Pasadena’s pizza scene offers an impressive array of options that satisfy every craving, from traditional Neapolitan pies to innovative artisanal creations. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to experience the city’s best slices, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Pasadena’s diverse pizza landscape. We’ve sampled countless pies across the city to bring you the definitive list of must-visit pizzerias that deliver exceptional flavor, quality ingredients, and memorable dining experiences.
Diverse Pizza Styles in Pasadena
Pasadena’s pizza landscape reflects the city’s culinary diversity, offering everything from thin-crust Neapolitan pies to thick, chewy Detroit-style squares. Each pizzeria brings its unique approach to this beloved dish, using distinctive techniques, specialty ingredients, and creative flavor combinations that set them apart. From wood-fired ovens that reach 900°F to create that perfect char to slow-fermented doughs that develop complex flavors, Pasadena’s pizza artisans take their craft seriously.
Neapolitan Style
Characterized by a thin center and puffy, charred crust. These pizzas feature simple, high-quality toppings and are cooked at extremely high temperatures in wood-fired ovens.
New York Style
Features large, foldable slices with a thin, chewy crust. These pizzas typically have a generous layer of cheese and are perfect for grabbing on the go.
Detroit Style
Recognizable by its rectangular shape and thick, airy crust with crispy, caramelized cheese edges. These pizzas feature toppings under the sauce in a reverse layering technique.
Top-Rated Pasadena Pizzerias
Pizza Lounge
This family-owned eatery opened in 2014 has quickly become a local favorite for its comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to fresh ingredients. Pizza Lounge prides itself on serving delicious food that meets each customer’s personal expectations at reasonable prices.
Signature Dishes:
- Company Special Pizza (pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, black olives, onions, green peppers)
- Veggie Special (fresh mushrooms, black olives, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, garlic)
- Pan-baked cookie a la mode (perfect for sharing)
Beyond pizza, they offer innovative dishes like hummus, caprese salad, fried green beans, pastas, sandwiches, and calzones. With indoor and outdoor seating, 16 rotating beers on tap, and a wide selection of wines, Pizza Lounge creates a complete dining experience.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Casual, family-friendly with both indoor and outdoor seating
Address: 4450 East Sam Houston Pkwy S Suite A, Pasadena, TX 77505
Contact: (832) 831-2939
Pasadena Pizza Co
A local gem that has earned its reputation through consistently excellent pies and a commitment to quality ingredients. Their hand-tossed thick crust (with thin crust available upon request) provides the perfect foundation for their creative topping combinations.
Signature Dishes:
- BBQ Chicken Pizza (chicken, red onion, green bell peppers, BBQ sauce, cilantro)
- Buffalo Chicken Ranch (house-made buffalo sauce, mozzarella cheese, chicken, ranch)
- Margherita Pizza (house-made sauce, fresh basil, fresh tomatoes, pecorino-romano)
They also offer excellent calzones, including their customer-favorite Supreme Calzone with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, sausage, onion, and green pepper. Their gluten-free options make this a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Casual, family-friendly
Address: 336 N Allen Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Contact: Check website for current number
Mamma Mia’s Pizza & Pasta
This family-owned restaurant brings authentic Italian flavors to Pasadena with recipes passed down through generations. Their commitment to traditional techniques and imported ingredients creates a genuine taste of Italy right in Southern California.
Signature Dishes:
- Classic Thin-Crust Margherita (San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil)
- White Pizza (ricotta, mozzarella, pecorino-romano, oregano, garlic, olive oil)
- Quattro Formaggi (four-cheese pizza with gorgonzola, mozzarella, fontina, parmesan)
Beyond their exceptional pizzas, Mamma Mia’s offers outstanding pasta dishes, including a lasagna that locals rave about. Their warm, welcoming atmosphere makes this a perfect spot for family dinners or date nights when you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Cozy, traditional Italian with family-friendly service
Address: 1125 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106
Contact: (626) 795-1123
Village Pizza & Seafood
A unique concept that brilliantly combines two beloved food categories: pizza and seafood. This innovative approach has earned them a dedicated following among Pasadena diners looking for something beyond the ordinary pizza experience.
Signature Dishes:
- Seafood Special Pizza (shrimp, crab, special sauce blend, mozzarella)
- Clam & Garlic Pizza (fresh clams, roasted garlic, white sauce, parsley)
- Traditional cheese pizza with a side of fried calamari
The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make Village Pizza & Seafood a welcoming spot for casual dining. Their menu versatility means seafood lovers and traditional pizza enthusiasts can dine together happily, with options to satisfy everyone’s preferences.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Casual, relaxed with nautical elements
Address: 4902 Fairmont Pkwy, Pasadena, TX 77505
Contact: (281) 991-0100
Spanky’s Pizza
A Pasadena institution that has built its reputation on consistency and quality. Their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients has earned them a loyal customer base that returns again and again for their exceptional pies.
Signature Dishes:
- The Spanky’s Special (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers)
- Meat Lover’s Dream (pepperoni, ham, bacon, sausage, ground beef)
- Garden Veggie (mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives, tomatoes)
The cozy atmosphere and excellent service enhance the dining experience at Spanky’s. Their attention to detail extends beyond their pizzas to their wings, salads, and pasta dishes, making this a versatile option for family dining.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Cozy, family-friendly
Address: 4010 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77504
Contact: (281) 998-1477
Pipeline Pizza
Where tradition meets innovation in Pasadena’s pizza scene. Their hand-tossed pizzas are baked to perfection in a stone oven, creating that ideal balance of crispy exterior and chewy interior that pizza connoisseurs crave.
Signature Dishes:
- The Pipeline Special (loaded with premium toppings and their signature sauce)
- Mediterranean Veggie (artichoke hearts, olives, feta, spinach, roasted red peppers)
- Spicy Hawaiian (Canadian bacon, pineapple, jalapeños, extra cheese)
The laid-back, welcoming atmosphere makes Pipeline Pizza perfect for casual gatherings. Their diverse menu ensures that vegetarians and meat-lovers alike find satisfying options, while their selection of local craft beers complements the pizza perfectly.
Price Range: $$
Ambiance: Laid-back, casual
Address: 4107 Vista Rd, Pasadena, TX 77504
Contact: (281) 998-9900
Pizza Patrón
Bringing a distinctive Latin flair to Pasadena’s pizza landscape, Pizza Patrón offers unique flavor combinations that you won’t find elsewhere. Their innovative approach to pizza has created a niche that appeals to adventurous eaters looking for something beyond traditional options.
Signature Dishes:
- La Mexicana (chorizo, jalapeños, onions, bell peppers)
- La Patrona (pepperoni, ham, beef, chorizo, bacon, jalapeños)
- Spinach Clásico (spinach, mushrooms, roasted garlic, mozzarella, feta)
The vibrant atmosphere and quick service make Pizza Patrón perfect for casual dining. Their affordable prices and generous portions offer excellent value, while their unique Latin-inspired flavors provide a refreshing alternative to standard pizza offerings.
Price Range: $
Ambiance: Vibrant, casual
Address: 2610 Preston Rd, Pasadena, TX 77503
Contact: (713) 941-7272
Zelo Gourmet Pizzeria
For those seeking a more upscale pizza experience, Zelo offers artisanal pies that showcase innovative flavor combinations and premium ingredients. Their distinctive cornmeal crust provides a unique texture and flavor profile that sets them apart from other Pasadena pizzerias.
Signature Dishes:
- Corn Pizza (sweet corn, roasted peppers, smoked mozzarella, chives)
- Fig & Prosciutto (black mission figs, prosciutto, goat cheese, arugula, balsamic)
- Potato Leek (thinly sliced potatoes, caramelized leeks, fontina, rosemary)
The sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere makes Zelo ideal for date nights or special occasions. Their attention to detail extends to their carefully curated wine list, which features selections specifically chosen to complement their unique pizza offerings.
Price Range: $$$
Ambiance: Upscale casual, sophisticated
Address: 328 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
Contact: (626) 795-9259
Pasadena Pizza Comparison Guide
Finding your perfect pizza match in Pasadena depends on your personal preferences. Use this handy comparison table to quickly identify which pizzeria best suits your cravings, budget, and dining style.
| Pizzeria | Style | Signature Dish | Price | Best For | Vegetarian Options |
| Pizza Lounge | Traditional American | Company Special | $$ | Family dining | Excellent |
| Pasadena Pizza Co | Hand-tossed Thick Crust | BBQ Chicken | $$ | Takeout & delivery | Good |
| Mamma Mia’s | Authentic Italian | Thin-crust Margherita | $$ | Date night | Excellent |
| Village Pizza | Seafood Fusion | Seafood Special | $$ | Seafood lovers | Limited |
| Spanky’s Pizza | Classic American | Spanky’s Special | $$ | Consistent quality | Good |
| Pipeline Pizza | Stone Oven | Pipeline Special | $$ | Casual gatherings | Very Good |
| Pizza Patrón | Latin-Inspired | La Mexicana | $ | Budget-friendly | Limited |
| Zelo Gourmet | Artisanal Cornmeal Crust | Corn Pizza | $$$ | Gourmet experience | Excellent |
Insider Tips for Pasadena Pizza Enthusiasts
Best Times to Visit
- Avoid the lunch rush (12-1:30pm) at Pizza Lounge and Pasadena Pizza Co
- Mamma Mia’s is quietest on Monday and Tuesday evenings
- Weekend dinner rush starts around 6pm at most locations – arrive by 5:30pm to beat the crowd
- Many pizzerias offer happy hour specials between 3-6pm on weekdays
Parking Tips
- Pizza Lounge offers dedicated parking in their lot
- For downtown locations like Zelo, use the Schoolhouse Parking Structure (cheaper than street parking)
- Free street parking is available after 8pm in most areas near Mamma Mia’s
- Village Pizza shares a lot with neighboring businesses – park in the rear during peak hours
Local Combo Deals & Specials
- Pizza Lounge offers a “Family Night Special” on Tuesdays: large 2-topping pizza, salad, and garlic knots for $29.99
- Pasadena Pizza Co has “Slice & Soda” lunch specials for $7.99 on weekdays
- Mamma Mia’s “Date Night” package includes a medium specialty pizza, two salads, and tiramisu for $39.99
- Pipeline Pizza offers 20% off your first online order when you sign up for their loyalty program
- Many locations offer catering packages for office lunches and events – call ahead for special pricing
Dietary Accommodations
For those with dietary restrictions, several Pasadena pizzerias offer excellent options:
- Gluten-Free Crusts: Pasadena Pizza Co, Zelo, and Pizza Lounge offer gluten-free options
- Vegan Cheese: Zelo and Pipeline Pizza provide dairy-free alternatives
- Low-Carb Options: Pizza Lounge can prepare a crustless pizza bake upon request
- Allergen Information: Always call ahead if you have severe allergies, as most kitchens handle common allergens
Ready to Explore Pasadena’s Pizza Scene?
Pasadena’s diverse pizza landscape offers something for every palate, from traditional Italian classics to innovative fusion creations. Whether you’re craving a quick slice for lunch, planning a family dinner, or looking for the perfect date night spot, the pizzerias in this guide deliver exceptional quality and memorable dining experiences. Each establishment brings its unique approach to this beloved dish, showcasing the culinary creativity that makes Pasadena a true pizza destination.
Don’t settle for ordinary pizza when Pasadena offers such extraordinary options. Use this guide to explore new flavors, support local businesses, and discover your new favorite pizza spot. The perfect slice is waiting for you!
Leave a Reply