California's Best Pizza Run #1

California's Best Pizza Run #1

I've always considered pizza one of my very favorite foods.  I also think that I can tell a great pizza from a just "good" one.  Fresh ingredients, great crust, sauce and the right cheese and cook time all matter.  So in my travels I believe I've managed to try a whole lot of different pizza's up and down the state.  Here are some of my favorites.  (I dub this segment #1 because the list is long and getting longer so I just may as well start here:)

Starting in So Cal (my home town of Los Angeles) I have to give the thumbs up to Number one on my list, The Pizza Cookery in Woodland Hills.  I've been coming here for years and the mini spicy pepperonis and the garlic dinner rolls just can't be beat anywhere. The thin, square cut pizza crust is also delectable.  The last couple times we've also tried the gluten free crust and been impressed. Although different from their original, it's really a great alternative for those on a gluten free diet like my daughter.

An LA runner up is Greco's in Van Nuys where the dinner plate size, thin crust pizza is fantastic. Throw in a nice homemade, fresh salad with their special oil and vinegar dressing and it's a meal in a single slice.

Moving up the coast a little bit I came across another great find in Nucci's Pizza in San Luis Obispo, (SLO to the locals), and home to the famous Madonna Inn, Cal Poly University, and Bubblegum Alley, Just off the main drag, I found is what I have to say was the best pizza I've had in SLO. (Sorry Woodstock's) and they've been there for a long time perfecting their art.  A casual and quaint place to bring the family or a date.  I highly recommend it.

Another great place to go  heading toward Northern California and if you happen to find yourself on Pacific Ave. in downtown Santa Cruz is Pleasure Pizza.  Also home of the jumbo sized slices and loaded with a unique variety of toppings. It's a thin crust winner. One piece can usually do most appetites and it's a nice place to hang out on your way to the beach or while shopping on Pacific.

I will return very shortly with round two of our travels up and down the coast in search of the best pizza for 2016 in a couple weeks.

In the mean time, please send me your suggestions here and subscribe.

Til next time.

Ciao.