You’re standing in line somewhere between a bakery that smells like sourdough and a brewery pouring hazy IPAs. That’s the Emeryville pizza game.

It swings from the cooperative simplicity of Arizmendi’s thick, chewy grandma slice to the truffle-oil-drenched late-night bar bites at Pizzeria da Laura. One spot sells a single daily pie to a crowd on a patio.

Another nails chicken tikka on a crust. Sixteen-inch slices, Roman-style crisps, and a few good salads all count.

Here’s where to get your fix.

Arizmendi Bakery & Pizzeria

Highlights
Reasonably priced, high quality
Grandma-style homemade pizza
Generous slice portions
Cooperative community ownership
Quick, fresh preparation

You walk in and the smell hits you right away. It’s warm, yeasty, and inviting. The slices are big, thick, and reasonably priced. You grab a cheese slice and it’s got that perfect chewy crust with a crispy bottom. The toppings are fresh, not greasy. Service is quick, even when there’s a line. It’s a cooperative, so everyone seems to actually care. You feel good about spending your money here. Simple, honest, delicious pizza. That’s really all you need. You’ll be back before you even leave the block.

You might also want to check out the best wineries in Sonoma.

Wondrous Brewing Company

Highlights
Top-tier Bay Area brewery
Friendly, efficient, welcoming staff
Wide range of beer styles
Chill, relaxed atmosphere
Quality justifies slight price premium

The staff greets you like you’re a regular, even on your first visit. The beer list is long and interesting, with something for every taste. You order a pale ale and a slice of pepperoni. The pizza crust is thin and blistered, the cheese is high-quality. It costs a bit more than your average slice, but you taste why. The space is chill, with dark wood and good music. You can linger without feeling rushed. The bartender knows the beers inside and out. It’s a top-tier spot, no question. You leave happy and a little buzzed.

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Berkeley.

Nick's Pizza and Bakery Made in Oakland

Highlights
Worth the parking fight
Slices punch above price
Clean, organized, well-labeled shop
Outdoor seating perfect for groups
Pizza rivals national greats

The crust is thin, with a nice char and a chewy bite. The pepperoni is fantastic, crispy at the edges. You try the burrata slice, and it’s creamy, rich, and decadent. They also have a vegetarian option with roasted veggies that’s surprisingly hearty. The apple and endive salad is a fresh, tangy counterpoint. The staff is friendly, even when it’s busy. They explain the specials without rushing you. You feel like you’re in a neighborhood gem. The flavors are balanced, not overwhelming. You’ll remember this pizza.

You might also want to check out the best lunch in Walnut Creek.

Pizzeria da Laura

Highlights
Four distinct pizza styles
Wide topping variety offered
Quality pizza, salad, service
Nice drink selection available

You walk in for a late-night slice, and the vibe is perfect. Dim lights, a long bar, and a buzz in the air. The mushroom and arugula pizzetta is gourmet, with truffle oil that’s actually noticeable. You also get the truffle fries, which are crispy and salty. The espresso martini is strong and well-made, not too sweet. The bartenders are friendly and pour heavy. It’s a great spot to unwind after work. You don’t feel rushed to leave. You’ll come back for happy hour, for sure. Solid all around.

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Petaluma.

State Flour Pizza Company

Highlights
Thin crust, loaded toppings
Fantastic pepperoni and burrata
Delicious Gaia vegetarian option
Excellent apple endive salad
Friendly, patient staff

You’ve heard the hype, and it’s real. This place is known nationwide, and you get why. They make one pizza per day, and it’s always perfect. The dough is sourdough, chewy, and flavorful. The cheese and bread combo is simple, but it’s a masterclass. The line moves fast, so don’t be scared. There’s live music and a big patio to enjoy your slices. You sit outside, eat, and watch people. It’s a community spot, with a fun energy. You feel lucky to live nearby. Worth every minute of waiting.

You might also want to check out the best places to live in Oakland.

Honor Kitchen

Highlights
Mushroom and Arugula pizzetta
Late-night happy hour vibe
Truffle fries worth trying
Brewed espresso martinis
Friendly bar staff service

You order via a QR code, and it’s fast and easy. The house beers are solid, especially the IPA. The pizza is decent, with a thin crust and good toppings. The outdoor seating is spacious, and there’s plenty of shade. The staff is helpful when you have questions. They even validate parking, which is a nice touch. You bring your dog, and they’re welcome. It’s a relaxed, unpretentious place. You stay longer than planned, just chatting. You’ll definitely stop by again. Great for a casual hang.

You might also want to check out the best florist in Oakland.

Cheese Board Collective Pizzeria

Highlights
Top-ranked pizza nationwide
One perfect pizza daily
Famous for cheese and bread
Long lines, worth it
Live music, big patio

You pop in during lunch, and the two-slice deal is unbeatable. The crust is perfectly charred, with a great chew. The sauce is tangy, and the cheese is high-quality and melted just right. The staff is friendly and quick, even with a crowd. It feels local, like a place where people know each other. You grab a seat by the window and watch the street. The pizza is satisfying without being heavy. You leave feeling good, not stuffed. It’s a solid everyday option. You’ll be back next week.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Davis.

Drake's Dealership

Highlights
Quick QR code ordering
Great house beers
Solid outdoor seating
Helpful, friendly staff
Convenient parking validation

You’ve never had chicken tikka on pizza, but now you’re hooked. It’s spicy, creamy, and full of flavor. The kids love the plain cheese, and you love the exotic options. The staff is lovely, patient, and attentive. It’s a late-night spot, open when you need it most. The vibe is fun and lively. You order a second slice because you can’t stop. It’s a unique take on pizza, and it works. You’ll bring more friends next time. This place is a hidden gem.

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in Richmond.

Pizzeria Violetta, Piedmont Ave

Highlights
Perfectly charred, chewy crust
Tangy sauce, well-balanced sweetness
High-quality, melted mozzarella cheese
Generous lunch deal, two slices
Friendly staff, inviting local vibe

You’re here with a big group, and everyone’s happy. The live music is loud but adds to the fun. The pizza is tasty, especially the sausage and pepperoni. They have vegan and veggie options clearly labeled, which is helpful. You order take-out and it’s ready quick. The crust holds up well, even on the drive home. It’s a bit of a scene, but in a good way. The staff handles the crowd with a smile. You’ll come back for a birthday or any celebration. Solid choice.

You might also want to check out the best lunch in Davis.

Edible Happy Pizzeria

Highlights
Chicken Tikka pizza is legendary
Kids approve, high praise
Lovely staff, late night
Pizza worth repeating
Best bite you'll find

You walk in for trivia night, and the place is packed. The pizza is good, not great, but perfect for sharing. They have a big menu, and the salads are fresh. The staff is friendly, even when they’re swamped. It’s a fun, energetic space with TVs for sports. You grab a seat, order a beer, and get into the quiz. The parking is easy, and it’s close to your hotel. You don’t feel out of place as a visitor. You’ll come back tomorrow for another round.

You might also want to check out the best dispensary in Napa.

Jupiter

Highlights
Live music adds great vibe
Good for large groups
Vegan and veggie options labeled
Tasty pizza worth take-out

You park nearby, but it’s a bit of a walk. Totally worth it. The slices are huge and they punch above their weight in flavor. You get a classic margherita, and the basil is fresh, the sauce is bright. The shop is clean and organized, with everything labeled clearly. There’s outdoor seating, perfect for a sunny day. You bring friends, and everyone finds something they like. It rivals some of the big names in the city, but with a local feel. You’re already planning your next trip back.

You might also want to check out the best florist in Santa Rosa.

Public Market Emeryville

Highlights
Great for trivia nights
Easy walk from hotel
Loud live music sometimes
Big TVs for sports
Diverse food stalls

You walk in and there are four different styles to choose from. Roman, Neapolitan, Sicilian, and a special. You go with the Roman, and it’s crispy and light. The topping variety is wild, from artichokes to spicy salami. You also grab a salad, which is fresh and not an afterthought. The staff is patient when you can’t decide. The drink case has sodas, beers, and even a nice Italian soda. It’s a no-fuss, quality spot. You leave full, satisfied, and impressed. Simple, done really well.

You might also want to check out the best food in Novato.