Top 5 Pizzerias in San Francisco

Top 5 Pizzerias in San Francisco: A Culinary Journey Through the City’s Best Pizza

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A Culinary Journey Through the City’s Best Pizza

San Francisco’s pizza scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From crispy-crusted Neapolitan pies to thick, focaccia-style squares, the Bay Area offers an incredible array of pizza experiences. Our expertly curated list features five exceptional pizzerias that represent the best of what San Francisco has to offer, each bringing its own unique style and flavor to the table.

🏆 World Champion Pizza
Multiple Award-Winning Napoletana Pies

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana stands as the crown jewel of San Francisco’s pizza scene, helmed by 13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani. This North Beach institution represents the pinnacle of pizza craftsmanship, offering an unprecedented variety of styles under one roof. What sets Tony’s apart is not just the quality, but the sheer ambition—they operate seven different ovens to perfect 12 distinct pizza styles, from authentic Neapolitan to Classic American, Detroit, and even gluten-free options.

What Makes It Special

13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani at the helm
12 different pizza styles including Neapolitan, New York, Detroit, and Sicilian
Seven specialized ovens for authentic cooking methods
Full bar and extensive Italian menu beyond pizza
Located in the heart of historic North Beach

Signature Dish

The Margherita D.O.P. made with San Marzano tomatoes and Buffalo mozzarella

Atmosphere

Upscale casual with open kitchen views and Italian authenticity

Price Range

$$$ – Premium pricing for world-class quality

2

Del Popolo

Lower Nob Hill • 855 Bush St

🔥 Wood-Fired Excellence
Michelin Bib Gourmand Winner

Del Popolo represents the evolution of San Francisco pizza culture, having transformed from a beloved food truck into a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. Founded by Jon Darsky, formerly of Flour + Water, this Lower Nob Hill gem showcases the art of wood-fired Neapolitan pizza with a distinctly Californian twist. The restaurant’s centerpiece is a massive blazing oven that creates the perfect chewy, blistered, and caramelized crusts that have made Del Popolo a destination for pizza lovers citywide.

What Makes It Special

Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for exceptional value
Seasonal California ingredients on traditional Neapolitan base
Central wood-fired oven creates spectacular atmosphere
Founded by former Flour + Water pizzaiolo Jon Darsky
Perfect blistered crusts with ideal char

Signature Dish

Seasonal pizzas with roasted winter squash, mascarpone, and spring onions

Atmosphere

Modern Italian with open kitchen and hidden back patio

Price Range

$$ – Excellent value for Michelin-recognized quality

3

Pizzetta 211

Richmond District • 211 23rd Ave

🌱 Seasonal Artisan Pizzas
Cozy Neighborhood Gem

Tucked away in the Richmond District, Pizzetta 211 is a charming neighborhood gem that has been perfecting the art of thin-crust pizza since 1999. This intimate restaurant, with just four tables inside and a handful of sidewalk seats, operates more like a European neighborhood pizzeria than a typical American restaurant. What makes Pizzetta 211 truly special is their rotating biweekly menu that showcases the best seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting.

What Makes It Special

Biweekly rotating menu featuring seasonal ingredients
Individual-sized pizzas perfect for sharing multiple varieties
Cozy European atmosphere with just four indoor tables
House-made desserts including famous flourless chocolate cake
No reservations policy maintains neighborhood authenticity

Signature Dish

Seasonal pizzas like farm egg with asparagus or wild arugula with mascarpone

Atmosphere

Intimate European-style neighborhood pizzeria

Price Range

$$ – Artisanal quality at fair prices

4

Golden Boy Pizza

North Beach • 542 Green St

🟧 Classic Square Slices
San Francisco Late-Night Legend

Golden Boy Pizza is pure San Francisco soul food, serving their famous “Sanfrancilian” style pizza since 1978. This no-frills North Beach institution specializes in thick, focaccia-style rectangular slices that have become an integral part of the city’s late-night dining scene. The pizzeria’s commitment to simplicity—selling only pizza, nothing else—has created a cult following among locals and visitors alike. Their unique style predates the current Detroit-style pizza trend by decades, featuring a remarkably light and airy crust beneath a golden-brown, crispy exterior.

What Makes It Special

Original “Sanfrancilian” style pizza since 1978
Thick focaccia-style crust that’s surprisingly light and airy
Famous clam and garlic pizza beloved by locals
Authentic late-night San Francisco experience
Affordable prices with slices under $5

Signature Dish

Clam & Garlic pizza with baby clams, chopped garlic, and parsley

Atmosphere

Classic dive pizzeria with punk music and sticker-covered walls

Price Range

$ – Best value in the city for filling, delicious pizza

5

Il Casaro Pizzeria

North Beach • 348 Columbus Ave

🇮🇹 Authentic Italian Comfort
Northern Italian Tradition

Il Casaro Pizzeria brings authentic Northern Italian pizza tradition to the heart of North Beach. This cozy restaurant is beloved by Italian expats and local food enthusiasts for its genuine approach to Italian comfort food. The menu speaks to those seeking true Italian flavors, with pizzas that showcase traditional preparations alongside house-made mozzarella and carefully sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond pizza to include a full range of Italian specialties, making it a true neighborhood trattoria.

What Makes It Special

Authentic Northern Italian pizza traditions
House-made fresh mozzarella daily
The Patata pizza with roasted fingerling potatoes and pancetta
Full Italian menu beyond pizza
Beloved by Italian expats for authenticity

Signature Dish

La Patata – white pizza with roasted fingerling potatoes, pancetta, and provolone

Atmosphere

Warm Italian trattoria with authentic neighborhood feel

Price Range

$$ – Traditional Italian pricing for authentic experience