To compile this list, we asked ourselves which San Mateo pizzas we’d preserve for posterity. Which thin crusts, Neapolitan pies, and creative toppings define the Peninsula’s pizza scene? Some choices feel inevitable. Naturally, we’re including a wood-fired classic and a New York slice. But the diversity and character of San Mateo’s pizza culture stands apart, beyond just crust and cheese. Here are 16 essential pizzerias.
Pizza My Heart
$ | (650) 344-9800 | WEBSITE
The Big Sur is the epitome of what we imagine Santa Cruz locals think of perfect pizza—a generous crust topped with whole garlic slices that will change your life. Sure, it’s unconventional like a pizza revelation gone right, but it’s delicious.
Domino’s Pizza
$ | (650) 344-3030 | WEBSITE
Domino’s Pizza opened in 1960, and became famous for its Hawaiian pizza that includes everything from pineapple to ham to mozzarella, and probably some tomato sauce that we’re not sure anyone notices. The ordering is digital now. You make your selections on a little screen, which is a little less personal and much less like you’re getting a slice of history.
Concierge | Hillsdale Shopping Center
We insist on dragging our friends to the food court at Concierge for anyone clinging to the outdated notion that mall dining can’t be wonderful. Concierge offers a diverse selection of dining options, from juicy burgers at Shake Shack to delectable ramen at Kuro-Obi. What makes Concierge stand out is its incredible atmosphere, with polite and attentive servers ensuring a satisfying experience.
The food court boasts great prices and generous plate sizes, making it a popular destination for locals seeking authentic flavors without breaking the bank.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
$$ | (650) 931-2990 | WEBSITE
You can’t talk about iconic San Mateo pizza spots without mentioning the pizookie, a genius creation that combines warm cookie dough with ice cream and was popularized at a chain called BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse. Fortunately, this particular location carries on the family tradition by serving up crispy thin-crust pizzas alongside draft beers, cocktails, and that famous dessert, all in a lively atmosphere with friendly staff like Liz, Chelsea, and Angel.
Many visitors enjoy the Prime Rib dinner for its quality and value, making repeat visits enjoyable, especially during Happy Hour or when sharing a cold beer with friends.
Mr Pizza Man San Mateo
$$ | (650) 342-7088 | WEBSITE
San Mateo has several excellent pizza spots, but our top choice for these perfect pies is Mr Pizza Man. For years, this peninsula favorite has been crafting this wonderfully balanced and crispy marvel that’s consistently delicious. Take their signature Hawaiian pizza with sweet pineapple and savory ham, add their praised Mozzarella cheese and perfect crust, and that’s Mr Pizza Man. The food, including both pizza and Brazilian dishes, maintains high quality whether you dine in or take out.
Customers are welcomed like family with amazing service, and convenient delivery makes it easy to share these tasty treats.
North Beach Pizza – Catering, Online Pizza Delivery, Take Out Near San Mateo
$$ | (650) 344-5000 | WEBSITE
Since opening in San Mateo, this casual spot—now offering catering and delivery—has been known for its namesake pizzas like the classic cheese, Brazilian-inspired chicken with catupiry, and half and half combinations, plus salads and lasagna. Whichever slice you start with, you’ll get a mix of chewy crust and generous toppings.
Mateo Pizza
$ | (650) 210-7616 | WEBSITE
This Turkish pizza is sometimes called pide or lahmacun. But it’s not up for debate that it’s damn delicious. The thin, crispy flatbread with savory minced meat alone should trigger amazed gasps. But the fun continues with a messy combination of fresh tomatoes, parsley, raw onions, and a squeeze of lemon. You’ll end up with lemon-drizzled fingers, but it’s worth it.
Bizza (San Mateo)
$ | (650) 389-2160 | WEBSITE
No pizza from San Mateo’s most welcoming vegan-friendly spot is as emblematic (and recognizable) as the Planet Earth pizza. The star of the vegan options, it’s an organic marvel of plant-based goodness that might challenge your expectations and satisfy your cravings. But watching folks who spent $18 on a Serious Slice enjoy the tasty crust, good sauce, and yummy toppings while soaking in the 80s theme with paintings and decorations is also incredibly fun.
Pausa Bar & Cookery
$$$ | (650) 375-0818 | WEBSITE
Ah yes, the pizza that’s responsible for Pausa’s weekend reservations, and the first thing Hot Take Harry can’t wait to tell you is overrated. It’s not. It’s a consistently excellent combination of 72-hour matured dough, smoked stracciatella, pork pancetta, and shouldn’t-be-optional ricotta cheesecake with peach compote. There’s an impossible amount of hype surrounding it, but that’s not the pizza’s fault.
Aldo’s Pizza
$ | (650) 344-5051 | WEBSITE
“Aldo’s Pizza” is a fitting name for this San Mateo pizzeria. This version puts a few twists on the classic pie, like a unique fusion of Indian star and pepperoni and a whole wheat crust option. And although the pizza is sans fancy toppings, it’s so delicious that you won’t mind. Plus, you get to eat it in a spacious environment with attentive and caring staff who provide fantastic service even to a group of exhausted exchange students.
The affordable prices and quick service, with food ready in about 20 minutes, make it a local favorite for both in-house dining and fast, hot delivery.
New York Pizza
$ | (650) 344-3444 | WEBSITE
The New York slice might be the city’s most commonly recognized pizza style, but the All Meats at New York Pizza has plenty of clout, too. This savory pie avoids the infamous blandness that shall not be named, and comes with a nice crunch, plus a slightly sweet sauce for a tangy pop.
PJ’s Pizza Co.
$ | (650) 268-8100 | WEBSITE
Did PJ’s start the legend that they perfected the thin-crust pizza in San Mateo? We don’t care—their crust is flawless. They use a secret recipe that’s probably hidden in a stainless-steel oven, surrounded by the same fresh, homemade sauce that fortifies their crispy yet airy foundation. Skip the other pizza joints and go straight to this fast-casual spot, where they top and bake all the pizzas onsite.
Rise Woodfire Pizza & Rotisserie
$$ | (650) 484-4337 | WEBSITE
Pizza isn’t necessarily a San Mateo dish, but once woodfire gets involved, it’s as San Mateo as catching the Caltrain downtown. And Rise Woodfire Pizza & Rotisserie is often credited with pairing Italian pies with that smoky, charred crust. It’s the lovechild of a classic pizza, rotisserie chicken, and chopped salad throuple—and it’s absolutely delicious.
The fungi pizza is particularly popular, with its earthy mushrooms and creamy cheese, while the Carne Pizza and meatballs satisfy any carnivorous craving. The patio seating offers a nice spot to enjoy a meal outdoors, especially on a sunny afternoon. While service can be a bit erratic at times, the staff is attentive and accommodating, especially when handling food intolerances. The overall experience remains positive, making it a good choice for a Friday night or weekend outing.
The menu also includes other options like Beef Ribs and Peach Pie, and the staff’s friendly attitude helps make each visit enjoyable. Expect to pay around $20-$30 per person for a satisfying meal with generous portions.
Central Park Bistro
$$$ | (650) 558-8401 | WEBSITE
Yes, lamb chops are now as common at upscale bistros as being told to ‘save room for dessert.’ But Central Park Bistro’s herb-crusted lamb chops were setting the standard years ago, and remain a standout. They’re resting on a bed of creamy potato purée, and come with roasted vegetables ideal for balancing each rich bite. We order these every time we bring guests to Central Park Bistro, even though we always regret having to divide our attention from the perfectly cooked halibut.
Golden Boy Pizza
$ | (650) 315-2988 | WEBSITE
This hefty pan of pizza from this no-frills spot in San Mateo is worth the wait of 30-40 minutes. Golden Boy’s clam and garlic pizza is savory, satisfying, and gets plenty of help from a generous layer of toppings and that unique, almost focaccia-like crust. Have your pickup order ready—maybe even a plan for where to eat it, since there are no tables or chairs.
Rainbow Pizza
$$ | (650) 571-1848 | WEBSITE
Rainbow Pizza is a family-operated gem that feels like it’s been welcoming guests for generations, and a San Mateo favorite for good reason. Their Greek American Pizza with Garlic is thick and hearty, with generous toppings and robust, savory flavors that are perfect when complemented by the fresh garlic. It’s a pizza you’ll want to savor slowly, and you should plan on doing exactly that.
