berkeley has a lot to offer when it comes to pizza. From deep-dish to thin-crust, there's something for everyone. In this article, we discussed some of the best pizza places in Berkeley that are worth checking out. Whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to try some of these amazing pizza places.

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Vegetarian Paradise: Best Veggie Pizza in Berkeley

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Budget-Friendly Options: Delicious Pizza in Berkeley for Less

Outdoor Seating and Pizza: The Best Spots in Berkeley

Gluten-Free and Delicious: The Best Gluten-Free Pizza in Berkeley

Late-Night Cravings: The Best Pizza Places Open Late in Berkeley

The Best Pizza in Berkeley: A Personal Perspective

Introduction

As a pizza lover and a Berkeley resident, I have tried numerous pizzerias in the city. In my opinion, the best pizza in Berkeley is served at Jupiter. However, there are both pros and cons to this establishment.

Pros of Jupiter Pizza

• Jupiter uses high-quality ingredients to make the pizza, such as fresh mozzarella and homemade tomato sauce, which results in a delicious taste.
• The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options, making it perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners with friends.
• Jupiter has excellent service, with friendly and attentive staff who are always ready to answer any questions about the menu.
• The restaurant offers a wide variety of pizzas, including vegetarian and vegan options, which cater to different dietary needs.

Cons of Jupiter Pizza

• Jupiter is relatively expensive compared to other pizza places in Berkeley, with a large pizza costing around $25.
• The restaurant can be crowded during peak hours, which means that customers may have to wait for a table.
• While Jupiter has an extensive menu, some toppings may not be available all the time, which can be disappointing for customers who have their hearts set on a particular pizza combination.

Comparison with Other Pizza Places in Berkeley

Here's a comparison between Jupiter and two other popular pizza places in Berkeley:

Conclusion

Overall, Jupiter is my personal favorite for the best pizza in Berkeley due to its high-quality ingredients, excellent service, and cozy atmosphere. While it may be more expensive than other pizza places in the city, I believe that the taste and experience are worth the price. However, each restaurant has its own unique pros and cons, so diners should choose based on their preferences and budget.

The Best Pizza in Berkeley: A Slice of Heaven

Thank you for taking the time to read about the best pizza in Berkeley. We hope that our article has been informative and helpful in your search for the perfect slice. After much research and taste testing, we can confidently say that the following pizzerias are the cream of the crop.

First up is Zachary's Chicago Pizza. This iconic Berkeley establishment has been serving up deep-dish heaven since 1983. The crust is perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, while the toppings are piled high and bursting with flavor. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, as the popularity of Zachary's means that it's always busy.

If you're looking for a classic New York-style slice, then head over to Gioia Pizzeria. The thin crust is perfectly chewy, with just the right amount of char. The sauce is tangy and fresh, and the cheese is gooey and delicious. Don't miss the chance to try the seasonal specials, which are always inventive and delicious.

Another great option is Cheese Board Pizza. This worker-owned cooperative has been a Berkeley institution since 1985. The menu changes daily, but you can always count on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a creative approach to toppings. The crust is thin and crispy, with just enough chewiness to make it satisfying.

If you're in the mood for something a little different, then head over to Sliver Pizzeria. This pizzeria specializes in vegetarian and vegan options, but even carnivores will find something to love here. The pizzas are topped with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the crust is thin and crispy. Don't miss the chance to try the Pizza of the Week, which features a rotating selection of creative toppings.

For a pizza experience that's a little more upscale, head over to Pizzaiolo. This restaurant takes the classic Neapolitan-style pizza and elevates it to new heights. The crust is perfectly chewy and charred, while the toppings are inventive and delicious. Be sure to try the wood-fired roasted vegetables, which are a perfect complement to any pizza.

If you're in the mood for something a little more casual, then head over to Lanesplitter Pizza. This no-frills pizzeria specializes in thin-crust pies that are perfect for sharing with friends. The toppings are classic and delicious, and the beer selection is top-notch. Be sure to try the garlic knots, which are a perfect appetizer or accompaniment to your pizza.

If you're looking for a great pizza delivery option, then look no further than Pizza Rustica. This pizzeria specializes in thin-crust pies that are perfect for delivery. The toppings are classic and delicious, and the pizza is always hot and fresh when it arrives at your door. Be sure to try the Rustica Special, which features pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers.

Lastly, we can't forget to mention Emilia's Pizzeria. This cozy spot specializes in classic Neapolitan-style pizzas that are cooked in a wood-fired oven. The crust is perfectly chewy and charred, while the toppings are simple and delicious. Don't miss the chance to try the margherita pizza, which is a classic for a reason.

In conclusion, no matter what type of pizza you're in the mood for, Berkeley has a pizzeria that will satisfy your cravings. From classic New York-style slices to inventive vegetarian options, there's something for everyone in this vibrant and eclectic city. We hope that our article has been helpful in your search for the perfect slice, and we invite you to try all of these amazing pizzerias for yourself.

Thank you for reading, and happy pizza eating!

What are People Also Asking About the Best Pizza in Berkeley?

1. Where can I find the best pizza in Berkeley?

There are several places to find great pizza in Berkeley. Some of the most popular options include:

• Zachary's Chicago Pizza

2. What type of pizza is the best in Berkeley?

This is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some of the most popular types of pizza in Berkeley include deep-dish Chicago-style pizza from Zachary's, Neapolitan-style pizza from Jupiter, and thin-crust pizza from Sliver Pizzeria.

3. Does Berkeley have any vegan pizza options?

Yes, there are several pizza places in Berkeley that offer vegan options. Some of the most popular vegan pizza options include the Vegan Pizza at Sliver Pizzeria and the Vegan Margherita at Cheese Board Pizza.

4. Is it possible to order gluten-free pizza in Berkeley?

Yes, many pizza places in Berkeley offer gluten-free options, including Zachary's, Jupiter, and Sliver Pizzeria.

5. How much should I expect to pay for a pizza in Berkeley?

Prices vary depending on the pizza place and the type of pizza you order. Generally, expect to pay around $20 for a large pizza in Berkeley.