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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats Pizza in Silver Lake
Best Late Night Pizza in Silver Lake
Master Critic Review
Hard Times Pizza Co.
7.8
Since 1986, this no-frills neighborhood joint serves classic New York-style thin crust pizzas and traditional Italian pastas at budget-friendly prices. The eastside institution offers reliable delivery service and consistent quality that has sustained generations of northeast Angelenos, with standout options including thick crust variations alongside their signature NYC slices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Sandro's Homemade Pasta
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Nearly 40 years serving consistent NYC-style pizza to Echo Park families
Who should go: Budget-conscious locals wanting reliable neighborhood pizza
When to visit: Weeknight delivery orders beat the weekend rush
What to order: Thin crust margherita, thick crust for heartier appetite, Mexican Coke
Insider tip: Order online through GrubHub for more consistent service than phone orders
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Sunset Blvd and side streets, usually available except Friday/Saturday evenings when it gets tight
Dress code: Come as you are - this is a casual neighborhood spot where athletic wear and work clothes both fit right in
Noise level: Relaxed and conversational - low background music means you can easily chat without raising your voice
Weekend wait: No wait for takeout/delivery, limited dine-in seating fills up 6-8pm Fridays/Saturdays
Weekday lunch: Walk right in - weekday service is quick with minimal crowds
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - classic cheese pizzas, margherita, veggie toppings, and pasta marinara options
Vegan options: Limited - can do marinara pizza without cheese or plain pasta with red sauce, but no vegan cheese substitute
Gluten-free options: No - traditional NYC-style crust only, no gluten-free option available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a casual second or third date spot. The no-frills vibe and paper plates keep it low-pressure, but lacks the ambiance for making a romantic first impression. Great if you're both Echo Park locals who appreciate neighborhood authenticity.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but seating is limited since this is primarily a takeout/delivery operation. Weeknights you'll find a spot easily, but Friday/Saturday evenings the few tables fill quickly. Your best bet is ordering takeout and eating at nearby Echo Park Lake.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - this is a family neighborhood staple. Simple menu that picky eaters love, quick service, and nobody minds if kids get a little loud. No high chairs or changing tables though, so best for toddlers and up.
Best For
Better for: Consistent neighborhood delivery and budget-friendly pricing - Hard Times beats fancier Echo Park spots when you want reliable NYC-style pizza without the $25+ price tag or the wait times of trendier places
Skip if: You want craft/artisanal pizza with creative toppings, a full bar, or Instagram-worthy atmosphere - this is straightforward Italian-American basics, not the place for date night ambiance or foodie experimentation
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 10pm