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Best Cheap Eats Pizza Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$$ Downtown Santa Monica
This New York slice emporium brings authentic East Coast pizza to Santa Monica with thin, crispy crusts and that perfect cheese-to-sauce ratio. Since 2005, locals and tourists alike line up for oversized slices that capture the essence of NYC street pizza.
Must-Try Dishes: Classic NY Cheese by the Slice, Pepperoni with Garlic Knots, White Pizza with Ricotta
What makes it special: Authentic NY pizza technique with California ingredients
$ Ocean Park
A 30-year Santa Monica institution serving no-frills authentic Italian pizza and pasta one block from the pier. The old-school red-checkered tablecloths and Italian-speaking staff create an atmosphere that transports you straight to a neighborhood trattoria in Rome.
Must-Try Dishes: NY-Style Pizza, Chicken Parmigiana, Homemade Gnocchi
What makes it special: 30+ year local institution with authentic Italian family recipes
$$ Third Street Promenade
This VPN-certified Neapolitan pizzeria brings authentic wood-fired Italian pizza to the heart of Third Street Promenade. Since 2002, they've been sourcing the freshest Italian tomatoes and premium flour to create traditional pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts.
Must-Try Dishes: Margherita Pizza, Quattro Formaggi, Prosciutto e Funghi
What makes it special: VPN certification ensuring authentic Neapolitan standards

Worthy Picks

$$ Mid-City Santa Monica
This late-night pizza joint combines East Coast-style pies with a rock 'n' roll vibe and craft beer selection. Open until 2 AM on weekends, it's become the go-to spot for night owls seeking quality pizza with live sports on multiple screens.
Must-Try Dishes: Appetite for Destruction Pizza, Margherita with Garlic Knots, Wood-Fired Wings
What makes it special: Rock 'n roll soundtrack meets serious wood-fired pizza technique