Share
Pizza has become the most beloved staple of America. Ever since these loaded breads were introduced to the Land of Opportunities, it has become a mainstay in many cities.
Where New York and Chicago are known for bringing their own flavours to the table, Oakland's celebration of diverse flavours and cultural fusion is truly remarkable.
In Oakland, you’ll find many unique pizza spots that are hard to find elsewhere. From Indian pizza to classic Italian, with so many options, there's no doubt you’ll find exactly what you want. Explore these top seven spots in Oakland and make sure to try the must-try dishes upon your visit.
1) Namaste Pizza
Image Credit: Namaste Pizza
Namaste Pizza has been a Bay Area favourite for quite a while now. They are known to bring their unique fusion of Indian flavours into the Italian dish. Their standout Indian pizzas, like the veggie aloo gobi pizza and the spicy chicken pizza masala, are a must-try. The best part about Namaste Pizza is there are loads of options for both vegans and meat lovers, so everyone can eat pizza to their heart's content. With locations in Oakland and Pleasanton, they serve 12-inch and 14-inch pies in a casual setting or via delivery. Though prices are higher, the one-of-a-kind menu makes it worth the treat.
Location: 5942 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, CA 94608
Open Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri: 4–10 pm; Sat-Sun: 11 am–10 pm; Tue: Closed
Must Try: Aloo Gobi Pizza, Chicken Pizza Masala, Spicy Gyro Pizza, Mango Monsoon Pizza.
Price for 2: $30 approx.
2) Philomena
Image Credit: Philomena
Philomena, a beloved neighbourhood spot in the Clinton area east of Lake Merritt, bounced back stronger after facing a pandemic and fire. Known for fantastic New York-style pies, they offer 10-inch and 16-inch pizzas, including the best mushroom pizza in the East Bay. With ample seating, TVs for game day, and a variety of local beers and ciders on tap, it’s a great place to visit. They also provide gluten-free and vegan options for pickup or delivery via Caviar.
Location: 1801 14th Ave, Oakland, CA 94606
Open Hours: Tue-Sun: 11 am–8:30 pm; Mon: 4–8:30 pm
Must Try: Hot Sausage Party, Miss Piggy, Garlic Garden
Price for 2: $30 approx.
3) Arizmendi Bakery
Image Credit: Arizmendi Bakery
Arizmendi, a worker-owned co-op bakery, is a must-visit carb factory in the Bay Area. Located in Lakeshore, their ever-changing pizza menu features vegetarian pies with unique toppings like briny olives and tangy feta cheese or mushroom and leek slices. You can find the month’s schedule on their website. While currently only offering takeout and outdoor dining, Arizmendi's unconventional pizza experiences, such as mushroom-red onion-goat cheese and artichoke-spinach-lemon-rosemary, make it a favourite spot.
Location: 3265 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Open Hours: Tue-Fri: 7 am–8 pm; Sat-Sun: 8 am–8 pm; Mon: Closed
Must Try: Mushroom and Leek Slice, White Pie with Olives and Feta, Mushroom-Red Onion-Goat Cheese, Artichoke-Spinach-Lemon-Rosemary
Price for 2: $10 approx.
4) Emilia's Pizzeria
Image Credit: Emilia's Pizzeria
Emilia’s serves some delicious New York-style pizzas with a catch. It's a small, cash-only joint with limited seating, so it's all about takeout. Ordering is a bit tricky—you'll need to call in or submit a callback request online, with orders accepted until they sell out. Pizzas are worth the wait, with perfectly chewy crusts and traditional toppings like Italian sausage and roasted sweet peppers. While it requires some effort, Emilia’s is a must-try for pizza enthusiasts willing to put in the legwork.
Location: 2995 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, Oakland County, CA 94705
Open Hours: Tue-Thu: 5–8:30 pm; Fri: 5–9 pm; Sat-Mon: Closed
Must Try: Italian Sausage Pizza, Sopressata Pizza, Roasted Sweet Pepper Pizza
Price for 2: $30 approx.
5) Spinning Dough
Image Credit: Spinning Dough
Spinning Dough in West Oakland is your spot if you like some large whole pies with fresh toppings and interesting flavours. With an elegant ambience and a spacious outdoor patio featuring games like cornhole, it's perfect for enjoying a sunny day with friends. Pizzas are all 18 inches, ideal for sharing with a group. While slightly pricey, the quality and size make it worthwhile. Delivery is available through select apps. Notable pizzas include corn, pesto, and goat cheese; sausage and shiitake mushroom; and their flavorful seafood pie.
Location: 2935 Market Street, Oakland, CA 94608
Open Hours: Mon-Wed: Closed; Thu-Fri: 5–9 pm; Sat: 11:30 am–9 pm; Sun: 11:30 am–8 pm
Must Try: Corn, Pesto, and Goat Cheese Pizza; Sausage and Shiitake Mushroom Pizza; Seafood Pie
Price for 2: $40 approx.
6) Square Pie Guys
Image Credit: Square Pie Guys
Square Pie Guys is where you’ll get some delectable loaded Detroit-style pizzas. This spot brings cheese-crusted edge pan pizzas to Oakland, making every bite a wonderful sensation. With a location in downtown, their dense and salty pies with a crispy crunch are a hit. The 6-by-8-inch pies boast gooey cheese in the middle and crusty cheese on the perimeter. Try classic pepperoni overflowing with cups or go for something unique like the za’atar chicken pie, featuring a spicy and tangy mix of chicken, peppers, olives, and tahini drizzle.
Location: Dr Huey P. Newton Wy, 499 9th St, Oakland, CA 94607
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 11:30 am–9:30 pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30 am–10:30 pm
Must Try: Pepperoni Pizza, Za'atar Chicken Pie
Price for 2: $30 approx.
7) Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
Image Credit: Zachary’s Chicago Pizza
Searching for Chicago Style Pizza in Oakland? Then Zachary's is your destination! This Bay Area institution serves up some glorious stuffed pies drawing crowds every evening. With layers of dough, buttery crust, sweet tomatoes, and flavorful fillings, it's like a savoury layer cake. Upon entering, you must leave your health concerns on the door to enjoy the flavours to the fullest. IF stuffed pizzas are a little too much, try the semi-thin crust options with your favourite toppings. Weekly specials provide flavorful combinations.
Location: 5801 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 11 am–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11 am–9:30 pm
Must Try: Chicago Style Pizza, Stuffed Pizza
Price for 2: $20 approx.
