Whether you’re craving a classic New York-style fold or a gourmet Neapolitan masterpiece, Costa Mesa offers a selection of pizza spots that promise to satisfy every palate.
From crispy thin crusts adorned with local produce to hearty deep-dish wonders that ooze with molten cheese, Costa Mesa’s pizza scene offers something to satiate every palate. This guide curates the city’s standout pizzerias, each offering a unique slice of culinary heaven.
Rance’s Chicago Pizza
9/10 (1090 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-708-2143
Authentic deep-dishFlavorful Thai wingsExcellent service
Rance’s Chicago Pizza is a slice of Chicago in California, offering a taste of authentic deep-dish pizza that hits the spot for those craving a Windy City classic. The Tavern pizza and stuffed pizza are top choices, with the latter piled high with toppings and a croissant-like crust. Pair your pizza with their Thai wings, which come highly recommended for their finger-lickin’ good sauce. The service here is excellent, with servers like Liz and Natalie providing friendly and top-notch service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. While the wait for a Chicago-style pizza may take some time, Rance’s offers a selection of beers and a buzzing atmosphere to keep you entertained while you wait.
Pizza D’Oro
9.2/10 (689 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-549-0685
Generous portionsHouse special pizzaExcellent service
Pizza D’Oro in Costa Mesa is a hidden gem that offers delicious Italian comfort food at unbeatable prices. The portions are generous, with a medium pizza that seems large and a Calzone big enough to share or hoard for yourself. The flavors are top-notch, especially the house special pizza that keeps customers coming back for more. The staff goes above and beyond to accommodate larger groups and provide excellent service, making every dining experience a pleasant one. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, pasta, or a giant calzone, Pizza D’Oro delivers on taste, quality, and affordability.
Massimos Pizza and Pasta
9.4/10 (249 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-631-0255
‘Create your own pasta’ optionsGenerous pizza sizesDelicious spaghetti with marinara sauce
At Massimos Pizza and Pasta, the menu offers something for everyone. The ‘create your own pasta’ options are a standout, with all-beef meatballs, crafty marinara sauce, and incredible pesto sauce. The team is friendly and fast, creating a welcoming environment where customers feel appreciated. The size of the pizzas is generous, ensuring you won’t leave hungry. The spaghetti with marinara sauce is delicious, served with mouth-watering garlic bread. The Italian sub sandwich is a customer favorite, with perfectly balanced meats and veggies on non-soggy bread. Massimos is a great spot with awesome prices, quality food, and a nice atmosphere.
Doria’s Haus of Pizza
9/10 (919 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-751-8777
Traditional thick crustGenerous cheese toppingsComforting, nostalgic flavors
Nestled in a cozy neighborhood corner, Doria’s Haus of Pizza exudes a welcoming vibe that feels like a home away from home. The menu boasts traditional thick crust pizzas that are generously topped with cheese, bringing back nostalgic flavors of childhood. The antipasto salad is a delightful starter that sets the tone for a comforting meal that doesn’t try to be anything other than delicious. With quick and friendly service, Doria’s delivers a solid old school pizza experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Gina’s Pizza and Pastaria
8.6/10 (232 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-434-1311
Flavorful pizzasRicotta balls appetizerFriendly service
Gina’s Pizza and Pastaria in Orange County is a must-visit for pizza lovers. The flavorful pizzas, like the big slice pepperoni and maui mamma, are standout items that keep customers coming back. The ricotta balls with pesto aioli are a delightful appetizer that shouldn’t be missed. The friendly service, especially from the possibly owner/operator, adds to the welcoming atmosphere of this pizzeria. While there may be a few hiccups in the delivery and customization process, the overall experience at Gina’s is worth the visit, especially for those craving a satisfying pizza pie in a cozy setting.
Al’s New York Cafe
9/10 (319 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-722-1212
Authentic NY pizzaConsistently deliciousFriendly staff
Al’s New York Cafe is a pizza gem that has stood the test of time, serving up delicious pizzas that are a true taste of New York. The menu may not be fancy, but the flavors are spot on, especially the crispy thin crust pepperoni slices. The staff here are not only friendly and professional but also provide top-notch customer service, making every visit a pleasant experience. With consistently tasty pizza and reasonable prices, Al’s is a must-visit for anyone craving a slice of authentic NY-style pizza.
Sugo Costa Mesa
9.4/10 (68 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-852-3580
Authentic Roman PizzasUnique Flavor CombinationsConvenient Takeout Options
Sugo Costa Mesa truly stands out for its dedication to crafting authentic Roman-style pizzas with a unique twist. From classic Italian flavors to innovative Japanese and Chinese-inspired creations, each pizza bursts with flavor and is expertly crafted on a perfectly crunchy crust. The attention to detail is evident in every bite, transporting diners back to the cobblestone streets of Italy. The staff’s friendly service and the option for takeout and bake-at-home pizzas make Sugo a convenient and delicious choice for any dining occasion.
Maggiano’s Little Italy
9/10 (3976 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-546-9550
Delicious Italian cuisineOrchestrated serviceCozy and welcoming atmosphere
Maggiano’s Little Italy brings a taste of Italy to your table with their delicious dishes and excellent service. Their focus on main courses like pasta is a must-try, but don’t overlook their refreshing salads, particularly the Maggiano’s salad. The marinara sauce complements all pasta plates perfectly, creating a dining experience worth the wait. The cozy atmosphere, attentive servers, and large portion sizes make Maggiano’s a great choice for any occasion. From the stuffed mushrooms to the apple croquet, every dish is prepared with care and flavor, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.
2145 EATS
9.2/10 (561 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-873-5853
Blue cheese honey pizzaSpicy Salami pizzaSquid ink pasta
2145 EATS is a standout in the pizza scene, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. The blue cheese honey pizza with crispy prosciutto is a must-try, showcasing a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The Spicy Salami pizza is a crowd favorite, packing a punch of heat, and the squid ink pasta offers a fresh and satisfying option for those looking to mix things up. The knowledgeable and engaging staff, like Sydney and Peter, add an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal, providing excellent recommendations and top-notch service. The cozy ambiance and great wine selection make this spot a perfect choice for a date night or special occasion. The attention to detail in each dish, from the crisp and light pizza crusts to the carefully crafted cocktails, sets 2145 EATS apart as a must-visit destination.
Ciao Pizzeria Bar
9.2/10 (254 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-979-8669
Excellent pizzaCustomization optionsDelicious wings
Ciao Pizzeria Bar in Costa Mesa has been impressing customers with their excellent pizza offerings. The dough has a satisfying crispness, and the combinations are some of the best in Orange County. The option to customize your pie with fresh garlic is a nice touch, showcasing the dedication of the owner, Jason, and his staff to provide top-notch service. The bar selection adds an extra element to the experience, creating the perfect spot to watch sports and enjoy a slice of delicious pizza. The east coast pepperoni pie, a fan favorite, consistently delivers a high-quality taste experience. The wings are a standout, plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making them a must-try for any wing enthusiast.
Pasta Connection
9/10 (690 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-646-3484
Homemade pastaTender chickenCozy atmosphere
Pasta Connection truly impresses with their flavorful and perfectly executed dishes. The Fettucine Alfredo with tender chicken is a standout, and the homemade pasta adds an authentic touch. The attentive staff ensures that every meal is served piping hot and in generous portions, making it a must-visit spot. The cozy and peaceful atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience, making it a top choice for Italian cuisine enthusiasts looking for a taste of homemade goodness.
Folks Pizzeria
8.6/10 (280 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-617-4888
Crispy sourdough crustUnique toppings like spring herb salsaCozy limited seating
Folks Pizzeria’s pizzas are top-tier in Orange County, rivaling the best in the area. Standouts like the Bianca feature a crispy yet light sourdough crust that’s perfectly balanced with flavorful toppings, like the spring herb salsa. The cozy feel of limited seating adds to the charm of the experience. Don’t miss the Caesar salad and meatballs as starters, they set the stage for a memorable meal. Definitely make a reservation to avoid long waits and enjoy a night of delicious pizza in a bustling atmosphere.
Trenta Pizza & Cucina
9.4/10 (470 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-270-6652
Artisanal PizzasHeated Tent AmbianceItalian Wine Selection
Located in Newport Beach, Trenta Pizza & Cucina is a bustling restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The high-top tables under the heated tent add a unique touch to the dining experience. The standout here is definitely the pizzas – bursting with bold flavors and cooked to perfection. The Reggio Calabria with spicy salami, sausage, and mushrooms is a definite hit, as is the Amalfi with prosciutto cotto sausage and rosemary. The Catania offers a lighter option with fresh prosciutto crudo. The ingredients used are of high quality, and the pizzas are a must-try when visiting Trenta.
Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market
8.6/10 (425 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-877-0119
Warm aroma, Cozy ambiance, Talented staff
Nestled in a common strip mall off the side of hwy 55, Filomena’s Italian Kitchen & Market is a hidden gem in Costa Mesa on Newport Blvd. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The cozy and inviting ambiance, complete with rustic decor and soft lighting, transports you to a traditional Italian trattoria. The food at Filomena’s is out of this world, from the mom lasagna to the champagne chicken. The desserts, like the tiramisu and cannoli, are phenomenal and disappear in minutes. The talented and attentive staff, including Manny and Hector, make you feel like part of the family. Overall, this is a must-visit spot that will leave you craving more.
Kuro Artisanal Pizza
9/10 (66 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-714-0909
Quality ingredientsPerfectly baked crustEclectic atmosphere
Kuro Artisanal Pizza excels in offering unique and delicious pizza creations. The attention to detail in crafting each pie is evident from the quality of ingredients to the perfectly baked crust. The Thomas pizza offers a delightful blend of flavors that set it apart from traditional options, while the Margarita provides a classic yet satisfying experience. The overall vibe of the restaurant adds to the experience, with an eclectic decor that hints at a fusion of different influences. The Lab setting in Costa Mesa adds a touch of creativity to the dining experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking a different take on pizza.
IL Dolce Ristorante
8.8/10 (212 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-200-9107
Authentic tasteCozy atmospherePersonalized service
IL Dolce Ristorante is a small Italian restaurant that truly stands out in the crowded pizza scene. The authentic taste of their dishes, from the Minestrone soup to the gluten-free pizza crust, is something to write home about. The attention to detail in making each pizza crust fresh and bubbly sets them apart, making for a truly special dining experience. While the service could use a bit of improvement in terms of organization, the warm and friendly staff more than make up for it by offering a personalized touch. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a delicious meal with loved ones.
Joey’s Pizza
9/10 (172 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-964-1610
Local gemFresh doughAffordable prices
Nestled in California, Joey’s Pizza is a local gem that has been serving up some of the best pizza in the area for over two decades. With a welcoming vibe and attentive staff, this place exudes a “just bros helping bros” energy that keeps customers coming back for more. The fresh dough is prepared right in front of your eyes, adding to the comfortable atmosphere. The menu boasts a variety of options, from mouth-watering specialty pizzas to delicious wings and hot sandwiches. Affordable prices make this a go-to spot for families and pizza lovers alike. If you’re in search of authentic NY-style pizza on the West Coast, Joey’s is the place to visit.
The Pizza Bakery
9.4/10 (319 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-631-1166
Generous PortionsHospitable OwnersComplimentary Garlic Knots
Nestled in the heart of the community, The Pizza Bakery is a timeless gem that serves up delicious New York style pizza with a generous touch of hospitality. The owners, John and Katherine, are the backbone of this establishment and their warm presence only adds to the inviting ambiance of the place. From the massive 20-inch pizzas that are perfect for sharing to the complimentary garlic knots that are a delightful surprise, every aspect of the dining experience at The Pizza Bakery is memorable. The crispy crust, generous toppings, and fair prices make this spot a must-visit for pizza lovers looking for a taste of tradition.
Yard House
8.8/10 (1341 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-642-0090
Generous portionsVaried beer selectionJuicy burgers
Yard House is a bustling spot that offers a wide variety of craft beers and hearty food options. The Filet and pasta dishes are lauded by customers, and the generous portion sizes ensure you’ll likely have leftovers. If you’re a fan of burgers, the Yard House won’t disappoint, with the juicy burgers being a definite highlight. The service has been noted as attentive and kind by diners, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. The menu may have changed over time, but the quality and taste of the food remains top-notch, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal.
The Pizza Press
8.8/10 (455 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-266-0027
Delicious PizzaGood Beer SelectionOld Decor
The Pizza Press offers delicious pizza with a good amount of fresh toppings to choose from. The cool spot in the mall has a great beer selection and heaters outside for chilly nights. The old decor adds a nice touch to the atmosphere, making it a pleasant spot for a casual meal or a quick bite before a movie.